《Mark of the destiny》


 Note to readers

    1. The book will contain mature content. Reader. Below 17 readers are advised to skip the chapter with a warning note at the beginning.


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    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    5. I''ll keep updating the name section to help readers keep track of the characters and not feel lost.


    ...

 Name section

Zhao Suyin- Female lead


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    Wang Shi- Male lead


    ...

 Chapter 3: Scurrying away

    "Miya, where''s the boy? And what about the tall woman in white and blue with him? Did she left already?" After performing the surgery, Wang Shi came straight to the emergency room.


    Upon not finding Zhao Suyin there, he asked the nurse.


    Nurse looked up from the documents, "Em¡­ Miss Zhao is still with the boy. She must be in the private ward on fifth floor. The child needs the complete body examination¡­. Actually¡­.."


    "Hm, give me the child''s school ID, I''ll ask someone to investigate."


    After hearing the entire story, he took the ID card from nurse before walking towards the elevator where co-incidentally he met Li Han who was coming to ER looking for Wang Shi.


    "Good, I found you. There''s a case of suspected child abuse..." And Li Han babbled the entire story, including Zhao Suyin''s identity and their findings without taking a break to breathe.


    "Zhao Suyin! Secretary-General at the Ministry of women and child affairs!..... That''s impressive." All he heard was Zhao Suyin''s name and her identity. Opposite to his belief that she was a surgeon, she turned out to be from social services.


    But still¡­ It''s an undeniable fact that she has something to do with the medical profession.


    "Any other info?"


    Li Han: "Right, the boy''s parents-"


    "About the woman, Mr. Li"


    Li Han "¡­."


    "Oh! You are interested in her! Should I go and ask her personal information and latest photographs to send them to Mr. and Mrs. Wang?"


    Though the hospital belonged to Wang Shi and technically he was the boss, employees share a cordial relationship with him, especially Li Han, who knows Wang Shi and his family for decades.


    Wang Shi remained unfazed, his eyes twitched slightly as he let out a smirk, "Have you heard about Voluntary Retirement? I was thinking-"


    "She is in private room no. A32. Please go and ask yourself." From the corner of the eyes he noticed the lift stop at fifth floor. "I''ll be the director of the hospital even after my death. And if you dare push me out, I''ll haunt you forever." Saying he stomped his shoes on the floor once and folded his hands. "Now go."


    "Tyrant old man." Wang Shi left the words as he stepped out.


    "Hey¡­..Who did you called old man?" Li Han peeked his head out from the lift''s door and shouted.


    "Aren''t you sixty three?"


    "Nope! I''m thirty six, we are of equal age¡­." Lin Han pulled his head inside before it gets sandwiched between the elevator doors.


    While walking, Wang Shi called his assistant, "Daiyu, check the details of the kid named Ru Mingyu. He was found in bus no. xx and studies in smiling star kindergarten. I''m sending you a photograph of his school ID card. And yes, check the CCTV footages around his home and school. Inform me if you find anything suspicious."


    *****


    In the private room Zhao Suyin took off her shirt, leaving herself in black lacy camisoles. She was done cleaning the long cut on her upper arm, after numbing the site she picked the needle to suture it.


    She not only didn''t wince once, but her expression and action were as steady as always. Other than a small frown between her brows that came habitually whenever she is concentrating, she was completely unfazed.


    "Miss. , the woman you rescued is stable now and-" Wang Shi''s words were half stuck in his mouth the moment he saw her in inner clothes. His body reacted reflexively and turned his back to her, "I''m sorry. I was not aware¡­.. I''m extremely sorry."


    He was utterly embarrassed. Earlier he forgot to ask Lin Han the reason of Zhao Suyin being in the private room. And now he was paying the price!


    "It''s all right, not like I''m naked." She continued stitching the cut, "And, thanks for the help in the field earlier and now for saving the woman''s life."


    "That''s my duty." He shoved his hands in his pocket and calmly walked to check the cut on her arm,


    "Though we are pretty busy today, I can arrange a doctor for you. Promise we won''t charge."


    "Why another doctor, aren''t you one?" She stopped her actions momentarily and looked up with a raised brow. Now when he was here, why not let him do the sutures! The child''s parents might come here any moment.


    "Cough¡­.Sure¡­Sit down first."


    She let go of the needle and saw him sanitizing his hands before wearing a pair of gloves.


    "By the way, I''m Dr. Wang Shi."


    "Zhao Suyin, from social services."


    He nodded in acknowledgement before taking a step towards her, "Oh nice! Clean and equal stitches. Your skills are amazing. Definitely a work of an experienced surgeon. Where''d you learned it from?" Wang Shi studied half-done stitches and picked the needle to finish the job.


    "From victims."


    "Huh?"


    "Victims of domestic violence, child labour, drug addicts, dowry cases, abusers and lot many. I''ve to keep my skills top notch to not let them see unsightly scars of their painful past after they are rehabilitated."


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "So you are a doctor too."


    "Told you before, half doctor!"


    Wang Shi paused for a second but didn''t look up, "What does that mean?"


    "The one who doesn''t have a degree but is professionally qualified." Finally he looked up to see her face, their eyes met...


    "Your answers are surely twisted."


    Hearing him say after a short pause, she responded with a shoulder shrug and mumbled, "I''m the twisted one."


    "Miss Zhao, the child''s parents are here. They are demanding to see him." Before Wang Shi could reply, a nurse came in and informed. She saw Wang Shi and greeted politely, "Dr. Wang."


    Zhao Suyin: "What about social services?"


    "They are also here"


    "Hm! Don''t let them know about me." She wanted to see the case analysis and decision making capability of the people who will work under her. It comes as the best opportunity. "And yes¡­ ask the attending psychiatrist¡­. Um¡­ What''s his name?"


    Wang Shi: "Dr. He jeff"


    "Yes, thank you. Inform Dr. He, I want to know his opinion as well."


    "Copy that" Nurse left to execute the orders.


    "And it''s done." Wang Shi cut the long end of the bandage. "Lie down to your side; I''ll give you TD shot."


    "HUH?" She jumped off from the bed, her eyes as big as a saucer. Don''t know if it was his illusion, but he saw a tinge of red on her cheeks.


    Wang Shi "¡­"


    ''Did she hear something wrong? Or did I make it sound wrong?''


    Seeing his questionable gaze, she averted her eyes. "Cough¡­. I-I already received one three months back. I should be get going. Thanks once again."


    He saw her scurrying away without looking back.


    Now he was damn sure she blushed and assumed something else!


    Was there a need to give such a a reaction? Doctors don''t see genders while treating patients, it''s completely normal ah!


    *******

 Chapter 4: Whip the asses

    In the child''s room.


    "Mum, dad" Mingyu called the moment he saw his parents coming. His eyes got wet as his mother hugged him, crying. "I''m fine, aunty''s hurt. She covered me when everything happened."


    He looked at his father, "I want to see her, please."


    "No, you are not." His mother looked up, "She is bad. She took you from kindergarten without our permission."


    Father Ru placed his hand on Mingyu''s head, "Your mother''s right, you are just a kid and don''t understand these things. Let dad handle everything."


    Ru Mingyu lowered his head, "What if I had asked her to do that." He had tears in his eyes, "You never listened to me."


    "Mingyu!" His mother covered his mouth and showed stern eyes before looking around to make sure someone has not heard it. "I told you sweetheart, everything will be fine. Mum and dad are there for you-"


    "Hey, baby bro." A voice sounded.


    Mingyu jolted in fear, his expression changed and he looked at his parents with eyes full of hope but got the same unconcerned expression.


    "Howz the little brother doing? I was so worried." Mingyu''s twelve-year-old elder sister Ru Kim walked to his bed. "You are turning naughty, little one. From now I''ll always be with you, isn''t it great!?" She placed her hand on Mingyu''s plastered leg, "This looks very serious. What sound did it make when it broke?


    Mingyu whimpered in fear¡­.


    "Kimmy, don''t touch it." Mother Ru pushed her hand away instantly, much to the former''s displeasure.


    *Knock! Knock! Knock!*


    "Mr. and Mrs. Ru," A man in his early thirties knocked the door before stepping into the room. "Hello, I''m Bai Xu from social services. This is my team, Miss. Woo Meng and Miss. Yu Mixi. May I have a word with you?"


    "It''s great you came," Father Ru instantly jumped forward as if already prepared for it, "I want to file a complaint against caretaker Chu Yin hired from XY agency. She not only abducted my youngest in the name of picking him from kindergarten but got him involved in an accident. Look, how injured and emotionally distressed he is."


    Social workers glanced at the scared child who was already trying to make his presence as small as possible by scrunching into the corner.


    Mingyu: "Aunty¡­."


    "Yes, aunty Chu is bad. Whenever we didn''t listen to her, or ask for extra food serving, she used to scold us and called stinky pigs." Ru Kim butted in before Mingyu could say something and complained with teary eyes. Her red wet cheeks and pity face attracted everyone''s sympathy.


    "Kimmy!?" Mother Ru tried to stop.


    "It''s all right, let her speak," Bai Xu said, gesturing Woo Meng to take notes, "Tell us, why didn''t you complained?"


    Getting the wings of encouragement Ru Kim didn''t hold herself.


    "She has threatened us to set the entire house on fire and kill our parents. And then sell me and Mingyu to bad people for money." She lifted her hands to wipe tears causing the long sleeves to slip down to the elbow revealing the dark red bruises that came from hitting by a stick. "We were so scared that we didn''t dare to say a word¡­.. But now I can''t hold my silence anymore, look, what she had done to my baby brother. I''m such an irresponsible sister¡­. I deserve punishment." She sobbed hard.


    Woo Meng walked to console the girl softly and rolled her sleeves further to show it to all, "Is this done by her?"


    "Y-yes¡­."


    "Atrocious!" Bai Xu looked down on Chu Yin condescendingly and assured the parents, "Don''t worry, we have your daughter''s statement. We''ll inform the police and made sure Chu Yin receives maximum sentence and pay a hefty amount as compensation."


    The other social worker Yu Mixi frowned looking at Mingyu''s reaction. He wanted to say something, but holding himself. Suddenly her eyes fell on his little chubby hands that were tightly clasped in mother Fu''s. Isn''t this the old way with which parents scare their kids to keep their mouth shut?


    Yu Mixi could not take it anymore and stepped forward. "Sir, I think we should take Chu Yin''s statement too."


    All these people were just talking against the woman who could not even defend herself right now. Isn''t it unfair? They should hear both sides before reaching a conclusion.


    "And besides we haven''t spoken to the little bun yet¡­" she took another step closer to Mingyu but mother Fu harshly batted her hand away.


    "Stay away from my baby. Can''t you see how scared he is? Do you really call yourself a social worker? Disgusting! Set your degree on fire, it''s a waste. How could you speak for a criminal?"


    Mother Fu''s words were offensive, Yu Mixi instantly retorted, "Be careful with your words, you have no right to question my degree. Secondly, I know you are distressed, but that does not give you the authority to pass judgment. Chu Yin is not a convict yet!"


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "MIXI, keep your voice low." Bai Xu warned, "You are just an intern, let seniors handle this matter. You just watch it from the side and learn."


    Woo Meng: "I think sir is right, we should not question his judgment. After all, you are still at the learning stage. Moreover, evidences are against Chu Yin. Let''s not trouble the family anymore."


    Woo Meng''s smirk and mockery from her voice didn''t go unnoticed from Yu Mixi''s eyes. She felt disgusted. Is this a way to talk to your fellow worker and that too in front of others? What senior was Bai Xu talking about? This Woo Meng was also an intern, but all she cared about was her points that will be decided by Bai Xu at the end of the internship.


    ******


    In the surveillance room Zhao Suyin, Wang Shi, and senior psychiatrist Dr. He Jeff witnessed everything.


    "There¡­. did you both see that?" Dr. He Jeff pointed at the screen, to be precise he pointed at the elder sister.


    Wang Shi nodded, "Hm, Mingyu is not repulsive to his parents, but he did flinch when his sister came. And the way his mother reacted when he accused them, its obvious something''s wrong."


    "Not only that, the child is asking for help¡­. but parents are unconcerned or maybe they are hiding something. But what?" He Jeff pondered and sounded curious. "Miss Zhao, what are your thoughts?"


    Complete silence¡­.


    Wang Shi: "Miss Zhao!"


    Zhao Suyin''s kept his gaze glued to the monitor, "First I''m going to whip the asses of these two IDIOTS."


    Wang Shi "¡­"


    He Jeff "¡­"


    Wang Shi and He Jeff shared a glance, pulling lips inwards to suppress the laughter that was about to broke out.

 Chapter 5: Fierce Zhao Suyin

    Zhao Suyin clenched her fist tight, "How dare they disrespect such a noble profession. Our one minute mistake not only breaks people''s trust but may cause their lives. They should know we are to help people instead of passing judgments. They don''t deserve to be a social wor-"


    Her words left struck at the back of his mouth. A moment ago she was gritting her teeth, now her mouth was left wide agape.


    Her body was as stiff as a rock. Slowly she looked at her clenched fist and then at Wang Shi who was holding her cold hand in his warm ones.


    Though calloused, his hand felt soft and warm!


    Wang Shi pried open her tightly clenched fingers one by one. "Don''t hurt yourself for the bunch of brainless people. Be careful not to stress your hand and torn stitches."


    His sudden touch was electric, sending a wave of shock in her body.


    Zhao Suyin''s mind froze, her heart raced faster than a train. The intense magnetism he exuded unknowingly turned her cheeks hot, followed by a red tint.


    Wang Shi felt confused, ''Is this a blush again or something''s wrong with her? I was merely telling her to take care of her hand. Why is she giving such reaction!?''


    He glanced at her, a frown line appeared attractively at the center of his dark bushy brows, "You okay?"


    She instantly retrieved her gaze, pulling her hand away, "Cough¡­ yes¡­"


    She failed to notice He Jeff winked at Wang Shi and gave a double thumbs-up earning a glare in response.


    *TING*


    Awkwardness broke when Wang Shi received a message on his phone. It was from his assistant, Daiyu.


    [Task done! Check mailbox]


    Wang Shi opened his mailbox and checked the details. "Miss. Zhao, see this¡­."


    *****


    "Mr. and Mrs. Ru, please sign your statement. It will help-"


    "No one''s signing anything."


    Hearing a soft yet powerful voice, the document about to be passed to the Ru couple froze mid-air in Bai Xu''s hand. He looked at the direction where three people came walking.


    "You are?" He asked haughtily, "Don''t you know it''s a crime to interfere in legal work."


    "Zip it up!" Zhao Suyin yelled, her fierce attitude and cold tone make everyone shiver. Even the short and greasy Bai Xu was compelled to step back. But how can he let go easily? It''s the question of his honor!


    "How dare you-"


    Zhao Suyin cut him off by showing her ID card at his face, "Did you take efforts to ask Mingyu? Did you question Chu Yin? Did you bother to check Chu Yin''s records with the company? What about her ex-colleagues? Ru family''s neighbors? Mingyu''s friends and class teacher? CCTV footages? Or anything that makes you believe Chu Yin''s a culprit." She spread her palm, "C''mon¡­.Give me the evidence based on which you decided."


    "M-Ma-ma-ma-mam-"


    "Stop stuttering! Give me the damn evidence, don''t waste my time."


    "Secretary-General!?" Woo Meng looked at the position written on the ID and read it loud unknowingly.


    Ru couple gulped and shared a glance.


    The atmosphere turned odd, Bai Xu could only stare at the ID card that looked like a death certificate to him. The number of eyes boring holes into him made him feel embarrassed. "I-I don''t"


    "Social work is the art of listening and the science of hope. You did none! Neither had you listened to Mingyu and Chu Yin nor you¡­.." She paused, her lips turned to the side, "Ahh! Let''s not talk about hope. You didn''t even bother to discuss everything in private instead of in front of kids."


    With no intention of wasting any more time, she glanced at He Jeff who was standing shocked, rooted in his position.


    ''Such a delicate woman and words like a sword, slicing through and through!''


    "Dr. He¡­."


    Wang Shi watched the show from the side, a small smile never left his lips even for a second. He especially loved Bai Xu''s ghostly expression when he saw Zhao Suyin''s ID.


    As Dr. He approached, Ru couple noticed the word ''Psychiatrist, Department of mental sciences'' written on his lab-coat and understood.


    "Psychiatrist? You think something''s wrong in my family. We are abusing our child. Isn''t it?" Father Ru seemed hostile.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Aren''t you curious about what''s going on in your family? Let''s talk in private." Zhao Suyin''s said seriously.


    "What about Mingyu and Kim?" Mother Ru looked at her kids.


    "I''ll ask a nurse to watch over kids while we talk."


    "NO! My parents did nothing. They are the best. Don''t take them."


    Zhao Suyin looked as Ru Kim rushed to hug her mother.


    "We are just going to talk in the consultation room about Mingyu''s health! You can see us through blinds."


    Ru Kim looked at the room pointed by Zhao Suyin and nodded.


    ******


    In the consultation room Dr. He, Suyin, and Ru couple sit down at the round table.


    Zhao Suyin didn''t beat around the bush and came straight to the point.


    "I know none of you are abusers, including Chu Yin."


    Just as she said, Ru couple shared a glance, understanding she knew something.


    "I''ve all the CCTV footage, including the one near your residence. Though you are not the abusers you are covering for one. Your daughter, Kim!"


    "What nonsense! How can a twelve-year-old abuse someone, she''s just a child?" Father Ru scoffed, his voice rose an octave.


    "Mr. Ru, please calm down. I would love to be wrong, but do you want me to play the video where Kim was seen setting a cat on fire by pouring oil over it? How about when she hit Mrs. Ru with a shovel on being scolded by her and watched her as she bleeds? And what about when she was expelled from school for threatening to kill the baby inside her pregnant teacher''s belly?"


    Ru Couple got shocked. How did she know about all this?


    Dr. He butted in when he noticed how pale their expressions were and said solemnly, "These are just a handful of incidences, I''m sure you have suffered much worse. You won''t be lucky every time! Didn''t you see she even manipulated the social workers before?"


    Zhao Suyin passed a glass of water to mother Ru, "I''m concerned for Mingyu''s safety and yours too. Your son was desperately looking for help and when you refused to give him that, he turned to the caretaker. Do you even know what does this means? Your own child turned to someone else for help instead of his own parents."


    Unlike the other six caretakers who left the job after being treated badly by Kim, Chu Yin helped the little boy but was caught in the accident.


    Ru couple were looking for Mingyu and Chu Yin already when they received a call from the hospital. Understanding they will be questioned about the bruises on Mingyu''s body, they pushed all the blame on innocent Chu Yin to save their daughter.

 Chapter 6: Secret

    Father Ru closed his eyes helplessly, still refusing to give up, "You are judging her, that''s unfair! Give her some time; I''m sure everything will be fine once she grows up."


    "Kim is showing very serious psychopathic behavior. Once she grows up without proper help, I''m afraid her condition will worsen and she might commit a serious crime after which nothing could save her. There is a long history of such cases; if you don''t believe me, you can always search it online." He Jeff explained as calmly as possible.


    Mrs. Ru was crying by now. Looking at Kim''s anti-social behavior she once searched it online but got the same results. But a mother''s heart refused to believe that her daughter was a psycho!


    "Mrs. Ru, It''s not too late, I request you to get Kim tested and send her for treatment. She''s still at a developing age and can be helped with therapy. It''s not only best for you and Mingyu but for Kim as well. Give her this chance!" Zhao Suyin''s cold and fierce attitude turned into a soft and gentle one. "I know this is difficult, but that''s what parenting is. Sometimes you have to take tough decisions for the betterment of your child."


    Mother Ru held Zhao Suyin''s hand as if her life depends on it. "W-will she go to jail?"


    "What are you saying?" Father Ru stopped when his wife begged him with her eyes.


    Zhao Suyin answered, "Kim, no! However, police will be notified as you have tried to put false blame on Chu Yin and manipulated the facts. If she decides to pursue the case, you have to bear the charges, otherwise not. Above that, she will face charges too for taking Mingyu without parent''s consent."


    Hearing Zhao Suyin''s reply, Mother Ru nodded, "I''m willing to accept any punishment. Just save my daughter. I-I always feel scared whenever around her, help me¡­.."


    She realized it''s their last chance to save Kim before she fell into the dark abyss forever and become something that people call ''Anti-social element''.


    No parent wants to see their child becoming a danger to society. Instead, they better harden their hearts and become bad parents in the child''s eyes to bring him/her on the right path.


    Father Ru sighed¡­..


    "We''ll apologize to Chu Yin as well and bear her hospital expenses." Unlike Mother Ru, who was sobbing, Father Ru was holding himself strong. "What Chu Yin did for Mingyu, should have been done by us, yet we failed. I won''t held her liable for taking Mingyu."


    "I''m glad you understand. As far as Kim''s treatment and the procedure are concerned, Dr. He will help you to his best." Zhao Suyin looked at Dr. He and nodded, acknowledging his help in the case. She got up and left her mobile number, "I''ll take my leave. If you need any help, feel free to contact me."


    Ru Couple thanked her from the bottom of their hearts before they turned to Dr. He to discuss Kim''s case.


    *****


    "M-ma-mam¡­."


    Just when she walked out Bai Xu stuttered, he could not bring the courage to talk to her. He literally pissed in his pants when she scolded him.


    "Meet me in my office tomorrow." Zhao Suyin then looked at Woo Meng who tried to become part of the hospital furniture. "Minus ten." Then she shifted her gaze to Yu Mixi, she was the only confident person of the lot, "Good job! Plus five. You''ll be working with me from tomorrow."


    Yu Mixi "¡­."


    ''WHAT? Secretary-general not only gave her bonus points but allowed her to work with her!? This is insane! This is unbelievable!'' She took her all will power to not dance in front of everyone.


    *****


    "Good job! Marvelous!"


    Zhao Suyin turned at the sound of applause and saw Wang Shi leaning against the wall. He stood there with unbuttoned lab-coat and his hands shoved casually into his trousers, occupying the entire corridor with his tall and muscular stature.


    "Dr. Wang," She forced a smile and continued walking towards the elevator, "I did nothing; credit goes to you for getting the videos and Dr. He''s help."


    Wang Shi walked aside, matching her pace, "Don''t be modest; it was because of your keen observation and persuasive skills that Kim and Mingyu are receiving timely help." He pressed the elevator button for her.


    "Then, I take that as a compliment. Thank you."


    She frowned when Wang Shi followed her into the elevator, but she doesn''t have a reason to question him.


    As the doors began to close, she could feel her heartbeat into her head. They were alone in the lift, and it made her nervous, sweaty¡­.


    Wang Shi took a step forward to press the button on the panel, reflexively she moved back in shock.


    It didn''t go unnoticed, but he remained silent.


    She sucked in a deep breath, trying to ignore his presence and only concentrate on the conversation if he initiates any. If only!


    Surely he did!


    "Going home?" He asked, startling her.


    "Yup."


    "Got a message from the nurse station, police left your bags with them. You can retrieve it before leaving,"


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Sure." She felt his gaze on her and managed to reply.


    The awkward atmosphere returned.


    Wang Shi cast a sideways glance at her and saw her staring at the panels as if he was the ugliest creature on earth and his face could make her nauseous.


    ''What the hell is wrong with this woman? Is she weird with everyone or I''m the exception?''


    Least he knew that Zhao Suyin''s condition was worse, Wang Shi''s presence prickled across her skin, making her shuffle on her heels restlessly.


    Her breathing came as ragged as her heartbeat, she just wanted to avoid this hot doctor and hide somewhere before her ''secret'' comes out, leaving her embarrassed.


    If only she could assume this six feet three-inch tall man as invisible or maybe furniture.


    Ha! If that''s possible!


    To divert her mind, she typed a message asking her friend to pick her from the hospital.


    Wang Shi tapped his fingers on the cell-phone lying in the pocket of his trousers. He wanted to ask for her number but don''t want to give any wrong impression. It was purely for work purposes, nothing else!


    Yup! Nothing else!


    Zhao Suyin recalled something and looked up, "The cab driver?"


    "Dislocated bone, discharged! He has insurance, no need to worry about his bills."


    How did he know I wanted to pay bills? He surprised her, sending her to a momentary daze where she forgot she was staring at him continuously.


    *Ding*


    She jumped, coming back to reality by the sound of elevator reaching the ground floor.


    "Goodbye." She stepped out of the elevator, secretly taking a breath in relief with the first step.


    Wang Shi stepped out too, but he could only nod and looked as she picked her bags from the nurse station and walked to the exit.


    "A moment, Miss Zhao," Wang Shi said, taking fast strides and stopped before her. "People''s hospital gives importance to the social wellbeing of its patients. Looking forward to work with you again." Saying he offered his card.


    The staff present in the ER stopped in their tracks, casting an incredulous gaze in a certain direction. They blinked in surprise, glancing at her, then at Wang Shi and so on.


    Since it was work-related, Zhao Suyin accepted the card. It would be rude if she didn''t do the same. "My card is still in printing, but I''ve left my number with Dr. He. Contact me if any of the patients need help."


    He smiled, "Then I won''t hold you anymore."


    ******

 Chapter 7: Hottie bum

    Wang Shi turned to walk back to the elevator when he heard the buzz of over-excited staff, trying to hide their teasing smile while standing at their respective workstation.


    The small upward curve on his lips instantly turned into neutral, he felt amused how these people thought of only weird things all day.


    ''What the hell are they assuming now? Such a gossip mongers!''


    "Noisy people! He snorted, "Get back to work before I issue orders to deduct a part of everyone''s salary." He left a message before sliding fluidly into the elevator. His words worked like magic and everyone get back to their work but didn''t forget to wink at each other.


    Though Wang Shi was the owner of the People''s hospital, he opted to never be harsh or cold to his staff but strict to maintain discipline and decorum of the hospital. It was important at a place like a hospital where the atmosphere was gloomy most of the time.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    Wang Shi just applied a small psychological concept!


    If he chose to be cold or ruthless, it will add unnecessary stress, thereby increasing staff turnover and greater chances of mistakes. However, if he was neutral and approachable, it will increase productivity and create a jovial atmosphere, beneficial for everyone.


    *****


    As soon as Zhao Suyin walked away from the hospital entrance, she sagged onto her heavy suitcases, trying to take a much-needed breather and regain her energy. She has never felt this exhausted in her entire life of twenty-eight years.


    "Susu!?"


    She''d barely pulled herself together when her best friend James came running. He got the scare of his life when she messaged him to pick her from the hospital. Annoyed by his carelessness, he broke all the traffic rules to reach here ASAP.


    "Susu, you okay? Why are your clothes so dirty?"


    "Ouchhh¡­."


    He pulled his hand instinctively when it touched the bandage. "How did it happen?"


    "Hold me!"


    "Huh?"


    Suyin silently stared him for a moment, "My legs are quivering, blood pressure felt low, heart-beat sinking, brain dizzy¡­..before I fell down and you take me back to the ''hottie Bum''s'' den, just hold me and get me f*cking out of here," she scowled irritatingly.


    James "¡­."


    *******


    "HAHAHA¡­.. HAHA¡­.. HAHA¡­ OH, MY STOMACH! OUCHH!..... HAHAHA¡­.." James rolled onto the couch holding his stomach, his legs kicking the air trying to suppress the laughter which seems impossible to him. "I can''t believe it! Should I call it your good luck or was God testing your limits? As soon as you landed, you bump into ''him''... HAHAHA¡­ Damn! I missed your reaction!"


    Holding a bowl of spicy ramen, she dug the spoon in it as she watched her best friend giving her a free show of laughter. "Will you shut up? It all happened because of your mistake, I asked you to pick me up from the airport."


    "Hey, hold on! Thanks to me; you met your crush of ten years up so close." James said proudly as he walked to pick his bowl of ramen. "Tell me everything. Don''t miss any detail, otherwise, I won''t talk."


    From the last ten years, there''s only one man in Zhao Suyin''s heart, Dr. Wang Shi! The first time she saw Wang Shi was in med-school when he was invited as a guest lecturer.


    It was a four-day program and it selected only twenty-five students from all over the country on the basis of merit to get the privilege to work with Wang Shi.


    Fortunately, she was one of them and got the opportunity to learn from the youngest genius in the medical world.


    Though it was just a momentary attraction, it grew deeper when she noticed that not only his achievements and talents are extraordinary but he has a zeal to teach, to let others know about his research and methods to save lives.


    He was the one doctor who was like an open book about his profession. Ask him anything and he would answer at a drop of hat, holding his calm and gentle attitude.


    But the incident that left a forever impression was when Wang Shi saved the life of an elderly man from a hit-and-run case by performing a twenty-eight-hour long surgery single handily as other doctors were busy sitting on strike against the government policy of reducing the budget for the healthcare system and hospitals, thereby reduction in their pays.


    Those doctors even forgot their oath and responsibility to the noble profession and choose to let an innocent man bleed to death.


    Wang Shi not only performed the surgery against everyone''s will and faced the backlash; he didn''t charge a single penny when he came to know about the patient''s financial condition.


    On that day, Wang Shi stepped into the heart of a young medical student unknowingly. Only the years on calendar changed, but this doctor still occupied the heart of this woman.


    Zhao Suyin watched him rotating the chair hundred an eighty degrees to straddle it. What a weird way of eating! He will never learn, ah! "Nothing much! At first, I tried to be cool, but when he saw me stitching my own wound¡­ the first thread of restrained broke, and I asked him to do it for me. Obviously, how can I let go of this golden chance!"


    "Then?"


    "My heart raced when he came closer and almost stopped when his gentle hands did my stitches. How I wish time to stop at that moment!" She washed down a bite of ramen with coffee. "But¡­. I screwed everything by blushing and scurrying away when he asked me to lie down on my side for TD shot."


    James spurted out some ramen, "HE ASKED YOU WHAT?" he asked, wiping his lips.


    "Eat properly!" She scrunched her nose, "And it''s completely normal, he''s a doctor. Later, I blushed again when he held my hand. So stupid I must be looking! And then I acted weird when we shared the lift. He tried initiating the conversation but my nervous self was worried as-"


    "¡­.. worried as he might be able to make you orgasm just by his mere presence. Right?" James wiggled his brows, showing a row of white teeth teasingly.


    "SHUT UP!" She growled. "I was worried I might pounce on him any moment, revealing my decade-old feelings in front of him. Embarrassing it is!"


    "So what? It would be his privilege to be liked by someone like you." James pulled her empty bowl and walked to the kitchen as she followed him, "You are no less than a beauty! A confident, independent, sexy, and beautiful woman who can charm any man just by a look. If he was a real man, he should have asked for your number."


    "He did." She shoved James to the side to take over the dishes and noticed him giving looks.


    James "..."

 Chapter 8: Pen drive

    "You dare skip the most important point! Am I really your friend?"


    "It''s not what you are thinking. He asked it for work purposes, that''s it." Zhao Suyin passed a washed dish to let him wipe dry.


    "Any plans to call him?" James asked, but somewhere deep he knew the answer. No!


    "No! Not without any reason. Besides, there''s a huge difference between him and me, I know my limits very well." She said.


    James didn''t say a word, concentrating on wiping the dishes with a dry towel. Suyin knew something was on his mind, but he would not say afraid she might feel hurt.


    "Spit it out, otherwise you''ll feel constipated."


    "If you are talking about money, your crush doesn''t give importance to it." He said, looking serious "If it''s about your trashy ex, and you are taking yourself as a used product who is not worthy for a nobleman, you are being unfair to yourself."


    She breathed out from the mouth, "Why are you being so serious, Wang Shi is just a crush¡­. Only a crush!" She leaned closer, "And don''t take that trash''s name again, suddenly I''m having an urge to puke at you."


    A smile came on his lips, his long blond bangs covering one of his hazel eyes curved into two crescent moons. Preferring not to bother her with the topic anymore as these things are best if left to the destiny he changed the subject.


    "My friend has sent me a list of flats available. They are all as per your requirements. Since you don''t want to share the flat with me, why not check them out?" He tried sounding hurt.


    "Stop acting, I love my privacy, Okay? Besides, I''ll bring mom to live with me, she''s alone there." She said, "Let''s go this weekend. Till then I''ll share with you."


    ******


    James Apartment


    As per her habit, Zhao Suyin woke up early to make breakfast. Buttered toast, boiled eggs, a fruit with a spoon of whipped cream and a cup of strong coffee, she enjoyed it while running through the newspaper. She had already kept aside James breakfast in case he wakes up. Though the chances are low, he would wake up at lunchtime.


    For the first day of the new job, she took her ''uniform'' out of the cupboard and got ready. Yeah, uniform! It''s annoying to stand before the cupboard, looking at the mountain of clothes with a thought ''What to wear today?''


    A typical morning struggle for every working woman!


    On an average, a woman wastes a minimum of thirty minutes daily with the same thought, increasing their stress when they arrive late at work. They try on different outfits, lacking any real direction and plan.


    Since she has complete freedom over what to wear, she tackled the problem by selecting a ''uniform'' for herself that''s apt for the working environment.


    The solution to her problem came in the form of fifteen knee length black dresses of the same type, design, length, neck, sleeve, and fitting. To add a touch of color and not made it look monotonous, she added different colors of blazers to go with it. And a pair of black chunky heels are good to go with any dress.


    Today she opted for a plum blazer; put on light makeup, wear her contact lenses, curl the ends of hair, wore light jewelry to look presentable and put her documents in a tanned leather bag.


    Before leaving she didn''t forget to take a very important pen-drive that contains information equal to a death warrant for someone, a mischievous smile teased her red lips.


    ******


    The Ministry of women and child affairs- eighteenth floor- Zhao Suyin''s office.


    It was the first day of their newly appointed boss, the staff didn''t dare to be late or underdressed. Zhao Suyin''s ruthlessness has reached before her as everyone discussed her and how strict and the heartless person she is.


    "It''s our new boss''s first day. I''m scared already."


    "Yeah, I''ve heard she is cold and gives strict punishments at every mistake. I''ve heard yesterday she scolded senior Bai Xu and the new intern Woo Meng in front of the entire people''s hospital."


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Oh! So that''s why senior Bai Xu is looking so pale and restless. Looks like it''s not over for him yet!"


    "Exactly! She has called him for a meeting today. Let''s see what will become of this cunning man. I''m happy he is suffering; he never works but takes credit."


    "Well, I don''t mind a strict boss if she is reasonable."


    The conversations in the office stopped when they some higher-ups coming towards them, most influential among them was the second deputy minister Wei. Their gaze fell on the woman in a plum blazer, walking with a commanding aura and confidence. Zhao Suyin!


    "Good morning, everyone."


    Everyone straighten their posture, greeting politely. "Good morning, sir."


    Wei Yuan smiled, "After a long wait of three months, finally Miss. Zhao Suyin is here to take over the position of Secretary-General. I won''t read out the long list of her achievements that you can search online, all I can say is it''s an honor to have a talent like her on board."


    Only Wei Yuan knew how many efforts they have put to steal her from one of the largest private organization working for women''s development. If it was not because of the request of an old colleague who happened to know her, they could not have gotten her.


    "Let''s welcome her with a round of applause."


    Zhao Suyin took a step forward, from the corner of her eyes she looked at the rat who was trying to hide from her hawk eyes.


    "Hello everyone, I''m Zhao Suyin. I know my job is legal advisory, communication, planning, and fundraising. But let me tell you, apart from that I''ll be going on the field jobs too with selected members and interns. Book your slots with my assistant before time.


    Apart from that, I have selected the intern Yu Mixi to work by my side until the end of her internship. That''s because she analyzed the situation at People''s hospital smartly and didn''t follow the crowd."


    She glanced at a direction where Bai Xu was trying to hide, thinking he might go unnoticed and escape the hammer hanging over his head.


    "Work with me honestly, and you''ll get opportunities to grow. But I won''t let go of any dishonesty or carelessness AT ANY COST." She said as she took a pen-drive from her pocket and hand it over to a man standing near. "Play it!"

 Chapter 9: Kick out the ass*oles from the system!

    Aghast! Disbelief! Thunderstruck! Wide-eyed!


    Different expressions swarmed as soon as the presentation was played.


    What a well-organized power-point! Sadly, it was made to destroy someone''s career and set an example for others.


    The people watching realized what a grim reaper of a boss they have got. Their good days have ended!


    A minute of mourn, please!


    The presentation detailed Bai Xu''s corruption in his career of ten years, where he has accumulated properties worth a hundred million yuan.


    Surprising!


    A man with a salary of a few thousand Yuan can buy properties worth millions!


    Nobody needs a brain to guess how that happened!


    Electricity shot through Bai Xu''s veins, earth rotated in front of his eyes and he could swear he saw the Devil standing in front of him.


    ''Why did I end up like this? Must she be this ruthless to get back to me? Does she knows everything about my secret dealings? How? I hide it perfectly!''


    The presentation continued detailing the cases where he was bribed by the opposite party to suppress the matter, change the statement, drop the charges, brainwash the victims and many more.


    He even embezzled the funds allocated by the government!


    Bai Xu looked at Wei Yuan who was fuming with anger as he cast a sharp eye at him.


    "Apprehend him. Inform the police and investigation department."


    Getting Wei Yuan''s orders, security guards apprehended Bai Xu, while someone from the staff called the police.


    "Slandering¡­. She is trying to slander¡­. AHHH¡­." His body jolted violently when the security guard used the tazer gun to stop him from attacking Zhao Suyin.


    Wei Yuan cast a curious glance at Zhao Suyin, but before he could ask the source of information, she gave him an invoice of fifteen million yuan. "Hack-U! Please approve the first installment so that the accounts department can make the payment ASAP."


    Hack-U is a legal entity that works with the government and selected organizations to provide detailed information about anyone.


    Anyone!


    They are peerless in the field!


    The prerequisite was to submit a scanned copy of your ID, thumbprint and real-time face approval on web-cam for authentication before approval of the task. This was to make the procedure entirely legal.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    Later, the company will bill the client after completion of the task.


    Since Suyin was a government employee, submitting her ID was no big deal for her.


    "That''s fifteen million yuan! Quite an exorbitant amount!" Wei Yuan didn''t doubt Suyin, but could not help himself from asking. He was sure she must have done something else too! As far as the source of information was concerned, no one can question Hack-U!


    "I got all the employees checked. Including you." Zhao Suyin glanced at her assistant who nodded as he opened the folder he was carrying and pinned a paper on the staff notice board.


    Wei Yuan "¡­." ''I better be careful of her! She won''t think twice before setting my pants on fire.''


    With no intention of keeping scums beside her, Suyin had coordinated with her assistant Long Tao through the mail and had instructed her to give details of the employees that would be working under her.


    Her intention was simple¡­. Kick out the ass*oles from the system!


    Among them, Bai Xu was the worst, and many families suffered because of him. Even if she had not witnessed everything in the hospital, Bai Xu''s doom was certain.


    "I''m severely allergic to those who are corrupt and don''t take their work seriously. This is a list of the employees who fall into THIS category." She pointed her thumb at Bai Xu as the security takes him out, "Submit your resignation before 2:00, otherwise at 2:05, I''ll submit the proofs to the investigation department and media."


    "Your properties and money will be used for social development henceforth. So, don''t bother about it. The listed employees and their next three generations are now debarred from working with government." She scanned the employees, many of which are sweating, sparing the ones who fainted but nobody cared.


    "Consider this as a lesson. I don''t enjoy repeating the rules. Any doubts, come to me at your own risk." She concluded, her words like a sharp knife leaving no space for discussion. Her assistant Long Tao took over while she interacts with Wei Yuan.


    Wei Yuan: "You got me investigated?"


    "Yes, and the first deputy minister and minister too. If you want, you can do the same about me, I won''t object."


    "Naah! Leave it! I''m glad not being on your hit list." He looked at the white paper that''s no less than a death certificate, secretly taking a breath of relief. "How about recruitment? You''ll lose the workforce."


    "Temporary hindrance! New people will be hired, and some will be promoted too. I''ll coordinate with HR." She answered swiftly, unaware that Wei Yuan was deeply impressed by her fearless decisions and confidence. He trusts her plans now!


    ******


    In the office.


    "Is everything going well?"


    Zhao Suyin asked, taking her seat as her assistant Long Tao closely flowed, thinking how amazing his new boss is. If only his ex-boss was this courageous and fierce, he would not be forced to take voluntary retirement.


    His square jaw ticked thinking how his old boss had difficult times before retirement. It even affected his spirit, taking away his confidence poise that he always carried.


    "Yes, mam. Looking at the number of resignations I''ve received in the last fifteen minutes, no one will wait till 2:00."


    "Hm¡­ Tell me about Mr. Bojing."


    "Mam?"


    "Don''t make me repeat next time, I hate it. What makes Mr. Bojing take voluntary retirement?" She gestured at one of the two seats in front of her desk and waited until he settled. "Don''t think you and Mr. Bojing escaped my investigation."


    Long Tao''s brows rose in surprise. He was almost sure about himself, but she even got Ex- Secretary-General Chao Bojing investigated!?


    Unbelievable!


    "It''s the land acquisition case."


    Hearing, she frowned. This does not fall under her ministry!


    Long Tao left his seat to get a map and spread it on the table showing the exact area, "This entire land in Jing district was allowed to be acquired, offering a fixed compensation of fifteen thousand per sq meter or a similar land somewhere else to the people living there."


    He pointed at a small patch of land, bringing her attention to the problem, "This land houses four hundred and thirty widows of martyrs of war 19xx. They have accused the company of acquiring land by force."


    "But this piece of land is outside the area allowed by the government. The company has no right to acquire it." Seeing the dotted line running around the perimeter, she pointed out.


    "Not the company, someone else wants to buy it to take advantage of the increasing prices as the land develops." He whispered.


    "Who?"


    "Land development project is given to Qi industries, and the one who wants to acquire the land is Hui Guozhi, father in law of Qi Wren, owner of Qi industries."

 Chapter 10: Drunk Suyin

    Hearing the familiar name, Zhao Suyin stiffened. She knew it very well what kind of species Hui Guozhi was! How cunningly he got his daughter married to Qi Wren within a month of her divorce.


    Qi Industries comes under the top twenty companies of the country, their power was definitely undeniable. Moreover, Qi Wren doesn''t shy away from using illegal means to get work done.


    Ex Secretary-General Chao Bojing was highly experienced with over three decades of experience and had faced many challenging situations, yet they were able to suppress him to the extent of forcing him to take retirement.


    It explains how ruthless their methods must be!


    Since Hui Guozhi did everything under the cover of Qi Industries, it''s easier for the later to decline the claims because of no evidence while Guozhi continued making the life of those old women miserable.


    Zhao Suyin closed her eyes momentarily and forced to control herself before looking at Long Tao. "Have they approached us for help?"


    "yes¡­."


    "Media coverage?"


    "No use! Qi Industries have already cleared that they are not interested in that piece of land, making the case looks like those women are making false claims to get money-"


    "Enough!" She stopped him mid-way, her eyes swept with a cold gaze, "Get the lawyers; draft a statement of every woman and sent a notice to Qi industries and Hui Guozhi ASAP."


    Long Tao eyes sparkled. If she could solve it, he would know-two three times. He saw her walking out of the office.


    "Mam, are you going somewhere?"


    "WE are going for SHOPPING."


    *****


    Next day¡­.


    In the night, three men walked into a construction site, carefully stepping onto the debris scattered everywhere.


    All of them wore rugged clothes as dust lay thick on them, giving it a depressing dirt grey color.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    One of them had a short goatee with dust trapped, making him scratch it continuously while the other man had crooked teeth and a streak of blue in hair peeking out from the dark hoodie and a jute bag hanging on the shoulder. The two were taller compared to the third man, who had delicate features, rough hair like a bird''s nest and dark chapped skin and lips.


    Walking, they came across a group of five men chatting and sat down at a distance away from them.


    The shortest man with chapped skin and lips waved his hand, showing a cheeky smile, "Don''t mind man, got tired working our asses in loading cement bags."


    "Yeah, just a little rest and some drinks, we won''t bother you." The other man added, scratching his goatee.


    The third and the youngest one opened his jute bag to take out a few bottles of cheap alcohol and glasses. It instantly attracted the other group.


    "No problem, you can stay until morning. But mind sharing drinks with us, we don''t have any today." He asked shamelessly.


    Initially, they wanted to shoo them away, but alcohol made them greedy!


    "Come, come, we are brothers." The man with a crooked smile poured alcohol in the glasses and opened a packet of peanuts too.


    "Yeah, after all we belong to the same category. Daily wage labors at the construction site!" The man with chapped skin and lips took a sip, mocking their professions of being labors.


    "This bitch is so good, give me more." A man from the other group swayed in the pleasure of free alcohol and raised his glass. "Ah! What did you say....ah! Labors!? HAHAHA¡­.. Do we look like labors? No! We are here for a special purpose."


    Hiccup!


    "Haha¡­ yeah¡­. Special purpose to trouble those women living in that housing society." Another man added, pointing his glass at a direction. "Buddy pour more, don''t be petty."


    The man with a crooked smile didn''t mind and keep on adding the drinks¡­..


    "Our boss wants that house. But these stubborn widows are so annoying, bloody whores."


    "Pitthooo¡­..Already they are half inside the coffin, yet holding onto the property as of it will go with them after death. F*ck th*m."


    The two tall men shared a secret glance.


    Chapped skin man smirked, half-drunk, "Why bother about that tiny piece of land, your boss already have this." She patted the dusty floor.


    "Naah! We don''t work for Qi industries, but H-Hui¡­. Ahhh!" Before he could take the full name a man by his side smacked him hard, holding a finger against his lips, "Shhhhhhh¡­.. S-Secret¡­.."


    Hiccup!


    The group of three left the group of five after making sure they were deep in sleep.


    "Good job everyone." Zhao Suyin takes off her fake wig and loosened her bun as she breathed a sigh of relief.


    "But we didn''t get the name. They were too smart." Long Tao continued scratching his goatee.


    "Yes mam, and we couldn''t stress much to not let ourselves be exposed." The intern she selected for the mission voiced out. He was still high, thinking he did something as cool as this. Wow!


    Live adventure!


    "So what? I have a half name ''Hui'', and only we know the truth that it''s half. Manipulation is easy guys!" Suyin winked. She shifted her gaze at a certain direction, looking for someone, "Why is he not here yet? And Long Tao stop scratching, you are irritating me."


    Long Tao "¡­."


    ''Isn''t it your fault to add so much of makeup in my goatee?''


    "There he is." The intern pointed out as another intern came running like a child who has won first prize in a race.


    Zhao Suyin: "Is the work done?"


    "All set!"


    *****


    In the middle of the night, Zhao Suyin was walking on the road, a little tipsy. Her alcohol tolerance was zero, a while ago she had shared a few sips of the strong alcohol to make her acting look original.


    The two interns lived nearby at a rented apartment, so they left Long Tao and Suyin when the task was over, covering the distance on foot.


    On the other hand, Long Tao volunteered to drop Suyin but on the way he started scratching himself like a monkey infected with fleas.


    Afraid he might cause an accident, Suyin forced him to first drive to his home first, and from there she will take a taxi as the distance wouldn''t be much.


    But it''s been an hour she''s roaming on the street looking for taxi¡­.


    Her body exhausted, eyes drooping¡­.


    BEEPPP! BEEEPPP! BEEEPPPPP!


    Suyin looked behind and saw a yellow car stopped at a distance of only a meter away from her. "Ah! Taxi! Take me home!"


    Holding her already dead phone, she flew towards it with a stupid smile glued to her face.


    Annoyed, the disheveled woman dared to come towards the car instead of stepping out from the middle of the road, the owner opened the door to give her a scolding.


    Madwoman!


    He has seen these cheap tricks of swindling money and wouldn''t fall for it.


    "Excuse me, are you that desperate-"


    Before he could speak a word more, he was dumbstruck by the woman standing before her.


    Zhao Suyin felt her lips dry, she licked once and then again and again¡­..


    Her eyes blinking non-stop!


    The man before her raised the hairs on her nape by just one look. And when he spoke in his heavy and smooth voice, with a pinch or rasp and anger, it made a thousand butterflies flutter in her stomach.


    His gaze pulled her to him like being tied by the waist, and he was slowly, seductively pulling her.


    She placed both her hands at her cheeks and blinked out of her daze, showing a wide grin, "Hottie bum!"


    Wang Shi "...."

 Chapter 11: Human puppy

    "What?"


    "Wow¡­. Exact same voice! I''m sure drunk!"


    Wang Shi looked at Zhao Suyin dumbfounded as she mumbled, scratching her head.


    "Miss. Zhao, what are you doing here?..... and that too in this state! Did something happened?"


    His eyes scanned her from top to bottom; loose dusted clothes with holes, eyes smudged dark, hair like horse''s hay, and her earlier pale smooth skin now looked like a road map.


    Had he not met her earlier, he''d surely assumed her a beggar and paid some money to clear the way.


    *No response*


    Suyin was busy admiring the beauty that makes her hormones go wild.


    "Miss. Zhao," he waved his hand in front of her eyes as she kept on staring him. "WOW¡­. Careful¡­" He leaped forward to hold her by waist when she was about to fall back.


    A few seconds passed by but the woman didn''t show any intention to steady herself, continuing staring at her reflection in his dark eyes. Mesmerizing! Deep!


    "Are you really hottie bum?" Expanding her beautiful grey orbs to maximum, she carefully asked, poking her finger in his cheeks.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    Wang Shi "¡­." ''Who is she assuming me?''


    "I''ll send you home."


    The corner of Wang Shi''s lips twitched as he picked her up but suddenly she squirmed, pushing him on chest, "You stupid driver, put me down. My hottie bum won''t pick women from the road, you are a kidnapper. HELP. KIDNAPPER. MURDERER. "


    "AHH¡­.."


    With a thump sound, Wang Shi dropped her on road when she poked her finger into his right eye.


    "What the hell!" he groundedhis teeth as his palm went to cover his targeted eye, "Miss. Zhao, I don''t know whom you are referring to, but trust me I''ve no intention to kidnap you." he snapped at a drunkard woman coldly. "Now c''mon, get into the car. Otherwise, I''ll leave you on the road. Do you want me to do that?"


    He only tried testing the water by scaring her, but miraculously it worked. She shook her head like a rattle drum, "Home....please"


    Seeing the tears rolling out, he regretted scolding her, feeling something stirr in his heart; something that makes him uneasy, a feeling he had not experienced in years.


    His brows knitted together at the weirdness of his own heart, seems to act on its own.


    Naah! Must be something else!


    Just palpitations!


    With a shook of head he chucked it out, bending close, he profered his hand out, "It''s all right, don''t cry. I''ll take you home."


    After making sure she''s seated comfortably on the shotgun seat, he grabbed his ID card from his wallet and gave it to her, "Read this."


    This was important to not let her create anymore problems. What if she started accusing him in front of someone she should not?!


    "Hottie bum" He heard her say as he stepped on the accelerator.


    "Huh?"


    "Ho¡­tti¡­e¡­B..u..m¡­" She run her fingers on the name written on the ID and enunciated word by word.


    Wang Shi "¡­" ''Drunk!''


    "Where to?"


    "Home!"


    Wang Shi "¡­."


    "Right, where is your home?"


    "In a big building."


    Wang Shi banged his head on the steering wheel.


    ******


    "Why is he not home yet? Didn''t he say he will reach in thirty minutes?"


    Amidst a dark room with only wall lights illuminating warmth, a little boy was cuddled on the couch with lower half buried in the blanket''s warmth. His eyes kept on staring at the minute hand of the alarm clock clutched in his delicate hands.


    He seems too big to be a baby but still very young, about five or six years old. His stubby fingers curled into the blanket, not clasping tight, but enough to calm down his frantic heart as his looked out from the parted curtains, eagerly waiting for someone.


    ''BEEP!''


    His ears caught the sound he was waiting for and scrambled out of the blanket in record time, running in his blue silk pyjama that does not go with his age and neither with his tiny frame.


    The lights of the mansion lit up automatically, saturating his eyes as he closed them instinctively to let them adjust. With half scrunched face, he opened the door¡­.


    "Da¡­.." he froze, lashes fanned his peach blossom eyes lost in shock. "Who is she? Why did you bring her here? Why are you carrying her?"


    "Not sleeping?"


    "Answer my question first."


    "um¡­ she is¡­"


    "Aww¡­. Such a cute human puppy." Before Wang Shi could say something, Suyin wriggled from Wang Shi''s arms and jumped towards the supposed puppy.


    "Beware," The little boy''s eyes showed a dangerous glint as he raised his palm and step back, simultaneously sending a questionable glare at his father. "Handle this weirdo, dad"


    "She''s drunk, bear it." saying he walked to the table to get a glass of water. How can a woman completely change after getting drunk? So troublesome! Worse than a toddler! Finally he understood how it feels to be troubled by a drunk woman.


    "Oiii¡­.. MUAHHH¡­ such a softy¡­. MUAHHH¡­."


    "Ew¡­ Stay away¡­. DAD¡­" With his small hands at her face, preventing her from taking any more kisses, he yelled, "She is taking advantage of me. I''m a man, dammit"


    Wang Shi "¡­"


    "With that height you have the nerve of calling yourself a man!?" Wang Shi kneeled down as he pulled his little cheeks before separating the woman who was literally glued to his son. "I''m acquainted to her, can''t leave her on the street in this condition."


    "Whatever! I''ve to bathe now. You should too." The little boy''s fairy like face wrinkled in disdain, he wiped his chubby cheeks and trotted towards the stairs, "Food is in the microwave. We''ll talk in the morning. Good night."


    BANG!


    All Wang Shi heard was the sound of the door.


    Suyin make a snorting sound from nose, pouting her lips, "Puppy¡­."


    "Quite! Sit here. Finger on lips. If you dare to move, I''ll throw you on the road." After making sure she won''t move, he called his servant, "Butler Chu, there''s a woman at home, send two female servants to get her bathed."


    Poor Butler Chu! He could barely stand still hearing the words ''woman at home''.


    Wang Shi hung up, and turned to face her, but saw her sleeping on the couch hugging his son''s favourite plush, a miniature version Wang Shi closed to her heart.


    "Honey will strangle you if he saw this." Wang Shi tried taking the plush but the more he tried the more firmly she held it. "Whatever!" sighs.


    He carried her to the guest room, not worrying about the fact she was filthy, smelly and covered in dust. He knows this was not the real her!


    Suyin nestled in his warm embrace, taking in his intoxicating scent that''s pleasing to the senses. If only she woke up and saw her hottie bum carrying her princess style, she will surely die of happiness. It''s a dream come true for her!


    If only!


    ******


    IMPORTANT NOTE


    This note is to my old readers who have come here from my old book. In the comments section I''ve noticed readers keep on mentioning and asking about the information I''ve left in the old book.


    Please keep in mind this book will be read by new readers too who won''t be aware of all those things. A serious request to keep your curiosity with you. At the right time I''ll answer them (I know what are the unanswered questions)


    Ask me the question IF ONLY that character or that information is already revealed in this book.


    I hope readers will understand and go through their comments and delete the ones that may confuse new readers.


    Secondly, as far as Wang Shi''s child is concerned, I know what''s the story and slowly it will be revealed. It''s not even fifteen chapters yet, let me build the story first.


    READ IT LIKE YOU ARE READING A COMPLETE NEW STORY.

 Chapter 12: Underwear

    And finally, the sun blooms on the horizon, beginning to warm the day with a chirp of birds. The curtain shone an orange hue on Suyin''s face, adding a perfect glow to perfect sunrise.


    "Ugh¡­" groaned Suyin, feeling a splitting headache ruining her morning. With face crumbled like a paper, she slit open her eye only to dig deeper in the warmth next moment.


    ''Argh¡­.What is this throbbing pain in my head? Damn you, Long Tao''


    With her palm holding her head, she cursed her assistant who was responsible to source a strong liquor to let the opposite party blurt out the truth. But looks like he overdid it.


    Slowly she forced herself out of drowsiness, ; her eyelashes fluttered as she slides the blanket down her face but all she saw was beautiful chandelier hovering above.


    ''Huh? It was not there yesterday!''


    Hold on! Where am I?


    She warily scanned the tastefully decorated room that''s foreign to her.


    What the hell happened? Where am I?


    She squeezed her eyes shut trying to recall last night''s incident but could only remember walking on the streets¡­ what happened after that?


    Supporting her body with elbow, she tried to get up but soon felt like crap. Not only an axe was constantly hitting her brain, mounting the pressure, but there was an unexplainable pain in her lower body.


    Especially hips!


    Why hips?


    Reflexively, her head snapped to the right to make sure nothing like in novels or movies happened where she would find a CEO sleeping.


    Phew¡­. Empty bed!


    Slowly she stepped out and walked bare foot to the vanity mirror. "What the f*ck!" She was dressed in a white shirt, hanging loosely on her petite frame. And it definitely belongs to someone of opposite sex.


    Reflexively, she raised the hem of shirt to check her panty.


    Surely, it was not hers but of someone else.


    Opposite sex!


    As the shame crawled into her skin, Suyin wanted to drill hole and go into hibernation forever.


    "Oh, you woke up!"


    A sweet voice snapped her out of daze, and she saw a woman in late fifties standing at the door, holding a black paper bag.


    "Whose underwear is this? Is it used?" Suyin desperately asked the question she was most concerned about. A yukkkky feeling creeped into her. She could not wait to take it off. But damn, wearing something was better than roaming without one.


    Wardrobe malfunctions are common!


    To add to her miseries it was continuously slipping from her waist.


    Her questions caused Li''s eyes to widen, but at the same time she felt the situation funny. Isn''t her questions should be ''where am I? Who bought me here? Who are you? Who changed my clothes?'' But instead, all she was worried about was underwear.


    Underwear!


    "Relax mam! My name is Li, I work as a cook." Li introduced herself first and then held Suyin''s shoulder and made her sit on the bed. " ''It'' belongs to our young master, that''s why it''s loose. And no, it''s not used."


    "Young master?" She had a bad feeling about it.


    "Oh! His name is Wang Shi. Last night he found you on the street and brought home. I helped you with clothes and bath. Since there''s no woman in the house, he gave me his clothes to cover you as your clothes were not wearable."


    Suyin "¡­."


    Who cares about the rest of the sentence? Suyin''s brain already stopped working beyond the word ''Wang Shi''...


    She was in ''his'' house! In ''his'' clothes! IN ''HIS'' UNDERWEAR!


    Underwear!


    Just kill her already!


    With a face as red as beet, she lifted the hem of shirt, the small black clothing gave her teasing look and she dropped the hem instantly.


    "Mam, these are new clothes I arranged for you, toiletries are in the bathroom already. Please get ready, master is waiting for you at the breakfast table."


    "What floor is this?" Li was about to leave when she heard her ask a strange question.


    "It''s a penthouse at 78th floor. Do you need something?" Although confused, she answered anyway.


    ''Poison!'' Suyin cried internally at her bad luck. Now she can''t even think of escaping through window unless she wants to die.


    "No thanks, I''ll there in no time."


    As soon as Li left, Suyin buried her head in her palms and groaned, ''Out of millions of men on earth, why only he? How am I supposed to face him? ARGH.... My image...!!!!!!!!!''


    Crying, she grabbed the bag Li left for her and looked for the most important thing¡­.


    ''Underwear''¡­.


    Lacy with floral designs!


    ''Thank god, this time they gave me women''s.''


    *****


    At the dining table, Wang Shi and three other people waited patiently for the person who was taking forever to get ready.


    They carried different expressions, starting from calmness and annoyance to curiosity and drooling over steamed buns.


    "Who are we waiting for?" A childish voice that belongs to a girl broke the silence.


    "A weird duck." Another childish but cold voice answered, but this time it belongs to a male. Surely it was honey, Wang Shi''s son.


    "Can I take a bite of this tutty-fruity bun?" A cute voice belonging to another female pointed her stubby finger towards the bun, calling for her attention. She was least bothered by anything else.


    "Yuyu, are you carrying a well instead of stomach? Just now you had two buns."


    "Ouchh¡­. Lan, it would be because of your evil tongue that my tummy would hurt later."


    "Not me, but because you have no self-control. Behave like a lady." Lan rose her tiny nose up in the air.


    "Hmpf¡­. Talking the one who received spanking from mom for stealing ice-cream last night." With puffed cheeks, Yuyu said proudly, trying to win the argument.


    "That''s because you ran away, leaving me hanging on the fridge." Lan protested while she rubbed her buttocks. It still hurts whenever she sits.


    Contrary to the argument between the two girls, Honey was sitting with puffed red cheeks, brows twisted together and grumpy.


    He was still offended by last night''s incident! The woman dared kiss him, such a shame!


    Last night, he took his own sweet time to bathe, especially scrubbing his delicate cheeks eight times ending up reddening them to the extent it looked like he''s slapped.


    "You two, no fighting at the table." Wang Shi was about to pick a bun from the basket when a small hand rushed before him.


    "Don''t scold my sisters," Honey placed a bun in Yuyu and Lan''s plate, showing fangs to his own father. Entire family knows how much he adores the two naughty girls who are his dearest cousins. Like a protective mama bear, no one can say anything to them in his presence.


    Wang Shi "¡­." ''From which eye he saw me scolding?''


    Wang Shi felt helpless yet happy for the cutest and strongest bonding they share. Its true kids learn the same thing they saw their parents doing.


    Just like he''s close to his maternal cousins of Feng family, his son, Honey was following the same path, even doing much better as they were girls.


    Ah! Protective brotherly feeling!


    Zhao Suyin heard this as she descended from the stairs, she could not help up but squeeze her cheeks in her palms, "Ah! Such cute litter of puppies! I''ll take them home."


    Unknowingly, she voiced it out loud in her excitement.


    Honey cast an accusing look to Wang Shi, "Grrrrrr..."


    Wang Shi "¡­"


    "Cough¡­" Suyin realised, covered her mouth to hide embarrassment and walked to the table only to be greeted by strange expressions including Wang Shi. "Good morning everyone."


    She forced a smile at Wang Shi, but retrieved within seconds when the image of ''underwear'' crossed her mind.


    After scrambling in the washroom for like infinity, she muttered all her will power to come out and behave like nothing happened. After all, as a drunkard she remembers nothing, and she was sure a gentleman like Wang Shi won''t mention things that could embarrass her.


    Least she was aware the house has a ''little man'' who was anything but a gentleman!


    "Um¡­ Dr. Wang-"


    "Later. Let''s eat breakfast first." Wang Shi stopped her, he knows she wanted to talk about last night. But right now they were with kids, it''s would be bad to talk about that. Suyin understood Wang Shi''s eyes and sat down at the table.


    "You are late," Honey snorted.


    "Yes¡­ I''m sorry, it took me extra time in the washroom." She looked at the child''s extraordinary red cheeks as if someone has slapped him. Her eyes narrowed at Wang Shi, his image went down by several points.


    Wang Shi could not understand the reason of her hostile gaze.


    "Are you the weirdo duck?" Yuyu asked, blinking her big eyes innocently.


    Suyin "¡­"


    "Stupid, does she looks like a duck? She is pretty..... just like me." Lan excitedly jumped off her chair and took the seat beside Suyin. "My name is Feng Zhilan, I''m three years old. She is my annoying twin, Feng Xiuyu, and he''s my handsome brother Wang Qiang but you can call him honey just like we all do."


    Suyin''s hand itched to pinch the chubby cheeks of the girl. Just a few sentences and she''s sure this litter of puppies was not only cute but naughty.


    "No, don''t call me anything." Honey raised his palm, shuffling his chair back. He''s yet to recover from last night''s assault.


    Suyin felt hurt. Kids are her weakness, especially the ones who are cute and fluffy. If abduction was not a crime, by now she''d had abducted all the cute kids of the city and hide them in her home.


    And the kid before her was no less than a grumpy fairy, a little version of Wang Shi. Shiny, silky, jet-black hair, oval face with exquisite features, and a little pale skin- she just wanted to kiss him. He was beyond words.


    "Why? Am I so bad" fluttering her eyelashes, Suyin made a sad face, not shying away from using the cuteness attack. Of course if she showed her original self, which kid would dare come closer!?


    Wang Shi looked shocked, in his knowledge the social worker Zhao Suyin was fierce and cold. She is specifically warm towards kids but this cuteness attack was unbelievably out of blue.


    "Hmpf¡­ Don''t try act cute, I''ll never forgive you." Honey said in his usual annoyed tone, his right hand went to touch his cheeks.


    "Why? What did I do?"


    "You-you-you¡­." He was too shy to say it aloud, "Dad, just tell her."


    Wang Shi: "You kissed"


    "WHAT? I KISSED YOU?" She got up in shock, directing the question at Wang Shi. Was she expecting an affirmative reply? Oh, yes!


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    Definitely!


    Only regretting she remembers nothing!


    Wang Shi "¡­." Trapped under the scrutinizing gaze of two girls.


    Honey "¡­.."

 Chapter 13: Finally, the magic happened

    Yuyu supported her head with her tiny chubby hands as she cast a curious look at Wang Shi, "Dad said he kissed mom to make us. Are you two making-" Before she could speak one more word, Wang Shi stuffed her mouth with a bun.


    "EAT!"


    Oh, hell!


    What imagination do kids possess!?


    Who said they are innocent, they are little devils in disguise!


    Suyin''s face burned. She was mad and thoroughly embarrassed. Her stomach churned, suddenly more interested in running away from there rather eating this awkward breakfast. This will surely not digest!


    Wang Shi still had the grace to look up at Suyin''s face, and answered comfortably, "Not me, but the one sitting across you."


    Suyin''s gaze instantly traveled all the way to the grumpy fairy with red cheeks. "Oh, he!? I can do that again." She deflated into her seat.


    A little disappointed! Don''t know why.


    "Dare you," Honey warned, his red cheeks puffed up in anger making him look irresistible.


    "Are you sure you want me to dare?" Zhao Suyin finally couldn''t control her hands and pinched Lan''s cheeks who was fan-girling her.


    "Eating without me?!" A cheerful voice caught everyone''s attention as a tall handsome man walked in, bringing along his cheerfulness like a breath of fresh air.


    He casually walked to the table to greet his favorite kids but paused seeing a woman eating breakfast at the table.


    He was astonished and cast a curious glance at Wang Shi, who seems indifferent.


    "Woww¡­ Finally, the magic happened! Senior cousin, you found someone to get married! And here, na?ve me was about to introduce someone to you. Thank God, I didn''t." He gasped excitedly.


    Yuyu giggled, "Uncle Juju is so funny."


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Uncle Junjie, SIT DOWN." Feng Junjie, one of Wang Shi''s three cousins was dumbfounded when Honey pulled his hand, forcing him to take a seat.


    Honey, "She is not what you are thinking."


    Feng Junjie, "Then who is she?"


    Honey, "Weirdo duck"


    Lan, "Pretty sister."


    Yuyu, "I''m yet to decide what to call."


    Suyin "¡­."


    Wang Shi felt like a headache. If he didn''t handle this brother sooner, the news will spread to the entire family. Amidst the chaos it slipped his mind he messaged him to drop kids to school.


    "She is Miss. Zhao Suyin, a social worker." Wang Shi answered, "Take these three to school. I''ve got surgery scheduled."


    "But what is she doing in your home? I need more info," Feng Junjie whined. If he didn''t get his fill of gossip he''d feel constipated entire day.


    Wang Shi grabbed the schoolbags and threw it at Junjie, "NOW¡­"


    "Miss, I''m Feng Junjie, trouble you to ask how did you end up here?" Junjie ignored Wang Shi''s sharp gaze and leaned forward on the table, supporting his chin.


    Suyin was busy eating when she felt a pair of twinkling eyes directed at her. She looked up; though a handsome face but the person before her was surely a walking talking gossip tabloid.


    "Zhao Suyin, from social services."


    She looked back at her plate, that''s the most Feng Junjie attracted her attention. She has an automatic filter, any unnecessary thing gets filtered out automatically.


    Junjie, "That I know, but-"


    "Take these pupp¡­ kids to school. You hear me." Wang Shi pulled him by the collar, dragging all the way to the door.


    Junjie whined, "I came minutes ago, at least let me eat breakfast."


    "No"


    Junjie, "Miss Zhao, 92XXXXXXXX. If you need information about my brother, call meeeee¡­.." His voice echoed.


    Suyin "¡­."


    Kids immediately followed. Honey stopped amidst walking and narrowed his eyes at Suyin, "Dare not!"


    Suyin "¡­"


    "Into the car," Wang Shi instructed the kids before pulling Junjie to a corner, "You better keep your mouth stitched before I do it for you. Literally!"


    "Not even uncle and aunty?"


    "Do you know I have a list of your ex-girlfriends?"


    "¡­."


    ******


    "Why are you fidgeting so much, it''s all right? You were drunk, and I happened to help you." Wang Shi''s implacable smoky voice broke the awkward atmosphere as he drove Suyin to her office.


    Like a potent force, his voice rippled the seductive current in her body that raced her heart. Already she was nervous sharing the same ride and now when they are alone, she wanted to talk about last night but words seem impossible to come.


    "Please tell me how many shenanigans I did last night? And why the hell my bum hurts?"


    "Well¡­. Your bum hurts because I threw you on the road when you poked your finger in my eye as I carried you to the car." Since she''s so eager to embarrass herself, he would not let her down.


    "..."


    Suyin''s gaze inadvertently landed on his side profile, "S-so that''s why your eye is s-swollen."


    "Undoubtedly."


    Suyin swallowed, resisting the urge to facepalm, "What else?"


    "Gave tens of kisses to honey, called him a puppy, broke few things in the bathroom and puked over Aunty Li as she helped you." He listed it, simple and detailed.


    Suyin "¡­."


    Suyin felt like crying, she was utterly ashamed of doing so much in front of the man who was her crush. Damn! He would surely disdain her from now on!


    ''Is it too late to die?''


    "Dr. Wang Shi, I''m extremely sorry for everything. Alcohol and I didn''t go well together, I won''t drink it again." She folded her hands, "Let me pay for everything, your eyes, broken things, Aunty Li''s clothes and you under-" She slammed her lips shut before the word comes out.


    Wang Shi "¡­"


    "Ahem," He cleared his throat, "That was unused."


    "Not like I mind-" Finally she pinched her lips tight before her unrestrained tongue could do anymore worse.


    Wang Shi "¡­."


    Just how many times a human can embarrass himself in a day? She was setting new standards!


    Wang Shi was amused how easy going and natural she was, liking the charge he got from being around her. The bluntness of her nature had rooted into her to the extent she could not help uttering the truth even if she doesn''t want to.


    Such a free soul!


    A small smile crawled his lips, he even failed to notice his thoughts were occupied by the girl''s entire time. So unusual of him!


    "There it is."


    "Thank you."


    Suyin jumped out of the car as if sitting over hot pan all this while.


    "Miss. Zhao,"


    She turned hearing his voice and peeked into the car. "Yes,"


    Wang Shi, "Who''s hottie bum?"


    "¡­."


    "That¡­ that¡­ that¡­ got to go¡­. BBye¡­.."


    Wang Shi chuckled seeing her escape.


    "Cute,"


    *****

 Chapter 14: Who did it?

    "What the hell is this? Wasn''t the matter with Social services already resolved?"


    Hui Guozhi threw the legal notice at his secretary''s face. He was in disbelief that the matter he thought was resolved with Chao Bojing''s voluntary retirement will resurface biting in his back.


    Not only that, he even received a copy of stay order on construction and a draft of victim''s statement stating their allegations, notifying him their intention to put everything at a halt until the matter is solved and they are compensated for damages.


    Overnight, not only Hui Guozhi but Qi Industries was pulled into the ditch of troubles as well.


    Out of breath, Hui Guozhi popped a pill to control his blood pressure, "How the matter reached this far without coming into our knowledge? Where is our man working between them?"


    Secretary, "He was forced to resign. A new Secretary-General has taken over two days back; on the first day itself she has forced every corrupt official to resign from the department."


    "Dang it! How did she get to know who is corrupt? Make sure nothing leaks out in media-" He paused when a servant of the house knocked on the door of study, "Come in."


    Servant, "Master, young Miss. is seeking your presence."


    "Send her in." Hui Guozhi''s fingers curled across the ends of his chair''s armrests, ''She must be here because of the notice''


    Trotting high heels against the marble floor, Hui Chouming''s dark face entered into the study. She placed the legal notice on the table, "Did you said, matter with social services is resolved. What is this then?"


    "I know I''ll do something."


    "You better be. Don''t forget Wren supported you on my insistence. Right now I''ve covered for you, but if it doesn''t get solved on time..I''m afraid you''ve to bear the consequences alone." Hui Chouming made her stance clear, Qi industries will wash their hands off of the case if the matter escalated.


    Hui Guozhi had the sudden urge to smash something. Qi industries was not a highly valued company until a few years back, but with Hui Pvt ltd''s constant backing it reached its current position. And now that it has achieved some status, Qi industries has the nerve to turn a blind eye in order to save themselves.


    "Give me two days, I''ll handle this new secretary-general." He said stiffly before instructing his assistant, "Find out who ''he'' is."


    Instead of replying, the secretary was doing something in tab. "Sir, check the news circulating on internet. It''s in headlines. Martyr widows have created a post on weibo account to grab attention of masses."


    Hui Chouming, "WHAT?" She took her phone out.


    Hui Guozhi instantly snatched the tab from secretary to check what they are saying. To his shock, they repeated the exact thing mentioned in the draft he had received and asked for public support. They even shared photographs of damaged electricity wires and obstructed water supplies as proofs to show how the company was tormenting them to get their land.


    They further complained that the company was using their power to stop social services from helping them. Clearly stating, that everything was being controlled, and they are helpless.


    A cunning tactic to force social services to take prompt action, further grabbing attention of Defence ministry!


    If this happens, the entire case will be investigated deeply.


    "GET EVETYTHING DELETE," Hui Guozhi yelled at secretary.


    ******


    Squeezing the shy smile out of her lips, Zhao Suyin checked the time on her watch as she entered the office building.


    Right on office time! Thank God, Wang Shi was considerate to drop her.


    She pulled her ID card and held it up for the armed security in black to get access and went on to take an elevator ride till thirtieth floor, that''s where her office was.


    "Morning," She greeted the woman sitting at the reception who got up to greet her, admiring her courtesy.


    As she took the right turn nodding at the employees passed by, she saw Long Tao waiting for her at the end of the turn. Her brows perked up seeing the sly smile on his lips.


    "Good morning, mam."


    En What''s the matter?"


    "Someone''s waiting for you in the office." He continued walking with her.


    "Hm Do the person have an appointment?"


    "No."


    "Well. I''m in the conference room attending an urgent meeting. Either he waits or look for appointment." A sly smile made her face look attractive yet devilish at the same time. Instead of taking right for her office she took left turn to sit in the conference room. "By the way, this is not his private property to wait in the secretary-General''s office. Show him his position."


    "Gladly," Long Tao came out of his shocked state in record time, grinning ear to ear, admiring how cool Suyin was. Within a night, she turned the tables.


    Find authorized novels in Webnovelfaster updates, better experiencePlease click www.webnovel.com www.webnovel.com for visiting.


    But how did she handle the news? Why was it still circulating, and Hui Guozhi failed to take it down? Above all, why is it top searched topic of the day, continuously being shared on social media!?


    Meanwhile, Suyin dropped her purse on the big round table, and then dialled James number.


    "Entire night you kept me worried and awake; now that I''m sleeping, aren''t you ashamed of disturbing my sleep?"


    After a long ring, James''s heavy voice came from the other end.


    "I thought of you as an emotionless jerk always, but now I take back my words. I just mentioned about the case casually, and you used your contacts to help me. Thanks."


    James stifled a yawn, placing the phone to other ear, "What did I do? What help? What contacts? Are you still drunk, Susu?"


    Suyin ""


    "Aren''t you the one keeping martyr widow''s illegal land acquisition deal as the most searched topic in rankings? Isn''t it because of you their Weibo account is still working?" Suyin asked.


    "Whaaa" he mumbled through the fabric, "I''ve contacts, but they are not strong enough to do so much. Must be someone else! Now, let me sleep, good night."


    Suyin hung up, ''If not James, then who?'' She barely created a fake Weibo account and posted the news to let the opponent panic. How did it turn so big!?


    *****


    Meanwhile, Wang Shi was on phone with his assistant Daiyu, "Make sure the post keep on ruling the ranks. It should become the talk of the city, let it caught everyone''s attention."

 Chapter 15: Her boyfriend?

    "As per your instructions, I''m promoting it on social media avidly. Rest assured, with me around no one can take the post down, neither with money nor power." Daiyu''s firm voice echoed. In front of his high IQ and expertise IT skills, it was just a cakewalk for him.


    *****


    After talking to Suyin, James peeked his head out from the blanket and gave a devilish grin, "Hahahaa. He did help her.. interesting. Very interesting.."


    *****


    While Suyin stared at the phone''s blank screen, thinking who helped her, she realized the fact her phone was working.


    Isn''t it should be dead?


    Last night, her phone died after she last talked to James, asking him for help to use his contacts and keep the news from being taken down when posted.


    Who charged it? Wang Shi?


    Why didn''t he tell her?


    Chucking the thought, she clicked to check the notifications she had received when her phone was out of battery.


    Surely, there were over eighty-two missed calls and countless messages.


    While checking, something strange caught her attention- in the call log she had answered a call from James at four in the morning.


    "."


    No, she didn''t.


    Oh, wait! There''s another important thing Her contact lenses!


    Who took them out?


    When Li gave her clothes, the bag contained the case of contacts already. How?


    And her phone was on the bedside table. Charged.


    "Argh" She slammed her head on the table. All this while she was too preoccupied with ''Underwear'' that nothing else crossed her mind.


    With the thought, Wang Shi did everything and didn''t even mention it, she could not help but feel warm.


    FLASHBACK


    Before the servants arrived, Wang Shi went to lay Suyin in the bathtub as she was drenched in dirt and some weird powders from head to toe, accompanied by a strong stench of alcohol.


    As the water touched her skin she moaned, slit open her beautiful eyes a little to meet with his dark ones.


    "Good you woke up. Bathe!"


    "Hehehe." Half conscious, she smiled her way and yanked Wang Shi''s tie, taking him off-guard.


    He lunged forward, and she took the opportunity to peck his cheek. "Hottie bummm.."


    Wang Shi jerked back reflexively, his cheeks slowly turning red, "Behave."


    Without a care she rested her head on his arm, his voice getting farther and farther.


    Suddenly, a knocking sound was heard, and Aunty Li stepped in with another female servant. "You called, young master."


    "Cough..Get her bathe." Wang Shi avoided everyone''s eyes, got up and took a towel from the stand and wiped dry his hands. "Be careful. If you need help, call me."


    "Yes," Li hide the shock she received seeing a girl in the house and moved to help her. But as she crouched down, Suyin opened her eyes again, mumbling gibberish.


    Auntie Li frowned, "Why her eyes are blood red?"


    Wang Shi paused in his steps and returned to check. "Let me see," Aunty Li moved aside, and saw him prying open the girl''s eyes.


    "Tch, contacts." He clicked his tongue, "Get contact solution, sanitizer, and a fresh case. It''s in the right bedside drawer of my room."


    Such a careless girl!


    Not a second later, Aunty Li ran out to get the things and returned within minutes.


    After getting her contact lenses out, Wang Shi got up, "Continue. I''ll send some clothes, make her wear it."


    He returned to the living room, and spotted Suyin''s phone lying on the floor. She dropped it there while kissing Honey. The thought made him smile!


    Intending to inform her family of her whereabouts, he pressed the side key but found the phone dead. Thinking they''ll try calling her, he put it to charge.


    As expected, James was pacing around his luxurious apartment, scratching his head of gold every minute. A habit that comes to him naturally when he''s worried!


    On being asked when she''ll return, she said an hour and a half.


    Now it''s been over four hours, and she is nowhere in sight, neither contactable. With bad thoughts shrouding his mind, he couldn''t rest at peace and continued calling.


    ''Beep''


    The sound caught Wang Shi''s attention who was sitting on the bedside, reading a book. Hundred per-cent charged!


    ''Ting! Ting! Ting!Ting!''


    The moment he switched it on, notifications kept on popping one by one. But since the phone was locked he could not open it, and could only read a few words of the message that appeared on the screen.


    Jammie: [Susu, it''s been over four hours...]


    Jammie: [Pick up my call.]


    Jammie: [YOU DUMBO. Why are you.]


    The person named Jammie has dropped hundreds of calls and messages, asking for her whereabouts.


    All half-read messages seemed very intimate, full of worry and consideration.


    Wang Shi felt uneasy somehow.


    Subconsciously, his hands went to his left cheek.


    ''Who is Jammie? It seems like a man''s name. Her boyfriend?''


    ''RING''


    The call from James brought him out of his thoughts as he answered the call but didn''t take the initiative to say something.


    James, "Silly woman, when will you learn your lessons? Again you forgot to charge your phone! Though I hate to say it, do you want me to remind you what happened years back? Stop being careless, okay? Now tell me where you are, should I come to pick you or you coming?"


    "Rest assured, she''s at my home! Safe, sleeping and drunk! I''m sure she''ll call you back once she wakes up."


    James ".."


    Hearing the male voice, James'' mind spun, ears flapped.


    James, "Who are you? Don''t you dare touch Susu, I''ll-"


    "I know women are to be treated with dignity." Wang Shi''s serious voice commanded power. It sounded cultured, manners and arrogance. "City Spire, 6th Avenue, A 001. Dr. Wang Shi. The skyscraper is closed for outsiders and I don''t have any intention to leave my house. You can confirm your doubts tomorrow morning."


    On the other side, James had a difficult time digesting the person on the phone was Suyin''s crush. SHE. WAS. IN. WANG. SHI''S. HOUSE!!!!!!


    HOW THE F*CK THIS HAPPENED!!!!


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    He controlled his emotions


    "Fine, Susu mentioned you before, I trust you." James thought of something, he continued "Em. Was she okay when you met her? I mean, she was stressed about the land acquisition of Martyr widows. The opponents are powerful and using connections. Such ruthless people!! Tch!"


    He sounded extremely distressed


    "What happened?" Wang Shi could not help asking. He has heard about the case, and surely Qi industries were powerful. Was she drunk because of this? Was her disheveled condition a result of a conspiracy?


    "Actually Susu I mean Suyin wants to grab the attention of masses and media towards the case to force the company back off and compensate everyone. But they have blinded the media as well."


    "Tomorrow she''ll make a fake Weibo account and write a post on behalf of victims." James makes a deliberate pause, "But as usual, the post will be taken down in minutes. Tch tch tch.. I wish I could do something, but.. once more her hard work will go down the drain. These people are so ruthless they even forced the ex-secretary General to voluntary retirement.. ooofff."


    James didn''t shy away from adding drama. He silently waited for the other party to give a response. If Wang Shi was really a nice man, as mentioned by Suyin, he''ll definitely help her.


    After all, Wang Shi was one of the richest in the city. He definitely has that power.


    And if he doesn''t James will keep his contact as a backup.


    "Anything else?" After a short while James heard his voice, he was almost sure Wang Shi has already decided to help.


    "Nothing.... Just take care."

 Chapter 16: Facing Hui Guozhi

    "WHAT? Do you know who I am?" Hui Guozhi slammed his hand on the table when being asked by Long Tao to sit in the waiting lounge. His big round bald face turned red in anger.


    "Hold that expression, sir. Thanks" Long Tao took his mobile out and clicked Hui Guozhi''s picture and posted it on his personal Weibo account.


    Long Tao raised his phone at Hui Guozhi''s face, "Done,"


    [The person came to the office of the Ministry of women and child affairs. He doesn''t know who he is. Does anyone know him? Share if you want to help. Like if you like his expression and comment if you think he''s lying.]


    He had heard this ''DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?'' question millions of times in his career. And every time it irks him!


    Today he really wanted to give a fitting reply to this question.


    "YOU. How dare you? I''ll call Wei Yuan right away."


    Before Hui Guozhi could give a call, Long Tao called the security waiting at the door all this while. "Mr. Hui, you can call whoever you want. But do it in the waiting lounge. Since you don''t have an appointment, follow the procedure." He looked at the security guards, "Escort."


    "STOP." Hui Guozhi raised his palm, and stomped out of the room on his own, bitting the bitter insult. On the way, he dialed Wei Yuan''s number, but none answered.


    When Wei Yuan saw Hui Guozhi''s number flash on the screen, he understood the reason and turned a blind eye. Suyin had informed him of her decision to take the case already.


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    Within two days of joining she has infused five billion Yuan of funds. All from properties and money of corrupt officials who were made to resign.


    Who wants to risk losing a valuable employee like her!?


    No! He won''t!


    Without care, Suyin continued her day''s task from conference room. While Hui Guozhi paced in the waiting lounge restlessly, fuming mad, popping pills.


    The day was about to come to an end, and he continued to wait impatiently. Truly said, beggars are not choosers! Since he needed help, he had to endure it. All this while, he continued to call Wei Yuan, but all in vain.


    "He''s still there?" Suyin picked the cup of coffee as prepared by Long Tao, took a whiff. The aroma helped her calm down.


    "Yes, should I ask the security-"


    "No! Send him in." she glanced briefly at her watch.


    Not long after, Long Tao escorted Hui Guozhi into the conference room.


    "How dare you make me wait outside? Do you know who-"


    "Tch. Long Tao, has no one replied to the post yet?" Suyin ignored Hui Guozhi''s shocked expression and question with raised brows.


    "Let me check,"


    "Stop it," Hui Guozhi roared. His jaw ticked that said he didn''t like the surprise. Perhaps, he had never imagined the person he''d see would be her.


    "You What are you doing here?"


    "What do you think?" Her brows rose, she flicked her wrist gesturing Long Tao to sit at her left, "Though you don''t have an appointment, you waited over eight hours. Tell me, what brings Mr. Hui here?" she tapped on the table, "Long Tao, Mr. Hui has fifteen minutes, at sixteenth, call the security in."


    Hui Guozhi was stunned. Her indifferent and calm face consternated him. Finally, he understood the reason why he was made to wait outside and who created problems for him and Qi Industries. In his eyes, she was back to the country, seeking revenge.


    With a smug smile, Hui Guozhi pulled a chair at the opposite end of the table, sit down facing her. "So the former Mrs. Qi has reduced to the point where she has become a government employee. How pity! Is the pay enough to get food and shelter?"


    "Yeah, the same government employee you were desperate to meet, and waited over eight hours." She cast a sharp reply with a mocking tug on her lips , her eyes never leaving the man''s face. The atmosphere turning heavier. "Instead of worrying about my food and shelter, think about youself."


    Hui Guozhi''s expression changed. Originally he wanted to offer money to stop the meddling of social services. If not, he will use the same method as Chen Bojing and use threats and power. But unexpectedly, the new Secretary-General turned out to be Zhao Suyin.


    Sitting with serene and indifferent expression! Commanding power!


    How could he accept this?


    An idea strike, secretly he switched the camera on the phone and held it in his hand.


    "Land acquisition case. Stop framing me and Qi industries just because we share a dirty past. It was you who cheated on your husband. Now that Chouming is happily married to Wren, you are back to create problems. You should be ashamed of yourself? What will you get by disrupting my daughter''s happiness?"


    "Mr. Hui, I must say you have the charisma of a damp rag, appearance of a sweeper, and brain of a pig. I''ve nothing to do with the persons you named. Who are they?" She understood what the old foggy was trying to do. It was the old trick; does he still think she would fall for it again? Dream on!


    "I''d advise, instead of spouting nonsense, give substantial evidence that proves Martyr widows false. If not, the door is still on the left. I''ll continue pursuing the case."


    It was inevitable to avoid her past with them and she had braced herself to face it. But the moment Hui Guozhi mentioned it; she could not help feel herself be getting effected. Her throat started burning with unshed tears, stinging her.


    This has to stop!


    Hui Guozhi pushed back from the table, his eyes never leaving the woman sitting in business attire, carrying a competent and talented bearing. What upsets him most was the fact that Zhao Suyin ended up at the position of Secretary-General.


    Years back, they destroyed her promising medical career that got her debarred from practice. Her degree was taken back, and she was announced as the biggest scammer.


    Reducing to nothing!


    Yet, five years later, she had become a successful woman. How? Why?


    Wrong! This was not supposed to be like this! She should always be living out at lowest in life, at others'' mercy.


    Hui Guozhi stood up, straightened his suit, "I, Hui Guozhi, won''t allow you to take what belongs to my daughter. No matter what evil methods you use, I won''t give up." Saying, he waited for her reply but she didn''t, foiling his plan to record something.


    Suyin, "Time?"


    Long Tao, "10...9...8..4...3.....2....1 Over!"


    Suyin, "Call the security,"


    "You-" Hui Gouzhi gritted his teeth. His anger so profound that veins popped out on his forehead. "I''ll remember this," he stomped towards the door. With a hand on door knob he paused one last time to face her, "Let me see how long you will be able to hold on to that position. I''m the powerful one here."


    "We will see," she answered with indifference.


    As soon as he left, Suyin took a deep breath. She opened her bag to get a candy bar and put it in her mouth. Though her face remained calm, only she knows the surge of emotions brewing inside.


    Long Tao felt awkward after witnessing the conversation he shouldn''t. He looked everywhere but at her face, failing to understand whether he should stay, leave, or say something.


    "Confused?"


    After a short while, he heard her say, startling him.


    *****

 Chapter 17: I trust you

    "Mam. that." Long Tao hesitated.


    "Don''t bother; my past life was indeed messy.. messy to the extent you can''t even imagine." He heard her chuckle bitterly and looked up to see into her captivating eyes. "Regretting to be my assistant? I won''t hold you back."


    Without a word, he just studied her face as she waited for an answer. He was almost fifty, had experienced life more than her; yet he felt his experience was incomparable to hers.


    "Eleven years!" His words caught her attention, "There''s still eleven years until my retirement. And I''m one hell of a clingy assistant. Make sure you don''t get bored with this face."


    Now that he finally got the chance to be the assistant of someone as strong as her and prove his capabilities, he won''t let go of the opportunity.


    She chuckled as she started packing her bag, "Then start taking vitamins. It''s not going to be easy with me."


    "I take that as challenge,"


    "Be prepared! This old foggy has recorded our conversation and will soon present it as something else. As soon as he does that, let the matter flare for a few hours before you release the video we recorded."


    Long Tao got surprised, but quickly recovered and nodded.


    ******


    Three days passed by and the matter pertaining to land acquisition flared to the extent it became the talk of the city. The media were in frenzy, everybody came with their own theories and evidences, exaggeratedly presenting it to the masses.


    Everyone rushed to interview the Martyr widows. They showed their pity side, and how they were mentally harassed by people of Qi Industries.


    Not so surprisingly, Hui Guozhi''s name was nowhere to be seen. He smartly erased the evidence that leads to him or his company.


    Enraged people demanded justice for the poor women whose husbands sacrificed their lives for the country. They appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Women and child affairs for bringing the issue to light.


    Even the people at ministry celebrated their victory, calling it a joint effort of the staff and their selfless dedication to do something for the needy. Though everything was done by Suyin, that''s how the things work in organisations.


    Everyone wants to take credit!


    As the public continued to criticise Qi Industries, they choose to remain silent on the issue. None of the spokesperson came forward to clarify it to save the company''s reputation.


    Shocking!


    Naah! Scheming!


    Seeing the things were going too smoothly, it surprised Wang Shi! He confirmed it multiple times with his assistant Daiyu but the latter was confused as well.


    It was only Zhao Suyin and Long Tao who were aware of the reason. This was the calm before storm. Soon, tables will turn and Suyin would be targeted mercilessly when Hui Guozhi will make use of the video clip he recorded.


    He intended to let everyone target Qi Industries first, only to turn out as a victim later by pushing blame to Zhao Suyin.


    A clean sweep!


    "I think it''s time you make use of the video. I can''t take it anymore." Hui Chouming strode into Hui Guozhi''s office and dropped her purse on his desk before deflating on the chair.


    The past three days were very difficult. Being Qi Wren''s wife and one of the directors of the company, she could not escape the heat and was continuously pestered by crazy reporters.


    "I''ve never looked this scary."


    Hui Guozhi looked up from the document and saw her staring at her face in the hand-mirror with a horrified expression. Pale complexion, puffy red eyes, hollowed cheeks, zero make-up and dishevelled hair! "Let it be. It will benefit you later." He said, "Is Wren upset?"


    "Very," She said stiffly, "That slut has received a fair share of publicity. End this before Wren returns from states and reveal the real culprit, you. I won''t be able to stop him then."


    Yes, she can. Qi Wren loved her. Spoiled her. Cosseted her. He was technically wrapped around his daughter''s pinky finger, lost in her beauty, and would do anything to keep her happy.


    "Then let''s make a move," He called his secretary who came within two minutes, "Release the edited video."


    *****


    "MAM."


    Long Tao strode into Suyin''s room without even bothering to knock.


    "They released the video." She lamented as a matter of fact, surprising him as she continued doing the office work and didn''t look up from the pile of documents. "If I''m not wrong, it''s the part where he had asked me to stop framing him and Qi industries, and I brushed him off, asking for the evidence."


    "Y-Yes." He hesitated, "And they attached a copy of your divorce agreement, marriage certificate and a photo album as well."


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    Finally she faced him, her ghost of a smile send shivers run down his spine. "Few hours later release all the evidences we have accumulated." She closed the document and stood up, her ease and indifference aggravated him. "The files on the left are all signed. Send them to respective departments."


    She picked her bag, changed her walking slippers back into high-heels before calling it a day.


    ******


    Once more, in less than a week of her return, she became a laughingstock. And it was the same bunch of people at both times.


    "Qi Industries innocent- framed by former Mrs. Qi."


    "Secretary General at the Ministry of Women and child''s affairs turned out to be former Mrs. Qi. She took advantage of her position to dupe media and public."


    "Land acquisition case against Qi Industries- result of a planned scheme of vicious ex-wife."


    "Zhao Suyin- the so-called social worker. Took advantage of Martyr widows to take revenge on ex."


    "Qi industries highly misunderstood."


    In an instant, a wave of articles, posts and comments flocked over the internet. All shaming Zhao Suyin.


    The post released by Hui Guozhi included her marriage details, her divorce agreement and an album containing photos of her leaving the club with two men circulated as well.


    In the photos, they saw Suyin being carried out on shoulder by two men. She was wearing a sexy red gown, and all three seemed drunk.


    The video was seen as..... a helpless father went to Suyin''s office for the sake of his daughter''s marriage and happiness. And there she bullied and humiliated him.


    Reporters went to the ministry to question Suyin, but the Ministry arranged additional security and stopped them from entering into the premises.


    In the eyes of public and her staff, her image was crumbled, she was labelled as the vicious ex-wife, a third wheel who used unscrupulous means to avenge herself.


    The people who tried to take credit for the success suddenly pushed the blame on Zhao Suyin, accusing her for dishonouring a noble profession.


    People started pitying Hui Chouming, whose dishevelled picture of entering Hui Pvt ltd''s office surfaced.


    Seeing the turn of events, Wei Yuan called Suyin, "Miss. Zhao this."


    "Sir, if you trust me, give me twenty-four hours. I know what I''m doing."


    Wei Yuan sighed, "Fine, I won''t issue any official statement on behalf of ministry as of now. But you better hurry."


    "Yes, sir."


    Suyin had just hung up when she received a message from an unknown number.


    [Do you need help?]


    Suyin frowned and typed, [?]


    [Wang Shi] The reply came.


    A charming smile crawled on her lips, [Thank you. I have it in control]


    Suyin stared at the phone for a long time, waiting for his reply.


    The three dots appeared and disappeared over five times, making her wonder what Wang Shi wanted to say that he retyped five times.


    *Ting*


    Finally!


    [I trust you]


    Three words! The three words flowed over her like warm water in chilly winter. Her heart fluttered as if he had touched something in her heart unknowingly. Something she was not aware of.


    She stared at it for don''t how long until a voice bring her out from her dazed state.


    "Madam, we''ve reached."


    She looked up at the cab driver, nodded and lowered her head back to the three precious words. A tiny droplet on the phone''s screen made her wonder as she touched her cheeks with the tip of her fingers.


    Wet!


    "Madam," The driver called.


    She paid him and was about to step out of the cab when she saw the tall building of People''s Hospital in front and moved back in. "That''s People''s Hospital."


    "Yes, mam"


    "Didn''t I say to take me to ''The chillzone''?


    "No, you didn''t."


    *****

 Chapter 18: Wang Shis wrath

    Seeing herself at the wrong place, Suyin wanted to go from there, but her heart acted on its own and she let go of the cab.


    As she walked absentmindedly, trying to recall her words to the cab driver she didn''t realize she had wandered into the reception area.


    It was only when someone asked her for a direction she woke up and looked around...


    Silence washed over her, she couldn''t help but sigh...


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    ''Suyin, you can''t be here.... have control.''


    Letting out a breath, she turned to leave but walked right into Dr. He Jeff and Li Han. They were returning from the food court when Li Han noticed Suyin.


    Suyin "..."


    After an exchange of few words the two malicious men dragged her to the pediatric department in the name of meeting Mingyu.


    According to them, the little boy wants to thank her in person and she should not disappoint him.


    Really?


    To not let the two oldies feel disrespectful, she went along, anyway.


    Glad she did!


    She saw a pleasant change in Mingyu''s behavior as he has started to come out of his inhibitions. Though still far from accepting his sister, it was still a positive change.


    "Thank you, aunty." Mingyu instantly grabbed the bar of chocolate from Suyin, showing his million-dollar smile. Suyin ruffled his hair as she kissed on his chubby cheek and saw him blush.


    How easy it is for kids to learn to heal, learn to love anew and forgive. With just one decision of planting a new seed in rotten wood and watch the new spring growth, the family has started a new cycle that is loving and healthy.


    Amidst her interaction with the Ru family, she didn''t notice the two oldies'' secret interaction, where they seemed to plan something.


    At the moment, Wang Shi was at the pediatric department in Dr. Su Ann''s office, getting the kids inoculated.


    ******


    "Wang Shi this"


    "Jianyu, there''s nothing to worry." While rubbing his son''s back to comfort him, Wang Shi looked up at his worrywart cousin and his wife, standing with Yuyu and Lan in their arms. "The vaccine made them drowsy. Let them sleep for a while."


    "Dr. Wang Shi is right," Su Ann added, updating the kids'' vaccine record on the tablet. "I''ve mailed you the updated copy. The next appointment is after three months." She turned to Wang Shi, "For Honey, it''s a month later."


    Wang Shi nodded as he picked dozing Honey from the examination table.


    Outside the room, Li Han peeked through the glass and called Jeff, "He is coming. Be ready."


    Jeff panicked as the woman before him was not showing any sign to leave the kid alone.


    All women are the same! Clingy to cute kids and puppies!


    Jeff, "Miss. Zhao, I think we should let Mingyu take a rest now."


    "Um yes," She gave one last kiss and left.


    He Jeff was jumping on his shoes, peering at the end of the corridor, waiting to see Wang Shi''s tall figure.


    Though the matters pertaining to the heart are best left to destiny, he genuinely like Suyin and had sensed a subtle spark between them the other day. All he wanted was to create an opportunity to let them interact.


    "Look. Isn''t she the woman who was in the hospital that day?" A nurse showed her phone to her colleague.


    "Oh yes! The one from social services who handled the kid''s case. Can''t believe she would be such a malicious woman."


    "Yeah And here we admired her. How silly!"


    "One should not judge a book by its cover. A woman like her.ooooffff."


    Nurses shut their mouths, seeing He Jeff standing with Suyin. Their head drooped low in shame when Dr. He cast a stern eye at them before taking a look at the woman who was being targeted.


    Surprisingly, she was as calm as water, silently assessing the nurses before her. Knowing her sharp personality, he thought she would give a fitting reply, but instead, she remained indifferent.


    "Don''t you have duties scheduled? What makes you-"


    "Dr. He," Suyin interrupted, her voice came impassive, "Freedom of speech is a basic human right. Let it be."


    "Miss Zhao."


    "I don''t explain myself, because people only understand from their level of perception." She gave a warm smile to assure him, "I''ll take my leave. Take care."


    He nodded and saw her walk towards the lift lobby, letting go of the chance of an impromptu meeting he and Li Han planned.


    Wang Shi took a left turn to the main hallway and saw Suyin standing before the elevator. Before he could catch up or call her, the elevator door opened, and she stepped in.


    "Are you coming with me?" Feng Jianyu''s voice caught his attention.


    "No." He answered, patting his son''s back. "Have a surgery scheduled. Four hours,"


    "What about honey?" Feng Jianyu''s wife, Xiu Mei, asked, "Let us take him home."


    "Naah! I''ll put him to sleep in the lounge. You both take care of Yuyu and Lan."


    As soon as the elevator door was closed, Wang Shi strode towards Dr. He and Li Han who were scolding two nurses.


    "What happened?"


    Dr. He explained the entire matter without a delay. This thing was unhealthy for the hospital''s environment, unacceptable.....there''s no way he would cover it.


    Wang Shi cast a threatening glare at the nurses, who shuddered back. "Director Li, I''ll leave this to you." The room''s temperature dropped several degrees, shocking everyone. It''s so rare for Wang Shi to lose temper, and when he does, the entire hospital face his wrath.


    "Put him to sleep in my office lounge. Don''t leave his side until I return." He asked Dr. He to hold Honey before running after Suyin.


    *****


    Not long after, Suyin walked to the gates of the hospital, but halted in her steps and rushed to hide behind the pillar.


    Wtf!


    A bunch of reporters was strolling around, holding camcorders. She doesn''t know who they were looking for but she can''t take the risk of appearing in front of them, considering her face was all over the internet.


    "Are you sure she''s here?"


    "Don''t worry, someone from the hospital tipped us an hour back. She''s definitely here."


    "But why is she not coming out? Don''t tell me she left from the back door."


    "There''s no chance of her leaving without passing through us. Our men have covered all exit points."


    Suyin scrunched her nose in disgust. Indeed, they were looking for her!


    It''s not as if she was afraid of them, but who wants the headache of answering their useless acquisitions when they''ll be the one face-slapped latter.


    From her peripheral vision, she noticed a reporter approaching her direction. Biting her lips, she looked for a way out but didn''t find any.


    If she was caught by these PAID reporters, they will surely besiege her and might even hurt, considering they outnumber her.


    Don''t come! Don''t come! Don''t come!


    "Ahh!"


    Suddenly a strong hand covered her mouth, forcing her to swallow the shrill sound.

 Chapter 19: Fear of getting exposed

    "Shh It''s me."


    Without bothering to look up, his smoky, impalpable voice shouted his identity in Suyin''s brain. Wang Shi!


    Her heat raced, she wanted to breathe from mouth, but his calloused hands were resting there. There was not even a gap of one foot, he was that close. And damn! He smelled delicious. Surely not any strong cologne or perfume man''s fancy. Maybe his shower gel, lotion, or whatever it was, it was drool worthy just like him.


    Blinking from her dazed state, she nodded; questioning his abrupt action with the rose of her brows. Not like she mind, but a warning won''t do any harm but prevent her from getting a heart-attack!


    "Stay still, there is a reporter coming this side," He whispered, entrapping her between his arms, closing the distance further. His warm breath lingered near her ear, making her broke in goosebumps.


    With her hands at his biceps, she could feel they were stone hard.


    Wow!


    Taking a big gulp of saliva, she moved her right hand to his chest to prevent him from moving any closer. But the next moment she cursed


    With just a wall of thin aqua scrubs in the name of clothing, his muscled chest beneath her palm was like a steel. Hard. Strong.


    ''Despite his busy schedule, how did he manage to workout?''


    Can''t believe, she just wondered about his workout amidst this situation! Facepalm!


    "Who''s there?"


    The voice startled Suyin. Instinctively she looked at Wang Shi, worried. "I''ll handle this," With no intention of dragging Wang Shi in her mess, she decided to face the reporters.


    However before she could move, Wang Shi turned over and pushed her face to his chest. "Stay still," He said.


    She could feel his one hand at the back of her head while the other at her back, keeping her firmly in his arms as if he doubtful she might act on her own.


    Suyin clenched his scrub in her fist, inhaling his masculine fragrance. Surprisingly, it calmed her! The feeling of being protected by someone warmed her heart.


    "I said, the one behind the pillar, come out."


    "Don''t try to hide, you''re caught."


    Other reporters followed. The approaching of footsteps made her sweat; all she could think of was Wang Shi''s reputation.


    To her surprise, he stepped out of their hideout and revealed himself.


    Approaching of footsteps stopped! Silence ensued for some time.


    "What were you doing behind the pillar? Hiding? Who is the woman-"


    "Master Wang," A reporter bowed respectfully, ignoring the ones who dared to question the man standing in front.


    A few other reporters pushed the cameras down and took a step back. They hold their silence. If he was the one they were thinking, it''s best to stay low key and let these silly newbies take the flame.


    Hearing the word Master Wang, new comers looked at others in question but were ignored.


    They brought their curious glances back to the tall man embracing a woman. The potency of his gaze was searing to the extent it burns through them. He contained the aura only leaders commanded; powerful, oppressive, dangerous


    Though newbies, they were not fools to not grasp the situation. The way others reacted was the biggest hint to back off.


    "O-our apologies," They backed off too.


    It shocked Suyin.


    Not even a single word from Wang Shi''s mouth, and everyone backed off? Just like that?


    She was curious to see his expression that makes them stutter but the moment she tried, he pushed her head hard, slamming her nose to his chest.


    Ouchh! That hurts!


    Ignoring them, Wang Shi left with Suyin..


    "Hey, who was he?"


    "Master Wang. Always remember; NEVER EVER offend the people from Feng and Wang family."


    "Right. Moreover, Master Wang has a very special identity. We better forget this incident here only." A reporter said. Though he was curious about the woman, he values his job more.


    *****


    When they were inside the hospital, Wang Shi let go of her. "Don''t go out until they are here. My office is the safest place you can wait there." Still in a trance like state, she kept her head low in order to not let anyone take her pictures and followed him.


    Feeling the remnants of his touch her heart pounding like crazy, equally fascinated by the dominance he just showed.


    Cool!


    He took her to the VIP floor where his office was.


    Hold on!


    Her brows drew together. Just when she thought they are nearing his office, he moved on to take another lift by scanning his thumb print at the screen.


    The lift stopped at the top floor of the building.


    The bob cut woman at the reception desk jumped hastily and bowed. She stared at Suyin, her eyes wide, as they passed by.


    "Is he still sleeping?" Wang Shi asked as soon as he entered, gesturing Suyin to take a seat. Getting an affirmative reply from Dr. Jeff who doing something his tab, Wang Shi strode to the adjacent room.


    "Dr. He looked up, adjusted the glasses at his nose. "You are back. I''ll take my leave then," He doesn''t look surprised seeing Suyin and left casually, leaving her confused. Alone.


    Despite her confusion, she could not help but look around the luxurious office, designed to perfection in the shades of grey, white and black. Floor to ceiling windows overlooked the city, giving views in two directions. A wall occupied by book shelf, containing some of the rarest books on medicine.


    On the massive oak-wood desk sat a mac, a stack of papers under a turtle paper weight and a photo frame. It took only a minute to realise this was Wang Shi''s other office. The office that belongs to the chairman.


    She sat down at the distinct seating area occupying the one-third space of the office, waiting for Wang Shi.


    "Sorry to keep you waiting," He walked out of the adjacent room, and shrugged out of the lab-coat before pouring a glass of water for her. Then he sat down across her with clasped hands. "First, I apologise on behalf of my staff. Rest assured, I won''t let it go lightly. "


    "It''s all right, I don''t take these trivial matters to heart," Though impossible, she tried to be as calm as possible by holding onto the poor glass between her palms.


    F*ck her rotten luck. What kind of challenge was that? Her hottie bum was sitting in front, looking like a fresh meat dangling in front of her eyes.


    ''Kill me god.''


    The fear of getting exposed creeps into her!


    Wang Shi, "So you are not angry?"


    She frowned. ''Why does he sound anxious? Naah! Must be an illusion!''


    "No, there was no reason to be."


    He long breathed, "I heard the reporters..... someone from the hospital tipped them. I''ll get it investigated."


    "That would be good. This violates the privacy rule of the people coming here, if not taken seriously, may affect the reputation of the hospital."


    "Hmm.. Right"


    "Right"


    Unknown to the other, both were feeling awkward. Suyin had her own reason to feel this way, but surprisingly Wang Shi was not as calm as he used to be.


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    When he heard it was because of his staff she left the hospital, he felt the anger surge within him, and he rushed to apologise before it''s late. But there he saw her hiding behind the pillar while the reporters strolled around like hungry wolves.


    Without a second thought, he reached out to protect her.

 Chapter 20: Why Italian?

    Wang Shi felt uneasy when he saw Suyin avoiding his gaze and holding the glass of water tightly to the extent her knuckles turned white.


    Is she still thinking about the incident with reporters?


    Did he invade into her private space by embracing her a while ago? Is she upset? Hope not.


    "Um. I-I''m sorry for whatever happened downstairs? Please don''t take my actions to something else, it was meant to protect you. That''s it." Wang Shi said, breaking the awkwardness.


    Her hand went to her heart to coax the poor thing dancing wildly, her mind torn between the emotions of how thoughtful, considerate and gentle he was. The way he showed his concern could bring any women to his feet.


    "I know, you don''t have to explain yourself to me."


    Her words made Wang Shi''s heart skipped a beat, and a sweet smile appeared at the corner of his lips.


    "I have got a surgery scheduled-" He was about to say something when his eyes caught a glimpse of her swollen ankle.


    Suyin looked up when he cut off and followed his line of sight. "That In a rush, I twisted my ankle. Damn, I won''t be able to wear long heels for a week at least." With a pout, she complained.


    "."


    "Women are weird creatures," He stood up to fetch a first aid box.


    "Why so?"


    "Because Wearing long heels is much important. Trivial things like ''ankle'' can be replaced daily. Right?"


    ""


    While throwing a sarcastic remark his face was so serious that one could take it as a fact. She could not help but giggle like a schoolgirl.


    Her giggle was an auditory hug that could even force a stone to stifle its grin. Wang Shi was just a normal human at that! It tunneled its way through his heart and knocked it once. A crack appeared on the wall surrounding his heart.


    He turned around for a moment to rub his chest and pretended to look for first aid. What just happened?


    He let out a breath, ''You are getting old Wang Shi, pay attention to your health. This is not good!''


    "Get the ointment. This one''s finished." While checking the contents of the first-aid he ordered.


    ""


    Suyin felt weird, "O-okay..."


    Before she could move, he took a seat at the empty space beside her and tugged her leg holding her ankle, "Where are you going?"


    "To get ointment," She adjusted her position, tugging at the hem of her black dress. For the first time, she hated selecting a dress as her uniform. It should have been pants!


    ""


    "Miss. Zhao, pay attention to your surroundings, I asked my assistant. Not you." He pointed at a direction, but by the time Suyin looked over he left already.


    "Cough.Dr. Wang, I-I''ll do it myself it''s nothing serious. Let me do it-"


    "Stay still,"


    Ignoring her pleading, he took off her heels to continue examining her ankle as she watched him placing it on his knee and stroke thumb. The now-familiar electricity of his magical touch rushed into her entire being, igniting irritation, annoyance, and embarrassment.


    Why did he have this impact on her? When will she come over it?


    He glanced over, his lips pursed, "Nothing serious? Really? Are you sure you are even a ''half-doctor'' as claimed by you?"


    "...."


    Even his scolding was sexy!!!!!!!


    Great! Superb! God has surely given her the biggest challenge of her life. And she can already see herself loosing!


    "Sir, ointment."


    A guttural voice saved her from the situation as she looked up instinctively. This must be the assistant. But soon she brought down her vision by two feet


    The person before her was a..


    A dwarf!?


    The man who helped in Mingyu''s case, Wang Shi''s assistant Daiyu.. was a dwarf!?


    "He is Daiyu, my assistant." Wang Shi unscrewed the cap to squeeze the ointment. "Earlier, he helped in Mingyu''s case."


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    To not make Daiyu feel awkward, Suyin recovered quickly. "Thank you,"


    "Don''t mention. Though I''m short of height, my hacking skill is my weapon. I''m the best." Daiyu gloated proudly.


    Wang Shi in a heavy voice, "DAIYU.."


    "Alright, I''m leaving. Take care."


    Suyin fell into a daze as the little assistant scrambled from there in a jiff.


    "So it was you," taking off her blue blazer, she covered her exposed legs to prevent herself from any wardrobe malfunction.


    "Huh?" He threw her a look.


    "Prevented the post from being taken down, kept it in the rankings and circulated everywhere." She lamented the facts. Earlier it didn''t strike her, but the only other person she spoke to that night was Wang Shi. With a capable assistant like Daiyu by his side, it''s just a child''s game for him.


    "Yes," He didn''t hide.


    "Now I owe you one," She sighed.


    He teased her by chuckling, "If you think so, buy me a meal."


    "Done deal. I know a very good Italian restaurant," She looked at him as he let go of her ankle and stood up.


    "Why Italian?"


    "Because it''s your favorite,"


    "How do you know?"


    "Ahh! What are you doing?" A yelp escaped her mouth as he scooped her up like a bride and carried her to the office lounge. Her hands went to hug him by the neck.


    "Your ankle''s hurt; do you want it to get worse by jumping around? Take a rest."


    "But."


    "You didn''t answer my question." He walked around the bed to the other side and gently placed her next to the sleeping fairy, Honey.


    "I-I." Dang her blabbermouth! Can''t she keep it in check!? Finding herself stuck in a difficult situation, she turned and hugged the sleeping fairy. "You are right, I should take rest. Good night. Switch off the lights before leaving." And she dived into the blanket to not let him see her tomato red face.


    Her flustered reaction amused Wang Shi. The laughter built up, making his shoulders shake, but he made sure not to make any sound to not let her feel embarrassed.


    "I''ve got a surgery scheduled, will take a few hours. Trouble you to be with Honey and not leave the room." He said in a low voice, keeping in mind his sleeping son. "I''m leaving the painkiller on the table. Take care."


    Not expecting any reply from her, he walked to leave.


    "All the best,"


    He paused.


    He smiled.


    He looked back and saw her dived inside the blanket like an ostrich hiding.


    "Thank you,"


    *****

 Chapter 21: A WOMAN?

    As soon as Suyin heard the sound of the door closing, she peeked out of the blanket. Her flushed face touched the chilly air of air-conditioning and she sighed. "Argh You are such a deadly drug, I haven''t even tasted you, yet you''ve made me addicted."


    Inside, she shivered. She wasn''t sure for how long she''d be able to control herself in front of him.


    She reached out to get her handbag to take off her contacts; he was considerate to left it within her reach.


    Instantly she dived inside the blanket again.


    "My little fairy, let this auntie hug you. Your father is bullying me with his hot looks." Wrapping her hands around Honey, she squeezed him like a teddy-bear. His soothing fragrance of powder and milk filled her entire being.


    To her surprise, he turned over and hugged her back. Aww Sleeping Honey was literally a fairy! She cannot help but admire his face that almost looks like Wang Shi''s. Lovingly she brought her lips to his little nose, forehead and cheeks and he mmm himself in sleep, squeezing her clothes in his small fist.


    Something was wrong. Feeling him warm on the head she moved to check his eyes and pulse. He seems fine! Earlier Wang Shi mentioned nothing about him being sick, neither was he worried and only asked her to not leave him alone.


    "Vaccine it is," She pulled Honey closer, wrapping both in a blanket. Sweating will handle the rest.


    *******


    "...Before I end the show, let''s listen to our last caller who is willing to take ''my two cents'' opinion."


    The caller, "Miss Fei, what are your ''two cents'' thoughts on the women like Zhao Suyin. She''s such a shame to society."


    "Hmm Your tone says you are quite upset but may I know what shameful thing she had done?"


    The caller, "She cuckolded her husband."


    "Then why are you so bothered?"


    The caller, "B-but that''s morally wrong. And now she''s taking advantage of the martyr widows to get back to her ex."


    "We are no one to judge morality as it''s her private mater. Speaking of which, why would she do that AFTER FIVE YEARS? Was she mobilizing the forces of the universe, galactic deities, and dark powers to get back to her ex?"


    The caller flustered, "I-I"


    "One side you said Martyr widows are being taken advantage of and felt pity, while on the other, you said indirectly that they are doing it for money. Which side you are, decide it first, dude.." Fei Hong pushed the sound control buttons on the panel and leaned forward, "Maybe there''s more to the story, Zhao Suyin has not said a single word, neither do Ministry. There are always two sides of a coin; I''m waiting for the other side to reveal itself. That''s my two cent thought"


    "With this.... I, Fei Hong, end the show ''my two cents'' don''t forget to share your thoughts on our official Weibo. Before we part, let''s hear this song."


    She played- [Better than revenge-Taylor Swift]


    [Now go stand in the corner and think about what you did


    Ha, time for a little revenge


    The story starts when it was hot, and it was summer


    And, I had it all I had him right there where I wanted him


    She came along, got him alone, and let''s hear the applause


    She took him faster than you could say sabotage]


    A tap on Fei Hong''s shoulder made her swirl the chair to find the Radio station director Neo Huo standing by her side. He showed her a thumbs up, "Another good show, keep it up."


    "Thank you, Neo, but I''ll talk to you later. No time. Got to go somewhere, goodbye." She put the headphone down, picked her bag, winked at the young director and strode out of the radio station.


    ******


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    The club was electric tonight; music flowed like a drug bringing everyone higher and higher with every single person dancing crazily on the jam-packed dance floor.


    On the luxurious couch, Feng Junjie was enjoying the drinks with his two female partners, his hands resting at their shoulders with a whiskey glass in one. Majorly overdressed in black and maroon business attire, he definitely stands out from the crowd, yet attracted maximum seductive glares of bees.


    It''s a treat to see anyone from the famous Feng brothers. Now that Feng Junjie''s eldest brother Feng Jianyu was a family man, he became the center of attraction for all these beautiful ladies.


    Not only ladies but men too. Some were jealous while some were attracted to the handsome ''beauty'' sitting in front.


    Of course, Junjie enjoyed every bit of it! He knows he''s handsome, rich and has countless admirers.


    "C''mon girls, the night is still young. What are you waiting for? Get more drinks." With the flick of his finger, they bring the most expensive drinks forward.


    Girl 1, "Hehehee. CEO Junjie is so naughty, he wants us to be drunk,"


    Girl 2 in a coquettish way, "Yeah, you are so bad,"


    Feng Junjie made a peal of hearty laughter, "Am I?"


    The clock ticked on the wall, and one could swear it slowed down by the wildness of the people dancing on the beats, under disco lights. By the end of the night, Junjie walked out of the club with both the wobbling women, arm in arm.


    Girl 1 rubbed her hand on Junjie''s chest, "CEO Junjie, spent the night with me tonight."


    Girl 2, "You''ve been busy all this while, I''ve missed you so much."


    *ZOOM*


    *SCREECH*


    A Kawasaki Ninja ZX superbike in red pulled over at a distance of a foot from Junjie. The bike lunged forward as it lifted from back at an angle, making everyone to halt in their steps.


    "What amazing skills."


    "Skills? What''s that? My eyes are glued to this red dragon. Cool!"


    It''s one of the most sought after racing bikes in the world. A limited-edition! Surely the biker was one of the rich masters of the city. But who?


    The rider dressed in complete black lifted the helmet, surprising Junjie. "Long time no see, MASTER JUNJIE. Remember me?" An avalanche of chest-nut hair tumbled out of her helmet, framing her oval face.


    "WHAT? A WOMAN?" Passer-by''s got shocked. "How is she able to ride such a heavy bike?"


    Feng Junjie let go of the two wobbling women in his arms instantly. It caught them off guard and they staggered back on their heels.


    "Hong, thank God you came. I was waiting for you." He walked to her, his eyes shone excitedly, "I called you so many times, but you answered none. Were you that busy?"


    Fei Hong glanced at the two girls, "You are busier than me, as always. Did I interrupt your fun? Guess it was the wrong timing. My apologies,"


    "Hehehe." Junjie rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.


    The two girls whined, "CEO Junjie!"


    Junjie felt his mouth twitch, "I''ll ask my driver to drop you home."


    "."


    "But aren''t we supposed to spend the night together?"


    Junjie coughed profusely, "Bingbing, Tingting, night time it is. Your parents will be worried. Go home." Without bothering to look at them, he messaged his driver to drop the ladies safely.


    "."


    The two girls saw him put on the helmet before hopping on the bike behind the woman and left speedily, leaving a trail of dark smoke.


    "coughcoughcough"


    "Damn you, Junjie! How dare he ditch us like this?.... And that too for that unruly woman! Hmfp"


    "And who the hell are Tingting and Bingbing. He shared the drink with us, but didn''t even remember our names."


    *****

 Chapter 22: Your balls maybe?

    Fei Hong lifted the glass cover of the helmet to talk to him, "You left your car for them. How are you going to compete with me? Or giving up already?"


    "Hmfp.I don''t lack cars and bikes. Don''t forget the one you are riding is also mine." Junjie resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Being seated at the back while a woman rides his hands clumsily looked for something to hold.


    Obviously, he can''t grab the woman!


    Well he can, but only if he''s ready to face the consequences.


    "Correction needed. It WAS yours. You lost it in bet. Now it''s mine." She reminded.


    "Keep going I''ll call someone to get me a car,"


    *****


    "Waooo. Hennessey Venom GT. She''s a beauty in white," As soon as the car arrived Fei Hong shoved her helmet to Junjie and jumped over it with hands spread eagle to give it a hug.


    "Are we still up for the race? Or you''ve changed your mind?" Junjie rested his elbow on the Car''s body, asking with wiggling brows. "Well the result is clear. No one can win against this beast." He felt confident and proud this time.


    "Hmpf" She snorts, "Our winning odds are five is to one. Don''t forget the race is won by the driver, not by car." Flicked her dark curly hair in style, Fei Hong yanked the helmet from Junjie and positioned herself on a bike waiting for him to get ready.


    The sound of the engine roar echoed on the empty street as the two racers with seemingly opposite vehicles positioned at the starting point. Fei Hong threw her white handkerchief up in the air, waiting for it to touch the ground.


    *WHOOOSH*


    The car and bike sped through the expressway, leaving a dark print on the tarmac, fighting neck to neck. Since it was late-night, there were no pedestrians with hardly a vehicle or two. But no thanks to the very fact it''s a wide and newly constructed road with sharp turns and couple dark tunnels, it has become the hotspot for racing youngsters, looking for an adrenaline rush.


    Junjie took the lead in the beginning, Hong followed closely. Though she was on a bike, her skills and confidence are unparalleled. With ten years of racing experience, she can beat even the Gods, let alone Junjie.


    "F*ck" Soon Junjie realized he was inclining at the losing end. The approaching sharp turn would be a challenge to cross as there were few vehicles already, while Hong can do it easily with her bike.


    However, suddenly they heard the roaring of approaching vehicles, shaking the grounds beneath. They both checked in the rearview mirror, surely a group of luxury cars was coming to their direction.


    The kids got hold of their dad''s car key.


    Uncontrollable!


    As they come nearer, their wild hooting could be heard amidst the engine roar. They were clearly challenging them. But none of them were interested to race with these kids.


    *BEEP BEEP. BEEP BEEP.. BEEP BEEP BEEP.*


    To call Fei Hong, Junjie signaled her in their secret ''honk'' code 2.2.1.1.1.


    They both slowed down their vehicles to the side, letting them pass by. However, the wild brats deliberately turned their steering wheel to their direction, almost brushing with Junjie and Hong''s rides.


    Fei Hong''s brows furrowed. She looked back at Junjie''s white beauty for a scratch or anything. If they dared hurt it, she will crush them.


    Junjie''s face darkened, ''As always, cars come first. Before they could continue with their race again, a few riders rolled their windows and challenged.


    "What are you racing against a woman!? If you have balls, try racing against us."


    "Yeah bro there''s no fun winning against the weaker sex."


    "Grow some balls"


    When Fei Hong saw this, her grip on the bike tightened, eyes flashing a murderous glint. "Hey kid, you don''t have bigger balls than me. Mine had been put on my chest to avoid chaffing. Bring it on."


    A ghost of a smile appeared at the corner of his lips, his eyes narrowed at the troublemaker kids. He again honked indicating they are together in this.


    Unaware kids; the two are the master with the experience they cannot even think of. Top-notch racers in the circle which no one dares to challenge!


    Not a second later, they raced their vehicles after them, flooring the accelerator to the maximum. Their vehicles rushed in a beautiful symphony, coordinating with the other, drifting past the vehicles in a blink of an eye.


    Their eyes burned with the same passion.


    They allow only the two of them to challenge each other, if someone else tried to barge into their territory they will join hands and crush them.


    These two were crazy?


    Not afraid of death?


    Mad?


    Nope! They were just experts!


    They passed at a lightning speed, not even stopping even at the approaching sharp turn, passing it like a hot knife through butter and left everyone behind.


    "S*it! How are they able to cross the turn at this speed?"


    "It''s Godly!"


    "Whom did we challenge today?"


    "Such a shameless defeat."


    At the finishing point, Feng Junjie and Fei Hong have parked their vehicles in the middle of the road, waiting for the kids. With hands crossed over the chest, they leaned against the white beauty, standing side by side, and shoulders brushing with the other.


    Quickly the group arrived one after the other Um ten minutes late to be exact.


    The imposing aura the two showed, they didn''t dare to ignore and stepped out and walked towards them.


    The car parked in front of them widened, their eyes as big as saucers. They knew it was a luxury car,, but this was a limited edition


    Thank God they didn''t cause a single scratch.


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    The cost of all the cars combined in their group won''t be enough to match the one before them.


    Feng Junjie pointed at Fei Hong, "She won the race."


    Fei Hong smirked, "The WEAKER SEX,"


    The shocked at their faces evident in their eyes.


    Fei Hong stepped from the car towards them, her warm chestnut hues shone from the headlight of the car behind her. "Do you need anything? Water, tissue, your balls maybe?"


    "We are sorry," Their heads dropped low in shame.


    Fei Hong, "You are still young, so I''m not taking this further. But make sure this was the last time you''ve provoked someone with no reason, and cussed."


    "Go home," Feng Junjie came and stand beside Fei Hong. His eyes scanned the group of youngsters, "Most of you are under age; better grow up first."


    The group didn''t take a minute extra and hurried back before the two changes mind and inform their parents.


    Feng Junjie tucked his hand around Hong''s shoulder, his playfulness returned. "Hong darling, shouldn''t you thank me for dealing with them? OWW.."


    Being hit by her, he rubbed the back of his hand.


    "Who''s your darling? Keep your filthy hands with which you touched those women away from me." She scowled, "Don''t be cheeky, I dealt with them alone, you barely supported me."


    "You This is the reason you are still single. No one want''s a dangerous girlfriend like you."


    "Why are you so concerned? Are you interested? But I won''t accept a ''child'' man as my boyfriend."


    "What child? I''m just cute. Yuyu and Lan''s cute Juju uncle."


    "Yeah, a cute uncle of the same age as Yuyu and Lan."


    "."


    ******

 Chapter 23: Heart warming scene

    The moonlight poured from the sky, bathing the city with its silver hue, illuminating. At the city''s less frequented highest point, the two were silhouetted against the beauty of soft rays as they looked over the entire city.


    "Here you go," Junjie passed a bottle of beer to Fei Hong.


    "Thanks," She looked over as he takes off his expensive blazer, spread it on earth before placing his ass carefully on it. "It''s just dry soil. Was there a need to spoil the poor blazer?"


    Clean freak!


    "What?" He shrugged, "Clothes can be bought daily, but not my ass. Besides who knows if there''s any worm or insect hidden beneath. No harm being careful!"


    "You can even put women to shame." Shaking her head, she brought her gaze back to the City spread across her. The city below her was alive with lights, and it took her breath away. No matter how many times she comes here, she''d never get over it.


    "Thanks," He took a mouthful and looked ahead.


    "For shaming you?" Though she knew the reason, it was just a small favor for which she didn''t want him to show gratitude. Besides, she really did nothing.


    He chuckled, took a sip first, "That you do daily, nothing new. I know you do that coz you can''t bear to look at my handsome face longer. To cope with that you pass comments,"


    "Yeah, I agree with you. MR. NARCISSIST,"


    "I take that as a compliment." He cocked his head to left and clinked his beer bottle with hers. "Jokes apart, it''s for putting a few good words for Miss. Zhao Suyin."


    Fei Hong''s show ''My two cents'' was the most highly rated show on radio. It has a reach of millions of people, mostly youngsters who wait to put questions to hear her unbiased opinions. She famously calls it as ''Two-cent thoughts''.


    Seeing Suyin being bashed all over, and none come to put a few good words for her, he requested Hong to talk about it on her show.


    Knowing Hong''s nature, he didn''t feel the need to ask her to favor someone. She''ll naturally give an unbiased opinion, partially influencing the people to look at other possible angles.


    "No need, it was my honest opinion," She took two sips, scrunched her nose as the liquor went down leaving a sting in her throat. "Did you arrange the caller?"


    "Nope," He said, "It was the heated topic. Unavoidable."


    "How do you know her?" She wiggled her brows at him, mischievously.


    He pushed the bottle in her hand up, "Don''t think wild. I followed someone else''s orders."


    "Who?"


    "Not telling,"


    "."


    ******


    After a long surgery, Wang Shi returned to his office and went straight to the lounge to check on Honey.


    Disbelief. Shocked. Astonished.


    Different emotions swiped over Wang Shi when he saw his ever so grumpy tsundere son hugging Suyin with all his might, cocooning in the soft blanket. To be exact, he rested his hand at Suyin''s cheek while his face was buried at the crook of her neck.


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    His clear and equal breathing showed how deep slumbered he was.


    Wang Shi stood rooted, taking in the beauty of the scene. He tried to recall when was the last time Honey hugged him to sleep!? Never! When did his son last slept so peacefully?


    Sigh.


    It was always Wang Shi hugging Honey until he turned three and got his own room. From then onwards he had never shared a bed with his father. Even if he falls sick, it would be Wang Shi who''d adamantly accompany Honey through the night but never dared to sleep.


    If he did, the light sleeper Honey would instantly sense someone''s presence and would either pick a couch or change room.


    Wang Shi took his phone out to take a picture of the heartwarming scene.


    Slowly. Quietly. Gently. Wang Shi extended his hand to check Honey''s temperature, but before he could touch a single strand of his hair the woman stirred, her brows furrowed and she closed the last bit of space between her and Honey.


    His hand froze. His entire world slowed down.


    Something flashed beneath the surface of his indifferent expression and his gaze fell on Suyin''s sleeping face. He cannot stop himself from taking a careful look..


    She wasn''t stunning in a classical way, but in her ordinariness, she was a rare beauty. Beautiful pastel white complexion, cute nose though a little long, pink cheeks and perfectly sculpted lips as if carved by angels.


    Her hair flowed down her shoulder like waves on a sandy beach. Hidden behind the long lashes were a pair of grey eyes like stormy clouds, blowing in the wind. Determined, Vigorous!


    Wang Shi felt his hand itch when he saw a strand of unruly hair falling over her lash, caressing her cheek.


    Out of impulse, he extended his hand.


    Frowning, he pulled back instantly. What was he about to do just now?


    Thank God he didn''t!


    His eyes warily looked left-right to assure no one witnessed him doing that.


    He shook his head in disbelief.


    ''You are surely getting older. Even your brain has started acting on its own ah!? Better take medicines before it gets worse.''


    Sigh


    Afraid of his own actions, he left them alone and went to freshen up.


    ******


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH..."


    Mornings are peaceful, one likes to wake up with the chirp of birds. However, today Suyin jolted up with the loudest ever ear-piercing scream of a little human in her arms.


    Oh, boy! What a scream it was. It woke her up faster than a cat in ice-water, every sense clawed their way to standing and she bolted up straight over the bed with eyes flung wide.


    ...


    A moment ago, Honey''s biological clock kicked at the exact time, however, he felt something soft, squishy and pleasantly fragrant near him. He hugged the squishy thing closer, wondering from where his father got this blanket from.


    He''ll ask him to get one more.


    But.


    He shot opened his eyes so wide each iris was a perfect orb of dark chocolate when he heard the sound of snoring that isn''t his own. The scenery in front horrified him and that''s when he screamed his lungs out, rolling to the left and slides down the bed.


    "Huh Uh where? Where it is?" Clutching on the blanket like a life savior, she pranced over the bed, scanning around.


    Honey in a confused state, " What are you looking for?"


    "Lizard," She answered. "That''s why you were screaming, right?"


    "."

 Chapter 24: Woman like you-

    "You I''m screaming at the duck dancing over my bed. What are you doing here? What did you do with me last night?" saying he covered his non-existent bosoms.


    Suyin "."


    After a second or two, her head her eyes slackened like a Halloween doll at the little boy. "First, I was sleeping, and you disturbed me. Second, stop behaving as if you''re taken advantage of. Third, though you''re a beauty, there''s nothing interesting in you."


    Honey, "Grrrrrrrrrrr. Everything will be interesting when I grow up,"


    Suyin slumped down on the bed, she resisted the urge to laugh, "Are you sure it will be interesting?"


    "You" Honey''s red cheeks puffed in anger. It''s the question of his dignity. "Yes, it will be as interesting as dad''s. If you don''t believe me, note down his measurements, we''ll meet again after twenty years. No, make it fifteen."


    Suyin, "" ''Wang Shi''s ''measurements''!??? If only'' A blush tinted her cheeks red, she was sure they both meant different by the word ''measurements''.


    "Noisy people," Wang Shi rubbed his eyes to dispel the sleepiness as he entered the lounge. Of whatever time left he slept the night on the couch to not make her feel awkward when she wakes up. But the two wake him up with their constant screaming.


    Suyin''s gaze first slide over Wang Shi''s messy bed hair.


    ''Wow..'' Instantly her brain screamed.


    He wore black pajama in silk and had top three buttons opened, giving her a sneak-peek of his muscled chest, his eyes still a little groggy, the overall effect was lethal. She loved this look above anything and was instantly attracted to the manliness he radiated.


    She took a much needed deep breath, hating every fact about her own look she must be exhibiting right now.


    "What are you two talking?"


    Honey sauntered over, "Dad, this duck said there''s nothing interesti-"


    "Why is it wet?" Before Honey could say a word about their ''measurement'' banter, she cut him to the chase and pointed at the wet patch on her shoulder. Slowly drawing her eyes at Honey.


    Honey, "Don''t look at me like this, I don''t drool, okay?"


    "Did I say anything?"


    "You You" Honey cursed Suyin under his breath. He lifted up his little face at Wang Shi in complaint, "What was she doing on my bed first? Why did she hug me?"


    "One of our staff gossiped her whereabouts to media which forced her to stay here." Honey opened his mouth to say something, but Wang Shi ruffled his hair, "And you both hugged each other,"


    "."


    ''Are you sure I''m your son?''


    He snorts, stomped his feet to the cupboard to grab clothes, "It will take time for me to bathe. Use the other bathroom for yourself," BANG, the door shut.


    Wang Shi, "He has something against the opposite gender. Hot-headed he becomes, don''t mind."


    "Naah! It''s alright, I never took it to heart," She saw him walking to the cupboard left opened by Honey to close it before sliding the curtain to let the sunlight in.


    "I got a message from security late night, reporters have left already."


    She heard him and got up, "Oh right, I should be get going. Thank you for your help."


    Turning his body he looked at her, "I didn''t mean that. My words were just to inform you of the situation outside,"


    Suyin blinked, surprised at his sudden explanation.


    "AHHHHHH.."


    Wang Shi, "He saw it,"


    Suyin, "He saw it,"


    Both said in unison, hearing Honey''s scream from the bathroom. The next second he stomped out with an oversized towel wrapped around his body, fuming mad.


    He pointed at his lipstick stained nose, "You took advantage of me,"


    "Of course I did. I''m helpless in front of cute kids. And you''re a rare beauty," She winked.


    "Then get your own kids,"


    Wang Shi frowned at Honey''s sharp comment; he noticed the subtle change in Suyin''s expression too. But before he could say a word, Suyin acted first.


    She walked over and crouched down near him to humor the situation, "Honey dear, you were ouchie in your bummy last night, so I kissed you to take your pain away. Guess what, it worked, and you slept peacefully." She rubbed his little nose, "This lipstick suits you more than me." She looked at Wang Shi with a smile, "Isn''t it?"


    "Don''t touch me," He smacked her hand hard, and yelled in an unpleasant tone, "Enough of your nonsense. Your sickly sweet smile disgusts me! Just because I''m letting you some face, don''t overestimate yourself. I know what your intentions are, don''t think you can use me as a ladder to get to my dad. Woman like you-"


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    "HONEY," Wang Shi''s voice rose.


    "Dad, I know I should not talk like this. It''s bad," He looked at Wang Shi, "But don''t you think it''s weird how she ended up at our place twice within a week. And every time she acts cute with me even though I dissed her openly. Who does that? She''s definitely one of those greedy women."


    "I SAID-"


    Suyin shook her head at Wang Shi''s direction to prevent him from scolding Honey. She doesn''t want to become the reason of their fight. "Dear, rest assured, I''ve no such intentions. If my actions made you feel this, I apologize and promise not to bother you anymore." She forced a smile, "I remember I''ve an early morning meeting, will take my leave. Take care."


    When she tried to touch Honey''s head he dodged it and stomped back to the bathroom.


    Suyin picked her bag and walked to leave, showing her plastic smile that was straining her cheeks by now. "Goodbye, Dr. Wang,"


    "Miss. Zhao," Wang Shi caught her by the elbow and tugged her back, "I apologize on-"


    "You don''t have to," She interrupted, "Kids have a sensitive mind! Especially if they have a single parent, they become overprotective and won''t tolerate any intrusion. They live in constant fear of losing the only parent they are left with. Honey''s no different! If my actions have made him feel this, I''m definitely wrong somewhere." She touched his arm, "Be at ease, I won''t take it to heart. Take care,"


    Wang Shi wanted to say something, but words didn''t come out and he could only watch her leaving.


    *****

 Chapter 25: Puked blood

    Swirling wine in a tall glass, a smug smile at the corner of lips, Hui Guozhi was celebrating the downfall of Zhao Suyin from the comfort of his luxurious office.


    Soon, Suyin will be forced to resign from her position, while he''d make sure to get that precious piece of land without any hindrance.


    For the past few days she was mercilessly bashed by the media and netizens for taking advantage of her position to handle personal issues, demanding resignation and legal action. While Hui Guozhi escaped unscathed and Qi industries gained support as Hui Chouming volunteered to help the poor widows with a donation of ten million Yuan.


    Every piece falls perfectly!


    Preposterous!


    Least he knew that tables were about to turn!


    To answer Hui Guozhi''s video, Long Tao prepared two videos, all to be released at an interval of an hour.


    First one belonged to the compound of the place where the Martyr widows'' lives. That night Suyin had sent her other intern to install cameras near the damaged water supply pumps, electricity transformer, and around the compound to record their activities.


    She was sure; Hui Guozhi''s first step would be to prove the claims made in the Weibo post false. And in order to that, he''d get everything fixed up and claim the photographs were morphed.


    At first people were confused seeing the video. They couldn''t understand who the people making repairs were and why. Wasn''t the damage claim stated in the post turned out to be false when investigated by the media and authorities? Then who are these people replacing the damaged machinery?


    Shockingly, the new machinery doesn''t look new but equally old but in a workable condition to avoid any suspicion.


    That was the first seed of doubt planted.


    At the end of the video was a message- [Next evidence at 10:15:00 a.m.]


    The video became an instant hit, reaching over masses within minutes.. Questioning the case once again as discussions begin.


    Anticipation build up about the next proof as everyone kept looking at the clock.


    At this moment Hui Guozhi received a call from Hui Chouming. "Mingming? How come you woke up early?" He answered.


    "Dad, bad news! There''s a video posted not less than thirty minutes before showing your men making repairs at Martyr widow''s property. Everything is crystal clear that the claims made in the original post were real and someone got the machinery replaced." Her anxious voice sounded as she looked at paused video on her tab.


    Hui Guozhi bolted up from the couch, the wine glass dropped from his hand, "What? How did she get the video? My men always made sure to not let anyone record their activities, that''s why no one got a proof against us. How did she do that?"


    "I don''t know. Zhao Suyin, this bitch is full of tricks! Just get it fixed before she releases the next evidence and the damage is irrecoverable."


    Hui Guozhi picked the remote control to check the current news, "What next evidence?"


    Her voice came through gritted teeth, "Don''t know what else she has prepared. There''s a message at the end of the video stating the time of next proof. Dad, get it fixed."


    Hui Guozhi naturally knew why his daughter was so tensed up. If anything happens, Qi Wren won''t think twice before pushing everything on him. In that case it will affect his daughter''s reputation too.


    He could feel his entire body stiffened, "I''ll handle it. Don''t worry."


    However, Hui Guozhi tried various means to take the video down, but it was beyond his capability. As the last resort he ordered to issue an official statement that the repairs were made on his order as a secret charity. He felt pity seeing their poor condition and ordered his men to do so.


    The plan was to portray the video from a different angle, and show that it was a kind act even though these women sided with Suyin.


    Though there were loopholes in his story, that would be fixed later as the people only see what''s on the surface.


    Contrary to his belief, many accepted the excuse, but a majority waited for the minute hand to tik three.


    At this time, both fatherdaughter used all their contacts to stop the next evidence from spreading and get it delete as soon as it appears but no one could provide any help. Apparently, someone was controlling it from behind the curtains.


    Hail Daiyu!


    At the correct time, Long Tao released another video.


    It was the recording of the construction site where Hui Guozhi''s men accepted they were hired to trouble the widows and force them to vacate the society coz their boss wanted it. The video stopped where they almost blurted out their boss'' name, ''HUI''.


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    Long Tao tactfully stopped the video right at that word to let people guess who the real master mind was. It was no rocket science, though!


    They are not naming anyone, just dropping hints!


    Hui Guozhi was already pacing in his office back and forth, his gaze would stop at clock after every round. Thinking about the uncertain, he had popped two blood pressure pills already.


    At 10:15 he checked what was the other evidence Suyin had prepared.


    At the end of the video he clutched his chest and puked a mouthful of blood, dropping to the floor to his knees. It was such a big shock; his poor heart couldn''t hold the pressure.


    His own men! His own men had taken his name in a drunken state!


    Disaster!


    This was beyond his expectations. The proofs he gave were nothing in front of Suyin''s. Whereas he tried to bring Suyin''s past to escape the situation, she concentrated solely on the actual case.


    His secretary knocked on the door multiple times, but none answered. Worried, he turned the knob and saw Hui Guozhi slumped on the ground with blood stained mouth.


    ******


    *CRASH*


    Hui Chouming smashed her tab on the wall when she saw the second video. "Just die you bitch. How dare you?"


    With the second video, everything was crystal clear. In one clean sweep, Suyin threw the curve ball at Qi Industries and Hui Guozhi. Getting out of it unscathed was almost impossible.


    Someone has to be sacrificed!


    Apart from Hui Pvt ltd, Qi Industries was also caught on a tight spot as they opted to remain mute and portrayed themselves as victims. Even if they chose to sacrifice Hui Guozhi, how will they explain why they remained silent? What about her pity facade, she pulled in front of the media?


    And most important, her husband Qi Wren, he''s most ruthless when it comes to ''his'' and the company''s reputation. She felt her entire body tremble, her beautiful face crumbled into an ugly scowl, her eyes dimmed.


    Earlier she had taken out the marriage and divorce papers from Qi Wren''s safe and passed it to her father to let him frame Suyin. While the photographs were taken years back and were in her possession all this while, even though Qi Wren once ordered her to destroy them.


    Yet, she held them secretly.


    Just when she was about to call her father, she received the call from the person she doesn''t want to talk at the moment.


    Qi Wren!


    "W-Wren." Her voice came timid.


    Wrapping up his business tour two days in advance, Qi Wren''s plane had landed in the city an hour before. On his way back home, while checking the development of the ongoing case, he saw the videos updated on behalf of the Ministry of Women and child affairs.


    "You''ve done enough. I''m on my way,"

 Chapter 26: Manipulation

    *TOOT! TOOT! TOOT!*


    Hui Chouming kept on holding the phone even after Qi Wren hung up, her face sank. It was the first time when the latter didn''t ask her wellbeing or showed love but cut straight to the point and spoke coldly.


    She sucked her lower lip in, biting them. Her beautiful face stained with tears rolling down her eyes lost its shimmer while she slumped to the ground. Her nightmare, her biggest fear, her enemy.. Zhao Suyin has returned!


    Suyin''s presence was a buzz around her like a fly that you can never swat. She cannot tolerate anything related to her. Even her breathing!


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    How can she not feel insecure!


    After all, they had shared a common man before!


    Though Qi Wren was her husband, it didn''t take much effort to shake men''s forever changing heart. If he can leave Suyin for his personal gains than he can do the same with her, too.


    No! She can never lose to that good for nothing Suyin!


    Qi Wren belongs to her! Only her!


    She was, she is and she will be his legally wedded wife, Mrs. Qi! Forever!


    Upon reaching home, Qi Wren went straight to his bedroom to look for his wife. His handsome face was dark as gathering storm clouds, his brows twisted. As he pushed the door in, he saw his wife sitting on the floor with disheveled hair, red cheeks, and smashed room.


    He pinched his glabella.


    No need to guess what happened!


    She raised her head, slowly revealing her pity face, "Wren." She called out as she flew into his arms, hugging him tightly. "Suyin that witch is back into our life,"


    "No, she''s not! She''s only back to the country. You''re the one bringing her into our life," Though he hugged her back, his voice came cold.


    "How can you say this?" She looked up at him.


    "Don''t try to make me fool. I got everything inquired. She''s recruited by Ministry and was doing her job when Hui Guozhi stepped onto her tail. Haven''t I warned your father before that Qi Industries will not support him if he gets caught? The matter that could have been solved with money is dragged unnecessarily,"


    Hui Chouming''s kept her gaze locked onto Qi Wren''s..he was smoldering underneath his stony expression as matter escalated, involving his company. "He has supported us many times before,"


    "That was years back! And for that, I''ve remained silent for a long while letting him have things his way. But now. Flames have reached Qi Industries, I won''t be easy on him." He let go of her and sat down on the couch with crossed legs while she stood at her position, watching him.


    "But he''s my father, your father-in-law!" She understood he was going to sacrifice Hui Guozhi.


    "Yet he presented my marriage and divorce documents to the media in order to save his ass at the cost of my reputation and company. And YOU supported him behind my back. Because of you two, the entire media knows that Suyin and I were married once and I was cuckolded by her. Have you thought of the consequences before doing this? Let''s not talk about me, but you''ll be compared with her forever. In good.In bad"


    "II" She sounded guilty and sat down by his side. Holding his hands in hers, she quickly explained, "I don''t care what others think of me. All I wanted was to save Qi Industries when I received the legal notice. Earlier we thought to handle the matter with money but when dad saw her in the ministry, she not only humiliated him but even you and openly challenged to keep pursuing the case,"


    He didn''t respond as he listened to her, staring at her pretty face.


    "Dad wanted to back off, but in that case, we would have to give compensation to the widows. Won''t it have proved it was his fault and Qi Industries supported in it too? That would have been more disastrous for both companies." Seeing a crack in his stony expression, she closed the distance between them. Her tears never stopped flowing as she touched his chin to make him look at her.


    "Just think; how Suyin became secretary-general in such a short time when it was not even her field of specialization. All she did was some measly social work during college days, but that was her hobby! Obviously it''s money, she''s a corrupt officer! However, she didn''t ask a single penny from dad, why? Isn''t it because she''s back to the country for revenge? She''s after Qi Industries, she wants it back. At this crucial time, you should not let go of your most loyal backing,"


    Her manipulative words made him look at things from her perspective. If Suyin was really back to the country for revenge, considering her position in the ministry and her best friend James''s backing, he should not take her lightly.


    Above that, she has worked in international organizations overseas, holding precious contacts within reach; once she decides to strike it would be difficult to suppress her again.


    He took a deep breath, bringing his gaze back to his wife, "Though the situation is tricky, I''ll think of a way that Hui Guozhi receives minimum damage. But in any case, he will be at the receiving end."


    He threw his head at the headrest, feeling exhausted. After a long journey of over twenty-four hours, what welcomed him was a scandal, a crying wife, and a tore down room. "I''d still say everything happened because of Hui Guozhi. If he had not been greedy of that piece of land, none of this has happened. Must you Hui''s be so greedy?''


    As she heard this, her face flushed red in anger. She funneled all her strength to keep her mouth shut and body relaxed. ''Look who talked about being greedy!?''


    *****


    *Tick*


    Suyin swiped the key card and opened the door with a click sound. "Finally home," She breathed, letting go of her handbag on the breakfast stool with a sound loud enough to startle the couple making out on the couch.


    "WOW!"


    Her lips curved into a big ''O'' seeing them half-naked. If she had entered a minute later the intimacy and nakedness would have been at a different level.


    That''s for sure!


    "James, I hope you remember this is a five-bedroom apartment." She walked to the bar to pour herself a glass of iced water, "And we have beds in all the rooms."


    James let go of the handsome hunk in his arms and pushed to his feet, "But it''s more fun on the couch, Susu." He saw her scrunch her nose and winked playfully, "FYI, I get my couch dry-cleaned frequently and get it replaced every year."


    "Wear your shirt first," Suyin cocked her head at the man buttoning his shirt, "I''m Suyin, James'' best friend. I suppose you''re Evan!?"

 Chapter 27: A crush only lasts for a maximum of four months

    Evan, "Yup, Evan it is,"


    Suyin took the initiative to extend her hand, wondering how the two contrasting personalities came together. James gave a kind of cheerful, comforting, and happy-go vibes while Evan looked mature and introverted, pulling an expressionless face.


    Suyin, "Nice to meet you,"


    Evan, "Same,"


    If she recalls correctly Evan was older to James. Almost of the same height, if not maybe a little taller. His mahogany hair neatly pulled back without a strand out of place, eyes very much worldlier and a sharp nose.


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    As of figure, it was definitely muscular and better than James who had a slender and tall stature. However, James was a complete knockout with his drop-dead gorgeous face, worthy for the entertainment industry.


    "Yeeee..The two most important persons of my life finally met each other," James jumped on his feet, tugging his hands around their neck and pulled them, "I love you guyz,"


    Evan placed his hand on James'' naked chest and pushed him, "Wear your shirt first,"


    "Wear your shirt dammit," Suyin break free herself before her neck gets sprained.


    James pouted, "Hmpf You two! Not wearing,"


    "What''s for lunch? I''m famished," Suyin sprinted to the open kitchen that looked like a Michelin star chef''s. Obviously it should be, after all, James was the youngest receiver of Michelin star and that too he has five in his cap.


    Talented!


    Who''d had imagined the heir of Fortune group will pursue his hobby of cooking instead of joining the family business.


    "Your favorite rosemary mushroom risotto," James'' voice sounded from the living room. "Get a serving for me, too. With extra parmesan,"


    Suyin, "What about you, Evan?"


    "I have a business meeting in an hour, you two enjoy," Evan explained, forcing James to wear a shirt, showing stern eyes as the latter acted like a child.


    Suyin took out the parmesan block from the fridge, and as she grated it her phone beeped. She turned to look at her handbag, "James, mind giving me my phone? My hands are occupied,"


    "Sure," He pulled out the phone from the bag''s outer pocket, and checked. His brows rose in surprise, "Woohoo it''s a message from Hottie Bum. Want me to read?"


    "Give it back," Suyin snatched it, snorting from the nose. She leaned her hip against the kitchen counter to read it.


    Hottie Bum, [I know you said you wouldn''t take any of this to heart, but I''m feeling ashamed and want to apologize for my son''s rough behavior and rude actions. I''m sorry.]


    She closed her eyes, thinking about past incidents and Honey''s words once more. There''s no doubt she''s attracted to him, but it''s a pure crush.


    Only crush! No real feelings! Yes!


    Sure!


    Hopefully!


    Argh, why''s she not convinced?


    Was her attraction towards Wang Shi had reached the point where she''s looking for ways to see him? And by doing so, a child had started to feel insecure!?


    But her meetings with Wang Shi was coincident.


    Setting aside the jitteriness afterward! She has no control over that!


    No, wait! What were his words again. ''She''s like one of those greedy women''. One of those women?..... So the problem comes in general, it''s not exclusively related to her. In easy words, Honey hates all the women who come near Wang Shi ah!


    But why?


    Is this related to his mother?


    Setting her muddled thoughts aside she typed, [Apology accepted! Happy now!? Just a request be gentle to Honey, your harsh words may stir up his anger.]


    James set a plate of risotto for her while he picked his own. "Thanks," She looked up from her phone to reply.


    If Wang Shi scolds Honey, or be harsh, surely it will make him be more remorseful to her and to all other women who''ll approach Wang Shi, without them being at fault! And this wouldn''t be good for his growing up days.


    Hottie Bum, the reply came instantly, [Thanks. Will keep this in mind,]


    []


    She put the phone aside and sighed, catching the glance of the two men who were alternating their gazes at her and then to each other.


    Suyin, "WHAT?"


    "Nothing," Though James shook his head, it sounded otherwise.


    Suyin narrowed her eyes, "JAMMIE!?"


    "I did nothing. It was Evan who asked me about Hottie Bum. By the way, what was in the message?"


    "Your ass,"


    "Why my ass? It was Evan who tried to be a busybody. I was merely asking on his behalf," James pushed the blame to innocent Evan who was still off mood for getting his love moment being disrupted. He glued his gaze to James from the beginning, occasionally taking off to answer Suyin''s questions.


    Evan ""


    Evan shook his head, feeling helpless in front of his ''sweetie''.


    Suyin smiled, feeling amused how the infamously cold and stoic businessman from France, Evan Ricci, gave up in front of James.


    "He''s my crush. Over ten years old crush which I never get over with," She felt shy while talking about her crush but since she''s not disclosing the name, it''s perfectly fine to reveal this much information.


    Evan nodded, "Based on a psychologic study, a crush only lasts for a maximum of four months. If it exceeds, then you are already in love."


    "WOWWWW." James looked at Evan as if seeing an alien.


    "Cough cough cough" Suyin chocked on her risotto. Her cheeks turned beetroot red. ''Damn, savage he is,''


    Gulping down a glass of water, she turned to look at the two men but caught them lost in each other''s eyes.


    "Cough." Evan was conscious of Suyin''s presence; he recovered instantly, bringing back his gaze from James. "I''ll take my leave,"


    Suyin waved her hand and saw James sprinted after Evan to see him off.


    More than thirty minutes later James returned, rewarmed his plate of cold risotto before heading to Suyin''s room where she was sprawled on the bed on the stomach, the television sang the latest news all pertaining to her and the shocking reveal. But she was least interested in it; something else occupied her mind.


    He plopped on the bed beside her, "Something''s bothering you. Spill the beans. Hide nothing, otherwise, I won''t talk,"


    She sighed, deflating her head down. "Nothing much,"


    "Hottie bum," He tested the water by taking his name and she raised her head instantly. "I was right, it''s about him."

 Chapter 28: No more meeting Hottie Bum

    "WHAT? He has a child?" James jumped, almost spitting the last bite of risotto in his mouth. "So it was not just a rumor but reality. Do you know anything about the child''s mother?"


    People in the upper circle have heard the rumor that the Wang family''s eldest son has a child, but since nobody had seen the boy before, it remained a rumor. Moreover, Wang family''s status was as such no one can dare to dig, otherwise, the consequences are unbearable.


    "There''s no woman around Wang Shi," Suyin was sure about it, otherwise why would he gave her his clothes while she was drunk. And Aunty Li mentioned that there''s no woman in the house.


    "What now?"


    "What now, what? That''s HIS child, HIS life; I''ve nothing to do, silly!" She gave him a look, and turned on her back, looking at the design pattern on the wooden ceiling, "Leave this topic. Talk about you and Evan. How did everything started?"


    "Well I was invited as the head chef at his company''s product launch. He kinda liked my cooking and signed with my catering company for all the events. Meetings from there onwards were frequent between us, and we just happened.. Cool isn''t it?" His voice beamed with excitement, "And he''s nothing like what his image is portrayed in media. A carrying, and the lovable person he is. Just a little cold for others,"


    She smiled. Evan was definitely not a little cold but an iceberg.


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    "Uh huh, that I saw. The way he was looking at you was filled with sweet yearning," She plopped her head on palm, "It''s been eleven months, right?"


    "Ten days to eleven months to be exact. We are planning to go to Genting Highlands to celebrate our anniversary," He lied down on the bed, and gave a side wink.


    "Water sports, huh!? So sweet,"


    "I know, he''s sweet. Got your fill of gossip? Now leave Evan aside and tell me what''s bothering you? If it''s that bastard, Qi Wren-"


    "No no I''m not a fool to waste my breath on trashy ex."


    "Then?"


    She sighed, "Wang Shi''s son Honey thinks I''m trying to use him as a ladder to get to his father and he stormed at men today,"


    "He did? But it was just a coincidental meeting between you two. And other than me no one knows he''s your secret crush. Not even Evan,"


    "But can you make a five-year-old kid understand all this? No!" She sat down on the bed, hugged the pillow, and rested her chin on it. "So No more meeting Hottie Bum. Even if our path collides, I''ll avoid him,"


    "WHAT?" He sat down, "But"


    "Jammie. I''ve told you before. Wang Shi and I... not possible! WE ARE MILES APART! Besides, he''s just my crush; I had no other thoughts about him."


    "Well. Whatever decision you take," His head lowered in disappointment. "I''ll support you. But let me tell you. Zhao Suyin is no less than Wang Shi," He pointed his finger at her.


    Her lips pursed into a thin line. She knows why he''s feeling this bad!? In his eyes, she''s the best woman a man could get, and he hates it the most whenever she values her lower.


    "All right, all right, I know I''m the best and you love me," She saw him sitting with a pout on his swollen lips. No need to guess how his lips got swelled up. Definitely a scary kisser Evan was!


    "Cough Cheer up, I have got good news for you." She gained his attention as he raised his brows, "I''m going to take that scum Hui Guozhi head-on." She informed, "Have already informed the ministry to hold a press conference and invite all the involved parties. Let''s end this,"


    "They''ll ask personal questions, too," He asked worried.


    "Do you think a bunch of reporters can scare me with their questions? Let them ask! And this Qi Wren thingy has to end. Otherwise, it will pop up again. I can assure that,"


    "That sounds interesting. I''m coming with you." James fell back onto the bed, hugging Suyin''s favorite ducky plush. "Your forever moral support! But do you think Hui Guozhi will come?"


    She winked, "Just wait and watch. He will pay a big-time,"


    "Wooooo. My savage queen is back in action. That''s my bestie."


    *****


    At night Wang Shi''s penthouse


    At the huge dining table, two persons were sitting at either ends of the table, giving a look. Honey was on his toes, all prepared to hear a round of sarcastic remarks and a mini lecture on ''How to talk to elders?''


    To be correct, he was prepared to get scolded since morning but


    Wang Shi was as calm as ever, silently enjoying the dinner. Don''t know why he didn''t mention the topic yet


    Neither at the breakfast table, on the way to school and nor in the car on the way back home. Even now, everything was eerily quiet between them.


    This calmness was making him feel jumpy, restless, like sitting under a naked sword.


    "Dad, you can say anything to me. You know that. Right?"


    "Come here, "Wang Shi said. Just when Honey pushed on his feet, Wang Shi added, "With your plate,"


    ""


    Honey took his usual seat at the right of Wang Shi, placing the plate on the table. "Dad"


    "Don''t pick leafy vegetables out. It''s good for your body," Honey heard him say as few green vegetables were swiftly added to his plate that only contained a piece of juicy meat.


    ""


    "En,"


    Throughout dinner, Wang Shi behaved like a Buddha. There was not even a single word that Honey had prepared himself to listen once more.


    Out of patience, Honey placed his chopsticks with a sound, "Is this your new way of giving punishment?"


    Wang Shi wiped his lips with a napkin, "Why would I punish you?"


    ""


    "Because." He sighed, "For whatever happened in the morning,"


    "What happened?"


    "DAD," He exasperated,


    Wang Shi had a faint smile at the corner of his lips. He was amused at his son''s restlessness on not getting reprimanded.


    In past, even an hour of lecture would fail to bring a frown line on his small forehead, and he''d dust everything off of his shoulder..but today silence did everything.


    Still not satisfied, Wang Shi stirred Honey''s emotions to make him guilt-trip, "Daiyu said you were running a fever last night because of vaccine and Miss. Zhao took care of you until dawn. How are you feeling now?"


    Technically he didn''t lie; Daiyu came to check on them at Wang Shi''s instructions and reported what he saw. At that time, Suyin was patting Honey''s back, coaxing him to sleep.


    ""


    "You''re evil," Honey puffed his pink cheeks as he pulled Wang Shi''s hand down from his forehead, "I know you''re trying to guilt-trip me,"


    "Is it working?"


    Honey got up. Taking fast strides with his small legs he ran for his room, "NO,"


    "Little man, then why were you looking for punishment?"


    ""


    "I''m ignoring you.." His voice rang.


    Wang Shi couldn''t help but smile to himself.


    *******

 Chapter 29: Abusing the privilege

    The next day, the ministry released a statement on organizing a press conference at the headquarters addressed by Suyin. They invited the names of two representatives from each media house, leading newspapers and magazines.


    Within minutes of releasing the statement, every media house signed for their best representatives and booked a slot.


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    "Zhao Suyin holding a press conference? Finally, she has decided to answer the questions. Let''s hear her point of view on everything."


    "After the press conference, it will clear her stance on Qi Industries and the rumors earlier. I strongly believe it was never her intention to take revenge. She just happens to be unlucky to share a past with Hui Guozhi and Qi Industries in this case,"


    "Seeing her record of achievements in the past five years, I''m her die-hard fan. She''s so cool. Hope she takes legal action against Hui Guozhi and Qi Industries,"


    "Qi Industries is still mute as usual. Do they not have any leader leading them? Or is their PR team useless?"


    Qi Wren sulked reading the insults directed at his company and him. Everyone''s views on Suyin were either neutral or positive, however, their views on Qi Industries and Hui Guozhi had already hit rock bottom.


    It was a mistake to stay on back-foot and now they are being made fun of it. A small land issue has turned into the talk of the city. Ridiculous!


    Neither Hui Guozhi had taken a fancy to that land, nor Qi Wren had to face this embarrassment at the hands of his ex-wife. A wife, whose ugly face still makes him nauseous.


    Damn!


    "Sir, this is what you asked for," Qi Wren''s assistant passed him a piece of paper with a phone number scribbled on it.


    "Are you sure this is hers?" Qi Wren''s face twisted, forget about seeing her face he didn''t even want to hear her voice. But he has to warn her to be careful of her words at the press conference. Otherwise don''t know how she''ll embarrass him.


    "Yes, sir,"


    "Leave."


    Qi Wren dialed Zhao Suyin''s number who was sitting at a lounge of a luxury hotel, enjoying a lavish lunch with Evan and James. It was James'' idea; he was restless thinking Suyin was not in a good mood so he brought her out to cheer her up.


    Evan just wanted to spent time with his ''sweetie'' before he returns to France. As long as James is within his sight, nothing else matters. Not even Zhao Suyin. Besides, he wanted to know what kind of woman Suyin was.


    Protective hubby you see!


    "Hello," When the phone rang she didn''t excuse herself from them, and answered.


    "It''s me"


    Suyin ""


    "Who?" Not her fault! She genuinely didn''t recognize the voice.


    Qi Wren in an irritated voice, "It''s me, Wren."


    Realisation struck, she gave an amused smile that didn''t go unnoticed from James''s eyes who asked her with a jerk of his head and she mouthed, ''Trashy ex''


    James mouthed and pleaded with folded hands, ''Put in on the speaker, please,'' when she ignored his request he snatched her phone and put it on speaker. Holding the phone tightly in his hands he warned her to behave.


    Sitting on the side, Evan just watched the scene unfold.


    QW, "Hello? Suyin"


    Suyin, "I tried recalling for two whole minutes, but I don''t know anyone by that name. Are you sure you''re not mistaking?"


    "Don''t act; I know you''ve recognized me. It''s me, Qi Wren, your husband."


    Suyin, "Oops! You forgot to add a very important prefix. ''EX''. And, you''re not a president of the country worthy to be recognized by voice. Come to the point."


    Qi Wren''s hold on his phone tightened, "I''ve heard you''re holding a press conference after two days. Just make sure not to use any derogatory remarks for me or Qi Industries. We better solve this matter outside for the sake of our reputations; I''ll pay for those martyr widows and for you as well, just tell me your price. I''ll transfer it right away."


    By the end, he was feeling proud and satisfied. His smirk grew wider when he didn''t hear a word for a long time.


    At that moment Suyin looked up to see the faces of the two men. While Evan was still trying to grasp the situation James gave Suyin a side look, "Where were your IQ and EQ when you married this shit?"


    Suyin, "Mr. Qi, Everyone has the right to be stupid, but you are abusing the privilege."


    Qi Wren raised his voice, "SUYIN-"


    "Shut up and listen to me you as*hole. Let me remind you, we had divorced and you don''t have any right to dictate me. As far as making derogatory remarks are concerned, everything started from your side; I''ll just be the one putting end to it. So be prepared." Suyin'' face contorted, her eyes turned cold. All she could feel at that moment was disgust for the man who audaciously tried to dictate her once more.


    Dream on!


    "And YES, YOU WILL be paying the compensation to Martyr widows, IF NOT, I will shove my hand down your throat and pull out your organs to sell them in the black market and get money." She paused, "Damn, I forgot. Even your organs are rotten just like your brain. Rest assured I won''t let you or that Hui Guozhi go unscathed,"


    Evan "...."


    James grinned ear to ear and patted her back hundreds of times.


    It stunned Qi Wren to the core. Last he heard something sharp from her mouth was when he forced her to sign divorce papers. At that moment he told himself it was out of desperation and heartbreak. But today.


    He never thought she had this ferocious side to her. Since when did she learn to talk back and force someone to shut their mouth, leaving no space for returning an argument. Wasn''t she a pushover?


    No, she''s just pretending! She''s trying to be brave when in reality she''s not. He comforted himself and was about to say something when all he could hear was a toot-toot sound.


    She hung up!


    She hung up on him!


    *CRASH*


    Phone!


    *****

 Chapter 30: Narrow road

    "Good job! I''m proud of you," Feeling high James gave Suyin a side hug, pressing his lips briefly in her hair. A normal gesture between friends especially when he often behaves like a big brother!


    However.


    "Oh, Jammie." Surreptitiously, Suyin looked at Evan who had a dark cloud shadowing his handsome face as he scowled down at the two persons sitting across him.


    Suyin couldn''t guess whether his gaze was darted over her or James. Hope it''s the later! She''s not the culprit; it was a certain someone who failed to control his emotions.


    She pushed James away, shifting her hand-bag between them as she scooted towards left. A safe distance!


    James looked at Evan with eyes twinkling like stars, "Isn''t my bestie cool? Just like me. I so love her!"


    Suyin ""


    ''RIP Jammie. You were a nice guy,''


    *SCREECH*


    Evan pushed his chair back. "Excuse me; I''ll be back in a moment,"


    When passing by, Suyin caught the sharp glance Evan shot at James, thinking she wasn''t paying attention. It was full of jealousy, warning, and something unreadable but to poor James, it twisted him into a gooey mess as he was instantly attracted to his dominant, aggressive style that was manly and sexual.


    His gaze followed Evan departing back until he disappeared.


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    "Ahem" Suyin patted James shoulder to grab his attention, "I''m taking your car, ask Evan to drop you home later," She spread her palm out, "Key!?"


    James frowned in confusion, "Let him come, we''ll leave together,"


    Suyin dipped her hands in James''s coat''s pocket to grab the keys, "Don''t bother coming home early, take your time."


    James ""


    "Susu I-I."


    "Btw, bathrooms are really luxurious here. spacious cubicles, perfect lighting, and complimentary.." She winked and slowly mouthed, ''..Con*oms.''


    "."


    She rewarded dazed James with a flying kiss as she headed to the exit, rocking on her heels, her ponytail followed the rhythm.


    ''You''re so screwed, Jammie. Be prepared to limp for the next three days,'' She covered her mouth with a hand to hide the laughter.


    James let his eyes linger at Suyin''s back for just a fraction longer before he darted towards the bathroom.. after Evan.


    (Cough. Keep imagining what''s going to happen in the bathroom. This author is not going to describe that 18+ thingy :p)


    When she reached the elevator, she pulled out her cell to check the text received from Long Tao. [All set,] ending with thumbs up emote.


    She smirked and replied [Good,]


    A ding sound alerted her indicating the elevator stopped on her floor and she stepped ahead to stand in front of it.


    When the doors opened, she was about to step in when her gaze collided with someone''s and her lips pursed into a thin line.


    "Sh*t! Narrow road," Suyin murmured. ''Why God? It was such a beautiful day, why do you have to ruin it by bringing ''her'' in front of me? Sigh Suyin, be prepared for another round of sarcasm,''


    Hui Chouming was the lone occupant.


    Holding a brown bag with the restaurant''s name on it, she raised her perfectly arched brows at Suyin. As the door began to close. Hui Chouming pressed a button on the panel to hold the lift. "Don''t tell me you got scared, Suyin."


    Ha! As if!


    Ignoring her, Suyin stepped into the elevator. She glanced at the panel to press the floor number but the light was already bright on that number. Great!


    Suyin could feel Chouming''s gaze slide over her as if scanning, but she kept her attention on the shiny aluminum doors, waiting for this suffocating ride to get over.


    Chouming leaned against the elevator wall, supported her face with her hand to reveal the expensive watch and diamond bracelet on her slender wrist. "Secretary-General huh!? Are your earnings really that much that you can afford such an expensive place or is it. you''re still using your body to earn money?"


    With a charming smile hooked to her lips, Suyin turned to face her, "I don''t have to depend on my body to earn something, unlike someone. My biggest weapon is hidden here," She tapped at her temple thrice, "But you won''t understand as you''re lacking it,"


    Hui Chouming''s complexion changed. She knows what Suyin was pointing at.


    They were in the same high school.. On one side, Suyin, who was four years junior to her not only managed to crack the most difficult medical exam in a single attempt but was the country topper and secured a seat in the best medical college. Whereas, Chouming failed her first three attempts, wasting her three precious years.


    As the students are allowed a maximum of four attempts in their life; at her fourth attempt, she went to the office of the head examiner and seduced him to let a professional write the exam on her behalf.


    However, don''t know how, but Suyin came there with a senior member of the medical council and caught them red-handed in compromising position.


    She lost her fourth and final chance!


    Her prospering career was ruined by Suyin even before it started. If it was not for Hui Guozhi who paid a heavy bribe and got the medical examiner killed in an accident, this matter wouldn''t had supressed so easily.


    But Chouming strikes back by not only destroying Suyin''s medical career and framing her for cheating in the exams latter but she snatched her husband too.


    "Hahahah. I smell jealousy. It was not my fault that Wren chose me over you. You know. recently he''s listed at 23 in the top 100 richest people. If this is the reason you stirred all this trouble to grab his attention let me tell you, he has no interest in a used and broken shoe,"


    Hui Chouming sneered inwardly. The Zhao Suyin standing before her was so changed. Unlike her previous unkempt look of loose clothes, non-groomed face, geeky glasses, and extremely thin figure. Today she looked entirely different.


    The tall woman looked beautiful and smart in her body-hugging dress in orange. An unusual color not everyone can pull so graciously, yet she did! She had a delicate face and definite cheekbones, giving her a strong appearance. Her skin was unblemished and perfectly toned. Her hair had streaks of ginger and chocolate ripples adding glamour, and what irks her most was the confidence she carried.


    Even after destroying her career, she managed to become secretary-general, the fourth in command at the ministry.. How?


    Suyin shook her head, ''Looks like she has to use her savage mode''


    She looked straight at Chouming''s face, "Miss Botox, breast implant, lip augmentation, and facelift I wish I could get the leftover food I left at the table. After all, you''re living my leftover life only, including husband. So rest assured, I''ve long dumped the waste to the dustbin."


    "You"


    "This bag contains honey glazed pork, right? Speciality of the restaurant! Isn''t this for Hui Guozhi? It''s his favorite after all," Suyin noticed Chouming''s eyes flicker and clapped her hands, "Bullseye! Well let him know, no matter how hard he tries to stay in the hospital to avoid everything, I''M GOING TO RIP HIM APART IN THE PRESS CONFERENCE. Whether he comes or not! Tell the doctors to be prepared. Who knows if he dies of heart-attack after that,"


    *DING*


    When the lift reached the basement parking, Suyin waved her hand and stepped outside, without bothering to spare a glance.


    "Zhao Suyin, stop right there," Hui Chouming stomped after her, "How dare you? Do you think by targeting my father you''ll be able to get everything back? I won''t let you-"


    Suyin let Chouming bark and turned deaf. She pressed the button on key- with the two beep sound the car unlocked, it''s rear mirrors opened.


    Hui Chouming stopped barking when she saw Suyin pull open the door of a black Ferrari, one of the most expensive cars as she swiftly drove away leaving her fuming red in anger and shame.


    ******

 Chapter 31: Zz

    1:23 A.M


    *RING*


    "Hello?"


    [Nineteen-year-old son of the governor of Shaxi province is brought to the hospital an hour before in an unconscious state. The parents are demanding you to take over.]


    Wang Shi let out a groan as he pushed himself off of bed and get on his feet, "I am. What''s his condition?"


    [Stable. Collapsed while having sex with his girlfriend. Presenting with severe and persistent pelvic pain.]


    "That could be dehydration. Ask ER to administer IV"


    [They did. Still recurring]


    "Girlfriend?" pressing the phone with shoulder, Wang Shi gets his clothes out of the cupboard, getting ready to go back to the hospital.


    [Nope! We cannot take her for examination or questioning, she''s the daughter of the opposite political party. Fathers are rivals while kids..]


    "Wow!" He exclaimed, "Ask the parents for medical history. I''m on my way-"


    [WAIT There''s something more,]


    Wang Shi paused wearing shoes, "What else?"


    [He was the case of Adolescent Genetic mosaic-Klinefelter syndrome [1]. The parents never told their son he was born with an extra X chromosome and he could have been their daughter too.]


    [Now they are demanding for confidentiality agreement signed by every staff on the case..] Wang Shi sensed Li Han taking a deep breath,


    "And?"


    [To get Zz on board,]


    "How do they know about Zz?" He frowned,


    [Boy''s mother is a former doctor,]


    "No wonder she knew about Zz. But before my examination how come they have asked for him?"


    He heard a sigh from the phone,


    [Over concerned]


    "Great.....Then I''ll get Zz,"


    A grin spread on Wang Shi''s face that meant something was about to happen- may be good or maybe bad-depending on the person''s intentions. But whatever it was, it was his favorite part


    He called his assistant Daiyu, who answered within two rings. Being around Dr. Wang Shi, he knows every second count. "Sir"


    Wang Shi, "Connect to Zz Forward him the case files and the patient''s identity. Tell him, the parents are insisting for him. Rest, you know what you''ve to do."


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    ******


    At People''s hospital


    Wang Shi was done examining the teenage boy named Gu Feng and instructed his subordinates to give temporary medications to help him with the pain while he solves this mystery and comes up with an accurate treatment plan.


    "Dr. Wang, Gu Feng''s parents wants to talk to you," The nurse Miya informed him.


    "Tell them, it hinders my cognitive ability if someone disturbs or dictates me around. They better let me do my work," He spoke coldly and left for his office, leaving the nurse in a dilemma.


    Reading Gu Feng''s medical reports, Wang Shi was utterly pissed off. He doesn''t want to talk to parents and listen to their unreasonable explanations and see how they try to justify their actions.


    Liars!


    "Sir, Zz is online" Daiyu stood when he saw Wang Shi walking towards his office.


    Wang Shi nodded, "Transfer it to my phone. And continue tracking his details," He turned the knob and steered to his swivel chair, letting out a breath as he took a seat.


    From the first drawer of his desk, he grabbed a Bluetooth device and plugged to his ear before pressing a button on phone.


    Wang Shi, "Zz I guess you''ve read the reports and parents'' concerns. Our new patient has both male and female chromosomes. Part male, part female, but parents'' made him a boy and now they want us to work on his case together. Sixty-third case, isn''t it?"


    Zz in a attractive male voice, "I don''t remember the exact count, but you''re by far the only doctor I''ve worked on most cases with, Dr. Whiz,"


    Zz was a famous but equally mysterious figure in the medical world, working selectively with only the best doctors, taking a limited number of cases every year.


    No one knows what he looks like, what his qualifications were, and where does he live. All they know was that he was a medical genius and works behind the computer to help the doctors solve tricky medical cases.


    His conditions were simple; he will take the money while the concerned doctor will take the credit. A win-win situation!


    To protect the doctor''s rights and identity, he/she''s allowed to assume any name in order to hide their identity.


    Wang Shi came to know about Zz when he received a mail from him providing his thoughts on a case Wang Shi was working his ass off. It was an extremely tricky case involving a string of deaths connecting to a single donor who died in an accident eight years back and donated all his organs. But shockingly, every recipient keeps on dying. One by one.


    Zz was not a magic doctor who''ll give an instant solution with a snap of a finger but paves the way to the correct diagnosis by providing theories, discussions, and analysis.


    He''s a fun and intelligent man to work with. World-famous hospitals wanted to recruit him at whatever price he demands, but the latter had no intentions.


    Even Wang Shi wanted to recruit him for his hospital, but all his offers were turned down. However, their team was a ''wonder'' team with not even a single case unsolved. But unlike other doctors, Wang Shi doesn''t like to take the sole credit and passed it to his hospital and the team.


    This secret team of Dr. Whiz aka Wang Shi and Zz was formidable but sadly no one knows of their existence!


    But who knows. Wang Shi was hell-bent to find this Zz. Be it his stubbornness, obsession, or determination he has to meet him once.


    And to do that, Daiyu was working his ass off for the last three years to find this hidden gem.


    Zz, "Let''s not waste any more time and get to the case, Dr. Whiz. Though, I know you can solve it without my intervention,"


    Wang Shi, "I''m flattered. But it''s always a pleasure working with you." He holds the paper up and reads out, "Dehydration ruled out. I''m further scribing off the chances of other intersex disorders as those conditions occur on kids with XX or XY chromosomes but not XX ''AND'' XY."


    Zz, "Right. He got his testosterone shot a week back, but that''s something parents are giving him for the last seven years. in the name of MULTI-VITAMINS." His voice emphasized the two words, "So, I''m omitting any possible side effects as well! And neither would it have caused pelvic pain. Did he take any sex simulant while doing it?"


    Wang Shi, "Nope, I confirmed it with Gu Feng. They only shared a few drinks, AND... this was not the first time as proclaimed by parents."


    He heard a click sound, followed by a sound of pouring. He waited to let him drink whatever it was.


    Zz, "Oh! Parents are liars. They said it was their son''s first time. Anyway, let''s move ahead. Why don''t I see any MRI reports?"


    Wang Shi put the papers down, "You suspect a blind uterus in his abdomen to explain the pain!? A boy with female genes!? What did you drink just now?"


    Zz chuckled, "Water! Plain water! And I''m asking for MRI to check how his pen*s was modified through several surgeries. Maybe a complication that could explain the pain,"


    Wang Shi nodded, "I''ll put a camera up, and check what''s happening-" He paused and looked up when the door was pushed open abruptly without asking for permission while a nurse tried to stop them.


    "What''s happening?"


    The nurse, "Sir, they didn''t listen to me," She was helpless in front of the powerful political people that involves the current governor and his wife who barged into Wang Shi''s room.


    ******

 Chapter 32: Cant they stick to the text books?

    "We are his parents. You''ve the obligation to meet us whenever we demand and answer our questions." Governor Gu Bohai'' pushed the nurse aside as he step forward towards Wang Shi''s desk, ignoring the nurse who almost stumbled.


    "Stop, right there," Wang Shi glanced at the nurse briefly, before darting his gaze back to the man. His low voice had a chilling bite to it as he threw the papers on the table, "Apologise to her,"


    "WHAT? Do you know-"


    "Are we going to talk about the identity here?" Wang Shi cut off the governor, asking with a meaningful gaze, he looked as the Governor flinched a little. "These are your son''s file. His condition is stable enough to move him from here."


    Mrs. Gu placed her hand on his husband''s chest to stop him from speaking any further, "My husband is stressed out because of Little Feng''s condition. Please don''t mind his actions. Can we discuss something with you?"


    "Anything is beyond discussion until Governor Gu apologize to my staff," He looked at his wristwatch, "You''ve five minutes. Once I left the room, you won''t be able to get me back. And. don''t try saying it''s my obligation. Already I''m doing a favour by taking your son''s case, overlooking my six months schedule." From the corner of his eyes he noticed the head nurse Miya leaving, "Miya" hearing Wang Shi''s dominating voice, she stopped.


    Governor Gu exhaled harshly, "I''m not apologising. I''m the-"


    Wang Shi, "You''re just a patient''s father in this hospital. Anything beyond that is not welcome,"


    "Dear," Mrs Gu pleaded with her watery eyes, "Feng" Her actions defeated the proud and haughty Governor as his jaw tightened.


    "I''m sorry, my actions were rude."


    Miya glanced at Wang Shi and saw him nod, "It''s all right." leaving a curt reply, she closed the door after her.


    "Please take a seat," Wang Shi picked the papers again, glancing at his phone briefly to check if Zz was still connected or not. He was!


    Mrs. Gu leaned forward, placing her clasped hands on the table, "What do you and Zz think is wrong with my son? I know you''re one of the doctors with whom Zz works. He only works with the best after all. Please tell me you''ve a treatment plan,"


    Wang Shi, "I was discussing the same with Zz. We still don''t know what''s causing him pain; it may be a complication because of surgery. To check, I''ll be putting a camera up his p*nis."


    "I think that he has a blind uterus. Though out of practice, I''ve been educating myself about my son''s medical condition. An MRI scan will clear everything. You should get it done." Mrs. Gu''s words made Wang Shi lift his brows. He heard a chuckle from the Bluetooth device in his ear.


    [Oh damn! I bet she was a gynaecologist before. Mind asking her from where she educated herself?]


    Wang Shi, "Cough Mrs. Gu, the possibility is next to zero. Your son is already nineteen, and-"


    Gu Bohai butted in, "My wife was a doctor before. We insist on getting an MRI first,"


    Wang Shi started at the governor as if he was a clown. "I''ll get it done," He answered, but the person connected to Bluetooth buzzed in frustration,


    [Why? It''s a waste of time,]


    "So as talking to them," Wang Shi replied in a whisper.


    [Argh I better brew a cup of black coffee than,]


    *******


    After an hour


    Wang Shi was standing outside the MRI room with a report in his hand, "No blind uterus," He gave the reports to the nurse, "Gave this to parents. Tell them I''m moving ahead with what I have decided earlier,"


    Zz, "Educating yourself over internet!? Have you ever done that? I''ve done."


    Wang Shi rolled his eyes, "Zz. You weirdo. Let''s concentrate on the case,"


    *****


    In the examination room


    Wang Shi positioned himself to perform the procedure on Gu Feng. "Take deep breaths and try to relax. You might feel a little pressure and tingling down here when I''ll move the scope. Keep on counting to divert yourself, okay?" His voice came calm and gentle, nothing like how he spoke to the Governor in his office.


    Gu Feng adjusted himself on the uncomfortable bed, "Will I get better after this?"


    "We are still looking for what''s causing you the pain. It''s a medical procedure that will give us more information," Wang Shi replied, "Spread your legs a little more,"


    "I want all this to end. I''m tired of moving in and out of the hospital all my life. Can''t I live a normal life like everyone?" Profound sadness dominated Gu Feng. Wang Shi paused and cocked his head; he saw a hollow soul with no spark of life. He was just a shell of a man.


    "Your mind is a powerful thing. When you fill it with positive thoughts, your life will start to change." Wang Shi gave a warm smile to the teenage boy, "I''ll give my best to treat you. Shall we start now?"


    Though nervous, Gu Feng nodded. "Okay,"


    However after a few minutes into the procedure he started taking long breaths as he squirmed on the bed, his face turning beet-red. It forced Wang Shi to withdraw the scope when Gu Feng rubbed his chest, complaining of tightness, almost at the verge of collapsing as the portable monitor beeped.


    "Can''t breathe..... Ca...n''t..... bre....athe....."


    Zz heard the machine beep, "What''s happening?"


    Wang Shi rushed in to check. He placed the stethoscope against Gu Feng''s chest, "Chest muscles tightened, muffled heart sounds," checked the right side of Feng''s neck, "Jugular vein distended." He shouted at the nurse standing near, "Get me a ten gauze syringe. NOW,"


    *******


    Wang Shi''s office


    Zz breathed, "Pericardial effusion!? His heart got filled with excess fluid!? How? Why? Earlier it was pelvic pain, now it''s his heart. What are we dealing with?"


    Wang Shi, "Mosaicism."


    Zz, "Hahahaha but this does not fit with the syndromes associated with mosaicism. Can''t they stick to the text books?"


    *Ting*


    Wang Shi checked the notification he just received on his tab, "There''s something more. I saw rashes on his palm and ordered the test. His kidney and liver are failing, too,"


    *THUMP*


    Zz, "Ouch OW. AHHH.."


    Wang Shi heard a falling sound followed by Zz wincing in pain, "What happen? You okay?"


    Zz groaned, "Yeah...It slipped my mind I had a sprained ankle and tripped myself while getting out of bed. Wearing heels today was a bad idea,"


    "."


    "You wear heels?" Wang Shi asked in surprise.


    "."


    Silence ensued that made Wang Shi raise his suspicions on Zz.


    Zz cleared his throat, "cough Why not? Not like the sole right to wear heels is with women! I''m a short man who has to wear heels to grab the attention of women who believes height is proportional to the size of D. Is there a problem with that?" He tried to humour and sound confident, but Wang Shi heard his voice shook, lacking the usual confidence.


    Zz changed the topic tactfully, "Anyway, getting back to the case. What''s causing the patient''s liver and kidney to fail, adding onto his existing heart problem and pelvic pain? Amyloidosis?"


    "Protein level is normal." Wang Shi ruled out the possibility as he reads the patient report.


    Zz sighed. "Whiz!?" His voice sounded after a short pause, "What if he''s self-medicating with drugs? I''m sure he knows he''s different from other teenagers of his group. This will explain his symptoms. What did you feel when you talked to him?"


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    Wang Shi recalled his short interaction with Gu Feng in the examination room. "I sense depression." He blurted out and pressed the intercom, "Send a team to search the place where Gu Feng lives, talk to his friends, and ask parents to check his credit card statement and see if there''s any suspicious transaction."

 Chapter 33: Castrated

    After a few hours


    "Whiz, it''s been entire night, and the case is unsolved. I''m tired," Wang Shi heard Zz''s exhausted voice, a little deep but with a touch of softness and calm. Though he was not there, he could feel Zz had started to doze off. "I''ve an urgent work to do today, won''t be able to talk until lunch. If there''s any finding, drop a message at portal."


    "En I''ll keep Gu Feng stable, and will inform you as soon as the reports come out. Let''s-"


    "Susu. Help. My body hurts," A man''s voice echoed from Zz''s side. With the low gruttal of his voice he seemed to be in pain, but what triggered Wang Shi was the familiarity of his voice and the name ''Susu''.


    Wang Shi''s brows knitted together, trying to recall where he had heard it before. Maybe it could help him reach this mysterious man Zz.


    "Evan is a beast.. Check me, give me medicine..I''m going to die." Wang Shi heard the same voice again; the more he heard the more it seemed familiar. Some people have a distinguished voice and James''s adenoidal voice belongs to that category.


    "Wait for me in your room, I''ll be there in a minute HEYYYY." He heard a muffled voice of Zz, probably he covered the mic but soon a shrill came that almost convinced Wang Shi to take off the Bluetooth device. If it was not for him looking for Zz''s identity he wouldn''t be so shameless to eves-drop on their conversation.


    "No You come with me right now. After sending me to a beast''s den you trying to run away from responsibility. No! Never!" The voices become clear again, ; Zz must have dropped the mic. He heard some shuffling sounds, foot-steps and Zz''s protesting, "No. wait let me turn off the system. I wa-" Everything cut off.


    Wang Shi checked his phone, which displayed ''connection interrupted''


    "Sir," Daiyu pushed opened the door in panic, "Connection interrupted but everything''s working fine at our end. Do you want me to re-establish?"


    "No Zz ended it; he seems to be busy," Wang Shi takes off the Bluetooth device, "Any progress?"


    Daiyu, "Not much. But surprisingly, Zz is not in Country T anymore, this time he connected through Imperial city."


    Wang Shi''s eyes narrowed as he rested his elbow at the table, supporting his face at clasped hands. "Hm.Keep looking."


    *****


    At James''s apartment


    "Ahh Jammie. My devices." Suyin looked at the equipment hanging in the air, still attached to her laptop by the cord as James pressed the shutdown button before dragging her to his room.


    "Treat me first everything hurts. My thighs, calf, waist, back, bum and my d-"


    "SHUT UP! TOO MUCH INFO!" Suyin covered James''s mouth before he could utter another word. This version of James''s was like a baby looking for a mother''s love and comfort, acting all pity and complaining. "Get into the blanket, I''ll get the medicines."


    "What about these red spots on my body? It''s everywhere, even on my-"


    "YOU BAKA! One more word and I''ll call Evan." Her threat worked like magic and James dived under the blanket, "IDIOT, I was on chat with Dr. Whiz and you not only disrupted me but took my name. WHERE THE HELL IS THE FIRST-AID KIT? You never keep things organised!" She shouted upon not finding the first-aid kit in the side drawer.


    *BANG*


    James flinch hearing the noise of drawer shut. "I-it''s in the other drawer, you''re looking at the wrong place. And how would I know you were on a chat with Whiz. Oww.w... my body. you sent me to that beastly Evan? Bad friend, bad"


    "HmpfDon''t argue,"


    *BANG*


    *BASH*


    *THUMP*


    *CRASH*


    He heard few more noises.


    ""


    "Spare my house,"


    "Jammie Dr. Whiz is Wang Shi, you know that right?" While looking at the medicines kept in the first-aid she walked and sat down on the bed beside him. Though the doctors working with her assumed a nick name to protect their identity, she knows the details of everyone, unknown to them.


    But Wang Shi was a special case. He was the first doctor with whom she started working as Zz when she took the initiative to send him an email regarding the information of an old case. From that day they are working together. For the last four years without seeing each other even once.


    "I said, I''m sorryHe didn''t recognize you. Did he?"


    "THANKGOD, you took my name as Susu He doesn''t know Susu is Suyin''s nick name. Otherwise I would''ve castrated you right there."


    "." ''Was it a bad decision to come here?''


    Jamie, who was dived under the blanket, gulped hard. He was sure Wang Shi knows about it, just doubtful if the later still remember it and would join the dots!? Hope he does!


    Should he tell her about his short interaction with Wang Shi when she was drunk?


    Without doing anything, he felt a pain travel in his little member.


    NO! Little Jamie down there warned him of the consequences!


    ''Yup you''re right. For your sake, I''d not going to reveal anything,''


    "Take these medicines and sleep. No need to follow me to tomorrow''s press conference."


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    "En."


    He peeked out of the blanket to take the medicine. Her beautiful face came in his view, bringing an inadvertent smile at the corner of his lips. When they met each other five years back, it was never this perfect.


    Their meeting was just a coincidence....


    She had been seated at a bench at a crowded amusement park, her grey eyes hazy and lost as she watched the kids come with their parents.


    For all the presence she brought she might as well had been a store mannequin if it was not a small smile that''d come whenever kids giggle as the ride goes up.


    He used to come there looking for something to divert his mind from the shock he had received from the society and family for being different. His different sexual orientation had labeled him as a freak, which he was not.... that''s what he was trying to convince..... to himself and to everyone.


    Don''t know why, but he''d been drawn to her and went out all the way to sit next to her. When he offered her a share of his sandwich, she looked at him once but turned away without a reply.


    Weird! Right?


    But her one gaze was worth thousand words. It was mesmerizing, deep, yet painful.


    It attracted him....


    From that day, it became his habit to sit at the bench with her, and bring along something different to eat, unknowingly igniting his passion to cooking.


    He was hell-bent to get a response from her, and for that he tried different recipes to make her talk to him. It became the best part of his routine.... to cook something for her though he knew what the end-result was.


    But it was thrilling.... maybe she''d response one day.


    *to be continued*

 Chapter 34: bad acting

    In his pursuit of convincing Suyin to talk to him, James didn''t realize when he forgot his own problems Maybe he just needed a kick that would push him ahead. Unknowingly Suyin became that kick.


    Two months passed, but the ''girl on the bench'' didn''t buzzed. But surprisingly, neither she dissed him nor she stopped coming, leaving a faint hope for James.


    Following his daily routine, one day when he went there, the green bench was vacant.


    His heart sank! The thought of never seeing his motivation bored hole into his entire being. Desperately he looked around, asked the vendors but none saw her.


    Feeling dejected, he had just sat down on the bench, holding a box of a new dish he tried when a tap on his shoulder jolted him. He looked up and saw his inspiration ''girl on the bench'' standing in yellow, like a ray of sunshine.


    But having come to believe the only reason he was following her was to have sex with her, she gave a straight forward reply, "I''m not interested to sleep with you. Look for someone else,"


    "Neither do I. For your information, I''m gay," Determined. Irrevocable. Binding. Not until he declined her firmly, giving his own valid reason that he saw a change in her expression.


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    When she didn''t reply for a long time, he assumed it was the end. Who''d want a person like him in their life? But


    "What did you cook today? It smells good," Just when he turned to leave he heard her voice.


    That was it That was when they finally connected and became buddies for life. This was the relationship they''d been looking for in their life and found it in an amusement park.


    You get life in strange places!


    Suyin was the sister from another mother that God gave him. and he''d make sure to be her constant support.


    "Jammie."


    James leaned forward to place a kiss on her forehead, her eyes fluttered by his abrupt kiss


    *SMACK*


    "Ow."He covered his cheek that was now stinging by a sudden slap from the fierce woman.


    "IDIOT! EMOTIONAL FOOL! This is the reason why Evan did this to you. How many times do I''ve to remind you to control your emotions?" She pushed him on the bed forcefully, trying to tug him with a blanket, "Sleep. Otherwise I''ll tell Evan you kissed me again. Do you want that?"


    Seeing James shaking his head like a rattle drum she controlled her laughter, and rubbed his stinging cheek, "Sleep. I''ll scold Evan for you."


    "Yes tell him, next time I''ll be on top."


    "ARGH.. JAMIE. SLEEP YOU BASTARD."


    "Goodnight, Susu."


    *****


    The next morning dawned with clouds that dominated the sky leaving patches of blue and grey, suggesting that rain may play a part in the day to come. Before leaving for office she checked on James once more, prepared breakfast, wore her uniform with white blazer this time, and rushed out leaving a sticky note at James''s forehead.


    [Taking your car. Don''t forget to take medicine.]


    Though it was an important day where she''d be making an appearance at the press conference, her attitude was a lot relaxed. Qi Industries and Hui Guozhi don''t have any proof against her, the only way with which they can save themselves was to plant fake pieces of evidence but she''s already prepared for that.


    However, she had only driven a short distance when she noticed a familiar yellow car had blocked the road ahead and many people had come forward to help it push to the side to clear the blockage.


    It was Wang Shi''s car!


    She will never forget this color!


    Her gaze drifted to the tall man who alighted from the car and thanked everyone who helped him. Which rich man does that? He had folded the sleeves of his shirt up to the elbow, showing the fine line of veins. So manly, sexy, and unrelenting power.


    His biceps shaped perfectly in his pristine white shirt, his wide back and shoulder muscles shook her equilibrium as always. And why the hell he was wearing jeans today, showcasing his long legs that stretches to a mile. It''s a crime! It''s a crime to wear jeans when you are this hot!


    She licked her dry lips seeing him take out a handkerchief from pocket to wipe the sweat. Wow he looked so hot even while wiping sweat!?


    *BEEP BEEP BEEP*


    She was silently admiring his dark and thick hair framing his gorgeous face when the cars behind her honked non-stop, reminding her she was blocking the road.


    "F*ck. Ya ya.moving moving.stop honking." She paid a last glance at Wang Shi with no intention to help him but frowned seeing the three kids sitting inside, dressed in school uniform.


    That Honey boy was also there with his two cute cousins!


    Damn! Kids are her weakness! Human puppies!


    But no! She won''t go. It''s decided she''s going to ignore him them.


    Hesitating for a moment, she turned the steering wheel of her black Ferrari to pass by Wang Shi and not help him.


    But due to slow traffic Yuyu and Lan saw her in the car, and shouted in excitement. "Pretty sister, pretty sister," Their voices caught Wang Shi''s attention, he looked at the direction girls were pointing at and saw Suyin.


    He frowned when she doesn''t look at their direction even once.


    ''Does she really not know about them or is pretending?''


    *RING*


    Without even looking at the phone Suyin knew who was calling her. If she answers it she would be in trouble, and if she doesn''t she would be making herself clear that she''s avoiding Wang Shi.


    Suyin, "Hello,"


    Wang Shi, "I thought everything was fine when you said you won''t take anything to heart,"


    "I-It''s true,"


    "If it''s true then pull your car to the side,"


    "Huh?"


    "The black Ferrari pull over,"


    "."


    Sighing in defeat, she did.


    The three kids looked over curiously. Other than Honey, the two girls showed their sweetest smile, melting Suyin''s heart like ice-cream as she opened up the roof of the car and pretended. "Hello, Dr. Wang,"


    Wang Shi silently looked at her, then directed his gaze to her foot, "So you''re one of those patients who never pay attention to the doctor''s advice?"


    "" ''Are we going to talk about this?''


    "But, I''m not wearing heels."


    "Driving involves footwork. You shouldn''t drive as well,"


    ""


    "How about walking, sitting, dancing, sleeping, eating, talking, breathing and lots of ''ing''"


    Wang Shi "."


    "Hm. Other than dancing, you''re free to do any of this. Especially breathing, it''s good for health,"


    ""


    Her lips pursed into a thin line, "Why did you ask me to pull over?"


    "Bad acting."


    "It''s not,"


    "So you accepted its acting!?"


    ""


    Wang Shi glanced at the kids once. To be precise, he looked over to see Honey''s reaction, which by all means was as if he had eaten a bitter gourd in breakfast.


    "I''ve called for another car but it will take at least thirty minutes. I''m sure you''re going for a press conference; help me drop the kids to school. It''s on the way," Instead of waiting for her reply he waved at the expecting kids as he pulled open the car door of driver''s seat, "Scoot to the passenger seat. I''m driving."


    "But."


    "Two reasons. One, being your doctor, I can''t allow you to be careless of your injury. Second, it''s for kids'' safety as driving is risky with half functioning ankle."


    "."


    "My ankle is fully functioning," She stared down at Wang Shi in disbelief who was standing like a rock, determined to not let her drive. What a difficult situation it was!? She wanted to stare at him longer but was afraid of her poor heart that was going gaga over this ball of hotness.


    Human puppies came complimentary!


    "Hello, Pretty sister," Lan hopped onto the back seat,


    "Hello. Don''t mind. I''m yet to decide what to call you" Yuyu joined followed by Honey who treated her presence like air and didn''t say a word. It was already embarrassing for him to take her help. "Honey bro, you didn''t wish,"


    Suyin "" ''No need,''


    Upon getting no response, Yuyu and Lan looked over and saw him with closed eyes.


    Yuyu, "Honey bro!? Stop acting, I know you''re not sleeping because you sleep with open mouth and drool,"


    ".."

 Chapter 35: Not like we have anything to do with each other

    Honey opened his eyes and threw a sharp look at his sister.


    "Waah. Waah...." The little chatterbox Yuyu turned her tears on, grabbing everyone''s attention, and putting Honey on a tight spot who panicked and sat straight. "Honey bro scolded me,"


    Suyin snapped her head at the back seat at a lightning speed, giving an incredulous look to Honey. Dramatically she covered her mouth, and widened her eyes, silently mocking Honey.


    Honey ''Grrr.r.r.r.r.r..''


    "Staring is creepy just like you. But if you are staring at me I assume you''re taking mental notes on how to be awesome,"


    The corner of his red lips lifted to create a proud smirk on his fairy-like face, tempting Suyin to pinch those adorable cheeks.


    "Nope. I''m taking notes on how to be a grumpy old man,"


    "Please get your eyes checked. I''m five." Honey ignored Suyin; he had more important issues to handle at the moment. His crying sister!


    Lan scooted to the right far away from her twin, "Eww She cries so ugly. Even her nose is running,"


    Honey pulled a few tissue papers from the box kept in the car and gave it to Yuyu, "There there. I didn''t scold you but just opened my eyes. No need to cry little one." Patting Yuyu''s head he coaxed her but send occasional glares at Suyin, "Here, let me give you a candy."


    Seeing Honey''s attitude Suyin''s brows lifted in surprise. How can he be cold and warm at the same time?


    Yuyu blew her nose loudly before accepting the candy with a cheeky smile, returning the soiled tissues back to Honey, BUT..


    Honey, "Yuyu, your pretty sister seems more interested in it. Look how she''s staring. Give it to her,"


    Suyin ""


    "It''s alright, keep it,"


    "No no. we took it from her car, return it,"


    "You need it more than me, keep it,"


    "We don''t accept things from strangers, return it,"


    Yuyu alternated the tissues multiple times before shoving it into the hands of her elder twin, "Since you pointed at my nose earlier, you keep it,"


    Lan, "EWWWWW.."


    "Hahahaha.." Suddenly everything came to pause when Wang Shi raised his chin up and laughed, attracting Suyin''s attention to his gorgeous face.


    His laughter was a summer rain, and birdsong too, free and pure. It''s the sound she hasn''t heard in a thousand years and doesn''t know when she''ll hear him next. Hope soon!


    It came to her like a rush of warmth, which made her heart stop beating. His hearty laughter made him more human in her eyes with flesh and blood, rather a Greek God she drools over.


    She retrieved her gaze forcefully, rubbed her chest, ''Relax relax Everything will be fine.''


    "You guys," Wang Shi controlled himself, wiping the tears from the corner of his eyes. "All right, who is interested in fruit yogurt?"


    Yuyu, "Blueberry,"


    Lan, "Strawberry,"


    "I hear two voices, what about the remaining two?" Wang Shi glanced at Honey from the mirror, and the woman sitting beside him.


    "Nope,"


    "Nope,"


    Both said it in sync and then glared at each other with fangs out.


    "Mango,"


    "Mango,"


    Honey, ''Grr.r.r.r..r.r.r''


    Suyin, ''Grrr.r..r.r.rr.r..r''


    "Little fairy, are you interested in me that much that you''ve started copying my words?"


    Honey growled, "Weirdo duck, stop calling me fairy. I''m a man,"


    Suyin darted her gaze down down. a little more. and laughed, "Pfft."


    Honey followed her vision, "AHHHH WHAT ARE YOU STARING AT?" His small hands went to cover it as if he was really seen through.


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    "Nothing!!" She shrugged her shoulders, acting innocent, "I was staring at your ''LEGS''.... What do you think it was?"


    "You you.DAD Look at her, she-" Honey paused, cocking his head at the driver seat but found it vacant, "Where is my DAD?"


    Suyin emptied out the pockets of her blazer, "Not here,"


    "."


    Lan pointed outside the window, "When you two were fighting, he went to get yogurt. See."


    "."


    "Hmpf,"


    "Hmpf,"


    Lan and Yuyu gave each other a look, probably thinking ''these two are younger than us''.


    ******


    Thanks to the yogurt, the rest of the distance was covered peacefully. After dropping the kids to school, Wang Shi was driving Suyin to the press conference when he looked at her sideways. "Do you hate Honey?"


    "WHAT?" Startled by the sudden question she turned to look at him. The casualness with which he asked the question and the indifference on his face told her he was serious about it. She chuckled feeling unbelievable, "Forget about Honey, I don''t have the heart to hate any kid in this world. They are too adorable to be hated by someone. Why would you say that?"


    "Sooo what about you treated me like air just now, not speaking a word in front of kids?" For some reason, he felt sour when she didn''t give him an inch a while back. "And your continuous banter with Hon-"


    He cut off seeing her laughing. "C''mon, I''m being serious. Have I cracked a joke?"


    "Ok Ok sorry," She controlled. At that moment, he felt so adorable that her fingers itched to touch his face. She stared at him, trying to figure out why he brought up this. "Dr. Wang Shi, why are you so concerned why didn''t talk to you? Not like we have anything to do with each other."


    A surge of emotion engulfed him, his brows wrinkled in annoyance when she said they have nothing do with each other. Well technically she may be right, but with so many interactions are they really nothing?


    In Wang Shi''s brain- 4-5 interactions= so many!


    Suyin, "And as far as my bantering with Honey is concerned, I''m just making him talk. He seems to be a reserved boy, especially towards women- for his obvious fears. It''s just a small effort from my side to not let him curled up in a shell. Didn''t you notice, he''s so vigorous while bantering?"


    While Suyin kept on saying, Wang Shi was stuck in the previous sentence. He frowned at himself, asking why he was so bothered by it.


    "Dr. Wang?.... Dr. Wang?.... DR. WANG??????"


    He jolted out from his thoughts and looked at her. Confused. "Huh?"


    Suyin, "Am I right?"


    Wang Shi "" ''Shoot.Right about what? What is she asking? What did she say a while ago?''


    *RING*


    "Excuse me," Wang Shi secretly thanked the caller for saving him from this embarrassing situation as he pulled the car aside to answer the call. "Hello,"


    Caller, "Sir, the lab results of the food sample we got from Gu Feng''s home had toxoplasmosis. It''s an infection."


    Wang Shi, "Start him on Daraprim and sulfadiazine."


    "Toxoplasmosis," Hearing the medicine names, Suyin murmured.


    "Yup, you are right."


    Startled, she looked up at Wang Shi. ''S*it, when did he hang up?''


    "I got a tricky case last night. Just now my team informed me they found traces of Toxoplasmosis in the patient''s food." He explained while typing a message for Zz on her private chatting platform. "But you guessed it correctly. Tremendous!" He was not surprised as he had seen her capability and was somewhat aware of her knowledge.


    *Message sent*


    *TING*


    Right then, Suyin''s phone beeped, scaring the hell out of her. If she''s not wrong, that was Wang Shi''s message for Zz.


    "Excuse me," Pulling a fake smile she first put her phone on silent hiding it inside her hanbag before taking it out. She did not dare to appear online to not raise suspicion and pretended to read the message. "How annoying! Now they have started selling credit cards through messages also,"


    Suyin''s heart started to pound, she lifted her eyes to look at him but instantly dropped down as if he could see through her soul. She pretended to do something on her phone, hoping he would ignore her.


    Wang Shi''s narrowed his eyes at her but recovered quickly. "Let''s leave. You must be getting late for the press conference," without a word extra, he started the engine.


    "Yup," She breathed in relief, looking out of the window; completely unaware that the man beside her was already thinking something else.


    *****

 Chapter 36: DETAILED

    "How do you know there''s another gate to get in?" Suyin got surprised when Wang Shi drove the car to the back gate to save her from the overwhelming crowd of reporters. How thoughtful! "Oh wait! It was a silly question," She slapped her head and heard him chuckle.


    "Glad you realized it on time,"


    She raised her hand in defeat. Wang family was not only famous for their businesses but for their long history in politics. They had been holding powerful positions in the country''s politics for generations. If it was not for Wang Shi choosing the medical field, he''d be the next presidential candidate to carry on the position after his father.. The current president of the country, Wang Huang!


    Knowing this minute detail about the ministry office was no big deal for him. He must have been here a thousand times as later his mother started her political career from the same building.


    "You mind if I take the car?" Though he questioned her, his sharp gaze was scanning the premises for any stray reporter who might have wandered here.


    "I was about to say that. You have a patient to see, don''t make him wait for you. I''ll pick the car from your hospital later," Getting a nod from him, she put on her sunglasses and was about to leave when she realized he had not released the car lock.


    Turning, she was about to question when saw him smile, "All the best,"


    She smiled back, pushed the sunglasses arrogantly, and winked, "Thanks, the evil is going to kick their asses."


    Wang Shi waited for her to enter the building before driving off.


    ******


    "I got late I got late I got late." Tugging her curls, Fei Hong ran around the room like a panicked chicken and ran to her cupboard. "AHH"


    "WHAT HAPPEN? WHAT WAS THAT NOISE?" A middle-aged woman with a pink apron tied around her waist strode inside, waving a greasy spatula. She gasped seeing her daughter on the floor, buried under the pile of clothes. "How many times I''ve told you to keep your cupboard organized, but who listens!?"


    Fei Hong pulled off the clothes from her head and jutted her lips out in complaining, "Why didn''t you wake me up? And why that stupid alarm didn''t buzz?" She gave an accusing look to the round alarm clock and saw her mother let out a long-suffering sigh.


    "Though I gave you birth, sadly we don''t have any telepathy between us. Did you ask me to wake you up?" She scowled at Fei Hong unhappily for a second and then walked to the bed table, "How stupid can you be!? You set the alarm but forgot to switch it on,"


    "Keep that spatula away from my things." Fei Hong reminded before picking a miss-match pair of undergarments as she ran towards the bathroom, shouting, "I got late I got late"


    "But the timing of your Radio show is at night, what are you late for?" Fei Hong''s mother yelled outside the bathroom door.


    "To meet someone,"


    "Your boyfriend? Can I come with you?"


    "MOM, STOP THINKING NONSENSE. It''s work-related,"


    "Your life sucks, Hong," was her mother''s answer as she grumbled in disappointment.


    *******


    At People''s Hospital


    Wang Shi went to his main office first and Daiyu dropped the task in hand and followed him without being asked. By now he has a deep understanding of Wang Shi''s nature and his way of work. If he has come straight to the main office, it was definitely something serious.


    "A press conference is about to be held at the office of the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs; I want all the CCTV footage." Wang Shi took the seat, "And I need detailed information on Miss. Zhao Suyin. DETAILED. If you need time, take it. But first, inform me of her background in medicine."


    "Yes sir," Daiyu nodded, taking the task seriously. He was a no-nonsense assistant who doesn''t poke nose in his boss''s private affairs. Every order from Wang Shi was a task he was obliged to fulfill. That''s a quality Wang Shi likes in him most.


    But That doesn''t mean anyone can take him for granted. Little Daiyu was a man of few words with a sharp tongue with a witty mouth. No one can dare to mess with him!


    "Wait," He paused hearing Wang Shi''s voice, "Zz Contact him. KEEP CONTACTING until you get through,"


    Daiyu left. Wang Shi sat for a few moments lost in thoughts, feeling something was wrong was about Suyin- the way she reacted in the car, nervous, giving him an explanation about the message when nor it was required neither he asked for it.


    He might have ignored it earlier, but now his mind cannot stop thinking why her phone buzzed right at the time when he messaged Zz.


    And what did Zz mentioned last night!? Ankle sprain!?


    Is it a coincidence that Suyin had ankle sprain too?


    Really!?


    Letting out a sigh, he raised his phone up to.. The message was still unread! Zz didn''t appear online!


    Had he been overthinking!?


    Zz''s a man, and Suyin''s a woman! Though there are lots of voice changing devices, can a person change the way they talk?


    He brooded on don''t know for how long when his phone rang.


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    "Hello,"


    A caller in a panicked voice, "Gu Feng, vomited blood,"


    "WHAT? I''m on my way." He picked his lab-coat without a second delay, "Keep OT ready,"


    *****


    The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs


    9:45 A.M.


    The auditorium hall was meant to take guest lectures for the college students, but since the normal hall was not spacious to accommodate everyone, the ministry set up everything in the auditorium.


    The Press conference was about to start at ten; in the meantime, Suyin was waiting in the VIP room looking at some documents.


    "Mam," She looked up from documents and saw three interns standing, neatly dressed in formals with hands clasped in front. "What you guys are doing here? Didn''t Long Tao inform you that I won''t let your names out at any cost? Are you scared?"


    Ignoring Yu Mixi for a second, Suyin asked the two boys who accompanied her the other night when they went out to get evidence against Hui Guozhi; disguising as daily wage laborers..

 Chapter 37: SHE

    "Absolutely not, mam." The intern with short height and brown curls cleared Suyin''s doubt. "We came here to support you,"


    "If the situation calls, please reveal our names and let us be your alibi." Suyin shifted her attention to the blond hair that was disguised like her that night.


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    "You are just interns who have come here to learn practically. Being your boss, keeping you safe is part of my duty as well. My intention to take you on field was to let you learn and see the reality that our job involves equal danger. It might sound thrilling to put on a disguise, but did you see what happen next?" She studied their serious expressions, but hers remained calmed as she got up and walked to the window.


    Parting the curtain a little, she caught sight of the reporters lined up to take their respective seats. "Do you think I''d do something for which I''m not prepared?"


    Short height intern raised his hand, "Mam, does that mean you were aware of Hui Guozhi''s schemes? How?"


    Suyin, "You cannot forecast everyone''s moves. Here I happened to be lucky as I know Hui Guozhi and his tricks too well."


    Blond Hair, "What if he had been an unknown enemy? AHH" The short height and Yu Mixi nudged him with elbow for asking questions blatantly.


    Blond Hair looked at Suyin warily, "Am I in trouble?"


    "No! Asking questions is good. I encourage you all, but be mindful of my time and situation." Suyin answer brought an impish glee on their faces, the kind that feels like the biggest Christmas present.


    "Coming back to your question," Suyin finally looked at Yu Mixi, "Good job! Long Tao told me you went all the way to finish the task I gave you. It was indeed difficult. Five points,"


    The two interns looked at Yu Mixi, who was at the verge of jumping in the air. They asked her in a whisper but she mouthed, ''top secret,''


    Suyin, "Two points to both of you."


    Though a little jealous of Yu Mixi for getting fewer points then her, they were satisfied on being recognised by Suyin.


    Blond Hair put his hand up, "Um I''m still confused. Please tell me how to handle an unknown enemy."


    Suyin, "Always, do your homework well,"


    ""


    "."


    Suyin, "Btw, where are the rest of the interns?"


    "They are sitting in the auditorium, waiting to see you being attacked by media. Brainless." Yu Mixi didn''t hide her disgust, "Earlier it was Senior Bai Xu brainwashing them and now Woo Meng is doing that in secret,"


    "Hm" Suyin nodded, without breaking her calm expression, "You three stay near the stage. And blondie, pay attention to the interview to get the answer,"


    The blond hair intern, "Was she referring to me?"


    Yu Mixi and Short height nodded like pecking chicken.


    "."


    *****


    10:00 A.M.


    The representative from the ministry starts the event by welcoming the reporters followed by the introduction of the four persons sitting on stage each with individual mics.


    In the center, Suyin was seated with the second deputy minister Wei Yuan to her left. On her right was sitting an aged man with his mouth covered with a mask.


    Sitting on Wei Yuan''s left was the legal representative of ministry, Chen Wenwei. An iron woman in herself who grasp the needs of the clients accurately, providing with high quality and effective legal opinions!


    The huge auditorium was jam packed, not only with reporters but ministry staff as well. In reality the reason was such overwhelming response was not case related but everyone was interested in Suyin''s personal life and her history with Qi Industries.


    Gossip mongers!


    "I don''t know what you''ve planned, but you''ve my full support. Don''t be scared," Without breaking the eye contact with the audience, he whispered.


    "Scared? Do remind me to check the meaning of this word after the press conference," She replied, scanning the audience with her hawk-like eyes to take note of the people who are actually sent by Hui Chouming.


    Cheap trick!


    Wei Yuan "" ''To whom was I trying to solace!? Silly me!'' He facepalmed mentally.


    Without any delay, the ministry representative asked Suyin to take over and start with her speech followed by question-and-answer round.


    Suyin adjusted the head of the mic, "Greetings everyone, I''m Zhao Suyin. The illegal land acquisition case is under my supervision right now. The evidences released by the ministry are collected by me personally, of which the original is already submitted to the court."


    "So this means the men in the video are indeed planted by you. You did it for revenge." A reporter interrupted her.


    "Can you prove your statement? If not that''s slandering. Minimum a year of imprisonment and ten thousand Yuan fine. Am I right Miss. Chen?" Without breaking the eye contact with the reporter she asked and heard another female voice.


    Chen Wenwei, "Yes. And I''ll make sure he gets to pay both."


    Reporter, "Are you threatening me?"


    Suyin, "I just asked you to prove your statement. Someone please give him a glass of water and tissue," The reporter consciously wiped the sweat on his forehead. The pressure of Suyin''s gaze was so intense, that he couldn''t help but shiver.


    "Then can you prove it was not planted by you?" Another reporter joined, and Suyin could tell they were here to make trouble.


    "I can and I WILL," Suyin''s cold voice echoed, "But before that I''m asking this reporter to prove the statement first. Do it!"


    The reporter ""


    "I-I."


    "WE CAN PROVE," The door to the entrance was pushed open and Hui Guozhi was rolled on a wheelchair by Hui Chouming, looking weak and frail. His assistant and a few bodyguards followed as they dragged the four men in the video along. Handcuffed.


    His eyes sunken, skin sallow and ashen face; he clung to the wheelchair as if it were a life raft. If only he could fool Suyin with his exceptional make-up and acting.


    Suyin eyes collided with the father-daughter duo, an inadvertent smirk crossed at the corner of their lips.


    Hui Chouming pushed the wheelchair to front so that everyone could see Hui Guozhi. Without a word she smartly blamed Suyin for her father''s ill health. Smart!


    Hui Chouming pointed at the handcuffed men, "These are the accused men in the video, who were on the run. My father left no stone unturned to find them to prove he''s innocent but someone has kept them hidden very well. Thanks to my husband Qi Wren''s personal that they managed to find them."


    Suyin looked blankly. Don''t know what''s making Hui Chouming so insecure that she had to announce herself as Mrs. Qi.


    Everyone knows that!


    Get over it!


    Hui Chouming hinted her father''s assistant who got the four men dragged to front.


    The assistant, "The team apprehended them last night from a slum in the low town." He pulled the leader''s cuff harshly who took ''Hui'' name. "SPEAK,"


    He fell onto the ground and folded his hands, keeping his gaze down "I-I was asked to say that. Please let me go,"


    The reporter, "Who asked you?"


    Silence ensued.


    The assistant, "Speak, my master is kind hearted. He''ll appeal for a lesser sentence for you,"


    "SHE," He pointed at the stage. To be precise, he pointed at Zhao Suyin.


    *****

 Chapter 38: Rot in hell

    Suyin heard everyone gasp, looking at her with eyes full of disgust. From her peripheral vision, she noticed the father-daughter duo''s expression.


    Celebration!? Huh?


    But the climax was yet to come!


    "Your own man busted your truth. Do you still have anything to say?" The reporter sweating a moment ago grew his wings out and asked haughtily.


    "So you did everything for revenge. How shameful,"


    "Can''t you understand your ex has moved on? You should too."


    "I feel pity for Mrs. Qi, she has to go through all this without a fault. Even her innocent father was pulled into the mess,"


    Suyin heard many acquisitions from around the auditorium but remained calm. "Actually you are right, I planted him. I did it for REVENGE. Then can you tell me about the bank statements and call records where Hui Guozhi''s assistant was communicating and making payments to them? In case you can''t recall, the evidence is still available online. Is he also one of my men?"


    "What rubbish!" HG''s assistant retorted in a loud voice, "T-They used to be one of our men but later you bribed them,"


    "No need to stutter. I don''t bite," Suyin said a matter-of-factly, "Please mark Mr. Assistant''s words- they were once Hui Guozhi''s men."


    HG assistant''s hands clenched into fists as an unknown fear seemed into his bones.


    In front of the sea of cameras, Suyin concentrated on the man sitting on the floor with a lowered gaze. "Can you tell everyone when and where I contacted you first?"


    Hui Chouming''s brows twisted, she could sense Suyin was up to something.


    But what? How would she fight with this?


    The men looked up, he was prepared with the answer, "Six months back it was one of your men who contacted me first and offered money. I happened to see you for the first time around ten days back when you asked me to take Mr. Hui''s name,"


    Though he said the mugged up answer accurately, only he knew how difficult it was to say that under Suyin''s sharp gaze. One close look and anyone could notice he was trembling.


    Suyin rubbed her chin, "Wow Six months! Deep planner I am! So I kept my identity hidden from you for SIX MONTHS and then suddenly a bug of madness bites me and I revealed my face. Just like that! Right?"


    The men gulped, "H-how would I know?"


    "I don''t understand why everyone is stuttering. Am I that scary?" She murmured loud enough to let everyone hear her then shook her head, "Anyway I kept you hidden in low town in a slum where QI WREN''S men found you. Right?"


    The men on the floor wanted to cry. ''What''s with the interrogation? She should be in police.''


    "YES," he forced the answer.


    "Stop wasting everyone''s time." Hui Chouming''s expression hardened as she tried to control her anger to maintain her image in media. "It''s already clear you did everything for revenge. Now stop being police and apologize for your shamelessness."


    "MRS. QI, WIFE OF MR. QI WREN.. When your HUSBAND, QI WREN, can send his men to search these hidden criminals and do the job meant for police then why can''t I do the same? Are you a privileged client of JING DISTRICT POLICE STATION?"


    Chouming suddenly fell into a panic hearing her mention Jing police station.


    Suyin hinted Long Tao. On getting the clue, he played video on the projector. It was nothing but Long Tao making a call to Jing district police station-


    Long Tao, "I want to give information about people who appeared in the video posted last night. They are staying in flat 201 of galaxy building." Then he hung up.


    In the next frame, the camera was turned and it shocked everyone to see the chief of police, Officer Su, sitting in front, facing Long Tao and Zhao Suyin.


    After making the call, officer Su put on the headphones connected to the big machine placed on his table, "Miss. Zhao, I hope whatever you said is not true. Accusing a police officer is a serious crime. Be prepared."


    "I''m sure he will pass the information," How fearlessly Hui Guozhi carried the illegal work to grab the land, she was sure they had bribed the officers of the concerned police station of that district.


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    HG''s assistant started to sweat. His legs almost give up.


    "Hello," a voice sounded from the machine placed on officer Su''s desk.


    "Someone has informed me about the location of your men in galaxy building. Shift them ASAP,"


    "Good. I''ll take care of this, you silence the caller first. I will transfer money within an hour,"


    At the end of the video, it displayed a few pictures where the accused men were seen leaving the galaxy building in a white van.


    *The video ended*


    "Do I need to say who the owner of the voice was?" Suyin''s looked meaningfully at HG''s assistant before shifting her gaze to the man sweating out on the carpet, "Want to change your statement?"


    The reporters turned to Hui father-daughter duo and their assistant, capturing their expressions from every angle. It was no rocket science to guess the men on the floor lied to frame Suyin. And probably, he did it on someone''s order.


    Hui Chouming put on a facade of being shocked. Dammit! She had placed all her chips on this. Never did she imagine that Suyin''s planning was at another level.


    Suyin, "Officer Su, please come in,"


    A uniformed man stepped in followed by his team. He stood facing the audience, "Miss. Zhao was in constant touch with me from the start. Thanks to her we got to know the truth of head police officer of Jing district. He''s in custody where he confessed on being bribed by Mr. Hui''s assistant."


    "Then why didn''t you arrest them earlier?" A reporter questioned.


    "That you ask from Miss. Zhao. She requested me to keep an eye on them from far." On officer Su''s words, the cameras turned to Suyin once more, and she shrugged.


    "Well in the case my enemy would have come up with another plan, and I was already bored. So I let them continue with their childish plan and saved myself from headache."


    "."


    *PAK*


    A slap on HG''s assistant''s face once more changed the direction of cameras. The masked man sitting with Suyin on stage had come down with the support of Yu Mixi. He takes off the mask to let everyone know he was the ex secretary-General Chao Bojing.


    Chao Bojing pointed his shaky finger, "This bastard tormented me for months, blackmailed me in the name of my family to the extent I was


    resigned from the post. I was an honest officer throughout my life, but these people forced me to ignore the pleas of those poor widows and suppressed the matter. How could I?"


    Suyin asked a reporter to give up his seat so that Chao Bojing could sit and talk. The sufferings of the past few months had aged him by ten years.


    "I''m sure he did everything on the orders of this jerk sitting on the wheelchair, pretending to be sick." His words almost made Suyin laugh. "And this bimbo daughter supported her father. Shameless they are. Rich people but malicious heart. They will never rest in peace! Rot in hell where King Yama will boil you both in hot oil."


    Hui Chouming ""

 Chapter 39: APOLOGY

    Hui Chouming never expected Chao Bojing to be so ruthless to accuse them in front of the entire media. If this continues, Hui''s would be labeled as actual culprits behind everything; from illegal land acquisition to Suyin''s framing


    Everything!


    If that happens wouldn''t it increase Suyin''s value!?


    She sneered. Her pride didn''t allow her to admit defeat, especially in front of Suyin. So, she stepped ahead and stood facing her father''s assistant.


    *PAK*


    "Bastard! My dad supported you and your family, gave you position and everything, but this is how you repaid him? You were the mastermind behind the land acquisition, but you brainwashed my father against Zhao Suyin and forced him to take action.


    No doubt you directed my husband''s team to low town. It was your plan to put all the blame on Suyin, right? Ridiculous! Many people suffered because of you! Indeed, it''s true, human greed has no boundaries."


    "N-No, I."


    Before the assistant could say a word, Chouming pulled him by collar, "Are you sure you can go against us? You better accept all this, and I''ll make sure your family lives a lavish life as always. It''s a win-win," she whispered.


    "Are you implying all this has nothing to do with your father or Qi Industries? And that includes the acquisitions on Zhao Suyin?" the reporter instantly concluded. Suyin glanced at him. The reporter''s gaze collided with hers and he found himself cower unconsciously. Her eyes are scary!


    Satisfied, Hui Chouming raised her head to face the audience, "Yes. My father and I were misled by one of our own. I genuinely apologize to the people involved and will cooperate with the police from here on. Not only that. I hereby announce that Hui Pvt. Ltd. will pay ten million dollars as compensation to the victims and another ten million to renovate the property."


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    Though she hated to say it, it was the best option to salvage the situation.


    ''Twenty million!?'' Hui Guozhi gritted his teeth. Sitting in the wheelchair he had to continue pretending, but he cannot wait to hit his daughter. ''She could have given two million, maybe five. But why twenty!?''


    A sarcastic smile marred Suyin''s face. Forcing a single penny from Hui''s was a task and here they had to spend twenty million. Hui Guozhi would surely puke blood!


    Hui Chouming bowed in apology to Chao Bojing, even though she didn''t want to. "Trust me. I was not aware my father''s assistant was behind all this. I apologize to you,"


    "And what about our mentor?" The two intern boys who were with Suyin asked. Surprising Suyin. "It was our mentor on whom everyone raised finger. Credits goes to you and your father,"


    "Yes," Yu Mixi joined as well, "Our mentor was prepared with evidence before coming after you. But you targeted her based on assumptions." She looked at the reporter, "Now tell me, who needs to move on? Who among them is holding on to the old relationship? Though I have nothing to support my words, I believe Mr. Hui and Mrs. Qi deliberately targeted my mentor,"


    "We demand an apology," The group of interns who were sitting at the back to witness Suyin''s downfall stepped down the stairs and stood behind her. Shocking!


    What changed their hearts?


    "We demand an apology from the media as well. Don''t think we don''t know some of you were here to create problems. Probably... asked by someone," The blond hair hinted.


    The short height intern looked specifically at the reporters who voiced their judgmental opinions earlier, "Apologize, and eliminate all the negativity you''ve created against our mentor,"


    Hui Chouming sucked in a sharp breath at the implied insult. Her nails dug deep into the palm, drawing blood. "F*ck you, Suyin," she cursed under breath and looked as the students blocked the exit, not allowing anyone to leave the room.


    "APOLOGY,"


    "APOLOGY,"


    "APOLOGY,"


    Everyone shouted.


    Suyin was touched by the gesture of her interns finally, these wandered kids listened to their hearts and judged right from wrong, standing against the powerful without a fear in their hearts. It''s the most important thing if they want to go ahead with the field they have chosen!


    Woo Meng was the only intern sitting in the corner as her fellow mates left! She looked at everyone with a sour face.


    "I-I." Hui Chouming glanced at Officer Su, who by no means showed interest to say a word and convince these college kids.


    "Relax everyone. Get back to your seats," Suyin didn''t want her interns to be in any problem. Showing violence was not a way to deal with anything, one should abide by the law.


    When the students didn''t buzz she looked at them with her sharp eyes, "I don''t like repeating my words." Then she concentrated back on Hui''s father-daughter duo. "MRS. QI, don''t think it''s over here. My motive to hold this press conference was not only to reveal the truth but to clear some doubts regarding my past so that people like you wouldn''t get the opportunity to mold the truth,"


    "I voiced against Qi Wren and Hui family because I found their involvement in the case, but that does not allow anyone to question me about it and put my profession in the same frame as my ex. MIND IT, HE IS MY EX. I''M ALREADY OVER IT. I''ve nothing to do with Qi Wren or whosoever his wife is. It disgusts me whenever someone takes my name with him. I was merely doing my job with honesty, but few brainless people brought my past to save their asses,"


    "SUYIN, mind your words-"


    "SHUT UP! My divorce agreement and nullified marriage certificate are with Qi Wren. According to clause 2.4 on page 14, it''s mentioned ''The divorce agreement is in between Party A and Party B, after the signing of the document both parties will and shall not bring out the details of the agreement. Unless otherwise the court orders, it remains confidential.'' Now tell me, what gives you the right to pass it to your father and publish it online?"


    She spreads her hand out and prosecutor Chen Wenwei placed a legal document on her palm. "I''m taking legal action against your HUSBAND, you and Hui Guoghi for spreading rumors, defamation, breach of contract, mental harassment, privacy violation, threat, and affecting my reputation. My lawyer Chen Wenwei will take the case from here on and seek compensation."


    "Get over me, Mrs. Qi Even if your husband were the last man on the surface of the earth I would not spare a glance at him and adopt a dog instead," She lifted Hui Chouming''s hand and placed the document on it before concentrating on the reporters. It''s their turn now!


    "To all the dearest reporters who questioned me a moment ago, pointed at my personal life and past. I''m taking legal action against the respective reporters and their media houses. I''m not your father''s property. Next time you write or say anything against me, make sure you''ve enough evidences-"


    Suyin abruptly stopped when the phone in her pocket vibrated as she pulled it out to check before continuing. "I''m a social worker, all these negative things affect my image and people''s trust in me. Mind it!"


    "What the hell!? You demanded compensation of a hundred million!?" Hui Chouming held the document tight, fuming red and blue. She had never been insulted like this before, and now this document!? Unbelievable!


    The reporters instantly checked their documents, hearing a hundred million. They sighed in relief when all Suyin demanded was an apology from them. It raised her value in their eyes!


    "Talk to me. I''m her lawyer," Chen Wenwei stepped forward, bringing along her scary aura for which she was famous for.


    Feeling irritated, Chouming looked at Suyin who had ignored everyone and was typing something on her phone.


    *****


    In the meanwhile Chen Wenwei was dealing with fuming Hui Chouming, Suyin was on chat with Wang Shi.


    Dr. Whiz, [Gu Feng vomited blood,]


    Zz, [...]

 Chapter 40: I want to fulfill my fantasy once

    In the meantime Chen Wenwei was dealing with fuming Hui Chouming, Suyin was on chat with Wang Shi.


    Dr. Whiz, [Gu Feng vomited blood,]


    Zz, [Great¡­. What the hell is killing this kid? Though he has Toxoplasmosis, the symptoms he showed earlier have nothing to do with it. It''s definitely something else,]


    Whiz, [I operated on him; the bleeding was caused by Gastrointestinal fistula caused by the dead pancreas.]


    Zz, [Heart, liver, kidneys, and now pancreas. Something that started with a mild symptom of pelvic pain and unconsciousness is now targeting his organs. While operating did you see any tumor on his organs?]


    Whiz, [Nope. Look, can we talk? We can''t discuss a patient''s case on message]


    ZZ, [Sorry. Was busy with something. I''ll call you once I''m done. In the meantime I suggest putting him on anti-inflammatories.]


    Suyin waited for a reply but it didn''t come even after a minute passed.


    "Mam," she shoved the phone back into the pocket as she looked up to find her interns standing, pushing each other to talk first.


    All the interns shared similar thoughts. ''How can they be stupid to get brainwashed by Woo Meng and take the rumors to be true? Will Miss Zhao forgive them? Will she give them the chance to learn under her guidance and become someone like her? They were the toppers of their universities yet did something foolish and unacceptable.''


    They were envious of the three interns who were with Suyin from the start and didn''t let them be influenced by Woo Meng. On the first day of office when Suyin asked the interns to sign up with her assistant for turns to join her on field job, other than those three everyone ignored.


    "I know¡­ You all are sorry and envious that my three interns grabbed the opportunity to be on this important case while you all lost your chance. Don''t worry, world is full of vicious people. If not this there are many more cases to come. But don''t forget to book your slots with assistant Long Tao, everyone will get a chance before your internship ends."


    Suyin''s words turned on the excitement switch of their system as their eyes shone like thousand light bulbs.


    "Thank you, mam! Sorry mam! We''ll do it, mam! Thank you for the opportunity mam!"


    "Prepare the detailed report of the case and submit it on Monday. No delays! You three too," Suyin''s words were the splash of icy water on their faces, including the three interns as she left the venue hearing a lengthy sigh...


    "OH NOOOOO¡­."


    Their excitement dimmed!


    So predictable! Ahh! College life!


    She smiled¡­


    *****


    *CLAP CLAP CLAP*


    In the hallway, she heard someone applause and turned to see a beautiful woman with chestnut curls clapping for her.


    "YOU are A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! A true inspiration for many women who think themselves as a weak gender! Please accept my humble bow," saying she bowed ninety degrees.


    "It''s an honor to be praised by the best Radio jockey of the country, Miss. Fei Hong." Suyin reached over and extended her hand. "Your show ''my two cents'' is one of a kind. Thank you for the support you gave me. I came to know about it from one of my interns,"


    "It was an honest opinion, and I was not wrong. See! The result is out in open." Fei Hong shook hands with her. "You mind giving me a quick interview. My listeners would love to hear you live."


    "Ummm¡­.."


    "Please don''t say no. I know your time is precious and I should have asked it formally by dropping an email for an appointment. But after witnessing you on stage, I couldn''t hold back myself." Fei Hong saw her pondering and continued shaking Suyin''s hand to convince her, "Short interview! Easy one! No personal questions! Pick and drop facility! Complimentary snacks! Drinks! Free club passes! Shopping coupons!"


    "¡­"


    If she continued shaking her hand it will surely come out, "Do you convince everyone like this?"


    "Nope. Only you. Please!"


    "Sunday. Call me on Saturday to confirm it," Suyin waited for Fei Hong to let go of her hand but the woman before her didn''t show any intention to do so. She raised her brows.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Your number!?" Fei Hong saw Suyin pointing at her hands and realized what she was doing, letting it go instantly, "Sorry."


    Suyin agreed instantly as Fei Hong''s work and her outspoken personality impressed her equally. She was the woman of her own views with millions of followers idealizing her because of her show and for her unconditional support to the LGBT community.


    Knowing someone of Fei Hong''s potential was good for Suyin''s work profile as well.


    Suyin stretched her phone towards Fei Hong and the latter didn''t waste any time to call at her own number followed by saving her name before giving it back.


    "Long Tao," Suyin saw her assistant passed by and called. "I''m taking off for the day. If there''s something important call me."


    "Sure,"


    "I''m leaving too. Do you need a ride?" Fei Hong offered, and Suyin eyed outside the window for a second. The clouds were now darker and dense; the air was heavy with the dampness of the approaching storm, and even the creatures have started to retreat inside.


    She better hurry and get her car from Wang Shi to reach home ASAP and help him with the case before it downpours. "If it''s not a trouble for you, I''ll accept the favor as I don''t have my car today."


    "Ahh¡­ No biggie. Let''s go."


    Suyin gladly followed Fei Hong unaware of the type of vehicle she rides.


    Fei Hong = Bike


    She would regret her decision later!


    Offfffm¡­.. badly!


    *****


    Just as expected, it shocked Suyin to see a red bike in front¡­.


    "Is this your¡­."


    "Of course¡­ this is my beast." Fei Hong rubbed her palm on its body as if patting a horse. "Get on it."


    "¡­." ''Is it too late to change my decision?''


    "Cough¡­. It''s okay, I''ll take a cab. You don''t have to-"


    "Are you scared? C''mon¡­ It''s just a bike and I''m an expert rider," Suyin didn''t believe on a single word. She hated bikes; they look so unreliable and scary. What if she fell down on the road and the car behind crushed her? Who wants to become a Cherrie pie?


    *****


    Fifteen minutes later¡­.


    "Such beautiful weather it is, and we are having a bike ride. I wish it rains. So cool it would be! Are you comfortable? Hold me tight, okay?"


    "¡­"


    "Y-Yeah¡­ Please keep your eyes on the road." Suyin tried not to wobble on the bike because of her sitting position as she didn''t sit cross-legged because of her dress. This was the second time she cursed for selecting a dress as her uniform instead of trousers.


    "Careful," Suyin grabbed Fei Hong tightly when the bike jiggled. In what bad time she said yes to share a ride with her? Was her EQ and IQ were on hunger strike? Dammit it!


    Will she ever be able to see her Hottie bum? Hope yes!


    Now she regrets never pinning Wang Shi down and kiss him with all her might. At least there won''t be any regrets left for her.


    ''Give me another chance, I want to fulfill my fantasy once.'' She looked at the sky.


    The heavens answered, not her but Fei Hong''s prayer. A drop of crystal-clear water fell on Suyin''s beautiful thighs. "F*ck" She cursed, wiping the droplet with her hand.


    Followed by another.... and another¡­ Till it started sprinkling¡­.


    Fei Hong in excitement, "Woww¡­ it''s raining,"


    Suyin sulked, "Yeah¡­"

 Chapter 41: Lost balance

    People''s Hospital


    "Why did you ask me to bring you here? Do you have someone admitted?"


    "No-no¡­" Drenched in water from top to toe, Suyin jumped off the bike as if she was sitting over a hot pan all this while.


    Damn! She''ll never get used to the sway of the bike¡­. It''s making her feel dizzy.


    She took off the helmet and gave it back to Fei Hong, pushing the sticky wet hair strands off of her neck with the other hand. "I know someone who works here; he borrowed my car this morning."


    Suyin didn''t take Wang Shi''s name on purpose. He was a noble figure in the city, and anything can lead to rumors damaging his reputation. Besides, it''s not required for a stranger to know for who she''s here.


    "Oh! Then I''ll take my leave. Don''t forget about the interview¡­. Bye¡­." Fei Hong accelerated dramatically, thrusting the bike forward; which scared Suyin who took three steps back as she saw Fei Hong leaving in a blink of an eye.


    Suyin stilled herself before turning to the building; her gaze fell on the glass reflection to see her smeared liner and mascara, bedraggled wet hair sticking all over her neck and shoulder¡­ for a second she thought of the scary ghost of the horror movie ''grudge''.


    Great! Brilliant! She''s going to meet the hot-shot beauty with this scary look.


    Could it get any worse!?


    As soon as she entered, her wet skin touched the air-conditioned air, and she hugged her blazer close.


    "Hey, Suyin¡­" The head nurse Miya was at the reception for some work when she saw Suyin and approached her enthusiastically. "Oh, dear! You are soaked. You better change first." She looked at water dripping on the floor, receiving weird looks from everyone.


    "Thank you, but it''s unnecessary. I''ll leave in a short while. Could you please give Dr. Wang a call? My phone''s not working anymore." Suyin tried to avoid being dragged inside by the head nurse, but the latter had more strength.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "I will. But before that you should change, beware, not to catch cold."


    "B-Bu¡­.. Atichooooo¡­.."


    "Tch¡­Look¡­ it started already. I''m not listening to you. Be respectful to this old grandma," Nurse Miya was in her mid-forties with a tall bun and a warm smile. She was holding a tab in her hand, a stethoscope and a pen flashlight in her pocket; that''s her weapons throughout the day.


    "No¡­ I insist. I''m not being disrespectful, but I have very important work to do at home. Please call Dr. Wang ." Suyin wanted to solve Gu Feng''s case ASAP. That kid was already running against time, any more delay, and he might lose everything. And if that happens, his powerful parents might come after Wang Shi and blame him.


    Seeing her worried, Miya sighed¡­.


    "Dr. Wang is at the VIP floor. Let me take you there,"


    *****


    VIP Floor


    "Why his condition deteriorated since he came here? For God''s sake, the random medicines you are giving him have side-effects. You are making him die faster." Mother Gu lost her patience and cried.


    "It was a colossal mistake to get you on the case. And what the hell that Zz or whatever his name is, is doing? Where is he? We want to talk to him? Bring him here," Father Gu''s loud voice broke the mandatory silence of the hospital.


    Wang Shi rubbed his forehead, feeling a headache. "I will say it again. It was your decision to bring me to your son''s case, but that doesn''t mean I''ll wave a magic wand and heal your son. If you are regretting it, take him away, but let me tell you¡­. if I and Zz cannot solve the mystery, then no other doctor can do it. Do you think we are not doing anything? Here, look at this¡­"


    He opened Gu Feng''s case file and showed the medical reports, "You started giving him testosterone when he was barely twelve. You forced a boy to puberty. Do you think these hormones don''t have any side-effects?"


    Father Gu turned his face to the rain-washed window, he knows what he did. His wife had warned him of the side-effects. But they wanted their son to be perfect to prevent him from being laughed and questioned by the cruel society.


    Aware of Wang Shi''s straight-forward personality, Hospital director Li Han butted in as he gestured him to not say anything further, "I understand why you are angry but this won''t absolve anything. Just be with your son and maybe consider telling him the truth of his birth. He has the right to know. I''m staying in the hospital until we solve everything, and will contact Zz too. That all I can say¡­"


    Suyin heard everything as she waited at the end of the corridor and felt bad for Wang Shi. He was trying hard for this case and no one knows it better than her.


    This is not fair!


    A part of her blamed herself for Wang Shi''s situation. She was equally responsible, yet he had to hear everyone''s sharp comments.


    Useless!


    No! She has to solve it by tonight!


    After sending the Gu couple to their son, Wang Shi turned to leave and saw Suyin standing, "Miss. Zhao¡­"


    Suyin jolted out from her thoughts at Wang Shi''s voice and fast-walked towards him, tapping her bellies against the marble floor, making wet trails. "Dr. Wang¡­. Can I''ve my car keys? I''ve to leave-"


    In order to get home quickly, she lost her common sense, forgetting her drenched state and that her toes were numb because of being soaked in ice-cold bellies¡­.


    "AH---"


    She lost her balance after three steps, stumbling forward. Instinctively, her clumsy hands went to grab whatever thing they could and ended up grabbing Wang Shi''s scrubs, who reacted reflexively to save her from the fall and grabbed her waist.


    Unfortunately, because of the wet floor, he lost his balance too and fell down..... with her on top of him. Before any of the two could understand Suyin''s lips met with his.


    Her eyes shot wide as she inhaled sharply and turned her face to the side, making his lips brushed with her cold cheek, and stayed there for a second before he turned his face too.


    Li Han, ""


    Nurse Miya ""

 Chapter 42: Take 2

    Suyin''s mind was blank!


    Nope! Wrong!


    Suyin''s mind was occupied by Wang Shi''s breath which she always wanted to feel. Many times she had dreamed of kissing him, imagining his taste but hadn''t imagined how warm and soft they would feel pressed up against hers.


    ¡­. Oh my! It''s intoxicating! Sparks flew everywhere!


    Not only he smells Godly but had a faint whiff of coffee on his lips. He must have had it before coming here!


    The sound of her heart was so loud that she couldn''t concentrate. She never knew a small kiss could be this electrifying.


    "Ahem¡­." He cleared his throat, gesturing the two EXTRAS with his finger. Before they could sprint he warned them with their eyes to keep their lips zipped and they nodded like pecking chicken.


    The two dashed away, smiling¡­.


    Suyin realized her awkward position where she was against his warm chest, chiseled to perfection. Must he be so perfect? Handsome was such a lame word in front of him!


    To prevent herself from getting distracted she avoided eye contact as she placed her hand on his chest, intending to get up but her damn bellies slipped. "Ouchhh¡­."


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    Don''t blame her! She tried!


    Her breathing quickened, so did his¡­


    "Wait! Let me do it," She heard his deep voice and nodded, her limp body trembled nervously.


    Is there a way she could bore hole and hide in it?


    He gently shifted her to the side and got up before offering her a hand, which she took as he pulled her up. All this while she kept her eyes lowered; she knew if she dares to look up he might see the fireworks in them¡­.


    Though the kiss was accidental, mechanical¡­ it was a KISS.


    And it sent shiver run down her spine!


    "You okay?"


    "¡­"


    Seriously? How can you even ask this question?


    Oww¡­. My poor heart!


    She nodded, trying to scoot away, but he settled his hands at her waist, bracing her against him. The sensation of his touch tickled through her.


    She pursed her lips, her cheeks turned tomato red, ''Please let me go¡­ this is torture,''


    Her eyes itched, begging its master to look up once, but the anxious Suyin only graced them with the sight of the white marble floor.


    She didn''t even know whether to say something or just book a flight back to country T. Secretly she calculated the distance to the elevator if she could run at the speed of 27. 8 miles per hour, 50 meters could be covered in less than 6 seconds.


    No! She can''t!


    Wang Shi''s hand at her waist foiled her plans of slipping away and board a plane back to country T.


    Seeing her in a daze and not replying, he cleared his throat, "Ahem¡­ Miss. Zhao?"


    "Huh?" She lifted her eyes, but before they could go past his chin she averted them. No! She can''t! Just kill her!


    "Are you hurt?"


    "Yes¡­." She mumbled. ''My heart! Do the open heart surgery on me please,'' the last part of the sentence echoed inside her brain.


    "You said something?"


    She heard his magnetic voice and shook her head to drain the dirty thoughts out.


    "K-Key¡­." Her nose twitched, lips danced, eyes turned smaller as a sneeze brewed. "ATICHOOO¡­ ACHOOO¡­. ACHOOOO¡­." She covered her nose and imagined herself as a cartoon that makes comical faces when a sneeze comes. "Excuse me," sniffing.


    "You are drenched. Don''t tell me you ran up to here in rain to get keys? Rest assured, your car is safe with me. I won''t eat it up," He muttered, wrapping her lab-coat around her to give needed warmth. "Can''t believe you can be this careless!"


    "I-I''m sorry¡­.."


    "You should be. Health comes¡­"


    "....for whatever happened just now," She cut him to the chase, her voice came meek. It was she who fell on him, after all.


    "Let''s go. You should change first," holding her shoulder, he moved towards the elevator.


    "¡­"


    Suyin frowned. Was he kidding or really indifferent to the situation? Or something worse?


    How can she be this flustered, but the man before her was behaving as if nothing happened? Does he not care what happened a moment ago? Or was it his tactic to behave normally in order to not make her feel uncomfortable?


    She pouted her lips¡­.


    "I have some pending work to finish¡­. ACHOOOO¡­." The voice echoed.


    "MISS. ZHAO SUYIN¡­ Though I don''t have any right to force you, can you please pay attention to your condition? If you continue like this, soon you''ll end up as one of the patients in this hospital. I''m sure you don''t want that to happen, right?" he put his hand at her back and steered her to the elevator.


    The elevator ride was awkwardly silent. Getting the opportunity, she looked up at his handsome face¡­. Indifferent and calm! While her flushed cheeks looked like a clown''s.


    No, wait! Why are his ears so red? Is he shy? She craned her neck out, studying his face with mouth wide agape and eyes as round as two ping pong balls.


    Sensing a gaze, Wang Shi suddenly turned, shocking her as she flustered and pretended to look at control panels. "32¡­ 34¡­ 36¡­ 48. Oh wow! There are 48 buttons!"


    Wang Shi "¡­"


    Suyin "¡­"


    She smacked herself mentally, biting her lips in silence. She had literally mastered in PhD when it comes to embarrassing herself in front of this man.


    Great!


    Once again the silent returned bringing along the awkwardness¡­.


    She breathed when the elevator stopped, "Come," he took her to his principal office at the top floor. The bob cut woman at reception stood up to greet.


    Wang Shi gave her a curt nod, "Bring a pair of scrubs, size S,"


    "Yes, sir," Before leaving she gave Suyin a strange look. Why does she look at her like this? Even last time, Suyin felt weird by her gaze.


    Suyin followed Wang Shi to his magnanimous office. "I know where the bathroom is. Got to bathe, bye." She rushed towards the bathroom like a mouse running after stealing food.


    Technically, she did steal something!


    His kiss!


    *BANG*


    With a loud noise, the door shut as she leaned against the door, taking a breath of relief¡­..


    ''Oh, Suyin! What did you do just now!? You kissed him¡­ YOU KISSED HIM¡­. You kissed¡­. HOTTIE BUM¡­ IDIOT, STUPID, SILLY¡­ You should have done it properly. How could you let go of this once in a lifetime opportunity?''


    She looked up at the ceiling, ''Seriously? You answered my prayer, thank you!¡­. but should have given me the heads-up first. I could have done it better. I''m a better kisser, let me prove it. Give me a rewind. Take 2¡­.''


    She slides down, and hugged her knees, ''Mourning over her terrible kiss,''


    Somewhere above the sky..... God face-palmed!

 Chapter 43: Everythings messed up!

    Meanwhile, seeing Suyin sprint to the bathroom, the calm monk who was behaving unfazed all this while let out a breath he was holding till now.


    He walked to the balcony of his room, pushed the curtains, and opened the window. The small drops of cold water met his face; an earthy fragrance filled his entire being as he took a deep breath.


    The pitter-patter calmed him, but it could not stop his buzzing thoughts. Neither could he understand why the fist-size organ inside his chest was beating uncontrollably. He closed his eyes and rubbed his chest only to open it in shock when all he recalled was the touch of Suyin''s petal-like lips against his, reminding him of a rosebud.


    When his lips touched her cheek, they were as soft as Yuyu and Lan''s but she smelt entirely different. In a wonderful way, of course!


    She smelt heavenly, comprising a fragrance like a damp forest after a rainy day, or maybe like a fresh-scented pine and honey. He cannot point out what exactly it was, but one thing was sure¡­. Her aroma was like a drug, and he wanted to take another sniff.


    When he held her by the waist to prevent her from falling on the wet floor, he couldn''t bring himself to let go of his hands.. When she asked to leave, he wanted her to stay. When he saw her sneezing in cold, he wanted to give warmth. When he saw her being careless, he scolded her. When he saw her face red in embarrassment, he played indifferent to not make her feel uneasy.


    Why? What was happening to him? Why was he acting against his usual self? Is something wrong with him?


    Should he get himself checked?


    He could have easily got the car delivered to her, but waited for her to come to the hospital and do it herself.


    He shoved a hand in his hair and exhaled sharply before walking to his desk and pulled open the drawer to take out his stethoscope.


    Holding it against his chest, he concentrated on his heart-beats. Everything''s messed up!


    *KNOCK*


    "Sir, scrubs. And nurse Miya gave-" Since the door was open, the bob cut receptionist Linda knocked once and stepped in. But before she could complete her sentence, she saw Wang Shi hearing his heart. "Sir, is everything okay? Should I call for a doctor?"


    No. Keep everything on the table. You may leave." Wang Shi didn''t bother to look up.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Okay¡­ Nurse Miya gave this brown packet. She said you asked for it as well." Linda scanned her eyes around the office, looking for the woman. She frowned upon not finding any trace of her and subconsciously looked at the closed bathroom door.


    The muddy foot-steps outside the door answered her query!


    "You are still here?" Wang Shi looked up and jolted her out from her thoughts.


    "If you need somethi-" She paused seeing Wang Shi''s sharp eyes and left instantly. "Sorry, sir."


    Wang Shi walked over to the table and picked the fresh set of scrubs and the brown packet. No need to guess, Miya had sent a pair of disposable undergarments for her.


    He tucked the packet at the doorknob and knocked once, hearing the voice of shower stop. "I''ve hung the packet at the doorknob; nurse Miya has arranged something else too. I''m leaving for important work. Will be back in two hours."


    The ''work'' was to connect to Zz and it could have been done from his office too¡­. but he doesn''t want to make her feel conscious because of his presence.


    He waited for reply, but all he heard was the sound of the shower turned on.


    Taking it as default, yes, he left for Daiyu''s office.


    Daiyu was about to stand up but remained seated when Wang Shi waved his hand. "Any contact with Zz?"


    "No sir. In fact, there''s no response after you last talked through messages. I''m trying, but he''s offline all the time." Daiyu turned his laptop to let Wang Shi see it.


    "Hm! Keep contacting." This was the first time Zz showed unprofessional behavior since they started working together. "What about the information about Miss. Zhao and the footage?"


    "I''ve copied the footage by hacking the ministry''s security system. It''s the real uncut version unlike what''s shown on television by news channels." Daiyu gave a hard-disk to Wang Shi. "As far as information about Miss. Zhao is concerned, there are some strange findings,"


    "Strange?"


    "As per your request, I first tried to look for her connection with medicine." Daiyu looked seriously at Wang Shi before taking out a ten-page report that included her exceptional resume which could even put a doctor with three decades of experience to shame.


    "This is what I found. She was caught cheating in her exams and was later debarred by the medical council. They canceled all her degrees and license. And the most shocking thing I found was..."


    "¡­.. she accepted CHEATING?" Wang Shi emphasized on the word as he read the report where she accepted her crime in front of the medical council and shamelessly told everyone how she cheated in exams from day one.


    Cheating was one thing! But blatantly accepting!? No one does that!


    And what about her extraordinary skills in the field? According to the report, she stopped practicing almost five years back, but he saw her performing the emergency procedure like a pro. It was smooth and crisp, with confidence.


    A person who cheated can''t do that! She should lack confidence, but Suyin knew everything like the back of her hand when she reported her patient''s condition.


    How about when she diagnosed the problem precisely just by hearing the name of the medicine?


    What about this resume? Can it really be built by cheating?


    No! Impossible!


    There''s definitely a reason why Suyin accepted everything in front of the council.


    "Keep looking, I''m going on rounds," Wang Shi left with her resume and the hard disk.


    *****


    Two hours later he returned and went straight to his room, thinking Suyin must be waiting for him. Just when he entered his gaze first went to the couch subconsciously but found it empty. Frowning, he looked around and stopped at the bathroom door where the packet was still hanging.


    He walked over to the bathroom door and checked the packet. Scrubs were still inside, untouched; only the packet of disposable undergarments was missing.


    ''Is she still inside the bathroom? For two hours?''


    He began to worry and knocked once.


    "Miss. Zhao? Is everything okay?"


    "I''m not wearing them." He heard her reply.

 Chapter 44: The lucky one

    I''m not wearing them." Wang Shi heard Suyin reply, shocking him. The cut-throat denial and the determination in her voice didn''t go unnoticed. But along with it, he sensed pain¡­. the same pain he felt when she rejected to take over Mingyu''s aunt''s case.


    "This is a hospital. Other than patient and doctor''s clothing, you won''t get any. And you know how patient''s clothes are," He reminded her. She has seen it already; patient''s clothes are open from the back, tied by strings to make the examination and medical procedures convenient to carry on.


    "I know! I''ve washed my clothes¡­. ACHOOO¡­.¡­. Let them dry,¡­ ACHOOOO¡­ I''ll come out wearing them but won''t wear scrubs." Her voice came shaking, with heavy breaths and chattering of teeth. His brows furrowed deep. Cold!


    "This way you''ll catch a fever. Let me get you some other clothes if you don''t want to wear scrubs," He didn''t wait for her to answer and left. Forcing or trying to convince her was futile. If she could go to the extent of staying in the bathroom for two hours just to avoid wearing scrubs, there must be a strong reason behind it.


    In the room, he opened the cupboard and was welcomed by the sight of his and Honey''s clothes. Honey''s clothes are out of the question, but his!!!???? Don''t know if she would accept it or not but he can''t let her stay there for the entire day.


    After a short while, he returned and hung the cloth at the doorknob. "I''ve found something else for you to wear. Hope you won''t mind." He paused for a few seconds and added, "If you didn''t come out within the next two minutes, I''ll call nurse Miya and let her enter with a master key¡­. Be prepared. She has two decades of experience of handling stubborn patients."


    "NOOOOO¡­. Give me two minutes,"


    He smiled, "I''m in the lounge. Will come back after two minutes,"


    He made deliberate sounds while walking towards the lounge but stopped at the threshold of the door and looked back.


    With a click sound, the door opened and a slender white hand came out as it patted around to get the cloth and pull it inside.


    *******


    Inside, Suyin was sitting at the edge of the bathtub, barely in undergarments with a white towel wrapped around her which she hugged for warmth. On the towel-stand was hanging her black ''uniform''. Washed. Waiting to get dried.


    SCRUBS!?


    It''s been years she last wore them. And when she last stripped out of it, she had sworn to never let it touch her body again.


    She won''t!


    Never!


    Once done was done! Now she even hates the thought of getting into it again.


    It''s her past!


    "WHATTTTTTTT!?" Her chin dropped to the floor. Her brain formulated nothing as she looked at the cloth arranged by the man. It was his SHIRT! SHIRT! So intimate!


    Baby-blue color! Cute! Do men really wear this color? She cannot help but imagine Wang Shi wearing it and looked as dapper as ever. Feeling giddy, she took a deep sniff only to scrunch her nose when it smelled of fabric softener.


    Was she expecting it to smell like him!?


    Dream on!


    When done, she peeked like a sneaky little cat, stepping out by padding her foot as she tugged the hem of the shirt, pulling it down.


    It rested at her mid-thighs, showing this much flesh was not good!


    "Finally you are out," she jumped as if someone has attached a live wire to each of her nerves, her head snapped at the couch where the man was buried in a mountain of books. "Wear slippers first,"


    She looked down and found a pair of slippers waiting outside the bathroom.


    "I-I¡­."


    "Don''t keep standing. Come here and have some hot tea,"


    Her gaze shifted to the direction where a pot of steaming hot lemon tea was brewing at the table while a blanket was kept on the couch along with some magazines to kill time. Furthermore, he kept the temperature in the room warm.


    Was it all for her?


    In her moment of emotional dumbfoundness, she realized she didn''t have the words to adequately express her emotions. The scene was unbelievable, yet sweet. She looked away, then looked back to see if he was still there. He was!


    "Thank you for the clothes," She sat down on the couch, and hear him nod making hm sound. She first opened the blanket to cover her exposed legs, peeked if Wang Shi looked, but once a gentleman always a gentleman. He kept his gaze on the book.


    "Have tea." He uncrossed his legs and passed a cup of hot tea. "First-aid box is to your left, I suggest you take medicine for fever. The city is traffic jammed because of rain, you won''t be able to go out. I''ve arranged magazines for you to kill time. You can use my desktop as well. Nurse Miya informed me about your phone. If you want to inform someone of your whereabouts, use the landline,"


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    She accepted the cup.


    "Thank you for everything. And sorry too," She pulled her lips in, waiting for him to question her unreasonable behavior. Her eyes met with his, but she looked away and opened the first-aid box to take medicine, praying he won''t make things difficult for her. The panic in her heart could grow and fade depending on how he would react.


    However, time passed, but she didn''t hear a word from him and forced herself to look up. There gaze met. "You don''t have to be sorry. I''m sure you''ve your own reasons; don''t explain yourself to anyone," His eyes showed the kind gentleness and maturity only her mother has, stroking every chord of her heart which brought a warm smile to her lips.


    She looked at him in a trance that brings a butterfly to nectar. He was the correct blend of gentleness, understanding, sweet, caring, and shy. She was right. HE, undoubtedly, was the kindest and reliable man she ever met.


    ''What fate does that woman holding who would get you as her life partner? Lucky one! I wish my destiny could...'' She sighed, putting a full stop to her thoughts that have no meaning.


    "Thank you, Dr. Wang," was all she could say, taking a sip of tea.


    "I think we should drop the formalities between us." Something on her face must have felt funny because he chuckled, "Don''t look at me with these wide eyes. Call me Wang Shi,"


    She hit her forehead, smiling along with him, "Suyin it is, Dr¡­. Um¡­ W-Wang Shi,"


    "Suyin," He called. Her name from his lips was a sweet melody to her ears; something so soothing that wrapped her soul, and she blushed. "Why your face looks red? Let me see¡­."


    Her focus scattered, dancing in all directions when his large palm touched her forehead. "Hmm¡­ not warm. Good!" He retrieved back to his seat.


    Suyin "¡­"


    ''This is bullying. Someone tell him the consequences of his action.'' She huffed in annoyance.


    *******

 Chapter 45: Laugh and pout often

    "What you reading?"


    Wang Shi raised the book up, "Internal medicine. I have got a very mysterious case in hand and the person with whom I was handling it, stood me up," He resumed reading, registering the subtle shift in her expressions she thought he didn''t notice.


    "Their words were harsh,"


    His action of marking stopped as he smiled in a cold and distant way, realizing she was talking about Gu Feng''s parents. "Isn''t that normal? Doctors can be both God and slayers; it depends on the outcome. These words will change once I cure their son but would become harsher if¡­." Trailing the sentence he lifted his phone kept on the side as if to check something but put it back with unhindered disappointment.


    Zz was still offline!


    "Looks like you are waiting for someone''s call," Suyin gaze slide over the cabinet near the bathroom where she left her handbag, and she instantly left the warmth of the blanket to fetch her phone. Barefoot.


    "The friend who stood me up¡­. Tsk¡­ SLIPPERS¡­.The floor''s cold," He reminded.


    "Just one minute¡­." She checked her phone. Blank screen! Opened the back flap. Wet! There''s no way for her to become Zz without it. Though there was Wang Shi''s desktop, the risk of being exposed was too high. "Damn! It''s not working," she deflated back on the couch.


    "Use landline. If you want to access the internet, use the desktop. There''s already a guest account on it, Honey uses it to play games. Password is ''HONEY''"


    "No it''s fine," She breathed, finding herself in a painful situation. She wanted to help him yet she cannot, despite being stuck in the same room with him. How ironic! Either she can help him or save herself from getting exposed¡­.. but not both! Nevertheless, human life was at stake! She might have left the profession years back, but cannot let someone die on her.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Ahem," She pointed at the file with Gu Feng written over it, "You mind if I take a look? Actually I''ve studied medicine a little, how about I give my inputs on the case?" Initiating this conversation made her feel miserable but she could only hope things would go smoothly.


    That''s it! That was what Wang Shi wanted to hear. Thank God she asked herself!


    He came out of the momentary shock of the usage of the word ''Little''. Her resume was anything but little! However, it raised Wang Shi''s curiosity, as no cheater would dare to volunteer in front of him. The chances of getting caught are¡­. um¡­. within a minute!


    "Sure," He nodded, maintaining his calm composure. "Coffee?"


    "Black. No sugar." Without a delay, she picked the file. Though she was aware of everything written in it word by word, she has to put on a facade.


    *****


    "Hmm¡­ Adolescent Mosaicism, with pelvic pain and unconsciousness," She mumbled, "He had no history of these symptoms but everything started suddenly and got worse with treatment. Maybe he did something that night which triggered the initial symptoms,"


    "Alcohol, sex, infected food¡­ His girlfriend shared everything, but she''s fine." He countered.


    "Yeah¡­ but she''s not a case of mosaicism and compromised immune system." She bites the pen between her lips, "What type of alcohol did he took? Did you spoke to his girlfriend?"


    "It was a college party. They mixed their drinks¡­ variety of alcohol, in short." He answered, trying to look into her eyes instead of the damn pen between her lips. "His girlfriend told me they left the party early and later had more drinks and ordered beef from five star at his apartment. Later he suddenly collapsed after¡­. Cough¡­. ejaculation."


    She ignored how Wang Shi felt awkward and continued, "What about their history? Did she notice any problems before....i mean while having sex? Or if he takes any drug or medicine to increase stamina?"


    One of the side-effects of testosterone was impotence, ejaculation and erection issues, decreased amounts of semen, and testicle size. To cope up with that desperate people take medicines.


    "Blood tests came clear. But she mentioned that he often felt sad and unsatisfied with his body. He even raised this issue to his father, but the latter brushed him off with the usual words¡­. It will be fine once you grow up."


    She sighed, but his parents are the least of her concerns. She flipped the page and mumbled, "It can''t be ZE, there''s no tumor. Whatever it is, its systemic." She raised her brows, "Scleroderma? It fits the symptoms,"


    She waited for his opinion but he looked at her with narrowed eyes. Silently! His curiosity was its peak.


    One thing was sure¡­. She was not a cheater. Nope! There''s no chance! Her resume was true in every sense! Then why did she accept it in front of the medical council? Was she threatened?


    "Wang Shi?"


    "I''ll start him on antibiotics for Scleroderma. Hopefully, it helps him," He got up, straightened his wrinkled scrubs, "Lunch?"


    "Nope," She looked back at the files, "I''ll re-read it from scratch, we are not sure yet. What if we missed something?"


    "Careless,"


    She heard him as he walked out.


    "¡­"


    *****


    An hour later he came and found her munching on energy bar while three empty cups of coffee was placed at the table.


    "Suyin, I thought you were an excellent doctor but obviously you are not,"


    "WHAT¡­" Panic popped out stronger as his words strike her emotions. Her eyes widened, her fingers curled on the blanket. "I-I¡­"


    "Why so scared?" Easing the atmosphere he walked up to her and placed the tray he was holding over the books. He pointed at the empty cups, taking away the half-eaten energy bar. "This is bad. Eat something solid."


    She saw him lifting the lid of the bowl, serving a portion of cheese pasta, and garlic bread on a plate. "I''m not a doctor." She reminded.


    "Half doctor it is! Happy? Now eat," He passed the plate, and served one to himself, "I''ve started Gu Feng on antibiotics,"


    "Yummm¡­" She murmured after the first bite, realizing how hungry she was. Now that she''s able to help Wang Shi with the case, she could eat with a relaxed mind.


    "Isn''t it? This hospital makes best pasta. Too bad we cannot advertise it," he pouted adorably while taking a seat across her.


    They both looked at each other for a second before breaking into laughter. It felt good to get a company over food.


    He paused eating, concentrating on her face. Her laughter was bright and cheerful like kids dancing in the rain happily. It was infectious that rung wind chimes in his ears, and all he could do was joining her.


    "You should laugh often, Suyin. It suits you." He complimented.


    "And you should pout often. In fact, you do it better than girls and can make anyone envious." She wiped the sauce from her lips. "Where did you learn it from?"


    "Who else could it be? Yuyu and Lan. Those two force everyone to pout when taking pictures. You know¡­. Let me show you something," He picked his phone and passed it to her, "Honey is a pro. That brat practiced it watching Angelina Jolie."


    She set the spoon down accepting his phone, "Oh my God, this is Honey!? So cuteee." It was a cute picture where Yuyu and Lan photo bombed Honey''s picture with Wang Shi, annoying the latter.


    She returned his phone, "Can''t believe this little tsundere has this side. Where is he?"

 Chapter 46: Solved the case over coffee

    "At my brother''s place," Wang Shi checked the time on his watch, "An hour before my brother and his wife picked kids from school. Since it was raining, instead of dropping him at home they took him to their place,"


    Suyin cleaned off every bite of pasta. Really it was yummy. Only the second best she ever had, leaving the first spot for her Michelin chef Jammie. "Your brother? Yuyu and Lan''s parents. Right?"


    "Yup. We have divided our duties. I drop them to school while he and his wife pick them. This way we keep a balance in our hectic lives and the smile on our kids'' faces intact. It''s important to keep them happy!" He tried to take the plate from her, but she dodged.


    "Nuh-huh! You brought lunch, I''ll wash the dishes." She didn''t leave any space for discussion and went to the lounge to use the kitchen. A smile crawled on her lips that didn''t go unnoticed from his eyes.


    "What?" He asked, following her to the kitchen to help her. She got stuck here because of him after all!


    "Nothing!"


    "You smiled,"


    She washed the plate, passing him to let him wipe dry. "I think you should swap your duties with your brother. Maybe Honey would be less grumpy."


    He rolled his eyes, "Looks like you are missing him too much. Or maybe your endless bickering. Should I call him?"


    "Please do it. Bickering helps me in digestion."


    "¡­."


    *******


    Throughout the day Wang Shi discussed Gu Feng''s case with her, even forgetting there''s someone named Zz in his contact list.


    For Suyin, she was just going with the flow¡­. It was like finding a new friend with whom she shares a common interest and same level of maturity. Sometimes they even argued¡­.


    "Suyin, it''s your twelfth cup of coffee. One more and I''ll start charging you. Thousand dollars per cup." He looked as she brought a cup of coffee, carefully holding it between her palms and settled down on the couch.


    She snorted at his face, "Nice trick but I''m not giving up my coffee. Trust me it keeps my sanity and ensures the safety of others. Including yours."


    "¡­.."


    "Great, your next cup is on me then," He said reading the notes she made on Gu Feng''s case, inwardly praising how amazing her work was¡­ Please exclude the handwriting. It''s like dead ants everywhere.


    "Really?"


    "Of course, I''ll give you intravenously."


    "¡­"


    "Sir, you called?" She heard a voice and saw Daiyu step into the room.


    Wang Shi, "Get this coffee machine removed,"


    "NOOOO¡­. Owwww¡­." She was about to get up but sat down on the couch, holding her stomach. It''s true, today she overdosed herself with coffee. Credit goes to Wang Shi.


    He looked up with furrowed brows. "Good! Drink more coffee. Anytime is coffee time after all! Daiyu, serve twelve more cups to the madam,"


    Daiyu "¡­"


    Daiyu, "Sir, should I get the coffee machine removed or serve coffee first?"


    "Daiyu, some things are better left unsaid. You can go now." Wang Shi shot the little man a hard side glance before throwing the first-aid box at Suyin, "This much caffeine dries the stomach. Now you''ll be heavily dehydrated throughout the night."


    Suyin pouted¡­. She can''t even tell him how sexy he looks when scolding!


    Hold on!


    What did Wang Shi say a moment ago!?


    Caffeine dries the stomach. Cause dehydration! And she over consumed it today!


    He saw the change in Suyin''s expression. "What happened? Is it still hurting? Or are you still brooding over coffee?"


    "None of them," She answered, "What''s Gu Feng''s latest SGOT[1]? After you start the treatment."


    "I''ll check," He logged in on his tab to check Gu Feng''s latest blood test reports. He frowned, "170! That''s a sharp drop from 342 earlier. This can''t be because of ani-biotics,"


    "Exactly,"


    "Hold on!" He left his seat to sit down beside her. "Suspecting him for auto-immune diseases I gave him anti-androgens to block the testosterones. AND¡­when I informed his parents of Scleroderma[2], they asked me to resume giving him testosterone as it''s not what I suspected earlier."


    Suyin''s eyes sparkled, "Testosterones cannot improve his liver function but-"


    "¡­..but kidney''s." He completed. "Which could bring a significant drop in his SGOT."


    "But that''s not impossible in Scleroderma damaged kidneys. This means we were wrong. He doesn''t have scleroderma. In fact, there''s a silly thing happened in the kids'' case."


    He leaned forward, "What do you mean?"


    "Argh¡­ WANG SHI¡­" She raised her hand up in the air, forgetting her stomach ache. "That stupid kid drank a lot¡­ A LOT¡­ His girlfriend confirmed it. And they even continued after reaching home. All these drinks dry up the system. It was a simple case of dehydration, that''s why he collapsed during sex after heavy ''exercise'' but his parents screwed everything,"


    "ER treated him for that but his condition didn''t improve."


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "And how did the ER treated him?"


    "They gave him two bags of IV." He answered but paused. She let him analyze and didn''t answer. "All those combined alcohol and IV put a strain on his kidneys. All he needed was time to rebound, but his idiot parents screwed up the case by ordering me to do MRI and we injected him with dye."


    "BINGO," She clapped her hands, "If his kidney''s had been healthy the dye would''ve filtered out its own. But since his kidneys were not functioning, the dye keeps on rotating in his entire system and got absorbed by his organs. Starting with heart, and so on¡­ making it seem like it was damaging the organs."


    Wang Shi bolted up from the couch and walked to the door and Suyin followed, "Wait! Let me come with you." He raised his brows in question, "I know you are going to inform Gu Feng''s parents. Take me along. I have got something to say as well."


    "Okay,"


    He had barely touched the knob when he paused and looked behind.


    Suyin, "What now?"


    "Damn. Suyin." He gasped, startling her. The next moment he pinched her soft cheeks between his fingers, giving her a side hug, "You are a genius. You solved the case over coffee!!!!"


    Suyin "¡­"


    Her mouth left wide agape¡­.


    ******

 Chapter 47: Hes the best!

    "Cough¡­. let''s go. Don''t keep standing," pushing the blush down that threatened to crawl up, Suyin walked past but noticed Wang Shi didn''t buzz. "What now?"


    "Are you sure you want to go like this?" Turning into a leisurely pivot he leaned against the wall. His sinful smile makes her conscious as he pointed at her.


    "WHAT? What''s the prob-" Her gaze froze as she looked down. "AHHH! It will become a free show if I step out like this," She rushed to the bathroom murmuring, "My clothes must have dried by now."


    "Doubtful!" He was ready to see her come out of the bathroom with disappointment. But¡­.


    "WANG SHI....."


    "I''m here,"


    "Lend me a t-shirt. Preferably dark color."


    "¡­"


    His brows creased, "I don''t think wearing a t-shirt is a good idea as-"


    "Just get it."


    "You¡­." He sighed, "Hold on!"


    ******


    Feeling a pair of eyes on her, she paused in her steps. And turned. Her arms folded at her chest as she looked sharply. "No matter how much you stare, they won''t become yours."


    "¡­"


    "I. WAS. NOT. STARING. AT. YOUR. LEGS." The humor fled as Wang Shi enunciated word for word.


    Of course, she knows. She was just interested to tease him, fascinated by the look he carried, trying to understand how his blue t-shirt became her skirt.


    And he looked as cute as a button with that confused face.


    "If not legs, then----" Her brows rose.


    "Hold on to your wild imagination." He shot her a hard glance. "I''m just-" coherent words refused to form as he pointed at her skirt. Confused.


    "My mom''s a fashion designer. Though I''m not good at fashion, turning a t-shirt into a make-shift skirt is no big deal for me." Swallowing, she added, "However, now I owe you a t-shirt."


    "Oh," He said in a relaxed way, but the next second his head snapped, "WHAT?" his response intensified, "You already owe me a meal,"


    "Now I owe you a t-shirt as well."


    As they continued walking, he took two fast steps and knocked at Gu Feng''s door while keeping his conversation on. "I''m picky about my clothes. Be prepared!"


    "I am," she winked before stepping in with him.


    "Mr. and Mrs. Gu," Wang Shi nodded at the couple sitting beside Gu Feng.


    Suyin''s gaze fell on the boy who was barely nineteen, but his disease had battered him into a grim submission. Half lying on the bed, he stared at the wall as if the world had ended for him. She also noticed a petite girl sitting on the cold stool who was holding Gu Feng''s hand like life support.


    It didn''t take a minute extra to guess she was Gu Feng''s girlfriend who supported him despite their family opposition and differences.


    "I''ve finally got the diagnosis. But before that, let me introduce Miss. Zhao, who-" Wang Shi stopped when she placed her hand on his arm, hinting him. "¡­..who wants to talk to you about something."


    "Later. Did you say you''ve got the diagnosis? Tell us." Minister Gu ignored Suyin and came straight to the point, pissing off Wang Shi.


    "Everything happened because of your parents," the response resulted from the frustration Wang Shi felt towards Minister Gu. So he ignored him as well and spoke to Gu Feng directly. "Do you want me to tell everything here or take your parents outside?"


    "Excuse me! Why are you asking him? We will discuss it-"


    "Do it here." Gu Feng interrupted his father.


    "FENG!?"


    "FOR GOD''S SAKE, I''M F*CKING NINETEEN. Mature and old enough to know what is wrong with my body. Just because you both brought me to this world, it does not give you the free permit to make every decision on my behalf. LET ME DO IT ONCE." He lost his patience. The build-up anger and frustration flared up.


    "You took me for surgeries, got me operated on my penis, making me feel ashamed and vulnerable. Every three weeks mom gave me injections in the name of vitamins, but I know it''s not. Otherwise, why would you peel the label off every time? Whenever I questioned, you brushed me off. Have you ever thought of my mental condition? I''m living a confused life! CLUELESS!"


    Gu Feng turned to Wang Shi, "I''m of the legal age where I''ve every right to know about my body. Here onwards I refrain my parents to decide on my behalf and appoint Yu''er to do it if it comes to the point where I can''t." he gripped his girlfriend''s hand.


    "I''M YOUR FATHER-"


    Gu Feng, "If you really ARE, and don''t want me to leave you forever¡­.. let me take my own decisions."


    "Feng," Mother Gu came forward to hold her son''s hand, but the latter jerked it off.


    "Just go away. You are equally responsible," he looked at Wang Shi, "Please continue,"


    "Well¡­. I will only talk about the case. Rest, you can ask your parents later." Wang Shi glanced at the parents, who now stood helpless, without a word in objection. "You drank lots of alcohol that day. Right?" He continued when Gu Feng nodded, "Addition of two bags of IV to the existing alcohol in your system put a strain on your kidneys, resulting in continuous pain."


    "All you need was time to rebound BUT¡­. At the request of your parents, my team injected you with dye to do MRI, which could have flushed out within two hours but because of dysfunctional kidneys, it keeps on circulating and got absorbed by other organs. The result equals to your current condition."


    "You mean to say he was fine when we brought him here?" Mother Gu baffled as she placed a hand on her chest.


    Wang Shi, "Yes, it was your freaked out attitude and you dictating me what should I do¡­. your son almost knocked at the door of death."


    "So¡­ So he''s fine!"


    "Yes. Just a month of dialysis and medication is all it requires,"


    Mrs. Gu shared a tearful glance at her stoic husband, who was visibly guilty for advising Wang Shi to get the MRI done.


    "Why did they ask to get the MRI?" Gu Feng didn''t look at his parents and smacked his mother''s hand when she tried to touch him on the shoulder. "Tell me everything,"


    Wang Shi pinched his brows, taking a glance at Suyin.


    "You were born with a rare condition called genetic Mosaicism. Which means the presence of both male and female chromosomes. They did the surgeries to repair your ambiguous genitalia to fit one of the two genders." Suyin answered as she stepped forward. Surprisingly, parents didn''t stop her.


    "So basically I''m both. It''s the choice my parents made to make me a boy¡­.. where I could be a girl as well. I''M A MONSTER." He let go of his girlfriend''s hand and looked away. It was expected of him to react like this.


    "If you are a monster or not, depends on how you take your life from here." Suyin makes Mrs. Gu sit on the other stool near Gu Feng''s bed. "Maybe this was the reason your parents didn''t tell you anything. They were afraid you won''t be able to take the blow,"


    "WHAT DO YOU KNOW? MY ENTIRE LIFE IS A LIE, HOW WOULD I LIVE WITH IT?"


    "THEN FLOW with it¡­. like a rising tide which you can''t stop or run away from but learn to float along, like a king. Instead of sulking, be the inspiration. You are not alone in this! At least you''re healthy, young, and have the chance to live this beautiful life unlike the patients in the cancer ward, who have no hopes yet they are fighting." Gu Feng looked up to see into Suyin''s eyes. Even Minister Gu couldn''t help but look at her.


    "And when you''ll do that, you''ll realize it was never that difficult. Take a step and many would follow," Suyin ruffled his hair and pointed at his hands. His girlfriend held one while the other by his mother, despite his distant attitude a moment ago.


    "Just worry that when you turn back, you should be satisfied with what you see. Because the day you turn back and dislike what you see, it will be the day you''ll be old, on your death bed, still sulking on your unfair life¡­. But can''t do anything¡­."


    Before leaving she cast a last glance at Minister Gu, "It was not a mistake to get Dr. Wang on the case. He''s the reason your son is alive, and HE''S THE BEST."


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    He''s the best!


    He''s the best!


    Wang Shi''s heart skipped a beat. Her compelling and unwavering voice sent nerves dancing up his spine as he saw her leaving the room. Her words captivated his heart, branding his soul with her invisible mark.


    "Dr. Wang, I''m sorry for my rude behavior," Wang Shi was about to leave when he heard Minister Gu''s meek voice and turned. "And¡­ thanks to that woman as well. I forgot her name¡­"


    "No you haven''t forgotten¡­. but ignored when I introduced her." Wang Shi replied, "She is Zhao Suyin. Secretary-General from the Ministry of women and child affairs. And she''s definitely worth an introduction."


    He left, leaving the ashamed Minister Gu alone¡­.


    *****

 Chapter 48: Check!

    Suyin stood in the balcony, admiring the majestic view of the city. Rows of towering sky crappers stretched above her with windows alight from within, creating an illusion of millions of fireflies dancing around.


    Lost in the city''s beauty, she was unaware of the storm brewing inside the room as Wang Shi silently watched the CCTV footage Daiyu hacked for him.


    Being the two productive individuals, after solving Gu Feng''s case they got busy in their own tasks instead of dilly-dallying the precious time.


    Suyin answered some mails using Wang Shi''s tab while he grabbed the laptop and headset to check the CCTV footage.


    He lifted his head to see in the balcony, the pleasant mood he carried in her company slipped slightly. The more he tries to learn about her, the mysterious she becomes.


    He maintained his cool, closed the laptop, and walked to the kitchen to brew two cups of hot chocolate for both of them.


    It was a needed one!


    By the time he returned she was busy on a call with someone¡­..


    Suyin, "Right! A property at Regent Circle. Preferably two storey that can be converted into a designer boutique. On a lease of five years. Rent negotiable!"


    ''¡­.. the caller said something and Suyin nodded and replied in hm¡­..''


    Suyin, "For boutique, you can take a month but the house..... I need it within a week. The list of properties you gave me earlier is not up to my expectations. Security is my key concern. Please look out some more. If the situation calls, add five to the budget. Yup! Thank you!"


    When the call ended, Wang Shi was standing behind her with two cups of hot chocolate. "Looking for a house?"


    Startled, she looked back and accepted the cup. "Thanks. It looks so good," The top was swirled with white milk foam and spotted with cocoa.


    She wraps her hands around the ceramic mug, letting the warmth seep through her fingers.


    "You didn''t answer me,"


    "Yep, I''m looking for a house."


    "May I help," he looked at the beautiful scenery ahead.


    "Oh right. Your family is staying in the city for generations! Any idea which residential building is best in terms of security? Because of my risky job, that''s my first concern."


    "There are many good residential properties, but the best is the City Spire. No one can match its security." He saw her rolling her eyes at him and added, "I''m not saying because I live there. It''s genuinely the best! Didn''t you saw the security that day?"


    She pursed her lips, "C''mon! I know it''s the best in the city. And I also know it requires more than money to get a property at City Spire. If I recall it correctly, a few days back one of the actors was rejected because of his messy life."


    "Yes¡­. But you won''t be rejected. I can assure you that."


    "How?"


    "Just tell me your requirements," He was sure if she had thought about buying a house at City Spire, it means she could afford it. Money was not a concern for her!


    "Okayyyy¡­.. three-bedroom apartment, south-facing. Budget open! Since its City spire, I won''t mind shedding some extra."


    "Are you sure? No backsies."


    "Rest assured, I won''t back off."


    "Hm¡­" He nodded. "Now give me your account number. I''ll transfer the money."


    "¡­.."


    "Haiiiii?" She faced him with a sizeable question mark on her face. why would he transfer the money? Isn''t it should be the other way?


    "Remember I mentioned a doctor who stood me up on this case? It was Minister Gu who requested for him. He charges one million per hour and had dedicated eight hours before vanishing all of a sudden. Such unprofessional behavior! I''m not giving him a single penny this time. All this money goes to you now." She took the seriousnessof his tone, sending a shiver of awareness and guilt through her. "Btw, have you ever heard of Zz,"


    "NO!" Instantly, she turned away from him. If a moment ago she was torn between wanting to savor the hot chocolate or inhale it, now everything seems bitter.


    He took a deep breath, put his cup down before he caught her by the elbow, and looked deep into her eyes. "I don''t talk in a roundabout way. Let me ask straight¡­. Are you Zz?"


    Silence ensued for a minute¡­.


    Before it broke by her chortle.....


    "You are mistaking me for someone. It''s the first time I heard this name. Who is he?" It took all her will power to remain calm as she forced herself not to move away or give him the reaction that would reveal the truth.


    "Then how did you know it was Gu Feng''s parents who asked for MRI? It was not mentioned in the reports. Other than me and Zz, no third person knew about it. Do you want me to recall your exact words?"


    [It was a simple case of dehydration, that''s why he collapsed during sex but his PARENTS SCREWED EVERYTHING]


    She froze.


    Shoot! She was so cautious every time but did such a blunder in her momentary excitement. But still¡­ it was not a enough reason to let Wang Shi ask her directly. Was he suspicious of her from the beginning?


    How?


    Where had she dropped the clue? Did he get suspicious in the car?


    Mortified by his sudden question her expression turned serious, "I remember you mention it before,"


    "Nope. Never."


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "This talk won''t go anywhere. I''m rooting you mentioned it to me. Hundred percent!" She tried to walk away from there, but he stood firmly. "Wang Shi!?"


    He started counting on fingers.....


    "First- in the car when I messaged Zz, your phone buzzed. Check!


    Second- CCTV footage of the press conference. Unedited. Raw. Timings of Zz and my conversation matches. Check!


    Third- Zz got a sprained ankle and you too. Check!


    Fourth- he''s unreachable after our last interaction. Your phone is dead as well. Check!


    Fifth- At different times, I heard a man calling both you and Zz with the name Susu. Check!


    Sixth- And¡­. that man''s voice was the same at both times. Double-check!"


    Her lips pursed into a thin line as she took a few deep breaths to calm down first. Dammit! She has to!


    When did Wang Shi and James talked? When did James called her Susu in front of him? Why the f*ck James mentioned nothing to her??

 Chapter 49: Clingy Bat

    "Pfft..." what burst from her lips was a peal of uncontrollable laughter as she placed a hand at her chest and laughed until her eyes teared up. "You are so funny Wang Shi... hahaha¡­..ME??? Zz??? Hahahaha¡­. Thank god you are a doctor, not a detective!"


    Wang Shi leaned against the glass railing, looked as she moved to the corner, her laughter echoed in the otherwise silent night.


    What does she think she can hide it in her laughter? Dream on!


    "Right. If I was a detective, I might have discovered Zz''s identity years back." Wrapping her wrist, he pulled her from the corner and stood facing her. "But it''s never too late. At last, I found you."


    "I. AM. NOT. Zz." She pointed at her lips, enunciating word for word. "I. AM. NOT. A. DOCTOR. EVEN"


    He pissed her off by showing his charming smile. Despite her irritation and anger, she could not help be impressed how marvelous his skills were to make her feel pressured. This was the first time someone had gained the upper hand opposite her.


    "It was a trap," He said, "I texted you deliberately while you were at the conference to see if you''ll reply or not. Guess what? You did! And so as Zz! Moreover, you both solve the case in a similar way¡­. by analyzing it step by step."


    "..."


    ''Such long planning!''


    Her eyes darkened, she pushed him on the chest and backed out of reach. "I think it''s enough for the day. Since the rain has stopped, I''ll leave."


    "Zz used to contact me from Country T but from the last few days, my assistant tracked his location as Imperial city. Still in denial?"


    She heard him.


    "..."


    ''F*ck! He''s fully prepared!


    "Yes¡­"


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Why did you flustered in the car when you received the message? I didn''t ask for the explanation and neither had you owed me any. Still a no?"


    "SO WHAT IF I''M Zz?" She made a frustrating noise in anger and turned, feeling horribly vulnerable. She wanted nothing but to be home, hidden. "These evidence are only good to make assumptions. You''ll never be able to provide a valid link between me and Zz. You''ll never be able to prove it to anyone! For the medical world, Zz would forever be a mystery¡­. an unknown man who works with a handful of doctors. For money!"


    "So you admitted it?"


    "Yes¡­ Now go announce it to the entire world. I doubt anyone would believe you."


    Intending to leave ASAP, she strode to the door but felt him come behind her. Before she could escape he pulled her to the couch and caged her by placing his hands beside her head. His chest faced her like a sturdy wall that she''ll never be able to cross.


    "Suyin, you really thought I was doing all this to expose you? Is this all you''ve understood me?" He was visibly upset. The strength of his voice had created an invisible barrier around her, closing her in. "I was so happy when I learned you are the famous Zz with whom I''ve solved some of the trickiest cases of my life. My crazy search of over four years for this unknown FRIEND stopped at YOU. YOU!!! I couldn''t be any more happier. Finally, we could work-"


    "THAT''S your wishful thinking. Zz would forever be an unknown identity, working behind the curtains. I just helped you in this case to fulfill my commitment. That''s it!" She could feel herself be drawn towards him and averted her gaze. His effect was so profound on her that despite being irritated her mind was fuzzier because of his closeness.


    This was the first time he was this close to her!


    "Suyin, look at me," He softened his voice but the stubborn woman didn''t buzz. "Please¡­ look at me once,"


    Her eyelids lifted slowly.


    "It requires years of hard work to become a doctor. And the level at which you are it definitely does not come easy. You really don''t want it?"


    "NO!"


    He sighed, "I won''t lie, my intention to find Zz was to get him to my hospital. Not to earn money, but to help as many people as possible! Because-" he pointed a figure at her and then at him "-we can. You can."


    "ZZ ONLY WORKS FOR MONEY,"


    "Then who did Suyin works for? Money or people?" He asked. "You''ll never be able to hide the passion for your first career. Otherwise why would you help people in need. Let them die."


    "What career are you talking about?" She snapped, "I''m sure you''ve inquired about me. Don''t tell me you don''t know I''m debarred by the medical council for cheating in my exams."


    When she said that, her eyes fluttered, she had the urge to cry.


    He lifted her chin, and she forced herself to not look into his eyes but he held his silence until their eyes met. "You are not a cheater. I can bet my degree over it,"


    His words kissed her heart, engulfing her senses in warmth that took away her worries. At that moment she was only alive in the present, all thoughts of past and future melted away. The medicine he was, was making her addicted.


    Why? Why was he so sure? Why does he trust her so much?


    They have only met once, ten years back¡­. And that too when she was his student. There''s no way he would remember that ugly nerd.


    "Wang Shi¡­" She called out his name in a soft yet broken tone. "Why do you believe me so much?"


    Silence engulfed¡­


    All she could hear was each other''s breathing as his chest heaved up and down over every breath. It''s been a while she was caged around him.


    She closed her eyes, understanding she wasn''t lucky enough that he would let her go easily.


    "Should I reason it by heart or by my brain?" His words flew open her eyes as they looked back into his brown orbs. "By heart, I refuse to believe Zhao Suyin can be a cheater. By brain, Gu Feng''s case is an open proof."


    Suyin''s lips parted in disbelief. It''s impossible to win over this man. Her brain was already half muddled because of the intoxicating fragrance he emitted, and the other half was giving up in front of his honey-coated attacks.


    He can be a lawyer as well! Hmpf!


    All the rumors are false, who say Dr. Wang Shi stays away from women. Just look at him right now. He hovered over her like a clingy bat for don''t how many years.


    She swallowed.


    "What do you want from me? Come to the point."


    ******

 Chapter 50: Try harder

    "Join the hospital," Wang Shi blurted out.


    "WHAT? NO¡­. NEVER¡­. JUST GO FROM HERE."


    Suyin pushed to her feet and went inside. She looked around the office and the next moment strode to his oak desk and opened the drawers one by one.


    "Are you looking for this?" He dangled the car key in front of her. "Was my demand so big that you reacted like this? I barely asked you to join my hospital. And trust me, I won''t let you work get affected. Just two hours. DAILY."


    "...."


    Upon seeing the key in his hand, she placed her hands at her waist, seriously pondering whether to hit him or not. If this was any other man, he would have received a kick on his third leg a long back. But sadly the man before her was her crush¡­ her favorite Wang Shi! Just thinking about his third leg, all she could do was blush and nothing else.


    "I''M NOT A DOCTOR. Other than English and mandarin I don''t know any other language to make you understand its meaning." She saw him glancing outside the balcony, and scowled, "I''m talking to you. Pay attention."


    As she raised her hands to get the keys, he dodged, "Nice weather to get some fresh air! Let me drop you home."


    "¡­"


    ''Where did that come from? What is he thinking? And why is he smiling? Though sexy, it''s scaring me.''


    Undoubtedly Honey was his son! The boy who could run both hot and cold at the same time could only come out of his sperms! And not surprisingly, both father and son were giving her headache.


    Can she reconsider her crush!?


    "C''mon. Don''t keep standing," With one hand he grabbed her hand and with the other her purse kept on the table. "You waste so much time thinking, Suyin,"


    "I can drive," Suyin ignored the curious gaze of the bob cut woman as they passed by her desk, wondering the reason of her presence till late night.


    Wang Shi nodded, "I know."


    She waited for him to say something more, but that was the end of the sentence. Sigh! She pinched the space between her brows.


    "Then why are YOU coming?"


    "To drop you home. Other than English and mandarin I don''t know any other language to make you understand its meaning."


    "¡­"


    "Wang Shi¡­."


    "Suyin¡­.."


    "Continue giving me the look inside." Wang Shi put his hand at the small of her back and steered her inside the elevator. She tried to shift on her slippers upon noticing the bob cut woman peeking at them. How she wished she could just strangle her for being so nosy!


    "You''ve a very annoying receptionist,"


    "I know. She''s getting nosier, I''ll get her removed."


    "Whatever." Instantly she moved to the corner, away from the man. "Speak,"


    He faced her inside the elevator, "You cannot deny, medical and social services work parallel. Almost daily troubled people are brought by social services who need treatment and counseling. Similarly, hospitals approach you for the suspected cases like Mingyu''s. How about I create a department to help the needy and fund sixty percent of their expenses in the collaboration with your ministry? Sounds good?"


    Her lips twitched. Indeed, it was an attractive offer but there was no such thing as a free lunch. A moment ago he asked her to join the hospital and now he wanted to create a department in the collaboration of her ministry. Can''t he come clear what''s going on in his mind?


    "What''s the catch?.... And give me this," She took her bag from him. It was odd to let him hold it for her. They are not husband and wife! Anyway, she would never let her husband do that? If she got any.


    *DING*


    The arrival of the elevator put a temporary stop on their discussion as she exhaled. But the man caught her hand and pulled her outside, garnering raised brows from don''t know how many people.


    From the peripheral vision of hers, she noticed Li Han and nurse Miya gawking at them with wide eyes.


    Hold on! Have Dr. He Jeff gave a thumbs up just now? Why?


    What are these people thinking?


    No!


    That not the point!


    What are they doing here late at night?


    Don''t they have a family?


    "Wang Shi, can you let go of my hand?" She tried to pull away, but his grip was tight.


    "Oh! Sorry," He let it go and rubbed the back of his neck in shame. The excitement of finding Zz was so intense that he forgot everything. But that''s not entirely his fault. Suyin had been so natural and easy-going that he never felt the wall of awkwardness between them.


    And now when she''s Zz, he can''t be any more relaxed. After all they had been working together for over four years.


    "Where to?"


    "Water wind tower,"


    "Oh! it''s a ''big building''," He murmured, receiving a confused glare. "Nothing, private joke."


    "¡­"


    "And I''m waiting," When the car crossed the gates of the hospital she reminded him of their incomplete conversation.


    "So where was I?.... yes¡­. You asked me about the catch" A calculating look flashed across his eyes. "You and I will head the project together¡­.AND before you reject, let me finish."


    "¡­."


    Indeed, Suyin was about to retort. She had barely opened her mouth when he forced her to close it back. "Continue,"


    "Merci! People''s Hospital and laboratories will fund it as CSR and apply it to all the branch hospitals. Don''t forget People''s Hospital is a brand in itself. Many more companies would join the cause. I can guarantee that. This will be a significant help to the ministry who is always short of funds. And all I''m asking in return is two hours of your time. Is it too much?"


    "When did you come up with this idea?"


    "Just now,"


    "¡­.." ''No doubt he created his own empire at a young age.''


    She sighed.


    "You''re not asking for MY time but Zz''s,"


    "Are they both different? Rest assured, you can keep your identity hidden." He gestured at the space between them, "Our secret,"


    "And what exactly you want me to do in those two hours?"


    "Part diagnosis and part department work. All right, mostly diagnosis!"


    What followed was a deafening silence between them. Wang Shi patted his fingers on the steering wheels, anxiously waiting for her reply. When his car approached nearer to the said address, and she was still holding onto her silence, he reached the brink of his patience yet was afraid to say something.


    Was his demand so big? All he wanted was to work with her. And maybe the passion she had suppressed inside her heart would surface again upon facing the patients in real. Maybe one day she decides to make a comeback.


    "Stop here," With a screech sound he pulled over. A quick glance outside the window proved that they have reached their destination in no time at all.


    Before getting out of the car she looked at him and spoke coldly, "You are not only a talented doctor but an excellent businessman as well. Sadly¡­. You are not looking for Zhao Suyin, the secretary-General but Zz with whom you enjoy solving medical mysteries. I''ll repeat one last time¡­. I M NOT A DOCTOR. There''s no coming back for me."


    Though disappointed by her decision he was somewhat aware it wouldn''t be easy to convince her. But it''s okay; there would be many more opportunities.


    Suyin pointed at her clothes, "Thanks for them. I''ll buy you new as promised."


    She then alighted from the car and walked towards the building.


    Wang Shi saw her leaving. A sense of melancholy crossed his mind, and he honked, praying for her to look back once.


    Just when he thought she wouldn''t¡­. she did turn back.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    He let the car roof folded and asked, "Forgot your car?"


    "Nope. If I''ll take it back, how would you go home? On foot?" A subtle smile came at the corner of her lips. "Get it delivered tomorrow,"


    "Can I assume you''re not upset?"


    "Do I look like?"


    "Yes,"


    She smiled, "These trivial things don''t upset me. Do something bigger. At least you were true all this while and didn''t hide your intentions."


    Now it was Wang Shi''s turn to smile, ''Thanks¡­. This means I can try harder."


    "WHAT? NO¡­. WAIT¡­. HEY¡­. LISTEN TO ME¡­.. YOUUUUUU¡­.."


    He didn''t wait for her response and sped up, leaving a baffled Suyin stomping in anger.


    He chuckled seeing her reflection in the front mirror and could swear how adorable she looks with puffed cheeks. Just like Honey!


    *****

 Chapter 51: Bold handwriting

    "Good morning, Susu." With a jerk of a pan, he tossed the pancake up in the air and called out as Suyin shuffled into the living room next morning, rubbing the drowsiness off of her eyes. "When did you return last night? How was it?" there was a hint of mischief in his voice.


    Last night, when neither she returned nor was she reachable, he got worried and checked the location of his car. People''s Hospital it was!


    Happy with the outcome, he slept peacefully!


    "It was amazing. Hottie bum''s hotness is at another level. We kissed, we hugged, and we¡­.." With a beautifully disheveled look and glowing dewy face, she purred seductively.


    "¡­.and we?" he jumped on to the couch, looking at her with eyes as wide as owl''s. "What else you did? Don''t keep any details. Otherwise, I won''t tal...OUCH¡­..OWWW¡­..OW¡­OW¡­..why are you hitting me?..... Ow¡­"


    Before he could understand anything she started throwing punches. "Donkey. Jerk. Asshole. Rascal. Shameless. Baboon. Brute. Dog. When did you talk to Wang Shi? How does he know that you call me Susu? Why did you keep it away from me? Why the f*ck you didn''t open your mouth even after calling me Susu in front of Whiz?"


    He grew serious and held her fist. Anyway, those punches were nothing but light pokes for him. "Did he say anything to you? If he dares to do anything against you, I''ll kill that bastard."


    "No, he didn''t. And stop pretending as if you care for me." Pushing him she got up to leave, but he hugged her from the back.


    "Don''t say it like this. You know I love you. The first time I spoke to him was when he took drunk you at his home and answered my call. Out of habit, I addressed you as Susu. And revealing Zz''s identity was never my intention, you happen to be talking to Whiz when I called you Susu again. That''s it. Sorry. Please¡­.."


    Disappointed and helpless, she turned in his arms and saw him guilty and happy. "Cunning Fox. I know you are happy¡­.. and I''m itching to break your teeth."


    "I''ll still look handsome¡­ and I''ll still love you." He reached out and gave a warm hug.


    Sniff!


    Sniff!


    "Jammie¡­. Did you smell that? Something''s burning."


    "OH NO! My pancake¡­." He rushed and poured a glass of water over the now charred pancake. Suyin turned the chimney to maximum to clear the air.


    Her gaze fell on the exquisite bouquet of Cara lilies. "Nice flowers. Can''t believe Evan is this romantic." She winked.


    "Nanananananana¡­." He mimicked her, "Evan only knows my ass. Take a proper look; these are from your Hottie bum."


    "WHAT?" She plucked the card attached and scowled when James tried to peek. "Shut up and clean the kitchen,"


    It was a handwritten note from him


    [Let''s start the day with a smile, Wang Shi]


    Literally, a smile came on her lips. She brushed her fingers on his bold handwriting. Even his handwriting was sexy!


    "Stop smiling like a fool. I''m dying to know what''s in the gift." He pushed a beautifully wrapped gift to her. On the top was the car key, which James shamelessly picked. "He got everything delivered an hour back, including my car."


    Suyin opened the gift. Saying she was not excited would be a lie. The flowers were enough to make her dance, but a gift from him¡­. Sigh¡­.She could die peacefully!


    "Ow! It''s a phone. How disappointing. I thought of jewelry or something." He resumed cleaning the messy kitchen counter. "He''s frugal. Minus points."


    She glared, "No one asked your opinion. My phone is not working properly after getting soaked in rain. He''s thoughtful. Plus points." She rushed to the bedroom and come out with her old phone. "Jammie, before this phone dies completely, can you transfer everything? I''ve important things in it."


    "Meanie!¡­ this puppy face doesn''t suit you." He took both the phone and slumped on the couch, "Having a technologically challenged friend is so cool. I can finally show off prowess."


    "Just do it." She picked the cordless, ??Now that you burn our breakfast, I''ll order. Any demands?"


    "Naah!"


    "Fine. I''m ordering Italian."


    "Don''t you have to go to the office? You''ll get late."


    "Nope. Ministry has asked me to take the day off and join from Monday. They''re worried I''m stressed out. But it''s fine; I''ll finish my other works in these three days. Have to search home and boutique for mom, purchase a car, and many more."


    ******


    Meanwhile, Hui Chouming returned home after spending the night in the hospital with her father. The shock and humiliation were so much for the poor Hui Guozhi that he was taken into the emergency after he complained of chest pain.


    Well¡­ it was just a gastric problem, but he was traumatized by the enormous amount Suyin sought as compensation. A hundred million!


    "Where''s the master?" she asked the servant cleaning the living room.


    "In the study. Madam."


    Hui Chouming was fuming mad. She tried calling her husband throughout the night, but her calls went answered.


    As she opened the door of the study, she found Qi Wren dozing off on the leather couch while the stench of alcohol permeated in the air which makes her drop her LV Bag on the floor as she rushed to open the windows.


    Just when she turned, burning rage hissed through her body like a poison.


    On the LED screen was the picture of Suyin from the press conference. It was from the video shared on news channels and internet. The way it was paused and zoomed at her, she doesn''t have to guess who did it.


    The current Zhao Suyin was entirely different from the one five years back. Though not as beautiful as her, there was something changed that now made her attractive. Zhao Suyin at the moment was elegant, confident, fierce and successful.


    A woman that men dread but desires too! Suyin was just three years younger than Chouming, yet she still had the exuberance of youth. Tall, attractive figure, flawless skin, and she walked with the confidence of a mature woman and an intelligent beauty.


    She picked the remote and switched off the LED.


    "When did you come?" Qi Wren rubbed the back of his neck to ease the soreness.


    "Just now," Her voice sounded bitter, fuelled with anger and irritation. "Why didn''t you answer my calls last night?"


    "What''s with the tone? I was busy working. Pass me a glass of water." He glanced at the digital clock kept at the side. It was past noon. All night he watched the clips on Zhao Suyin, entrapped by the beauty she now emitted.


    He could not stop himself from thinking about her. Her attractive figure, plump bosoms, those mesmerizing grey eyes, and soft skin¡­.. It raced his heart.


    She has truly transformed herself!


    Years back, she was the ugly nerd who knew nothing but books. Grooming was out of her dictionary, cosmetics were non-existent. Dressing??? She probably doesn''t even know the spelling of it. He hated her to the core¡­.If it was not for her father''s wealth, he wouldn''t have bothered to spare a second glance, least marrying her.


    No matter how much he tried but he could not recall the feel of her body when he touched her after marriage. It was only once and that too out of lust to satisfy his physical needs.


    All he could faintly recall was stuffing her mouth with his clothes when she screamed and cried endlessly¡­. She was beyond annoyance that night. He f*cked her senseless even after she was knocked out and left early in the morning to avoid the sight of her ugly face.


    "We lost to Suyin. Did you see the clips?"


    He jolted out of his thoughts at Chouming''s voice and accepted the glass of water.


    "Oh! Suyin¡­" her name brought a smirk at his face as malicious, gleeful thoughts surfaced. "She''s changed. No doubt you lost to her."


    "WE lost to her," Chouming''s face sank. Something on his face must have shown his lingering thoughts because she seemed to understand he was talking about more than the case. "Wren, are you thinking about her?" her voice came gentle.


    Qi Wren''s face changed instantly. He put the glass aside and pulled his beautiful wife in his arms. "What are you saying, Ming? When I have such a beauty as my wife why would I think of her? By change, I mean, she''s confident and successful now. Looks like you took her lightly while dealing with her." he nudged around her neck and saw her melting in his arms.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "Really?"


    "Uh-huh,"


    "What about the compensation she demanded? We won''t give a single penny to her. Right?" She sounded like a spoilt little wife, drawing doodles on his chest. "Don''t be lenient. She''s just jealous of your money and success and is trying to get your attention."


    His ego boosted. He pushed her on to the couch, "Are we going to waste time talking about her? Let her be." and he sealed his mouth with hers.


    ******

 Chapter 52: Midlife crisis

    "You accepted his gift but had been ignoring his phone calls from yesterday. And now¡­ Your phone''s been ringing since morning. Just answer him once." Suyin heard James''s voice from the living room as she watered the plants in the balcony.


    She tipped her head back, "You know what he has to say. I''m not answering,"


    Though she was dying to hear his voice once, she was afraid of giving in to his demands considering how persistent he was the other day. Moreover, his collaboration offer had given her the itch to give it a second thought... excluding the condition attached.


    "You should consider it once. Maybe you two¡­.." he trailed, walking to the balcony.


    She glared, "Which side are you on?"


    "Of course yours. But¡­. I still think you should talk to him¡­. So here it goes-"


    He took the water can from her hand, flashing his attractive yet mischievous smile as if cooking something in his mind. Suyin''s eyes widened seeing her ''new'' phone in his other hand, and she realized what he was up to, but she was a second late.


    "NO!" she yelled as he ran away after placing the phone against her ear. Reflexively her hand went to hold the ''precious'' phone before it drops. "BASTARD, I''M GOING TO SPANK YOU. JUST YOU WAIT."


    "WANG SHI HEARD THAT," was his reply which came from the other corner of the apartment.


    "¡­."


    With shivering hands, she checked the phone¡­..


    Wang Shi was on call for the last 58 seconds¡­..


    And the next second the call went off¡­


    Suyin, "¡­."


    ******


    City Spire- Wang Shi''s penthouse.


    "BASTARD, I''M GOING TO SPANK YOU. JUST YOU WAIT,"


    The voice rang so loud that Wang Shi covered the phone with his palm and bring it down instantly. His eyes bulged out comically, looking right and left as if assuring no one has heard it. He couldn''t believe his ears that a woman had cursed at him with these words.


    He looked at the phone to check if the number dialed was correct. Yes, it was! A shiver racked him, thinking it was not the correct time to talk, he cut the call a second later.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    "What happened dad? Honey''s sweet voice sounded from behind as he padded over on bare-foot, balancing a tray with two mugs. Coffe for Wang Shi and milk for him! "What''s with the reaction?"


    "Nothing," Wang Shi took the tray and placed it on the table before he caught Honey by the waist, choosing to make him sit on his lap. He kissed his soft cheeks, "Good morning,"


    "Dad, how many times do I''ve to remind you? We both are men! Man to man kiss is not allowed." shoving Wang Shi''s face away, he wiped his cheek, before jumping out of his lap to take the seat across.


    Wang Shi glared at his son, but the little version of him just pulled his signature stoic face, lifted the milk cup in the style of elders, and took a sip. Humming to himself in satisfaction at the taste of chocolate.


    "¡­."


    He could see Honey watching him out of the corner of his eyes, looking for conversation. "What happened dad, you seem upset? Need help? Just ask for it."


    "¡­."


    "Don''t forget who amongst us is the father, okay? And Yes I''m upset, but you can''t help me with this." He scowled at him unhappily for a second and then suddenly perked up as if something came across his mind.


    Not a second later his expression changed as he exhaled in a rush and rubbed his forehead, pretending to be stressed as if a midlife crisis hit him hard! "Tsh¡­ Don''t know why Suyi¡­. Miss. Zhao is not willing to collaborate with me. It''s such a good cause, yet she lashed at me just now."


    *BANG*


    With a loud noise, Honey put the milk cup on the table and got up, fuming like a bull, "THAT DUCK LASHED AT YOU? Grrrrrr¡­..I''ll show her-"


    "Son, behave," Wang Shi tugged the back of his collar and pulled him back onto the couch. "Don''t mess with her. She''s the Secretary-General."


    "So what? I''m Wang Qiang, age 6, Grade 2, Junior school head boy, and a great martial artist."


    "¡­"


    "Great martial artist? With just two months into learning, you became Great already? Wanna spar?"


    The chest Honey expanded sucking in a deep breath, deflated in a rush, "Cough¡­. in yesterday''s practice I hurt my finger. N-next time," he turned his face away from Wang Shi to hide his embarrassment. How could he dare to spar against his 6''3 tall father?


    "I really need her help. Don''t know what happened, that she''s not willing to talk to me." Wang Shi continued his Oscar-winning acting and slammed his phone on his palm. "What''s making her not to even answer my phone calls? Damn!"


    Honey slowly turned and saw Wang Shi distressed. "Dad, why do you need her help? You are the owner of so many hospitals and have lots of people working for you." He touched his face, his gaze searching.


    "I have got a CSR project proposal that I want to start with the collaboration of her ministry. We gain so much from the society that it becomes our moral responsibility to contribute a part of it to support good causes."


    "What will you get in return? We are businessmen after all! And why only her? "


    "In return the company becomes most trusted and lovable amongst the people, raising our brand value." He explained in laymen''s language. "Look, I know you don''t like her, but she''s the best in her work. Number one! That''s why I want her to co-head the project."


    Honey frowned, "If it''s a good thing. Why is she saying no?"


    Wang Shi thinned his lips, "No idea why she''s saying no! Actually, I think her problem is with me. Don''t you remember she even tried to ignore us on the road the other day? And then she spoke to all of you in the car but treated me like air. It''s like she''s avoiding me for a REASON."


    Honey stiffened and fidgeted with his hands as if he got the answer. "Is this because of me?"


    "No son, you haven''t done anything wrong. Did you?" Wang Shi''s voice remained steady, but he was thoroughly satisfied and excited with the outcome. Not only will Honey apologize to Suyin but will convince her to join him on the project. Killing two birds with one stone!


    "Is that a taunt?" He looked up, puckering his lips in an adorable pout. "Your tone was not right,"


    "No son, I shared my problem because you asked. Leave it." leaving a kiss on his silk-soft hair, Wang Shi got up, "Get ready. Its weekend, we''ve to go to Jianyu''s house." hiding the evil smile he left for his room, leaving the phone on the couch. If he knows his son better, he would definitely call Suyin and ask her to meet him.


    And¡­ saying no to Honey is impossible!


    There was a terrible stretch of silence in the living room. All Honey could do was look at his father''s departing figure in guilt.


    Indeed his words were harsh that day, but he gets restless seeing a woman come near him or his father. His mother had already done so much harm that he cannot bear to let it repeat.


    As if his system was programmed, when he saw Suyin getting closer to him and Wang Shi, his guards rose and he ended up yelling. This was the best way to keep her away¡­ but least he knew that Wang Shi would need her help one day.


    He sighed¡­.


    ''Buck up Honey¡­ You have to help dad¡­ Everything''s happening because of you¡­.''


    His gaze fell on Wang Shi''s phone¡­.

 Chapter 53: Pinching

    Suyin was staring at her phone anxiously, pondering whether to call right away or let Wang Shi cool down a little. He must be angry ah!


    *Ring*


    Just then the phone rang and she bolted up from the swing in panic. "What to do? What to do?" she paced in the balcony, mumbling.


    "Answer it, duffer," James''s voice came.


    "You are duffer. It''s all because of you." She scowled, then took a deep breath and answered.


    [Hey, I want to meet you.]


    ""


    Her parted lips remained opened upon hearing a sweet yet robotic voice.


    A heavy silence ensued.


    [Last time you gave us the ride to school. I don''t keep favors, so I''m taking you for a meal to show my gratitude. The Chinese restaurant on the Avenue Street is really good. We''ll pick you after two hours. Don''t forget to message your address. Bye.]


    A while later she asked, "Is that little fairy? Hello? Hello?..... Little fairy come back, hello?"


    Suyin ""


    *Ting*


    A message arrived, [Don''t be late. Honey]


    Suyin ""


    James lifted her dropped chin up, "Don''t tell me Wang Shi said I love you,"


    Suyin was speechless. She really couldn''t decipher what James think of all day. He was beyond repair, or maybe he loves to tease her. "Nope. My fairy invited me to lunch. Chinese it is."


    "Who is the fairy?" He followed after her to the bedroom but was slammed shut, "Owww. My nose."


    *****


    Peeking from the door, Wang Shi smiled, praising his son''s efforts. Considering how socially awkward he was, it had been not easy for him to initiate a conversation and invite Suyin for lunch.


    This small effort gave him a hope that one day Honey would let go of the bitterness in his heart and move on.


    Next Honey didn''t forget to call his uncle Feng Jianyu to inform him they are not coming at his place today. Though Yuyu and Lan would be disappointed, he would apologize to them later.


    *****


    "Ready?" Wang Shi checked Honey''s seat-belt before driving out of the garage, acting oblivious to the Lunch plan with Suyin. "Do you want to buy anything for Yuyu and Lan?"


    "We are going to the Water wind Towers," He didn''t take off his gaze from the window. As usual, the people on the streets fascinated and delighted him with their daily activities. "I''m taking her for a meal at my favorite restaurant."


    Wang Shi glanced at the front mirror, "Is this for me? Or are you really sorry?"


    "For myself. I''m tired of you trying to guilt-trip me. Let''s get over with this."


    Wang Shi''s mouth curved. "Suyin''s right. You''re a little fairy,"


    "I''m a MAN. End of the discussion." Honey''s arms crossed, a defensive posture that never ceases to amuse Wang Shi.


    When the car entered the security check, Honey was smart enough to message Suyin to come downstairs. By the time Wang Shi pulled over, he saw Suyin waiting for them.


    But her clothes.


    Wang Shi''s head snapped at the back seat, "You asked her to color coordinate?" She was wearing a denim dungaree and white tube top beneath. A refreshing look from her usual business attire that made her look young and added the oomph.


    Honey glanced at her clothes and then at his own- denim dungarees and a white shirt with matching sneakers. His lips pursed, "Why would I? It''s a common combination. Just relax!"


    Wang Shi, "Well your choices are similar,"


    "Hmpf" Restless, he looked outside the window trying to prepare himself to deal with the problem named Zhao Suyin. Today He would do everything to convince her.


    Suyin peeked inside the car and saw Honey seated at the back seat. Instead of taking a seat beside Wang Shi, she opened the back door, "Hi, little fairy. Are you on fever?" hopping in, she placed her palm on his forehead. "No, it''s not warm! Tell me what your intentions are?" her eyes narrowed.


    "Stop overthinking. I''m taking you for lunch. That''s it."


    "It sounds more like a boyfriend is trying to make up to his girlfriend." She mumbled, ignoring the glare from both father and son. "And look..... We are matching with each other. This needs a high-five,"


    Honey looked at her raised hand and then at her, seriously cursing himself to ruin his perfect weekend.


    "Boring," Just when she was about to bring it down, she received a clap, shocking her. "Y-you actually high-fived!? such a cutie," she raised her paws to pinch him but received a warning.


    "Don''t No one''s allowed to touch my cheeks." His white cheeks fluffed a little when he warned tempting her to pinch it desperately.


    "Once please." Her cuteness attack came up as she begged with her beautiful grey eyes.


    Honey looked at the big duck, quacking continuously, He was sure she won''t stop eating his brain until he allows her once. "Fine. Only once. Be gentle."


    "Thank you."


    Soon he regretted giving her the permission.


    Gentle his ass. For good five minutes, she played with his cheeks until he started feeling dizzy with all the pulling, tugging, rubbing, pinching, and the worse. Kissing. "Hey I didn''t allow you to kiss,"


    "But I took it. If you want it back, then take it," saying she brought her cheek near his lips. "Take as many you want."


    Honey "."


    Wang Shi almost didn''t blow up for being neglected by both. He was looking at them like a fool, hoping to hear a simple hi from her. But no All she noticed was his son, his cheeks, his clothes.


    "Ahem" He reminded her of his presence. In front of his son, she always treats him like air. Was he just a driver to her? "Hi, Miss. Zhao."


    "Oh hi, let''s go. I''m looking forward to the place where my little Fairy is taking me." She looked briefly before bringing her attention back to his expressionless son. "What do you want?"


    Wang Shi "."


    Honey "."


    Wang Shi felt a vein pop on his forehead as he gulped the bitter drink down and started the car to take his son and Suyin on a lunch date. He felt like being a third wheel in between them.


    Seizing the opportunity to talk, Honey looked at Suyin, "I think I was rude to you that day. So here I apologize for my bratty behavior. I''m sorry."


    For some reason, Suyin could feel there was something else behind Honey''s abrupt behavior. He was extra polite to her, letting her pinch his cheeks and no more grumpy. Is this related to the project Wang Shi proposed?


    "Wellapology accepted," She didn''t disappoint him. Whether he really means it or not, just accepting it was equally difficult. "But, I never took your words to heart."


    "Why? Is it because I''m a child?" he not only questioned her with words but with his eyes.


    "Who said that? Aren''t you a man?" She reminded him of what he calls himself always. "I didn''t take it to heart, because you were under the effect of vaccine that day. So being grumpy was normal. I too behave like that when I''m sick. And besides, do you think I would have come for lunch at the call of a little boy?"


    Honey''s eyes suddenly brightened. This was the first time someone has referred him as a man and took his words seriously. He raised his small head to see any signs of deception upon not finding any sense of satisfaction came up and the corner of his lips rose up.


    Wang Shi and Suyin, of course, noticed his cute smile. How could they not, when it''s rare of him to smile. Suyin pinched his cheeks, "Hey fairy, you look beautiful with that smile. Try it daily,"


    "Hey" Honey objected, "Just now you called me a man and now you are pinching my cheeks."


    Suyin ""


    "Cough I would love to pinch your daddy''s, too" saying she leaned over and pinched Wang Shi''s cheek, shocking him. ".. but they are not as soft as yours. Yukkkk."


    Wang Shi adjusted the mirror at her face, watching in awe at her expression. Her cheeks were beyond an attractive rosiness, blossoming in a smile that shows the soul.


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    It shows a connection, that the smile and shyness came from some deep emotion- something beautiful, something real.


    On the other hand, Suyin secretly hides her hand with which she had pinched Wang Shi''s cheek. She rubbed her fingers feeling the remnants of his touch. Manly. Sexy. Cool. Can she do that again? How she wished she could pinch their cheeks daily.


    ******

 Chapter 54: Hundred kisses

    When they arrived at the restaurant, Wang Shi held Honey in his arms, hiding his face in his shoulders to avoid getting clicked by any wandering reporter. Honey knows the drill and didn''t object.


    Understanding Wang Shi''s background, she didn''t find it wrong. Honey was just a child to get exposed to this media circus. And knowing the identity of his mother was kept under wraps from the public, it becomes necessary to keep him away from them.


    To a normal bystander, they looked like a perfect family of three. Especially she and Honey due to color-coordinated clothes.


    Suyin was unfazed by the grandeur of the place. In the last few years, due to her job she had dinned at some of the luxurious restaurants.


    The manager of the restaurant greeted Wang Shi and then escorted them to the dining hall on the top floor. A slight shock passed through his eyes seeing Suyin, which he hid instantly.


    Though the restaurant follows the policy of not recognizing their guests, the man standing before him was the elder brother of Feng Junjie, the owner of the restaurant.


    Least he was aware that the owner was following closely.


    "The matter has escalated to this extent yet senior cousin is keeping it under wraps. Did he forget about his brothers? Brothers always come first." From the glass wall, Feng Junjie peeked into the dining area and saw the three of them sitting near the window. "I better take a picture."


    "Yes do it and then share it with me. I can''t believe Dr. Wang is dating Zhao Suyin."


    "Yeah Zhao Suyin. Not only her name sounds dangerous, in fact she is."


    "Don''t call her dangerous. She''s really cool. I admire her already."


    "Why do my brothers.... Hai????" Feng Junjie''s head snapped to left upon realizing he had been talking to someone all this while. "Ahh! Hong, what are you doing here?"


    "Exactly what you are doing." Fei Hong snatched the mobile phone and pulled him back. "You followed Dr. Wang and I followed Suyin.."


    "Why?"


    "Because she didn''t answer my calls. I''ve to remind her of the interview. But here Can''t believe I bumped into this mega news. So this was the reason you asked me to raise the topic of Suyin on my radio show"


    "Yeah I have a doubt she''s after my brother. Earlier I was excited when I saw her in his house, but she. She is.Oww" he jumped holding his feet. "Why did you do that?"


    "Because you deserve it. Don''t forget your brother has a child too." She scowled after hitting him with her spiky shoes. "I know you are judging her because of her divorce, ex-husband, and everything that''s not up to your standards. Rich by money poor by heart! Hmpf!"


    "Hey.It''s not that I despise her, but-" he struggled with the correct word to make it sound civilized but can''t come up with. "What if.. history repeats itself?"


    "What are you two doing here?" a cold voice sounded.


    Feng Junjie, "None of your business,"


    Fei Hong, "Hey Dr. Wang is no more there. Let him come back."


    "He''s back already,"


    Fei Hong ""


    Feng Junjie "."


    Slowly they turned to the direction of the voice and stood rooted. Scared.


    "Dr. Wang, I-I was just passing by and saw you and Suyin here. I have a very urgent message for her, please pass it." In a jiff, she took out a paper and scribbled something.


    Afraid of the turn of events, she sprinted off, leaving the phone and paper for Wang Shi.


    Feng Junjie hurled few curses at her sprinting figure.


    With a deep frown, Wang Shi checked the pictures clicked by Junjie''s phone. "You are here?"


    "I-I I went to look for you and Honey to check why you''re not coming to big brother''s house today but saw you exiting the City Spire and followed you." He cowered when Wang Shi placed his hand at his shoulder. ". No no not followed but wanted to talk to you. I have got bad stomach pain."


    "I call it constipation," Wang Shi put the phone back into Junjie''s pocket after deleting all the pics and pressed on his shoulder. "Where should I ''treat'' you?"


    Feng Junjie pleaded with his eyes, "Oww..Brother, I''m the owner of the place, please beat. I mean treat me at home"


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    "Hm Go home and keep your mouth sealed. Otherwise.."


    "No no. going going. Bye."


    *****


    Meanwhile, at the table Suyin and Honey were done ordering, and were now enjoying the drinks. Well only Suyin was drinking while Honey was stirring it non-stop, lost in his fairyland.


    Suyin, "Your dad''s not here. Speak your mind."


    "Do not reject my dad?" he blurted out as if the words were sitting at the tip of his tongue, ready to jump out at the opportunity.


    "Cough. cough. cough." Honey instantly crossed over and patted her, bringing the glass of her drink near her lips. A minute later she calmed and looked up. "What do you mean?" her voice still trembled.


    ""


    "I''m talking about the project dad proposed to work with you." His little hand still patted her back and eyes confused by her exaggerated reaction. "You avoided him because I asked you to do so. Right? Now that the problem between us is solved can you do the GPR project with him? I''m sure it will benefit you as well."


    Suyi, "You mean CSR."


    "Yes, that too."


    She gave him a wicked smile, "So that''s why you apologized!!!! Ahhh I see.."


    "Apology is an apology. The intention behind it doesn''t matter." He settled back, finally taking a sip of his pineapple drink. His beautiful eyes had a cunning spark. "Now you have no reason to reject my dad''s proposal. If you did, you''re petty to brood over the words of six-year-old."


    "Hey. You cannot be a man and six years old both. Choose one."


    "Six-year-old man it is," He countered, taking the bite of the candid pineapple. If only he knew how adorable he looked doing that.


    Suyin snatched the half-eaten candid slice and raised it in the air, "What will I get in return? In the end, the choice is still mine."


    "I knew it! You''ll definitely demand something. Fine! You can keep this pineapple slice. I give it to you."


    Suyin ""


    "Excuse me!? You keep it," She shoved the pineapple slice in Honey''s mouth. "I''m interested in something else," her gaze showed a lecherous gaze as she caught her lower lips between her teeth shocking the poor child who cowered in the corner.


    "Your intentions are not looking good,"


    "Of course they are not" She scooped into Honey''s side, squeezing him, shocking him further. "Give me a hundred kisses. One kiss a day."


    Honey ""


    "Whose? Mine or dad''s?"


    Suyin "..."


    "Can I ask for both?"


    Honey "....."

 Chapter 55: Anything in particular?

    "But you said you are not interested in my dad,"


    "Then why did you ask the silly question?"


    "Fine, my mistake."


    "Glad, you realized." Though Suyin reacted as if it doesn''t matter to her, her heartbeat sped up at the thought of getting a hundred kisses from the man.


    Honey stared at her, thinking for an idea that would bring things on the right track between them. "Take one kiss, and we close the case. Sounds good?"


    "Woww. I didn''t realize you have such impressive bargaining skills. You''ll be a good Wifey in the future. Let me take some notes."


    She had just unzipped her handbag when Honey pressed his small hands over it. "FINE. You win. Hundred kisses it is. But you''ll do the project with dad. No backsies. Promise?" he offered his hand.


    Suyin''s shoulders went back as she was tongue-tied. She was just having a fun interaction with Honey to understand his hot and cold personality better while keeping him engaged in the conversation. Maybe she could bring him out of the shell and let him look at women with fresh eyes. Thinking, he would never accept to kiss her a hundred times, she put the condition with little thought. But here they are.


    He not only accepted it, but was asking for a promise to join Wang Shi on the project.


    How can she promise when she had no intention to do that? And if she promises it, she would have to fulfill her commitment. To fulfill commitment means working with Wang Shi? No bloody ways!


    "Thinking to back off?" Honey challenged and Suyin grabbed her drink and gulp it down in one go. She really needed this!


    "I''ll forward the project to ministry and let them decide. Big decisions are taken by them."


    "If they ask you to co-head it, will you?" He went on, "Dad said you are the number one in your field."


    "Should we set the table?" The waiters who were ready with the order disrupted their conversation.


    "Please do it." Honey replied in a hurry. He looked back at her with expecting eyes and felt a sense of achievement when she nodded.


    Suyin saw the spark of satisfaction in his eyes as if saying, ''I did it for you dad. I did it.''


    It was the happiness that comes from the bottom of his heart and she didn''t want to disappoint him. Unaware, the moment she turned Honey looked at his reflection at the window and smirked.


    Hundred kisses? One kiss a day? How would that happen when they will not meet each other? Not like they are neighbors, friends, or relatives! Who knows when they would meet next!? It''s fine, he would just endure it and let her take a kiss once in a blue moon.


    Suyin got up, "Don''t move from here. I''ll be back in no time," saying she left for the ladies'' room. She locked herself in a cubicle and took extra time than required.


    She was really put on the tight spot by this father-son duo.


    Technically, both Honey and Wang Shi were nowhere wrong. One was doing everything for his father while the other was doing it for the people, hospital, and somewhat for her as well. But.


    Getting back to hospital life and working alongside Wang Shi was easier said than done. Besides, now that he knows about Zz, he wouldn''t let go of her easily.


    She exhaled in a rush, and stepped out, leaving everything on time.


    Just when she walked through the hallway, Wang Shi''s tall and handsome figure caught her attention, hitching her breath. He was leaning against the wall with one hand tugged in a pocket, and his jacket slung over his forearm. For the lunch, he was elegantly dressed in a turtle neck t-shirt in mustard and a black suit. In one word, this man was ''lethal''.


    "Suyin?"


    "You look.." She paused.think of hundreds of words but complete the sentence with. "Good."


    So lame!


    "Really?" His brows rose, "I paid quite an effort to look presentable for this lunch. Glad you like it. Anything in particular?"


    "."


    ''Kill her please! This man is attacking her!''


    "Your clothes,"


    "Oh!" He sounded disappointed, "I thought the entire me,"


    She arched her brows, "Are you flirting?"


    "Just doing what you did with my son a moment ago." He suppressed the smile and added. "About the kisses.."


    ""


    Sh*t! He heard everything!


    She looked away. Why the hell she talked about kisses? Kissing Honey was fine, but the shameless ''she'' asked for Wang Shi''s too.


    "That was purely to make Honey talk to me. You don''t have that luck."


    F*ck! What the hell she''s spouting under his piercing gaze? What was the need to come out of the bathroom? She was better off there.


    "Well that''s sad," he murmured, thoroughly enjoying her flustered expression. As she looked at him sternly, he raised his hands in defeat. "Sorry. No more teasing! When you took extra time in the bathroom, I got worried that you are stressing over the matter. Just making sure you are fine."


    "Glad I found you here," She swiftly changed the topic, "Honey is a child; he put so much effort to help you that I couldn''t bring myself to say no. If you really want me to join the project with you, it would be at my terms and conditions. No negotiations.


    "Agreed,"


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    "Right. No what-" she looked surprised, "You didn''t ask what they are,"


    "I don''t care. All I''m asking is to get Zz. That''s it." He placed a hand at her shoulder, steering her to the dining hall.


    "I can put anything on those terms and conditions." She stared at him, trying to shake his decision, but somewhere she herself knows he won''t buzz.


    "Looking forward to it." Before she could say a word, he placed a finger on her lips, "Don''t think too much. Rest assured, I won''t ask you to do anything unreasonable."


    With her unfathomable gaze, she looked at him in silence for long before asking the question bothering her, "Why are you doing all this?"


    A softness came into his eyes as his lips lifted up in a charming smile. "Let''s eat before it gets cold."


    "That''s not the answer to my question,"


    "Honey is waiting for us."


    "You are avoiding it,"


    "We have to go somewhere else too. Hurry."


    "Somewhere else? Where?"


    "You''ll know it,"


    "Tell me. A hint will do. Please."


    "Nope."


    ******

 Chapter 56: Youre lucky to have him

    "Ahh.." he winced, his shoulder hurt badly as he moved it to ease the pain. Don''t know what muscle or nerve Wang Shi pressed, it hurt at every movement. Monsters. He got monsters as brothers ah!


    Rubbing the sore spot, Junjie stepped out of the elevator and saw Fei Hong waiting for him near his car. Instantly his hunched back straightened, pained face changed into that of swag.


    "Were you beaten up?" her words followed by a curious gaze, running up and down over Junjie. Don''t be caught in illusion! If Junjie was beaten up she would be the first in line to mock and laugh at him. "Don''t tell me it''s one of those hidden places!?"


    "Why are you worried about my hidden places? Are you planning to use them?" he felt happy seeing the teasing smile on her face replaced by a scowl.


    "You have been thick-skinned lately," she growled, hitting on his arm.


    "Result of being in your company," from the corner of his eyes he saw a shadow near Wang Shi''s car and moved backward while talking to her.


    "If you hate it so much, then let''s not meet again,"


    "That''s kind of difficult. Who will race against you?" he kept on moving back.


    "Junjie, where are you going? Your car-"


    "COME OUT," moved to action at lightning speed, Junjie pulled out the person by collar and threw him on bonnet. The terrified man tried to run, but Junjie''s firm grip on his neck was squeezing the life out of him, his eyes flashed a murderous glint. "Who are you? What were you trying to do?"


    Fei Hong rushed, "Junjie, you okay?"


    "Call the security and manager."


    ******


    Meanwhile, at the restaurant upstairs..


    "Little fairy, what''s the flavor of your ice-cream?"


    "Coffee-caramel,"


    "Can I get a bite?"


    "No," Honey pulled his ice-cream cup off the table to save it from Suyin''s paws. "You''ve yours. Stop drooling over mine."


    "It''s just a bite. Must you be so petty? Hmpf!"


    "Can''t help it, I''m fierce when it comes to my belongings,"


    "Is that a challenge?"


    "Tsh. Enough" Wang Shi interrupted before the two kids started tugging each other''s hair and create havoc. "Oh, I forgot." He passed a note, "Fei Hong gave it to me. She was here a moment ago,"


    "Oh! I''ve promised her an interview tomorrow." The realization hit hard. Her face crumbled much to Honey''s delight.


    He chuckled, "Looks like you don''t like her as well,"


    She caught the hint of amusement in Honey''s voice and paused taking another bite, "Actually my first experience with her was a pain in my. Cough it was a pain. She gave me a ride on her scary bike to worse, it was raining. Horror experience was that! Why don''t YOU like her?"


    He put the ice-cream cup down, "She PINCH my cheeks. Why do you woman love doing that? Can''t you pinch your own?"


    Suyin and Wang Shi both saw how fiercely he crumbled his little face like an old man to show his pain. They stole a glance and controlled their laughter.


    "Not her fault though. Even I can''t resist your beauty, LITTLE FAIRY,"


    "You both are smiling. I caught you." Honey snapped, "And YOU .Stop calling me that,"


    "Little fairy little fairy little fairy"


    "DAD!?????"


    Wang Shi turned a blind eye and asked for a check.


    ******


    In the parking lot,


    Wang Shi left after the adventurous lunch with the two. For a change, he cannot stop himself from smiling ear to ear. The two bicker boxes were the wholesome entertainment package, a breath of fresh air and he could listen to them all day. Without getting bored.


    He looked at the front mirror and saw them bickering over the color of his car. Yellow.


    Feeling a gaze on her, Suyin looked up and met with Wang Shi''s. The two shared a smile.


    From the surveillance room, Feng Junjie saw Wang Shi''s car leaving. "Did you get it fixed properly?"


    "Yes, sir. We called the best engineer to fix the tampered brakes. Thank God, you caught it on time. Otherwise."


    Junjie''s knuckles popped as his hands fisted.


    The man didn''t dare to speak anymore. Though the second master of Feng family was easy going and of cheerful nature, it''s a known fact his brothers are his lifeline, including his cousin Wang Shi.


    ******


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    In the car, Suyin woke up the way she''d fallen asleep..... Close to Honey.


    She sensed the car was not moving, confused, unsure of where she was, her eyelids fluttered as she looked around.


    As she tried to move, the soft squishy thing in her arms hummed and moved close to her chest.


    "."


    Honey?


    The little fluff ball was cuddled against her like a koala bear, fisting her clothes in his small fist, enveloping in the warmth becoming one with her.


    Touched, Suyin nudged her nose against his soft cheek, taking his soothing fragrance. She gave a long kiss, rocking him in her arms like a mother.


    "What''s with you and kids, Suyin?"


    It''s been two hours Wang Shi had been waiting for them to wake up. Though he could have awakened them, the scenery was too beautiful to be disturbed. They were so comfortable in each other''s arms that no one could say they were the world''s biggest bickerers. Arguing non-stop!


    They were redefining Tom and Jerry''s relationship.


    And what''s with Honey clutching her clothes in sleep? Doesn''t he hate sleeping with anyone?


    Suyin wiped the drool from the corner of Honey''s mouth. "They are my weakness. They can get Zhao Suyin to her knees. In this world, if I''m helpless in front of anything, then they are these human puppies. Pure. Innocent. Cute."


    Unconsciously she pulled Honey closer, and looked up to face Wang Shi, "You''re lucky to have him," her words were ambiguous and full of meaning.


    Wang Shi looked in those eyes that look so deeply into his own. There was something about that gaze of her he had never found in anyone. There was something melancholic swimming in her eyes. It held the truth that her face could not hide. "I''m. I really am."


    Suyin averted her eyes, shocked he held her gaze for long.


    Or maybe she lost control at the moment!


    ******

 Chapter 57: Madam

    "Where are we? Ahh...That''s City Spire!" Suyin answered her own question, confused, seeing the twin skyscrapers.


    "Yup.Didn''t you ask for a house here?"


    "That was fast,"


    "I don''t keep things pending," Wang Shi opened the door and proffered his hands.


    "What?" she frowned upon him and tightened her hold on Honey. Wang Shi couldn''t help but compare himself as a monster trying to separate the baby from mother bear.


    "He''s heavy. You won''t be able to carry him,"


    He took Honey from her and waited for her to get out of the car. "Hold on!" She said and opened the passenger seat to get Wang Shi''s jacket to cover Honey. "And he''s not heavy. I can see he''s underweight. Feed him properly."


    Wang Shi "."


    Again, momma bear!


    "Mmmm." Honey woke up feeling a loss warmth and showed his disappointment with a pout. With groggy eyes, he looked at his palms, confused. Rubbing them.


    Wang Shi brushed his bangs off of his eyes, "What happened?"


    "What was I holding?"


    Suyin shook her head.


    Wang Shi, "My jacket,"


    "Mmm. It was never so warm before."


    His words went straight into Suyin''s heart and she couldn''t help but attack his cheek, receiving a glare in return.


    "I have got urgent work. Go home and finish your homework." Since he was awake, Wang Shi put him down. "And talk to Yuyu and Lan once, they must have created havoc at home."


    "Okay," Before leaving he turned to Suyin and gestured her to come down at the level of his height. Suyin gets down to her knees and he whispered in her ear. "Don''t forget our deal. I''ll look down upon you if you back off now."


    "Then fulfill your part of the deal first." Shameless Suyin reminded, poking her left cheek.


    "Whatever," He pecked, blushing the very next moment like a girl who kissed first time and ran from there, hearing her laugh from behind that worsened his blush.


    "Thanks," Wang Shi helped Suyin to get up from the floor.


    "For what?"


    "For your efforts towards Honey. Despite him being rude at times, you are welcoming and patient."


    "Naah Actually the reality is- I enjoy teasing him. His expression is so funny every time. Even Yuyu and Lan are super adorable. Is it in your genes to give birth to these fluffy buns?"


    Wang Shi "."


    "Suyin, you are very quirky at times. It becomes impossible to answer you."


    "I take that as a compliment,"


    ******


    Once they walked into the sales office of City Spire, the sales manager was waiting for them already. It was Master Wang Shi who was bringing the client, the manager naturally stepped up to address personally.


    "According to Master Wang''s instructions we have shortlisted these five apartments. But if you''re looking for a fully furnished house, then choices are cut down to two apartments and floor option is limited to the selected floor."


    Suyin, "Yes, please Only fully furnished." Knowing the apartments are of superior quality, she doesn''t want the headache of getting it furnished later. It would be best if it''s ready to move in.


    "Shall we go for a site visit?"


    "Yes,"


    Suyin frowned when he took them to the same building where Wang Shi lives. Among the two buildings at City Spire, this damn man had to take her to this building only!?


    F*ck!


    Her heart had not been settled yet when she received another shock..


    The floor number he pressed on the control panel was 77th!


    S*it!


    Her eyes almost bulged out.


    ''Wang Shi''s penthouse is on the 78th floor, occupying the entire floor and the one above that. And now this man was offering her the apartment on 77th floor. Right below Wang Shi!?''


    So they will be neighbors!?


    What are the odds they will bump into each other daily?


    What are chances her finger would slip at 78 instead of 77?


    Can she take back her decision to buy a house at City Spire?


    "You okay?" Wang Shi noticed the change in her complexion and she smiled stiffly.


    "Yup,"


    ''Hell no! Don''t you know you''ll be at risk if I buy this house?''


    Suyin, "In which building is the second apartment?"


    "Both are in the same building mam,"


    She sighed, feeling the urge to cry, "Can we take a look at the second apartment first?"


    "Both are on the same floor,"


    "."


    The sales manager blabbered non-stop about how good the apartments were, but Suyin''s clock was stuck somewhere else. Her heartbeat raced and something churn in her stomach.


    This time Wang Shi touched her shoulder in asking, and she could only shake her head and followed the manager for the tour.


    Undoubtedly, the apartment was exceptional. She couldn''t have asked for anything better. The only drawback was her neighbour. Hovering above the head!


    Not that she''s worried for herself..... but for him!


    "Let''s me show you the second apartment."


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    Suyin, "No, it''s okay. I know it will be as good as this."


    What followed was the awkward silence as she looked around the empty apartment, pondering deeply..


    The sales manager didn''t mind, she could take as much time as she wants.. he was already dying of excitement for standing beside Wang Shi.


    The world-famous doctor, son of the President, first heir of the Wang family.. how he wished he could ask for a selfie. But it would be inappropriate and against the company''s policies.


    He noticed Suyin looking around seriously. "Sir, madam is really wise. She''s paying attention to details."


    Madam?


    What does he mean?


    Does he think she''s his wife?


    Wang Shi should have cleared his doubt, but he didn''t and rather shifted his gaze to Suyin.


    On the other side, Suyin heard it too. She gave a side-eyed to the manager, "I''m not his madam,"


    Wang Shi frowned. Correcting the sales manager doesn''t go down well with him. And why did she use that tone as if it''s a shame to become his ''madam''?


    Sales manager, "My apologies,"


    Wang Shi shoved his hand into a pocket, "Excuse us for a few minutes."


    "Sure. I''ll be waiting for you in the other apartment."


    Suyin looked at the landscape of City Spire in awe. It was one of the best residential projects, people look for ways to buy an apartment, and yet here she was.


    "Why did you say you are not my madam?"


    She turned upon hearing Wang Shi''s voice. Her eyes blinked in confusion. "Because I''m not your madam," after making sure the sales manager was not there, she replied.


    "Yes. But it was unnecessary."


    "we should clear misunderstandings,"


    "Why did you used that tone? ''I. M. NOT. HIS. MADAM''. Is it a crime? Am I that bad?"


    ".."


    ******

 Chapter 58: Start taking vitamins

    Suyin blinked, her mouth curved into a meaningful smile that made Wang Shi frown, "What?"


    "Just witnessing how Honey would look like when he would grow up. And he''s equally adorable" She raised her paws mockingly, "Can I pinch your cheeks?" seeing his stern gaze her hands come down, "I guess that''s a no."


    "You.. Stop mocking me," he looked away; her words reminded him of the fragrance of her soft hands when she actually pinched his cheeks in the car. It was of rose. "Let''s complete the formalities,"


    "Umm"


    He looked back, "Having second thoughts about the property? Or is it because of the neighbor on the 78th floor?" being a doctor he knows how to read a body language. And hers changed the moment she stepped into building A, eventually getting worse at the press of the 77th button.


    She caught the amusement in his voice.


    "Oh, why? Is the neighbor at 78th floor a lizard that would crawl into my apartment and eat me up?" She strode towards the entrance, "I''m buying it."


    The sales manager saw them coming out. "If you want time-"


    "I''ll make the down payment now, and the rest at possession. I''m mailing you the scanned copy of my documents and the latest photograph. Is there anything else you need?"


    The sales manager come out of the momentary shock of her quick decision. "That''s all I need. Please sign a few documents so I can forward them to the company today itself."


    Sitting in the sales manager''s office, Suyin was struggling with her new phone to make the payment of six million Yuan, cursing at every step.


    "Your NEW phone will not last long if you continue harassing it like this." After witnessing a myriad of expressions on her face, he couldn''t help but ask. "Need help?"


    "Yes, yes, of course this minion is technologically challenged." Suyin deadpanned, passing her phone to him.


    "Nice phone,"


    "What nice? It''s so complicated." She bites her tongue the next moment and saw him giving her a look, "I really like it. Thank you so much."


    Wang Shi "."


    After the formalities, she frowned upon seeing the documents. "I''ve made only six million Yuan as a down payment but the document is showing fourteen million. Is there a mistake?"


    "No mam. We received the payment twice under your name from two different accounts. We will adjust it in the last payment. Thank you so much." The sales manager cleared.


    "B-But"


    "Your welcome," Wang Shi didn''t allow her to speak, steering her to the exit.


    "It was you," Suyin concluded.


    "Payment from Gu Feng''s case. Your hard-earned money." He saw her giving a look, "Are we going to argue on it? Hope not! At least not today."


    "If this was the bribe, you failed. I''m a hard person to work with. Start taking vitamins," busy talking they walked outside when Wang Shi took out the car keys. "Ah no, don''t bother. I''ve to stop by somewhere before going home. Enjoy your weekend with Honey,"


    It was already half past four in noon, any more time and he would definitely invite her for dinner. She likes his company, Honey''s too, but that does not mean she''d make her appearance every time. He may have some family time with his son.


    "You can take my car,"


    "Nope. Not in the mood to fight against traffic and parking space." She pulled a bicycle available for residents to commute in the compound. "I''ll use it to the gates and hire cab thereafter. Take care."


    *****


    At a five-star hotel


    "A room, please,"


    She asked at the help desk while typing a message for James.


    [Enjoy your night with Evan. Make sure this time you are on top. If not, you know where the first-box is. *wink*]


    Holding a few shopping bags, Suyin checked into a hotel to spend her weekend. Not like she can''t go home, but because she doesn''t want to.


    Evan and James need their couple time as well!


    The worrywart James would go nowhere if she''s at home, and neither would he allow Evan to sleepover in her presence. The only option left was to make an excuse and stay away from his home so he could fulfill his wild fantasies with his ''hubby''.


    She had planned this before leaving the house and had packed some basic things while bought the clothes from the mall after leaving City Spire.


    *Ring*


    James complained, "I won''t talk to you ever. You are bad."


    "Stop thinking so much, idiot. Grab the opportunity and get revenge for what Evan did last time."


    "But you."


    "I''m not going to die." She stressed. "In fact, I''ve checked into Star Hyatt to get myself pampered. Chocolate spa here I come."


    "Ah, self-pampering once in while is necessary." He said, "Fine. Enjoy. And I''ll try coaxing my beast to let me top him tonight. Bye love.."


    She hung up and signed on the tab as offered by the man at the help desk. "Please book a spa session for tomorrow. Make it before lunch."


    "LET GO OF ME DON''T TOUCH DO YOU KNOW WHO I''M?"


    A voice echoed in the foyer as the hotel staff dragged a drunkard out of the casino who struggled to get out of their grip.


    "Sir, please. We can''t give you any more credit. Clear your dues first."


    "What dues?" He yanked the waiter''s hand that was keeping him on his feet and swayed left-right. "I''m Song Kun. Who? Song Kun! Have you heard of Song consumers? How dare you pull me off the table between an ongoing game? Fixers!"


    "Sir, you lost already. Please try to understand and go home. You''re drunk."


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    "Drunk or not, none of your concern." He slurred, threw a card at one of the staff, "Take the card and give me chips."


    "What''s happening?" The manager walked in on being informed of the commotion and understood the situation. It was nothing new for Song Kun to create a scene. One of the staff explained the problem with the credit card. "Mr. Song, your credit card is rejected already. I request you to communicate with the bank. The hotel can''t give you any chips without assurance."


    Suyin looked at him and the two girls standing in the corner, probably his companions for the night. Just a glance and she looked away, because if she continued she might vomit. Disgust. Total disgust.


    Song Kun! A spoiled brat!


    "Reality becomes blurry when you''re drunk." Suyin heard the man at the help desk mumble to a female co-worker standing with him. Song consumers running in debt was an open secret.


    "Mam, your card. I''ve booked the appointment for the spa at twelve in the noon. You''ll receive a reminder an hour before the session."


    "Thank you," Just when she turned, Song Kun''s gaze fell on her.


    "Ah, Suyin.My sister."

 Chapter 59: Everything stopped one day

    Suyin briefly glanced at the drunkard with what looked like contempt in her eyes, before focusing on her way towards the room as the bell-boy followed, holding her shopping bags.


    Song Kun! He was just a brother by name and now not even that.


    He was the son of Suyin''s aunt Zhao Feiyan, who by all means hated Suyin and her parents by heart. A major reason Suyin got married to Qi Wren was because of this Zhao Feiyan, who used her evil tricks to get them married.


    Patriarch Zhao had three kids, Zhao Hede(elder son), Zhao Feiyan (second daughter), and Zhao Shu (Youngest son and Suyin''s father.). The eldest being the favorite.


    Her aunt, Zhao Feiyan was a self-willed, and an ambitious woman, involved in the family business with Zhao Hede.Though she was a capable woman, her capabilities were inferior to Zhao Hede which forced her to stay second in command in business.


    However, things changed after the death of Zhao Hede in a car accident. Logically the business had to fell into the hands of Zhao Feiyan but being a man of old thoughts Patriarch Zhao passed it to his youngest son (Zhao Shu, Suyin''s father), infuriating Feiyan.


    Infuriating!


    This change in heads didn''t go down well with Feiyan, who complained against the unfair decision, but was ignored.


    It was unfair! But the command was in the hands of Patriarch Zhao''s. He doesn''t want the business to be passed into the Song family later.


    Sadly, Suyin''s father had no talent in business. Being a deep thinker and a creative person, his interest had been in artistic things. A painter to be exact!


    Painter! An inferior career option.


    That''s what the majority thinks!


    To worse, Zhao Shu went against his father''s wish and married his girlfriend of two years, Si Han.


    It gave Feiyan the opportunity to diss Zhao Shu, both at home and business. Slowly she poisoned Patriarch Zhao''s ear, that Zhao Shu and his wife had planned the death of Zhao Hede to get family business.


    Even a lie becomes truth if it''s told often! After all, Zhao Shu had become the sole heir of Zhao''s.


    Accompanied by Zhao Shu''s incapability of handling the business, Si Han and her two innocent kids became the subject of the elder''s cold nature. To add to his anger, the only grandson of the family, Suyin''s elder brother decided to pursue a career in sports, leaving the family business hanging.


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    The situation worsened with time, so as Zhao Feiyan''s greed who wanted everything for herself. The only problem was Suyin.


    Though she was into medicine, her intelligence and sharp brain were a threat. Shaking Feiyan''s chances to get the hold on family assets.


    But destiny had its own plans...


    Feiyan got Suyin married to chuck her out of the race of inheritance, but paved way for the greedy Qi Wren. Serving the Zhao business on a silver platter!


    At the downfall of Zhao''s family, the one who was most blamed was Suyin.


    Even the matchmaker Zhao Feiyan forgot her role in Suyin''s marriage and blamed her.


    For what? For being the wife of the capricious Qi Wren?


    And so the patriarch Zhao, for whom Suyin never existed at first.


    All they cared about was family property and business, but none noticed she became a divorced woman at the age of twenty-three. She became a used and broken shoe who would never gain its old shine.


    And then..


    Everything stopped one day.


    Si Han broke her marriage of almost three decades and left the country with Suyin.


    Now the two, husband and wife, are living in separate countries with a child each. Suyin with her mother.. while her brother with their father.


    "Sister, you ignore your elder brother?"


    Suyin covered her nose with the harsh smell of drink and smoke, moving two steps away from him. He looked older than his true age of thirty-nine. Years of drinking had robbed him of youth, body, mind, and soul.


    A greedy, junky drunkard!


    "SCRAM," her voice echoed when he extended his hand to touch hers. He was equally responsible for everything. Qi Wren and Song Kun were college friends after all.


    "YOU.How are you such a stingy woman? After what you did, you should be grateful that I''m talking to you." Though staggering, he was a little sober now. "What are you being proud of? A used woman! Don''t forget you''re-"


    His eyes shone at the shopping bags the bell-boy was holding on her behalf. International brands!? She even knows their names!? His gaze shifted to her clothes, watch, earrings, and the diamond ring on finger..


    His greedy eyes fell on the card she was holding. Platinum!?


    He grabbed it. "Ah, card! My sister will pay for me. Clear the dues, and give me more chips."


    The manager looked, and she warned with her eyes. Will you dare? Do you know my name?


    The manager, "Cough.We would need written permission from the owner of the card,"


    Suyin, "Pfft... I''m tired. Sanitize the card before delivering it to my room,"


    Song Kun grabbed her arm. "Zhao family had raised an ingrate. After bringing the entire family down, you''re living a lavish life? Would it harm if you''ll pay for your brother? Selfish stingy woman,"


    "First, you belong to the Song family, with what right you are asking for money? Second, even if I''m living a lavish life, it''s my hard-earned money. I can spend however I want. I''m not born on this earth to pay for a filthy pig. Even pigs can be used to make tasty dishes, but you." She scoffed.


    "YOU-" his nails dug into her soft skin.


    *PAK*


    The hand clasped staff looked at the icy floor with wide eyes.


    The said pig was sprawled. Unconscious. He had a stamp of long slender fingers on the cheek. Tomato red.


    The woman raised her chin; looked at her hand unpleasingly, giving a side look to the manager. "I''ll get it." He scrambled to get a box of wet wipes.


    She wiped her hands clean, then her card. Dusted her clothes in style. "Get him delivered to his home. If the family asks, hide nothing. NOTHING! Send me a first-aid box. Let''s go,"


    "Yes, yes mam." The last two words were for the bell-boy who instantly followed her. hiding the smile.


    The manager "."


    "Sir, you okay?"


    Manager, "Put her on the VIP list. Appoint the best staff around her. And never get into her bad books."


    *******

 Chapter 60: Everything stopped one day

    Suyin briefly glanced at the drunkard with what looked like contempt in her eyes, before focusing on her way towards the room as the bell-boy followed, holding her shopping bags.


    Song Kun! He was just a brother by name and now not even that.


    He was the son of Suyin''s aunt Zhao Feiyan, who by all means hated Suyin and her parents by heart. A major reason Suyin got married to Qi Wren was because of this Zhao Feiyan, who used her evil tricks to get them married.


    Patriarch Zhao had three kids, Zhao Hede(elder son), Zhao Feiyan (second daughter), and Zhao Shu (Youngest son and Suyin''s father.). The eldest being the favorite.


    Her aunt, Zhao Feiyan was a self-willed, and an ambitious woman, involved in the family business with Zhao Hede.Though she was a capable woman, her capabilities were inferior to Zhao Hede which forced her to stay second in command in business.


    However, things changed after the death of Zhao Hede in a car accident. Logically the business had to fell into the hands of Zhao Feiyan but being a man of old thoughts Patriarch Zhao passed it to his youngest son (Zhao Shu, Suyin''s father), infuriating Feiyan.


    Infuriating!


    This change in heads didn''t go down well with Feiyan, who complained against the unfair decision, but was ignored.


    It was unfair! But the command was in the hands of Patriarch Zhao''s. He doesn''t want the business to be passed into the Song family later.


    Sadly, Suyin''s father had no talent in business. Being a deep thinker and a creative person, his interest had been in artistic things. A painter to be exact!


    Painter! An inferior career option.


    That''s what the majority thinks!


    To worse, Zhao Shu went against his father''s wish and married his girlfriend of two years, Si Han.


    It gave Feiyan the opportunity to diss Zhao Shu, both at home and business. Slowly she poisoned Patriarch Zhao''s ear, that Zhao Shu and his wife had planned the death of Zhao Hede to get family business.


    Even a lie becomes truth if it''s told often! After all, Zhao Shu had become the sole heir of Zhao''s.


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    Accompanied by Zhao Shu''s incapability of handling the business, Si Han and her two innocent kids became the subject of the elder''s cold nature. To add to his anger, the only grandson of the family, Suyin''s elder brother decided to pursue a career in sports, leaving the family business hanging.


    The situation worsened with time, so as Zhao Feiyan''s greed who wanted everything for herself. The only problem was Suyin.


    Though she was into medicine, her intelligence and sharp brain were a threat. Shaking Feiyan''s chances to get the hold on family assets.


    But destiny had its own plans...


    Feiyan got Suyin married to chuck her out of the race of inheritance, but paved way for the greedy Qi Wren. Serving the Zhao business on a silver platter!


    At the downfall of Zhao''s family, the one who was most blamed was Suyin.


    Even the matchmaker Zhao Feiyan forgot her role in Suyin''s marriage and blamed her.


    For what? For being the wife of the capricious Qi Wren?


    And so as the patriarch Zhao, for whom Suyin never existed at first.


    All they cared about was family property and business, but none noticed she became a divorced woman at the age of twenty-three. She became a used and broken shoe who would never gain its old shine.


    And then..


    Everything stopped one day.


    Si Han broke her marriage of almost three decades and left the country with Suyin.


    Now the two, husband and wife, are living in separate countries with a child each. Suyin with her mother.. while her brother with their father.


    "Sister, you ignore your elder brother?"


    Suyin covered her nose with the harsh smell of drink and smoke, moving two steps away from him. He looked older than his true age of thirty-nine. Years of drinking had robbed him of youth, body, mind, and soul.


    A greedy, junky drunkard!


    "SCRAM," her voice echoed when he extended his hand to touch hers. He was equally responsible for everything. Qi Wren and Song Kun were college friends after all.


    "YOU.How are you such a stingy woman? After what you did, you should be grateful that I''m talking to you." Though staggering, he was a little sober now. "What are you being proud of? A used woman! Don''t forget you''re-"


    His eyes shone at the shopping bags the bell-boy was holding on her behalf. International brands!? She even knows their names!? His gaze shifted to her clothes, watch, earrings, and the diamond ring on finger..


    His greedy eyes fell on the card she was holding. Platinum!?


    He grabbed it. "Ah, card! My sister will pay for me. Clear the dues, and give me more chips."


    The manager looked, and she warned with her eyes. Will you dare? Do you know my name?


    The manager, "Cough.We would need written permission from the owner of the card,"


    Suyin, "Pfft... I''m tired. Sanitize the card before delivering it to my room,"


    Song Kun grabbed her arm. "Zhao family had raised an ingrate. After bringing the entire family down, you''re living a lavish life? Would it harm if you''ll pay for your brother? Selfish stingy woman,"


    "First, you belong to the Song family, with what right you are asking for money? Second, even if I''m living a lavish life, it''s my hard-earned money. I can spend however I want. I''m not born on this earth to pay for a filthy pig. Even pigs can be used to make tasty dishes, but you." She scoffed.


    "YOU-" his nails dug into her soft skin.


    *PAK*


    The hand clasped staff looked at the icy floor with wide eyes.


    The said pig was sprawled. Unconscious. He had a stamp of long slender fingers on the cheek. Tomato red.


    The woman raised her chin; looked at her hand unpleasingly, giving a side look to the manager. "I''ll get it." He scrambled to get a box of wet wipes.


    She wiped her hands clean, then her card. Dusted her clothes in style. "Get him delivered to his home. If the family asks, hide nothing. NOTHING! Send me a first-aid box. Let''s go,"


    "Yes, yes mam." The last two words were for the bell-boy who instantly followed her. hiding the smile.


    The manager "."


    "Sir, you okay?"


    Manager, "Put her on the VIP list. Appoint the best staff around her. And never get into her bad books."


    *******

 Chapter 61: To hell with this

    At the exact time, Suyin went to the hotel''s dedicated spa room to get the awaited massage followed by a hot bath.


    She studied the menu with the scariest and weird names written all over, wondering if people really go for these treatments. For instance, Diamond chakra massage where real powdered diamonds are used to scrub your body to get the toxins out.


    No thanks!


    ''What the f*ck is this?'' She looked closely at the menu. "Micro-current beauty treatment!?"


    "Yes mam," Unconsciously she blurted out loud, and the masseuse replied, flashing the kind smile for which they trained her.


    "And what does this mean?"


    "This begins with an intense massage and then utilizes some micro current to tighten the facial muscles and reduce fine lines. LED light therapy will be used to remove dead skin cells, blackheads and whiteheads, and clears up rosacea and red spots. It then concludes with a diamond peel, a pure caviar and omega 6 mask, and protein drops for your hands. This luxury facial treatment will leave your skin looking fresh and young,"


    Suyin ""


    ''It sounds like a surgery rather a massage."


    "Shall we start, mam?" The masseuse was the best employee for this job. She was on leave for two days but received a call from the manager last night, asking to report to the duty urgently the next day. She had to serve a VIP client and for it they would reward her with a bonus.


    But after seeing Suyin she had been pondering internally- Neither was she an actress, or socialite, or a famous personality, then why does manager refer to her as a VIP client.


    "Yes," Suyin closed the menu. "The traditional Milk and Honey massage with herbs. Nothing more, nothing less! And the same goes for my face. Keep the diamonds away."


    The masseuse nodded.


    Suyin undid the knot, the robe slipped off of her shoulder, leaving her in undergarments. The masseuse glanced once and praised inwardly. She may not have a model like a figure, but her beautiful long legs and attractive curves could make any woman envious.


    Suyin stretched out on the table on her stomach and closed her eyes, ready to take a relaxing nap when she felt a hand at the side of her hip and jolted up as if someone had stepped on her tail, scaring the masseuse.


    "What happened, mam?"


    Suyin''s brows cringed.


    "Make sure not to touch my butt and my front." Her voice was frosty, devoid of emotions. She rubbed her belly to ease the fear rooted.


    "Y-Yes mam,"


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    She lied down again and closed her eyes, irritated by her own action. It''s been over five years, but the memories of the night when Qi Wren claimed her body was still afresh. Instead of being treated like a wife, he treated her worse than a w*ore and left the early morning after his business was done.


    The only difference was w*res were paid for their services while she was the legally wedded wife, so it becomes her moral duty to serve her husband.


    *****


    "It''s the last exam tomorrow. After this, I can successfully join People''s Hospital." A young Suyin sighed many times in happiness, clutching the offer letter from the People''s Hospital close to her heart. "I still can''t believe my fate. I got the offer to join Dr. Wang''s team. One of the world''s best surgeons, my idol, and my crush!"


    What a beautiful feeling it was!


    A thick book on Physiology was opened on her lap but she was lost in the offer letter, grinning ear to ear.


    *BANG*


    The door to the bedroom was pushed open, making Suyin jump. The book and the letter both slipped from her hands.


    Standing in front was her husband. She got up with a smile on her face. "Wren When did you return from London? How was your trip?"


    "I asked you to transfer the five percent shares your dad gave you. Did you do that?" Qi Wren posed his own question as he walked to her, seemingly like a danger approaching. "Lawyer said the papers are with you," his gaze fell on the side table, "Here they are,"


    Suyin pursed her lips at the papers.


    Qi Wren''s brows rose, "They are not signed yet, huh?"


    She took the file from his hands, "I know you need money to expand your business. How about we apply for a loan? I''ll equally help you pay off the debt. After the exam, I will join People''s Hospital. My package is extremely good." excitement poured out her eyes like sunshine as she picked the offer letter from the floor and showed it to him.


    "TO HELL WITH THIS,"


    "WREN!!!"


    Suyin rushed to save her dream, which was mercilessly thrown out of the window by her husband. But it slipped faster than her steps could catch up to it. Her extended hands froze.All she saw was the white paper flowing in the air, teasingly landing into the swimming pool down the window.


    Qi Wren pulled her from the window and gripped her chin forcefully. He sneered at her fat glasses. "Argh ugly," her face scraped as he forcefully takes them off of her eyes and threw them out. Her vision blurred. She blinked several times, shook her head to see, but without glasses, she was a cripple.


    "You can see me begging for money, but won''t give me yours? Do you really take me as your husband? C''mon, all I''m asking for is five percent. Rest ten percent would still be yours."


    "I-I." He made her sit on the bed and turned gentle all of a sudden. A gasp escaped her mouth when his hand slide under her nightdress and caressed her thighs. She knew he was her husband, but his touch made her uncomfortable.


    "Baby, once this London project is successful, I will return it back." He grabbed the file back and put it on her lap, stuffed a pen between her thumb and finger. "C''mon do it."

 Chapter 62: Was that his facade?

    She clutched the pen tight, still refusing to sign the papers. Not like she cares about money, but she wanted to mortgage these shares to fund money for her mother''s dream of starting her own boutique.


    "You don''t believe me," Qi Wren''s low growl sounded, "Is this I got after sacrificing myself to get married to you?"


    She frowned, looked up at his blurred face. "Sacrificed? What are you saying? Haven''t you said to mom and dad that you''ve fallen for me the moment we met? And that you''ll always cherish me?"


    "Oh! Is this the reason why you''re doing this to me?" His nails dug on her thighs. Ignoring her wince, he chuckled darkly. "You are getting back to me because I''ve not given you ''that''."


    "Wren!!" her face cringed.


    "Fine, don''t give." His grip on her loosened as he got up, "I''ll tell your father you are still a virgin even after four months of marriage. How do you think he would react?"


    His words actually shocked her. Never had she dreamed that one day her husband would say this. It was his own decision to give her time and let her familiarize herself with everything. And she was really grateful for it.


    Least was she aware one day he would use it against her.


    Was it her illusion?


    Or was it all acting?


    It was an arranged marriage where her grandfather and aunt pushed her to meet Qi Wren. Though she requested her parents to give her more time, their answer was the same old what every girl hears.


    ''You cannot run from it forever. One day you have to get married. Maybe he is the chosen one for you. Your Mr. Right!''


    Mr. Right!?


    The only face that pops up after hearing this word was Dr. Wang Shi''s. But who was she fooling? No matter how tall you are, you cannot touch the moon in the sky.


    Giving in to her fate, she accepted her family''s decision and met Qi Wren.


    With just two meetings, her grandfather sealed her fate. They didn''t bother to ask her opinion and thoughts. Her parents at least heard her and tried talking sense into Patriarch Zhao''s ear to give her a year or two and let her finish her studies.


    But her aunt never let that happen.


    Eventually, she was tied to Qi Wren.


    But on the first night, he didn''t touch her and left for the other room with the kind words. ''Take your time.''


    Was that his facade?


    Suyin heard the sound of doorknob click and rushed to stop him. Despite struggling with her vision, she held the corner of his shirt. "Dad got a stroke last month. Please."


    "You know what to do,"


    After getting the documents signed, he left her into a crying mess on the floor and walked away. All she heard was the sound of the door click.


    Completely oblivious, the night''s still long.


    Don''t know how long it passed, she was still sitting on the floor, dazed. Her stupor broke with the sound of the door click as she looked up. "Who?"


    Her eyes faintly detected a tall figure. He reeked of alcohol. "Wren?"


    "Yeah. It''s me." He wobbled on his steps and stood near her. "I don''t have a woman for the night. So have no other option but to use you."


    "WREN!! Behave yourself. Must you use such words for me? I''m your wife." She swiped her wet cheek. "You are drunk. Sleep.. AHHH."


    "Don''t you hear what I say?" his hands grabbed her throat. "Wife or w*ore. You are the same."


    Feelings his hands lifting her nightdress, she wriggled, "Wren no. I have got an exam tomorrow." Her words came choked.


    Hell exam! She just wanted an excuse to free herself.


    "No. Your exam is tonight. It is to satisfy your husband." He pushed her, and she fell on the bed with force. "Though I hate this ugly face of yours. But in the end you are a woman, equipped with the right thing I needed at the moment."


    His words were beyond disrespectful. No husband would use it for his wife.


    She tried to run, but he pinned her down. She hadn''t expected him to be so strong that his weight and grip would make her helpless. He turned her over, slide her clothes up. "Wren. Please. Don''t do this. I''m not ready."


    "As if I care You''re just disposable for me,"


    Every facet of Qi Wren''s personality was laid bare that night.


    "AHHHHH."


    What followed was the endless tortures until she lost her consciousness He tore into her as if she just a lump of meat. A thing that was only good to satisfy a man''s physical needs.


    The next day she woke up with ''purple'' and ''red'' flowers blossoming on her body.


    It was beautiful


    So beautiful that she would always remember the art of the artist.


    Even today she asks herself many times if it was a r*pe or her husband making love to his wife. After all, he was her legally wedded husband. She was his legally wedded wife. Everything was LEGAL in their relationship.


    It was his right to claim her.


    There''s no such thing as husband raping his wife..


    ******


    "Mam, it''s done. Shall we start with a pedicure?"


    Suyin opened her eyes at the words of the masseuse. The massage was meant to relax her body and mind, but for some reason, she felt exhausted.


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    "No.... head massage with warm oil. And get an accu therapist too for my next treatment," Suyin closed her eyes again. This time she seriously needed a nap.


    "Sure,"


    *****

 Chapter 63: Like

    A black car pulled up at the entrance of the hotel Star Hyatt. The doorman opened the door for Suyin. "Thank you," with a polite nod she climbed in, smiling in delight on finding a basket of handmade cookies and chocolates along with a welcome note from the radio station director.


    The driver politely greeted her before he drove her to the radio station for the interview with Fei Hong on her show ''My two cents.''


    As she reached the Radio station director Neo Huo and other staff welcomed her with a bouquet. "Welcome to the Voice of the City. And thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule and accepting the interview."


    Suyin''s eyes shifted to Fei Hong meaningfully, "I''ve to. You have a dedicated employee who wouldn''t hear no for an answer. Right, Miss. Fei?"


    Fei Hong chuckled, "I would have definitely followed you to hear a yes."


    Everyone burst into a peal of laughter as they head in. Since they were about to go live in a few minutes, the staff was thoroughly prepared and at the exact time, Suyin was escorted to the room from where Fei Hong would start her show.


    Suyin had already confirmed the interview, the voice of the city avidly advertised it throughout the day. The sharp attitude she showed at the press conference had aroused the interest of people to the point they sat down holding the phones an hour before her interview.


    Fei Hong introduced Suyin to everyone and started the show with small chit chat of a few minutes before going for the question-and-answer round.


    Fei Hong, "Suyin, it''s an open secret that you and Qi Wren divorced fiver years back and left the country. Obviously, you had your reasons but can you tell us is this why you go for social services?"


    Suyin chuckled, "Do you think I would take my divorce as a reason to go for social service and become a flag bearer to get justice for every woman?"


    "Then what brings you take this as a career?" Fei Hong pointed at the screen where her social media account was logged in, and followers were posting their endless questions. Within ten minutes, more than one lakh people popped on her account.


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    "Because I''m greedy,"


    "WHAT?" Not only Fei Hong but thousands of ''what'' appeared in her Weibo account. Some even starting pasting angry emojis, cursing Suyin. "Suyin careful with your words, this show is live. You cannot take anything back,"


    Suyin was stunned at the number of emojis. "The smile that comes on people''s faces after they are lent a helping hand is worth a fortune. And I''m greedy for this fortune. Imagine how many blessings and smiles I accumulated in the recent case!?"


    "Woww that was something!"


    The emojis changed to praises, thumbs-up, pats, and countless smiles and compliments. Fei Hong instantly typed ''she scared me too, listeners. Savage she is."


    Fei Hong, "All right, let''s not keep our listeners waiting. Are you ready, peeps??"


    In less than a second, they connected a random caller to her.


    The first caller seemed to be a girl who was excited that her phone got connected. "Hi. I love you Suyin, you look so attractive with that charisma of yours. It''s amazing! Umm. I want to know, do you have a boyfriend?"


    Fei Hong gave a wide eye look, equally interested to know the answer. Actually, her look was ambiguous as she recalled the beautiful family of Wang Shi and Honey dining with her.


    On Weibo, people''s curiosity raised to the point they flooded the comment section. In fact. Wang Shi was sitting in a private lounge of a pub with his brothers Feng Jianyu and Feng Junjie. But unaware to them, he was listening to Suyin''s show with air-pods plugged.


    When the question was asked, the wine glass approaching his lips paused as he concentrated to know her answer. Don''t know why, but his heart raced, an unknown fear sunk in his being.


    His brows furrowed as the anticipation build-up. He didn''t even notice when did his cousin Feng Jianyu withdrew an earplug and put it in his ear. Confused Feng Junjie looked as his elder brothers didn''t involve him in their game.


    "Oh why? Do you have a suitable match for me in your mind? Or are you interested to become one?" Suyin sounded surprised and asked back. With her tone, she was obviously not offended and knows how to talk to people, simultaneously keeping things light-hearted.


    "Please, don''t tease me. I want to know because you are so young and beautiful; if your ex can get married years back, then as a woman you''ve the same right," the girl actually gave a logical explanation and Fei Hong supported her.


    "I agree. A meal voucher for you for this amazing thought." Initially, Fei Hong was worried that interview might be boring and monotonous, but surprisingly Suyin knows the trick to liven up the atmosphere and keep people''s interest intact and maintain maturity.


    "Suyin, please answer it. Our listeners are waiting." Fei Hong joined the army, ignoring Suyin''s gaze.


    "No. I don''t have." She answered and pushed her neck at the screen to read the comments.... Everyone use one word- ''bummer''.


    "."


    In the pub, Wang Shi''s lips curved slightly, shocking Junjie and Jianyu both as they shared a look. Out of patience, Junjie pleaded to Feng Jianyu to tell him but was ignored.


    "But..." One word from Suyin and everything froze. "I like someone."


    Fei Hong looked at her with an open mouth. Even the staff peeked inside the room where they were seated. It was only the director Neo Huo who was grinning from ear to ear seeing the popularity of Voice of city-radio station going up on the charts.


    The upward curve on Wang Shi''s lips suddenly scrunched comically as if someone had caressed his cheeks lovingly only to slap it later.


    "Really?" the caller asked, squealing in delight. "Please tell us he''s better than your ex,"


    Suyin pictured Wang Shi in her mind and cannot help but blush. ''Oh yes, he''s millions of times better than my ex.''


    Fei Hong secretly clicked a picture of Suyin''s side profile and uploaded it on her account. [OMG! She''s blushing guys. This means it''s true.]


    The fans went crazy over that pic. Suyin was wearing a yellow and white striped jumpsuit. She kept her hair lightly curled at the end and opted for minimal make-up. The effect of the spa was reflecting on her face and skin, and she looked nothing less than a goddess.


    "Tell us, Suyin. Everyone wants to know." Fei Hong pointed at the screen and Suyin rolled her eyes seeing her picture and the number of likes on it.


    "Yes he''s better than my ex. In fact.." She paused, "..he''s the best."


    This was her secret confession. If Wang Shi could be able to recall, she had once said these words in front of Gu Feng''s parents. But knowing his personality, the chances are in negative he would ever recall that.


    With an unfathomable gaze, Wang Shi checked Suyin''s picture on his phone and clicked the like icon before shoving it back into his pocket.


    ******

 Chapter 64: At number 2

    "Oooooo..." Fei Hong teased, much to everyone''s amusement, and continued, "Then who is this Mr. Best?"


    "One of the most desired men in the country." Suyin didn''t lie even once, but no one would be able to connect it to Wang Shi. This much she was sure.


    Her answer made Wang Shi frown. His brain lost in deep thought so was his brother Feng Jianyu''s who was equally curious. Suddenly Wang Shi''s head snapped at Feng Junjie.


    Seeing the scrutinizing gaze of his cousin, Junjie''s hands went to check his face. "Is there any dirt?"


    Wang Shi could only retrieve his gaze when a pat at his shoulder asked for attention. It was Feng Jianyu''s. "You are also on the list." he reminded.


    "At number 2," Wang Shi pointed his finger at Junjie accusingly, "He''s topping the list,"


    "So this means you are interested in her?"


    The pointed finger shifted the direction at Feng Jianyu this time. Wang Shi opened his mouth to retort but closed, then opened again, "Wait! That''s not the point. How do you know?" his hands went to check the air-pods, "Damn you, Jianyu. Give it back."


    "Take it!" Feng Jianyu replaced the instrumental music on the music system with live radio show. "I''ll listen on it."


    Wang Shi ""


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    At the radio station,


    "Suyin, we won''t force you but can we know his name?"


    "I''m sorry. But let him be in my heart."


    "Any message for your Mr. Best before we take on the next question?" anyhow, Fei Hong didn''t want the name to be revealed. Any name on the list could stir a controversy that would not be good for her.


    "Ummm.....Dear Mr. Best, just for once, be mine. And I promise you''ll want that ''once'' for a lifetime."


    Suyin was not only letting her true feelings out but was actually giving hopes to all the women who found themselves in the black abyss after a breakup, divorce or loss of their life partners. Her message was simple and clear--- Life is all about second chances and never to stop loving.


    Wang Shi reclined on the chair as he rested his head on one palm, thinking about Suyin. She doesn''t have a boyfriend, which means she''s single. But she likes someone. Does that person like her back? Are they courting or dating? Or is it just like-like and not love? But if it''s love, they might get together soon!


    They might get together soon!


    He felt something bitter in his mouth at the idea of seeing her with someone else. He could not pin-point why, but seeing her single was a better idea. This way she could stay at his place with no restriction and spend time with him. Like the last night when they solved the case together!


    And who are the names on this list!? He recalled nine other names and made an ugly face. Argh none of them compliments her. Not even his monkey brother who was seated at the top position! She deserves someone intelligent and mature.. hmpf!


    At the radio station.


    "All right Suyin, let''s take a question from online," Fei Hong looked through the comments. "This one''s a serious question.... One of our listeners has mentioned going through an ugly divorce and is always depressed. Have you felt same and went for any therapy?"


    This was a crucial question as very fewer people accept it in public.


    Seeking therapy is considered a shame.


    Suyin had both options; she could either lie or just decline it.


    However.


    "Yes. I''ve been to a year-long therapy." Suyin didn''t hesitate even a tiny bit. "It was not related to my divorce though. Divorce on the other hand was freedom. Why would I let someone get comfortable by disrespecting me? Whoever this listener is-- if you need help please ask for it. Don''t suffocate and lose yourself! It''s not worth it!"


    Sitting in the comfort of her home, Huo Chouming had the urge to smash everything. Not only Suyin was degrading Qi Wren but her popularity was increasing drastically. Already, over five hundred thousand people have joined Suyin''s official Weibo account and were praising her non-stop.


    She called one of her contacts and instructed something.


    "Well said Suyin. I request this listener to go for therapy and if you seek any other help" Fei Hong looked at Suyin for confirmation before continuing, "....you may contact the Ministry of Women and child development. Someone will definitely help you."


    *RING*


    "Oh, we got another call." It surprised Fei Hong. Without asking, they transferred a call to them. It was obvious this was from a VIP who used his contacts to get through. She''s working here for years and knew a lot as to how people use contacts to sabotage the interview or ask an uncomfortable question.


    Fei Hong, "Please introduce yourself and ask your question,"


    A man''s voice was heard, "I wonder if Miss. Zhao always wanted to get into social services?" he didn''t bother to introduce himself.


    Suyin smiled, "No. My therapist motivated me."


    "Then what was your first career choice?"


    Suyin pursed her lips. "Medicine. But that didn''t happen."


    "Why?"


    Seeing Suyin''s twisted brows, Fei Hong interrupted, "I think it''s good she is in social services. Not everyone has the talent to help others. Let''s take another call,"


    However, before she could cut the call, the caller let out his thoughts.


    "Maybe she was kicked out of medicine, that''s why.. toot.. toot toot"

 Chapter 65: Contact Wang Shi

    Barely a minute after the call ended, someone shared a document where the medical council had canceled her degree and debarred her from practicing medicine on the grounds of cheating in exams.


    The people, who only see what''s on the surface, started shaming Suyin mercilessly. There were some who supported her but got suppressed in the pool of haters.


    "Did Suyin really cheated in her exams? Then how come she landed a government job?"


    "I agree with you. These people cannot apply to government jobs, then how did she become General-secretary at the ministry."


    "Does she practice medicine also? In secret!"


    "Who is her backer? Why is this information not included in her profile?"


    Fei Hong was about to switch off her laptop when Suyin extended her hand, "It''s okay. I don''t care what others say about me," She grabbed the mic, "Weather I cheated in exams or not, I won''t comment. I''ve long decided that I would never talk about it nor will I try to get back in medicine."


    "As far as my career in social services is concerned, my resume includes every detail. You are free to get it investigated and--"


    "Hold on!" Fei Hong butted in and connected her phone with the mic. "We''ve a very important caller that everyone should listen to. She has a special message for Suyin and probably for everyone."


    A female caller in a hoarse voice, "H-hello everyone. I''m Chu Yin, one of the accident victims of a City-Square crash held at XX/XX/20XX. I was listening to the interview when heard someone calling her a cheater and cannot hold back myself,"


    Suyin recalled Isn''t she the same woman whose life she had saved while returning from the airport soon after she landed in the country? Because of the severity of her injuries she was still recuperating at People''s hospital.


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    Chu Yin, "It was Miss. Zhao Suyin who saved my life that day and gave me emergency treatment. I-If it was not for her, I would have died at the spot. I want to know, is it possible to perform the emergency procedure and save someone''s life if the doctor had passed the exams by cheating? Cough.. I don''t believe any of this. T-Thankyou. Cough S-Suyin cough"


    Suyin, "Miss. Chu Yin, your esophagus and jaw is not yet healed. Please restrain yourself from speaking."


    "Then I''ll speak on her behalf," a male voice takes over, "I''m Li Han, director of People''s hospital. At the permission of Miss Chu, I''m letting everyone know her condition when she was rolled in. Multiple fractures, pneumothorax, internal bleeding, broken jaw, ruptured artery, and she once lost pulse on way to the hospital. It was Miss. Zhao who managed to bring her alive. Any doctor may tell you how difficult it was to keep a patient with such injuries alive. For further confirmation you may contact Dr. Wang Shi, he was available at the site that day."


    "No, it''s okay. Thank you, Director Li." Suyin already understood it was Wang Shi who did everything. Other than him, who could get Chu Yin and Li Han speak for her.


    "No. Actually we should," Fei Hong joined, failing to hide her excitement. "Dr. Wang Shi is a reputable figure in the country; no one can ever doubt his words. Let''s hear what he has to say,"


    "I-I."


    Suyin''s head hurt when Fei Hong shushed her with the show of her palm and called Wang Shi.


    The fans commented in sync ''Yes''.... On one side they were excited to hear Wang Shi speak as it''s the first time they would hear him speak live while on the other hand, everyone was interested to see where this would go.


    On the other side, Wang Shi was prepared for it. He had already messaged Fei Hong to give him a call in the studio and let the nation hear him. This topic has to end here; otherwise, it will keep on coming up and haunt Suyin.


    When the phone rang it was in sync with Suyin''s heartbeat. She grabbed a glass of water and gulped it down to calm the swirling thoughts in her head.


    "Hello."


    Suyin clutched her stomach. His voice was deep, that could turn heads in the room. He had that rich silky tone to sink in as it wraps you up. His voice commands the authority as if he controls the world, his experience seeping through.


    The comment section bombarded with comments.


    Everyone forgot about Suyin and started going gaga over Wang Shi. No need to say mostly girls.


    Fei Hong, "Dr. Wang Shi, I''m Fei Hong from Voice of the city. You are on air at the moment. May I know if it was Miss. Zhao Suyin, who helped you during the crash at City Square on XX/XX/20XX? Did she save a lady named Chu Yin?"


    Wang Shi was silent for a few seconds, "Yes I was on my way to the hospital when the crash happened. She was the first to jump into the pool of victims followed by me. Chu Yin''s case was the most serious, even I would have not been able to do so well, but Miss. Zhao managed it with limited resources. Later I offered her a job in my hospital thinking she''s a doctor, but she declined it politely. May I know if this about her past record in cheating in exams?"


    "Yes. Do you know anything about it?"


    "I''ve inquired about it. Though I respect her decision to not comment on it, her expertise in the medical field is unparallel. She''s natural, no cheater can possess this talent. If I had really believed in this nonsense, I wouldn''t have offered a collaboration deal with my hospital."


    Suyin''s blood pressure dropped. Every cell in her body stood at its roots. This man was impossible, draining her of an impossible amount of energy, making her feel tired. ''Though she was thankful for everything, what was the need to talk about collaboration?''


    "Woww Collaboration deal with People''s hospital!? Suyin you didn''t tell us anything." Fei Hong joked. She could see haters have started to retrieve while fans had taken over. Wang Shi''s words not only cleared her image but had planted a seed of doubt that there''s something fishy behind Suyin being debarred from medicine.


    "Is Miss. Zhao Suyin with you?" Wang Shi asked, keeping his prefect acting on point.


    Ignoring Suyin''s pleading gaze, Fei Hong winked, "Yes. You can speak to her but don''t forget you both are on air," her tone contain an ambiguous meaning which was noticed by both.


    "Miss. Zhao"


    Suyin "" ''God, please call me. I don''t want to live.''

 Chapter 66: I wont allow someone else to steal you

    *Screech*


    Feng Junjie pulled the recliner next to Wang Shi''s and started giving him looks by wiggling his brows. "Oww" Wang Shi pushed his annoying face away and walked out to talk to Suyin.


    "JUNJIE" Jianyu called, "Stop poking into Wang Shi''s business if you love your kidneys. Concentrate on Hong instead."


    "Wh-what, Hong? I''ve nothing to do with her. We are just best-friends. Coughonly friends." His words said something, but the expression said otherwise.


    "A minute of silence for you."


    Feng Junjie "."


    Wang Shi walked till the end of the corridor and rested his hips against the railing of the balcony. "Miss. Zhao"


    In the studio Suyin reluctantly replied, "Dr. Wang Shi"


    "Just now I come to know that you were the student of a world-famous social worker and philanthropist Gong Tuan. My decision to collaborate with you was right."


    Suyin ""


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    "H-How do you know about it, Dr. Wang?"


    "I keep an eye on the people of my interest."


    Suyin "" ''Why does it sound like a cheesy line out of fashion?''


    Fei Hong gasped. "Suyin, you were the student of Gong Tuan? He never accepted any student in his life!"


    Suyin, "Yeah he was my therapist and mentor. That''s why I could easily enter the social services despite my records."


    "Right. Now I can''t take the risk of letting go of Gong Tuan''s one and only student. After all, we are CO-HEADING the project. It would be a learning experience for us BOTH." Wang Shi continued using a tone that makes her feel restless. He was speaking something else, but only she knew the real meaning.


    "Really?"


    "Of course We are a wonderful TEAM. I won''t allow someone else to steal you. It should be ME. Otherwise, they''ll have to face the People''s group." He directly announced that the People''s group had been backing Zhao Suyin and going against her equal to challenging him. Whether it''s business-related or anything, she''s out of the question for everyone.


    Suyin "" ''Aiyooo he''s giving me heart-attack. The entire nation is hearing us, and this man is talking as if he''s her man. But at the same time she liked the feeling of being protected. It''s like he was the anchor in a storm she could hold on to.


    By now Fei Hong got a hunch this conversation was something else. Dr. Wang Shi''s tone was ambiguous and teasing for Suyin, but contained a hidden threat for everyone. How cute, Dr. Wang Shi in protection mode!


    "Dr. Wang Shi, thank you for giving us your time and clear some doubts." Fei Hong took over once more and requested, "Before we wrap up the interview, any last words for Suyin?"


    "She''s a beautiful soul that people crave for her vibes. Looking forward to working with her and learn something new."


    Suyin pulled her lips in. The more she stays in his company or listens to him, the more her heart craves for him. But sadly they were miles apart!


    They don''t have a future together!


    "Thank You, Dr. Wang." Suyin hung up before he could say something else and she lost control completely.


    At the end of the interview, Suyin answered a few more questions about her hobbies and friends before leaving the studio with Fei Hong who took the responsibility to drop her, despite her reluctance.


    "Suyin, please wait for five minutes, I have got urgent work to do." Fei Hong excused herself and ran to the director Neo Huo''s office. She barged in without knocking and drop her purse at the table before slamming at his table.


    "Mr. Neo Huo, what was that call you connected during my show?"


    "Just a random caller. How would I know?"


    "Keep your shit in your mouth. Don''t think I don''t know it was from a rich VIP who shoved good money up your ass to buy you."


    "MIND YOUR WORDS, HONG." Neo Huo got up from his swivel chair aggressively, "Don''t forget I''m your boss."


    "I don''t want a sleazy boss like you who can be easily be bought with some money. Until now I was quiet because you never meddled with my show, but this time you crossed that limit by messing with my guest."


    "And what will you do? Don''t forget you are famous because of the platform we gave you." he sneered.


    With a gaze full of condescension, Fei Hong reminded, "But it was me who made the show ''my two cents'' famous. You know what. I''ve mailed you my resignation already. As per the contract, I''ll serve two more months and in the meantime, you can start auditioning for RJ" She flicked her curls, "Goodbye and all the best,"


    "You''ll be unemployed,"


    "Opportunities are everywhere."


    She heard a sound of something crashing but didn''t turn; probably he swiped off the contents at the table.


    *****


    "Sorry, it took me a little longer,"


    Suyin turned to face Fei Hong, who was visibly guilty for something. She grabbed her hands, "Don''t blame yourself for that call. I know it was not you. Getting angry is not worth it when everything is solved and I''m not holding you liable."


    "I''m not angry,"


    Pulse rate approx. 150 bpm whereas the average should be somewhere around 80-100 bpm." Fei Hong looked down at her hands in Suyin''s and instantly pulled them away.


    "You''re scary."


    "And so as you," Suyin deadpanned. "I''m not sitting on your iron horse,"


    "Oh! So you fear bikes," Fei Hong giggled seeing Suyin''s white face.


    "No. Not scared. I just don''t find them attractive. Enjoy your ride on it and I''ll just hail a cab," saying she grabbed her phone to get a cab and Fei Hong tried to stop.


    "But"


    "Nope."


    "B-"


    "Not listening,"


    "How about this iron horse?" A beautiful orange BMW was pulled over at the side and Fei Hong pointed at it.


    "Is this your car?" Suyin''s first thought was how weird the color was. Orange! Who goes for such a color? Hold on! Isn''t Wang Shi''s car yellow? The only thing she doesn''t like about him! Yukkk!


    She looked as the door was pushed open and a woman stepped outside, flashing her charming smile with two predominantly noticeable dimples.


    Oh hell! She was simply the prettiest. Her eyes were spellbinding, cheeks a little chubby, skin glowing and flawless, and she has the correct amount of fat on her body. Neither too little nor too much.


    "Baby girl!" Fei Hong hugged the woman.


    Hold on!


    Suyin recalled, ''Isn''t she the famous President XM aka Xiu Mei of R-tech companies. Wang Shi''s sister-in-law. Yuyu and Lan''s mother.''


    Xiu Mei took a step and extended her hand. "I''m Xiu Mei. Fei Hong''s best friend."


    "Zhao Suyin," She shook back, pleasantly surprised that Xiu Mei didn''t introduce herself with any of her extraordinary identities and just introduced herself humbly.


    No wonder Yuyu and Lan don''t have that air of proudness or smug and had kept their innocence. Speaking of which, even Honey doesn''t have that air. He''s just grumpy but not snobbish.


    ******

 Chapter 67: Missing you

    "It backfired. Not only we failed to tarnish Zhao Suyin''s image but planted a seed of doubt in people''s mind that there''s a maybe a bigger secret behind her being kicked out of medicine." Hui Chouming''s best-friend Ling Xuemo took off the voice changing device and closed the laptop.


    Hui Chouming was standing near the window with gloomy clouds shadowing her mood, "Dr. Wang Shi spoiled everything."


    "I don''t understand how she could be lucky enough to get associated with a powerful man like Dr. Wang Shi. And judging by his tone, it seems he''s impressed by her knowledge. What if."


    "Nothing will happen. You know it very well why she accepted everything despite being innocent. Because of her nature and past profession, she might not have control over herself seeing people in need, but the reality is she hates this profession."


    "The blow she received years back, won''t allow her to make a comeback. Right now my only focus is to make her leave the country before she keeps her vicious paws over my things." Chouming turned, "Xeumo, enquire about her aunt Zhao Feiyan. Don''t they know their beloved niece is back into the country?"


    "Maybe they know everything but are scared to face her." Ling Xeumo guessed, "After all, song family is at the verge of bankruptcy, while Zhao Suyin is a powerful figure."


    "A powerful figure with no money is an empty shell that can be crushed easily. Find out about them. And her grandfather as well. It''s been a while I''ve seen that old foggy."


    "Are you sure?"


    "Every attack weakens if it''s against the family."


    ******


    In Xiu Mei''s car,


    "Your interview was amazing. I like your clear and straightforward approach," Xiu Mei looked into the front mirror to talk to Suyin.


    "Not only that, baby doll!" Fei Hong exclaimed, "Along with Suyin, Dr. Wang Shi was equally mind-blowing. Not only he saved the situation but with just a few words convinced people to think about the other possibility. Speaking of which, Suyin, what''s the actual reason that you left the med."


    She hissed when Xiu Mei pinched her thigh and gave a side look. Her head snapped at the back seat, "I''m sorry, Suyin. I shouldn''t have."


    Suyin gave a fake smile, "It''s okay."


    "Suyin, before you start working with my brother-in-law, let me give you a warning.... he''s a workaholic and a perfectionist. It will be challenging," to ease the atmosphere Xiu Mei changed the topic.


    "I don''t think so. I think I''m more difficult of a person to work with," Suyin''s beautiful smile made Xiu Mei wonder of it results from the mention of Wang Shi''s name or because she changed the topic, "I''ve already warned him to be prepared and start taking vitamins,"


    "Really?" Xiu Mei added with suppressed amusement, "And he''s still ready to work with you? Looks like he had an experience working with you and has no problem with it." Wang Shi doesn''t enjoy working with people who gives others a hard time. He even admonishes his brother Feng Jianyu who''s a tyrant in office but if he''s going ahead with Suyin despite her being difficult, they must have worked together before. That''s the only possibility.


    Suyin rubbed her nose; how to tell they had been working together for the last four years. "Only on the day of the accident when I helped the victims." She looked outside and frowned, "Um. President XM, I think you missed the turn. I''m staying at Hotel Sta"


    "No No No. We are going to the pub," Fei Hong looked over a shoulder, giving a cheeky smile, "And you are coming with us. Let''s have a little fun,"


    ""


    "I''ve to go to the office tomorrow. If you could drop me here--"


    "C''mon, Suyin" she puckered her lips out, "for our new friendship..... a drink is a must."


    "Friendship?" A frown marred the space between Suyin''s brows. Other than James she never considered anyone worth her friendship, all thanks to her ex-best friend Ling Xeumo who double-crossed her. It even took her a while to accept James as her friend. "Call it one of my quirks; it needs a personal connection for me to befriend someone."


    "Oh! I thought we are friends already." Fei Hong pursed her lips, and the next second turned back enthusiastically, "But we can try. Right? Don''t kill my chances."


    Xiu Mei looked at Suyin''s expression through the mirror and could tell she doesn''t want to befriend Hong. Getting a named and famed friend like Hong is beneficial, yet here she rejected her outrightly. "Hong, don''t-"


    "Only if you won''t make me sit at your iron horse," before Xiu Mei could save Suyin from the hard situation, she heard her say.


    "Yes. No more iron horse, but keep my chances open." Fei Hong pinched her throat.


    Xiu Mei parked her car in the open parking of the pub and all three stepped out. "Suyin, if you are still not comfortable, I won''t force you. I''ll ask the chauffeur to-"


    "Here you are, my love." A tall and handsome man enveloped Xiu Mei in his arms, shocking her momentarily. "I miss you,"


    "Jianyu, it''s been only three hours since we parted. How can you miss me?"


    "I started missing you the moment you left,"


    "Impossible you are,"


    "Yup. Impossibly in love with my chipmunk,"


    Xiu Mei hit on his arm, "Don''t call me that. At least not in front of everyone,"


    While the two lovebirds were force-feeding dog food, Suyin''s gaze fell on Wang Shi standing two steps away as their eyes collided.


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    He inquired of her well being with his eyes and Suyin nodded, mouthed, ''Thank you.'' saw him wave his hand dismissingly.


    The suppressed emotions she felt in the studio surfaced over, the longing she felt for this man was so acute that it hurts her knowing they don''t have a future together. Many times she felt that the other half of her is somewhere within him that''s pulling her.


    *******

 Chapter 68: GET LOST

    "Ah, Jianyu, she''s Miss. Zhao Suyin," Xiu Mei nudged her husband to bring his attention. "Secretary-General from-"


    "The ministry of woman and child development." Feng Jianyu gave a curt nod, "Nice interview. WE like it," he looked back at Wang Shi, "Am I right?"


    Wang Shi discreetly showed his middle finger in response.


    Suyin, "Hello, Mr. Feng,"


    Feeling left out, Junjie jumped in front, "Hi, Miss. Zhao Remember me? 92XXXXXXX. Ow."


    Wang Shi smacked the back of his head, "No need to repeat your useless phone number. She will not call you anyway."


    "Why?"


    "Because she has mine,"


    Suyin "" ''What does that mean?''


    Before Junjie could retort, Xiu Mei asked for everyone''s attention, "What are you all doing here? Are we leaving so early?"


    Wuxiaworld for visiting.


    Feng Junjie in an irritating tone, "No We came outside to stargaze."


    Feng Jianyu came to the parking when he received the message when Xiu Mei checked her card to issue a parking ticket. And when the latter informed Wang Shi that Suyin was with her as well, he too tagged along, forcing Junjie to follow his two brothers.


    Argh another wife-spoiling husband in the making!


    "I came to receive my Wifey. Now let''s go in," Xiu Mei giggled at Jianyu''s words and whispered.


    "Then what about the other two?"


    "Both are blockheads. Expect nothing,"


    While being dragged by Jianyu, Xiu Mei looked back, "Suyin, are you coming?"


    Suyin looked at Wang Shi as he smiled, showing the chiseled lines of his breathtaking face. "Let''s celebrate another defeat of your enemy,"


    "Yes, Suyin Let''s celebr-" Feng Junjie covered Fei Hong''s mouth.


    "You come with me."


    "But"


    "Senior cousin is there to convince Miss. Zhao. Why are you poking your long nose, Medusa?"


    "Dare you call me, Medusa? You monkey!"


    Suyin looked as everyone left her and Wang Shi alone in the parking. She couldn''t help but feel it was deliberate. Why? What are they trying to do? Did XM and Hong bring her here on purpose?


    Naah!


    She''s overthinking!


    They don''t have a reason for that!


    "You okay?" Wang Shi''s mellow voice caught her attention, who stood so close that she could smell his intoxicating perfume along with something that belongs to him naturally.


    She nodded, "Should I say thank you for the help, or curse you for revealing the project that we just talked verbally?"


    "Thank you, you already said, please curse for a change." She shivered, stood unmoving, stunned, feeling Wang Shi''s cold fingertips brush past her cheeks, tugging a strand behind her ear.


    She clasped her hands tight and lifted her gaze to Wang Shi''s face. "Why do you trust me so much?"


    "Sometimes trust comes naturally." He gestured her to the direction of the entrance, "Everyone must be waiting for us. Let''s go."


    Before he could move, a tug at his sleeves made him look back at the woman.


    "C-can I ask for a hug?" Suyin asked with hope in her eyes. The feeling that had nestled in her soul for years had now reached out with a clawed hand around her neck, leaving her to struggle for breath and choke back the tears.


    "A beautiful lady trying to take advantage of a handsome man?" Wang Shi teased and she let go of his sleeves instantly.


    "Don''t give. I''ll ask someone else," she saw two foreigners come out of the pub. "Hey Can I get a hug? I need one,"


    Wang Shi ""


    "Sure, beautiful lady." One of them came with open arms, "I''m always up for one,"


    "GET LOST."


    The next second Suyin was enveloped in a warm hug, and a familiar fragrance filled her entire being. Her hands greedily wrapped around the human pillow. Cozy.


    "Relax, dude. I just wanted to give a hug. This chick is all yours."


    A cheeky smile came on her lips and from the corner of her eyes she saw the two foreigners leaving. Byebye!


    "Don''t laugh,"


    "I''m not." her shoulders shook as she tried to control.


    "Can''t believe you could do something like this." Resting her head at his broad chest, she heard his heartbeat. "Who asks a stranger for a hug?"


    "I asked you first,"


    "I don''t remember saying no,"


    "I didn''t hear a yes either," out of habit she counted his heartbeat. "And you call this a hug? Those foreigners would have done it better.HEY, COME BACK, GIVE ME... AH!"


    He hugged her in a bone-crushing hug. "Would you believe if I say I''m not as gullible as you see?"


    Suyin "..."


    Standing in an inconspicuous place, Feng Jianyu and Xiu Mei were watching them. They left the two fighters in the lounge and came down to check on them. Surprisingly, they were greeted by this heartwarming scene.


    Xiu Mei, "What do you think?"


    Jianyu pointed at Wang Shi, "This blockhead definitely feels something for her. But his responsibilities towards Honey and past experience is holding him back. What do you think about Miss Zhao?"


    Xiu Mei, "I just met her a moment ago, won''t comment on her. But the way she looks at brother Wang, she''s not immune either. However, her past Do you want me to investigate?"


    "No," Jianyu hugged his wife, "If we''ll get Miss. Zhao investigated it would be disrespectful to them. I want to be his constant support the way he had been mine."


    Xiu Mei didn''t say a word; she knows the importance of Wang Shi in her husband''s life and hers too. Wang Shi was the first who made Jianyu realize his feelings towards her. Not only he never judged her because of her past, but supported Jianyu when he courted her.


    He was the wall on whom Jianyu depended and pulled through all the rough phases of their relationship.


    Hiding his own problems and struggles, Wang Shi never left their side and truly played the role of a big brother that he is.


    She glanced at the couple still hugging each other, "For him, I wish for a love deeper than ours."


    "Hmm. Me too. Someone who sees the real him beyond his wealth and could love both him and Honey,"


    ******

 Chapter 69: Take two

    In the pub,


    Wang Shi, Feng Jianyu and Feng Junjie looked at the three women sprawled on the couch after having a few drinks. Fei Hong was still in her senses, but Suyin and Xiu Mei were the gone cases.


    Wang Shi pinched the space between his brows and let out a sigh. "Let''s handle these adult kids,"


    Feng Junjie rushed near Suyin to tease Wang Shi, "I''ll safely drop this cute doll; you handle my medusa. Beware, she bites. AHHHHHHHHHH.." he had barely touched Suyin''s shoulder when his entire world spun before his eyes as he received a kick in between his legs.


    He fell on his bum, holding the precious jewel. Whimpering.


    "....and this one kicks," Wang Shi muttered.


    "Who dared to touch me? I''ll castrate you." Suyin''s two small fists raised in the air. The effects of drink tinted her face, making her look adorable.


    for visiting.


    Feng Jianyu picked his wife, Xiu Mei, "Will you still call her a doll?"


    Junjie crawled further away, "Annabelle she is,"


    Wang Shi gently brushed his hands on Suyin''s head, tugging her closer. "It''s okay. I''ll take you home."


    "hmmm.Hottie bum," Suyin hummed herself, grabbing Wang Shi''s hand before sticking out her tongue at Junjie then looked at other direction with a snort.


    Feng Junjie ""


    "What did she call you? Hottie bum? Is this your nickname?" cocking his head, he looked at Wang Shi''s bum curiously. "Wow I never noticed this part of your body. It''s round and round."


    "JUNJIE COME TO MY OFFICE TOMORROW." Wang Shi''s jaw muscles clenched in and out, "I need a specimen to teach new interns,"


    "I-I I remember I''ve an early meeting tomorrow," Feng Junjie jumped, threw Fei Hong over his shoulder and sprint from the room in record time. "Good night,"


    "Btw." Feng Jianyu caught Wang Shi''s attention as he halted in his steps, "..you have nice bum. I noticed it just now,"


    Wang Shi ""


    "I-It''s not me. She calls it to someone else in her drunken state. Hey, listen to me! It''s not me-" sighs


    "Hottie bum."


    He heard her mutter and bent to pick her in his arms, "Who is hottie bum, Suyin?"


    A shiver runs down his spine as she hooked her arms around his neck and starting nuzzling her soft lips near collar. Only the God knows what was going in her mind that she bit him. "Hottie bum,"


    "AHH! SUYIN!"


    Thankfully, he didn''t drop her like last time and kept holding her.


    "SUYIN BEHAVE,"


    "AHH!"


    "DON''T!"


    His reprimand was nothing to her as she continued doing whatever she wanted to do. After reaching the parking, he tied her to the seat belt, further securing her hands with his jacket in self-defense. He wasn''t completely confident that she would behave while he drives.


    Drunk Suyin is a nightmare! Headache!


    Peering in the front mirror, he pulled down his collar. Three h-hickeys!?!?


    An involunteer blush came up.


    She gave me hickeys!?


    Three!?


    THREE!?


    "SUYIN, look what you did."


    Suyin let out a burp and without a care in the world slipped into the world of slumber.


    "."


    Words seemed to be short to explain his state of mind. All he could do was drive to the nearest medical pharmacy to get the contact solution and case to remove her contacts first.


    *******


    She had a terrible hangover on Monday morning as she propped her body from the bed. Last night she let her guards down and had a few drinks, ignoring her low tolerance for alcohol.


    Actually, she doesn''t feel the need to worry anything when she''s around Wang Shi. No matter what, a gentleman like him wouldn''t leave her alone. This much she was sure.


    "Morning, love,"


    She looked at the door and found James leaning against it. Judging by the pleasant smile plastered on his face, she could tell he had a wonderful weekend with Evan. "Looks like you two really had a fun weekend?"


    She frowned!


    Hold on!


    That''s not the point!


    How did she come here?


    Her head snapped with a questionable gaze.


    "Dr. Wang Shi brought you here last night. He was not aware you had checked into a hotel. Anyway, he wouldn''t have left a drunken you to a hotel either." he picked up a brown packet from the table and passed it to her, "And instructed me to give you this as soon as you wake up."


    "Pass me a glass of water please," She looked at the packet carefully. It had her name written on top in Wang Shi''s handwriting. Inside was a small porcelain bottle with the words ''Herbal remedy for hangover'' was written on it. Again in Wang Shi''s handwriting!


    She found his business card and at the back was a note attached.


    [Little bitter but a potent cure. Don''t forget to drink it before leaving for office.]


    As she studied the ''gift'' smiling sheepishly like a college girl, she recalled their hug. Ahhh. It was so good. Warm. Safe. Heavenly.


    And now this medicine! Must he be so perfect!? He can woo any woman with these cute yet seductive skills of his.


    "Cheers," she clinked the porcelain bottle with the glass of water James had passed earlier and gulped the content in one go.


    "Don''t tell me this is some kind of morning-after medicine," James questioned with uncertainty.


    "Pfft. Cough cough Cough" the medicine that was still rolling in her mouth came out. She pouted staring at the wet patch on the blanket, "My sweet medicine,"


    "So, you really did ''that'' with him?" James passed the tissue papers.


    "Bastard, looks like you have overdosed yourself this weekend. This was a hangover cure. My sweet medicine. Sniff sniff. Hottie bum gave me.. sniff sniff."


    "Not my fault," he shrugged, "Seeing the red hickeys on his neck, I thought you finally devoured him,"


    Suyin "."


    Did I just hear Hickey?


    HICKEY?


    HICKEY!!!!!!!!


    No!


    He said HICKEYS!!!


    HICKEYSSSSS!!!!


    "JAMMIE!" She bolted up, "What the hell are you saying? What hickeys? We just hugged last night."


    James gave a mischievous grin as he bundled the blanket and stuffed it into the laundry basket. "Drunken Suyin is unpredictable. Don''t question me. I''m only saying what I saw."


    "Doomed!" She rolled herself into a ball, ".sniff..sniff Why was I drunk? I don''t remember any of that. My first ever hickey is such a waste. I want to know how it felt. Sniff sniff. Give me a take two. I need a retake.. Once more, God. Please.."


    James "."


    Somewhere above the sky God facepalmed with both hands. ''What was I thinking when I created her?''


    ********

 Chapter 70: Weird love!

    "Good morning sir," Nurse Miya greeted Wang Shi as soon as he entered the ER. "Your patient at Room no. 24A is stable and ready for surgery. Should I book the OR?"


    "Hm,"


    "Gu Feng is done with his second dialysis and is ready to get discharged. He''s asking to meet Miss. Zhao or if he could get her phone number."


    He paused on his steps and frowned, "No phone number. Tell him hospital will convey his message of meeting."


    "Yes sir. Er.." seeing her hesitate, he raised his brows in question. "May I ask what happened here?" she pointed at the patch on his neck that was bandaged, "If you need a day off, I''ll coordinate the schedule with your assistant,"


    "No need," An involuntary blush came upon his cheeks as he recalled something. "Insect bite it is." without waiting for nurse Miya''s comment, he stepped into the elevator.


    Nurse Miya ""


    "People normally get love bites here, but Dr. Wang Shi got insect bite!? I wonder who that pretty insect is?" smiling at herself she left. Being an experienced woman and a mother of three, it''s not difficult to guess how one can get an insect bite at the neck.


    ******


    "Hey, mom. I found a perfect house for us. But still looking for a place for your boutique." On her way to the office, Suyin called her mother to give her updates. She''s never been separated from her, leaving the time when she got married to Qi Wren. The bond between them was strongest, and she''s missing her. Especially her cooking. "Howz everything going there?"


    Probably Si Han (Suyin''s mother) was at her boutique in Country T, Suyin could hear her moving around, rocking her heels while she instructed the staff. "Absolutely fine. Don''t you worry about me and the boutique. I''m planning to leave it under the care of the manager before joining you there. Tell me about Qi Wren, I saw lots of things online."


    Suyin narrated the entire story, skipping the part wherever Wang Shi was involved. "Don''t worry. It''s not something that I can''t handle." She breathed. "I''ve already left them alone, but if they still come after me then I''m not be blamed."


    Warmth spread when she heard her mother''s laughter. Somewhere, she blames herself for her parent''s separation.


    "I know my daughter can crush them with her sarcasm, no need to get physical." She said, laughing. "I''m reminding myself daily that you''ve received more of my genes instead of your father''s. You are my daughter."


    "I agree. I''m your daughter. Hands down!" on her way, Suyin saw a billboard where a couple was displaying their wedding bands. It was the same jewelry brand from where her parent''s wedding bands were sourced. "Mom, when was the last time you spoke to dad?"


    "Suyin, are we really going to start on it?" Si Han asked in an irritated tone.


    "Mom."


    "Tch I don''t know. Maybe three-four months back. He was still on wheels, roaming around the world. And before you ask about your brother, he''s in Switzerland for Formula BMW championship."


    Suyin chuckled, "Looks like dad called you again in my absence. And as usual, you rejected him, right?" Every time Zhao Shu (Suyin''s father) leaves for a new country, he would call his wife, asking her to join him. It''s a norm, neither had he stopped asking her nor did Si Han stop rejecting him.


    But she sleeps with his photograph under her pillow.


    Weird love!


    "Don''t repeat the facts," Her reply came.


    Her parents still love each other, but Si Han couldn''t bring herself to forgive her husband for being a spineless man who failed to stand for their daughter on time. She''s even upset at his eldest kid for prioritizing his career over Suyin.


    Suyin rubbed her chest. Knowing her mother''s temper, this was the reason she never told them what happened between her and Qi Wren that night. If they had known he forced himself on her, the consequences would have been dire.


    At least, they are living happily now. Though away from each other, they are still connected by hearts and a tiny hope that one day they will be together.


    "Ahh, Suyin, if you can''t find a suitable boutique then don''t bother yourself much. I know you''re busy." Si Han swiftly changed the subject. If they continued, it would become a never-ending discussion between them. "When I''ll come back, I''ll do it myself. Speaking of which, I''m coming next week."


    for visiting.


    "James and I will pick you from the airport. He''s bugging me to get your secret condiment recipe."


    Suyin heard the smile in her voice as she said, "He can only wish. I''m taking it to my grave. A Michelin star chef begging for a recipe!? Too much he is!"


    Glancing at the tall building of ministry ahead, she sighed. It was the time to bid goodbye. "I''ve reached my office. Have to hang up. Eat healthy. Don''t stress yourself. And sleep on time. You don''t take care of yourself in my absence,"


    "Stop copying my line, naughty girl," the reprimand was so sweet that Suyin got emotional. "I''m sure you must have reduced a lot in my absence,"


    "You forgot I''m living with a Michelin star chef. Now the weight machine scares me."


    "Good. Don''t make me see a gram less when I come back," Si Han blew a kiss before signing off, "Take care, baby."


    Suyin hung up and smiled at the endearment her mother used for her. Baby!


    ******


    *APPLAUSE*


    *CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES*


    *GREETINGS*


    *BOUQUET*


    Suyin received a grand welcome as she stepped into the building. Apparently most of them heard the last night''s interview and those who didn''t were updated by social media or friends. She knew they were most happy about the collaboration offer from the People''s Group.


    Getting associated with such a renowned group and its boss in particular had its own pros and cons.


    "Thank you. Thank you so much." She accepted the bouquets with a robot smile tucked at her lips. Fake people don''t deserve anything real.


    "Mam, when are you signing the collaboration?"


    "What are the benefits? People''s group is the number one group in its field."


    "Who will be in your team? Please give a chance to every individual."


    "To avoid any blunders, I think we should prioritize only experienced people," an employee with over a decade of experience suggested.


    Suyin''s eyes drifted to all the people blocking her way.


    "We are still discussing the T&C," Suyin replied. "I''ll decide other things later. Now if you''ll excuse me."


    "M-mam...."


    She ignored them and kept on walking towards the elevator. Letting out a sigh, as soon as the door closed.


    Her smile changed into a genuine seeing her interns standing in a row outside her office, waiting for their turn. Each of them gave her a yellow rose with the words, ''thank you for the opportunity, mam''


    This was real!


    They were not here to bootlick her, but to celebrate she didn''t ditch them for their behavior and took them under her wings.


    "Thank you. Long Tao, arrange them in a vase," she passed the flowers to her assistant before bringing back her attention to the interns. "Are the reports ready? Let''s discuss."


    Instead of going to her office, she turned towards the conference room.


    Interns "...."


    *******

 Chapter 71: When did I get involved?

    "TEAM, submit your files to Mr. Long before taking your seats around the table," Suyin ordered the small army of interns following her as she whispered something to Long Tao.


    Interns looked confused as Long Tao left the room after getting the files. Aren''t they going to discuss it? Without files, how will they discuss it? They wanted to question, but none of them had the guts to ask Suyin, the intensity of her gaze is too searing for these poor college students who were yet to pass out.


    Suddenly, this inforced the respect for Long Tao, who had to work beside Suyin for the entire day. How did he manage it even at 40+?


    "Oh, we''ve limited seats," out if twenty interns, six were standing in the corner while the fourteen were seated comfortably. "No problem, you all sit with me,"


    Ignoring the head position; Suyin shrugged out of her yellow blazer and sat down on the carpeted floor before placing the blazer on her lap to cover her legs.


    The interns looked shocked. "M-Mam."


    "What are you waiting for? Don''t tell me none of you sat on the floor before?" she didn''t bother to look at the interns at the conference table. "Well. I and my best friend watch movies like this, with a bucket of popcorn, smoothie, some cushions, and a warm blanket. Have you never done it before?"


    An intern walked over and sat down facing her. "No problem in sitting here,"


    Slowly the remaining interns followed, embarrassing the ones sitting at the table. They all stood up facing her, with guilt written over their faces.


    "First lesson," Suyin''s voice echoed, "Whenever I say ''team'', it includes all of you, including me. The one in the beige shirt, what were my exact words,"


    The beige shirt boy looked up, "Submit your file to--"


    "Nope. Can someone else recall it for me?"


    One of them mustered the courage, "Submit-"


    "Wrong!" She interrupted him, "It started with one word ''TEAM''. I asked my TEAM to sit around the table. Why were six of them left out? Haven''t you noticed kids how they accommodate everyone at a little space? Actually, you all lost free five points I left for you at the table."


    All of their heads snapped to the table where a few table flags were arranged. One of them counted, and they were exactly twenty. At the back of each flag was written-


    [If twenty = +5. If fourteen = -5]


    Interns ""


    One of the interns in a meek voice, "Mam, did we just receive -5?"


    "Minus ten it is. Now come and sit around," Suyin dropped another bomb. "That day I asked my ''TEAM'' to prepare a report but I got twenty individual reports that Long Tao went to put into shredder machine. Congratulations!"


    Interns "."


    "When only three of my interns helped me with the case, why would I ask all of you to prepare individual reports? My motive was to let you learn from the experience of those three interns, which you didn''t," the interns looked at each other''s faces. With a group, it was barely a few hours''s task, but they spend their entire weekend only to get the reports shredded?


    Above that, their pride didn''t allow them to approach fellow interns to get information. They did the work individually, based on the information available on the internet and what they witnessed.


    "From now onwards, you''ve to work together as I''ve mentioned already that only three interns will follow me the on-field job. But report you''ll prepare in a group." She glanced over as Long Tao came with a few official files and documents, but interns looked with hope. "Don''t look. These are mine. You can collect yours from the shredder machine later."


    She accepted the files and expressed gratitude.


    "Message prosecutor Chen Wenwei to meet me once and a cup of strong coffee. The way you made last time."


    "Sure," He questioned with his brows about the interns sitting with a sullen face.


    for visiting.


    "Oh, they?? They will work under my watch today. All of you prepare the report from scratch. I need it by the end of the day."


    Interns, "."


    *******


    With such a busy day, Suyin forgot to keep track of time or think about Wang Shi. Signing the last file, she kept tied up everything and stretched her sore body. Her bum and back hurt. Then she glanced at the interns who were already at the conclusion. Glad they showed teamwork.


    Speaking of teamwork, she and Wang Shi were best at it. Sigh. Here she started thinking about him again.


    Her phone rang, and Wang Shi''s name flashed, bringing an unusual smile at her face. She picked at the first ring, "I was thinking about you,"


    "Really?"


    *Toot toot toot*


    She hung up, biting her tongue at her stupidity. Feeling a pair of forty eyes at her, she snapped her head to the right, startling the interns.


    "Nothing mam we are doing it."


    "Almost done,"


    "Hey, tell me more information about it,"


    "And you type properly,"


    ""


    "Keep doing, I''ll be back," She left, trying to absorb the fact she said something that she shouldn''t.


    Interns 1, "Am I the only one who heard something that I shouldn''t?"


    Intern 2, "Nope. We all did,"


    Intern 3, "Who do you think the caller was?"


    Intern 2 smacked Intern 3''s head, "None of our concern. Do you want more deduction in points?"


    Yu Mixi, "He''s right. It''s her personal matter. Just make sure we don''t talk about it to anyone. People are looking for ways to take pull her down. Don''t add on to her problems."


    Suyin came to her office and shut the door. After a few deep breaths, she punched his number a dozen times and canceled, though it was saved in contacts already. Finally, she called. "Hello, Wang Shi,"


    "You hung up on me,"


    "I was in a meeting, that''s why."


    "But you said something. What was it?" he paused, "Something about thinking about me. Why?"


    Suyin ""


    ''Just don''t ask. I can write a complete book on why Zhao Suyin thinks about Wang Shi.''


    "T-to thank you. It was a good medicine."


    "Oh right. How are you feeling?"


    "Good. Thanks to you." her stomach quivered thinking about the hickey she left on him. It had taken every ounce of her willpower to say the next two words, "And you?"


    "Huh?"


    "I-I." gulps, "I-I. JamestoldmethatIhurtyou."


    There was a pause as if he was trying to arrange the space between her fast-forward sentence.


    "Oh, that. It''s fine." She heard the creak of his chair and imagined him pushing himself to it. Isn''t your pact of hundred kisses with Honey? When did I get involved?"


    She sucked in a deep breath. Bloody hell! Wang Shi was a devil, beast, monster, Yama, cruel, and everything bad when he teases. What was he doing?


    "Just dream on. I was drunk that why it happened." controlling her emotions she huffed.


    ''In reality, I want to do worse with you. Like tearing your clothes with my teeth and.. and..''


    She heard his incessant laughter, which warmed her own heart. She continued pretending. "If you have nothing to say, I''ll hang up."


    "Okay sorry. No more teasing. Listen. It''s about the contract. How about we finalize everything so that our lawyers could complete the formalities?"


    "Sure. We can have a meeting this Friday until then I''ll ask my lawyer to prepare documents."


    "Your office or mine,"


    "Mine. My senior would be sitting with me at the meeting."


    "Thank you," he replied, "I can''t wait to start working with you,"


    She stared at the phone for a long time even after she hung up. It was she who cut the call. Sometimes she''s tongue-tied in front of him. So rare, but it happens whenever he armors his teasing mode.


    Savage!


    And here she thought she''s the shameless one. But Wang Shi takes it to another level!


    ******

 Chapter 72: White

    Getting Long Tao''s message, prosecutor Chen Wenwei came to look for Suyin in her office as soon as she was done with her work. In the office, Suyin was handling her interns like a tigress training her babies.


    "Miss. Zhao, you look busy, I''ll come later." Chen Wenwei felt pity for the scared interns who were standing in a row with hands clasped at the front.


    "No, I''m done with them, come in." Suyin brings her attention back to the interns, "I hope you''ve learned your today''s lesson. Next time pay attention to my words. Keep the file at the table, I''ll review it later."


    Interns followed the order but didn''t leave and instead push Yu Mixi ahead.


    "Now what?"


    "Mam, that p-points...."


    "Mixi, it looks like I''ve awarded you too many points that you are feeling heavy weighted?"


    "Sorry, mam. Goodbye, mam,"


    Taking Yu Mixi along, all the interns bowed and rushed out within a second as if freed from the clutches of a tigress. They all sprawled on the floor after coming to their safe zone. Interns lounge.


    "Poor interns," Chen Wenwei let out a laugh as she had taken a seat on the couch. "Good, you messaged me. I was about to come here. Seven days'' time that you had given to the media houses, Hui Guozhi and Qi Wren are over already. Media houses have sent us their written apology within a day. However."


    "I know Hui Guozhi and Qi Wren have ignored the deadline. That''s expected of greedy and snobbish people like them. It would have shocked me if they had taken it seriously. To get the money I''ve to shove my hands down their throat and threaten them with their kidneys."


    Suyin''s casual attitude surprised Chen Wenwei, showing she has an idea. "Looks like you have got a plan. And why do I feel you won''t bother to fight the case in court?"


    "Because that''s true. Getting to the court is time and money consuming. Not my style."


    "Then?


    Suyin crossed her legs, coming onto the serious part, "I''m going to push them to the point where they will be forced to give me everything. I just want you to handle legal things whenever the need arises."


    They have worked together on a few cases before and are aware of each other''s working styles. Moreover, Suyin knew that Chen Wenwei was one of the best lawyers who were not only honest and clear-minded but a perfect master who doesn''t leave an opening for the culprit to find a loophole.


    Chen Wenwei chuckled, "That I''m already doing. I''ve fixed an appointment with Qi Wren. Tomorrow I''m going to his office to talk about the case."


    "Yes, do that. That bastard had called me once, threatening me to not pass any derogatory remarks on his precious ego and company."


    (For reference it''s in chapter 29)


    "Did he call you again? If it''s a threat, we can sue him,"


    Suyin waved her hand, "I blocked his number and stopped answering any calls out of my contacts. But I know he is waiting for me to contact him..... His ego is bigger than a mountain. If he thinks I would come after him to get the money..... then dream on!"


    Chen Wenwei studied Suyin''s expression closely. The confident and mysterious glint in her eyes showed she was ready with a wicked plan to get the money. She just has to wait and see how Suyin would make that happen.


    "I''ll keep you updated about the meeting."


    "Take bodyguards with you, he''s dangerous. I''ll give you the permission letter," However, Chen Wenwei stopped Suyin.


    "I''m the daughter of the Supreme People''s Court judge. NeIther his courage nor his status is big enough to touch a strand of my hair. Take care."


    After Chen Wenwei left, Long Tao entered holding a decorated basket. "Mam, while you were busy with the interns I received this invitation from the governor of Shanxi province Gu Bohai."


    Gu Bohai, Gu Feng''s father!


    "Bring it to me,"


    Along with the goodies, the basket contained an invitation in a rosewood box. It was on behalf of Gu Feng, who wanted Suyin to come to his art exhibition at the National Gallery.


    On the corner was Gu Feng''s handwritten note.


    [Mam, you said, ''take a step and many would follow''. Here is my first step. Looking forward to see you at the event. Gu Feng]


    It was a high-profile event to be attended by many famous sculptors, painters, socialites, and collectors to get their hands on the beautiful and rare art pieces. The invitation to such an event was limited and only the people with power and money have the privilege to receive it.


    The fact Gu Feng had sent a personal invitation and had taken advantage of his father''s position to send it to her shouted her importance.


    Long Tao saw the words ''128th Art exhibition at National Gallery'' written in bold letters and was shocked. It was one of the high-profile events of the city. "Are you accepting it?"


    "Yes," Suyin looked up, "It was just a small interaction with Gu Bohai''s son, but it seems the kid has finally decided to do embrace his imperfections and move on."


    ''Imperfections'' Her words confused Long Tao, but it was not his position to ask. He saw her writing a note and fold it neatly. "Send this note and a bouquet addressing Gu Feng. Tell him I''ll attend this event."


    "Sure," he recalled something, "Er.I received a call from XY motors, and they said your car is ready for delivery. Do you want me to get it delivered here or pick from showroom?" Since Suyin had directed unknown numbers to his phone, he had become the center of communication between her and the parties.


    Suyin picked her handbag, changed her walking slippers to heels. "I''ll pick it from the showroom."


    He sensed the excitement in her voice. "Congratulations for the new car,"


    for visiting.


    "Thank you,"


    Suyin picked her new Audi Q8 from the showroom. Instead of going straight to the house, she did a slight detour to take her new baby on a long drive. She can''t stop herself admiring the modified interior neatly framed in polished mahogany.


    And the most satisfying thing was the car''s color. It was not funky like yellow or orange and neither boring like James'' black car. Her''s was white.


    A simple and decent color!


    ******

 Chapter 73: VIP client

    The next day, Chen Wenwei and her apprentice reached Qi Industries headquarters at the scheduled time. Not a minute late or early.


    However, at that time, Qi Wren was ''busy'' with his wife in his office lounge and instructed his secretary to ask Chen Wenwei to wait or reschedule the meeting being busy.


    "This must be about Suyin. She''s really a greedy and vicious woman eyeing our money. Will she ever let us live in peace? I''m tired of her," Hui Chouming looked up from her husband''s naked chest, expressing her grievances, feeling bitter.


    His hands run on Chouming''s back in slow motion as she lies on top of him, "I''ve told you not to be bothered by her. You''ve me already. As far as this compensation is concerned, let her struggle. Thousands of court cases are filed every day, one more is just a drop into the ocean."


    "But her lawyer is Chen Wenwei."


    "hahah. Chen Wenwei attends a meeting only if the client is a VIP, which I''m sure Suyin is not. She must have sent her apprentice. Let that measly apprentice be humiliated. I''m sure Chen Wenwei will take this out on Suyin."


    Though he said that to comfort Chouming, his calculative expression said otherwise.


    On one side Suyin announced that she had gotten over her ex and has nothing to do with him while on the other she''s sending a lawyer. Isn''t it just a way to get his attention!?


    Well. She had succeeded in it. Now all she has to do is to come to him personally and he might willingly give her the money.


    . and something more.


    But before that, she needs a small lesson for acting arrogant and blocking his number. Her lawyer can keep on waiting for eternity. Any further communication would take face to face and she has to come to the headquarters to meet him.


    "Busy?" Chen Wenwei cast her sharp glance at the secretary who came to inform her. "By acknowledging the time and place you implicitly agree to be there for the set time for the meeting. If your chairman doesn''t know the professional conduct, he should take lessons."


    Her voice attracted the attention of all the people coming in and out of the lobby, giving a look of disdain to the secretary.


    "Mind your words, madam. An emergency came up and our chairman has to look into it. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have asked you to reschedule the meeting,"


    Chen Wenwei stood there like a regal queen, her eyes didn''t move from the secretary who pretended to be confident but the beads of sweat on forehead said otherwise.


    "Mam, this" Chen Wenwei''s apprentice stopped. He saw her taking out her cellphone and walked away to speak to someone.


    ''Stupid man! People wait for month-long appointments to talk to Miss. Chen and here he asked to reschedule the meeting.''


    Seeing the handsome man beside Chen Wenwei giving a mischievous smile, Qi Wren''s secretary had a feeling of premonition.


    Exactly a minute later the secretary received a call from Qi Wren, "You silly woman, why didn''t you mention it was Chen Wenwei? Bring her up. NOW."


    "Yes, sir." She looked at Chen Wenwei in horror. Who is she? Who did she call to make our chairman act like this? "Mam. Please follow me to the meeting room." Her attitude changed.


    However, Chen Wenwei glanced at her watch as she sat down on the couch near the window and didn''t say a word. The apprentice suppressed his laughter and said. "The meeting time was from 3:30 to 4. Twelve minutes have passed already. Eighteen more minutes and we''ll leave."


    In the lounge, Qi Wren pushed Hui Chouming off of him and bolted up. "Get off." Grabbing his clothes, he wore them in record time.


    "What happened?"


    "SHUT UP, it''s Chen Wenwei herself, dammit."


    Hui Chouming was dumbfounded. "Chen Wenwei came personally? Suyin is VIP? How? Why?"


    He ignored her muttering and fixed his messy hair with fingers. Though Chen Wenwei was just a lawyer, she was one of the top thirty powerful women of the country. Once you get into her bad books and she would fight every case against you. Be it for free.


    for visiting.


    A minute before he had received a call from one of the biggest investors of the company who threatened him to withdrew his investments if they ended up offending Chen Wenwei. If possible, he should try making her the official lawyer of the Qi Group.


    But is that possible?


    Qi Wren rushed to the lobby on the ground floor upon receiving the message from her secretary.


    "Miss. Chen." He extended his hand. Though panting for breath, he stayed calm and smiled. The chairman had to maintain an image in front of employees, and cannot show he literally rushed here to meet her.


    Chen Wenwei remained seated on the couch and looked at his apprentice. "Mr. Ren you may start,"


    Qi Wren retrieved his hand, gritting teeth at the humiliation of being ignored in his own office. "It looks like Miss Chen is upset. My apologies to keep you waiting. It was an urgent meeting with the managers. If my secretary had informed me earlier----"


    "Next time, ask your ''managers'' to give you hickey where only you can see them." Her reply came and Qi Wren unconsciously adjusted his collar.


    "Miss. Chen, you are mistaken. It''s not---" he paused, and looked around, "Let''s discuss everything in the meeting room. That would be more appropriate,"


    "You lost your chance. Either it''s here or nowhere." She threw the papers on the table, "You lost the deadline to apologise to my client Zhao Suyin and ignored the reminder sent by my office. Any explanation?"


    "Get this area interdicted." Getting the orders, the secretary called the security to secure the one-third portion of the lobby by forming a wall around it.


    The makeshift meeting room!


    "It was entirely Hui Guozhi''s fault, why would I apologize and pay the compensation? As far as publishing of the divorce agreement is concerned, I was out of the country. How could you hold me responsible if someone accessed my locker and posted the documents?"


    Qi Wren took the seat opposite her, while his group of three lawyers hurried to the spot and stood beside him. One of them passed a document to Chen Wenwei, which her apprentice accepted on her behalf. "This is my client Mr. Qi wren''s counter defense."


    Apprentice skimmed through the documents and nodded at her. Other lawyers felt proud and shot a look to a lonely female lawyer sitting in front.


    It''s three vs one!


    However, what followed made everyone speechless.

 Chapter 74: Undeniable pain

    "I think you never discussed this case with your lawyers. Maybe you never took it seriously. NOW YOU WILL!"


    "I know it was your wife who published the documents. Therefore, from the beginning, my client was seeking a hundred million Yuan compensation from your wife."


    "Secondly, as you and Mrs. Qi are one legal entity and she''s the partner in many of your businesses and property. The legal obligation falls on you both. You may decide amongst yourself who will pay the money. If Mrs. Qi failed, I will get some of your properties auctioned."


    "Thirdly, let me tell you the point your lawyers never discussed. Mr. Qi has to fulfill the liability mentioned in their divorce clause 3.1 on page 17. If any of the party breaches the contract the compensation value is fifteen million within seven working days after which the ROI is @7.2% P.m. Adjusting it to the current market value and six days of interest it equals to 18.32 million Yuan. My client prefers cheque."


    Chen Wenwei fired words non-stop and enlightened the dumbfounded Qi Wren, who just now came to know about this additional 18.32 million compensation. He cast a questionable glance at his lawyers, who lowered their heads.


    Actually, it was not their fault; his attitude towards the case was lenient from the beginning.


    "It looks like Mr. Qi is not a man of his words. He is backing off from the contract he made himself. Shame! The chairman of a company, but the traits of a clerk. Tch. Tch.tch." She picked her handbag. "Time for our meeting is over. Tomorrow my company will send you a bill of 18.38 million after adding the interest of one more day. And so on."


    "Wait," Qi Wren extended his hand to his secretary, "Give me the checkbook,"


    He signed a cheque addressing Zhao Suyin, "Ask her to meet me if she wants that hundred million."


    "I''m not your servant to pass your message to Suyin. If you have the power, do it yourself."


    She left.


    "ARGH.FIND ME, NEW LAWYERS." Qi Wren stormed to his office. "Zhao Suyin, I''ll make you pay for this."


    In Chen Wenwei''s car,


    "Blacklist him and the companies associated with them,"


    "Yes, mam,"


    "Arrogant man, he doesn''t know with whom he''s messing. Suyin is a sleeping dragon, the more he provokes the fiercer she would become."


    ******


    The Little star international school,


    "Are you sure you want to do this activity? Aren''s these kids too young?" Though the principal knows the importance of teaching kids about the good-bad touch, he was skeptical of how the minds of the kids will take it. He doesn''t want to make them feel confused or unanswered.


    Suyin nodded, understanding his concerns as she looked at the little kids playing in the garden. "These kids are young that''s why it becomes necessary to talk about body safety and let them be aware of it. Parents talk about traffic rules, how to cross the street, seat-belt importance, and not to play with matches and knife but sadly they let go of this very important topic."


    "What about the parents? They won''t give consent." The principal continued walking, giving her a tour. It was the lunch break going on, and the little ones came out to play.


    "I don''t think so. Many parents aren''t sure how to navigate the conversation or may feel uncomfortable themselves, that''s why they haven''t started it. ah."


    A fluffy ball hit her ankle.


    "Is this yours?" she showed it to the little girl who came running to fetch it but stopped at a distance, visibly scared. "Here, you go, love." To not scare her anymore, she tossed it to her.


    "Thank you, aunty,"


    The principal continued walking, taking her to show the other areas of the school.


    "According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four girls and one in 13 boys experience child sexual abuse at some point in childhood, This makes it critical that parents and teachers have the conversation. " Suyin explained calmy, "It''s our responsibility to equip kids with the tools they need to prevent, confront or respond to attempts of sexual abuse.


    This was one of the projects she had started under the ministry. Little Star International was the country''s best school, and if she starts the project from here, many schools will willingly let her conduct the workshop in their schools as well.


    Principal breathed. It was already an honor for him that the secretary-General herself came to talk about it. "How will you do it?"


    "Through activities, play, pictures, and competitions. We will have a fun and learning session with the kids. We will give them prizes---"


    She paused, seeing a group of kids fighting.


    "How dare you do that?"


    "Why not? It''s the truth. You don''t have a mother. Who needs a wild child like you?"


    "I will show you how wild I am,"


    for visiting.


    Suyin felt the tension and heard the intensity in the boy''s tone. He was visibly short and weak, but the stronger one was losing to him. There was a greater deal of emotion behind these words he was speaking.


    Just then another boy jumped on to the duo and started beating the little boy. He was the tallest, probably four-five years elder to both.


    *SLAP*


    Suyin and the principal were about to intertwine when a lady came and threw a hard slap across the face of the weak boy.


    Suyin winced.


    Her fingers curled into a fist.


    She felt an undeniable pain as if the slap was thrown at her face.


    She rushed to the little kid.


    Leaving the weak boy unattended, the lady pulled the other behind her back. The other tall boy, who had jumped into the fight last, stood with the teacher, fixing his hair arrogantly.


    "Such a brat you are. Haven''t your mother taught you anything? Let me call your parents and show them how big of a bully their son is." the two boys were apparently her kids, and she was a teacher in the school.

 Chapter 75: Shes what?

    "SHUT UP! You have no right to pass a personal comment on a kid," Suyin yelled "And how dare you slap him? I can see you are taking this child''s side without knowing the story because you are his mother."


    "My child is much disciplined, but this one is a school bully,"


    "In any case you should have not slapped him. I won''t let this go easily,"


    "Who do you think you are? Do you know who my husband is?"


    "I don''t care who your husband is, I just know who I''m," she ignored her, bringing her attention to the little weak boy.


    "You---" she stopped seeing the scornful gaze of the principal.


    Holding the boy''s shoulder, Suyin turned him to see his injuries. She gasped, "Little. Honey?"


    With trembling hands, she touched his left cheek that was swollen and red, with four fingers printed. Visible bruises were all over his knees and arms. His eyes lifeless, devoid of any emotion. Even the boy he was fighting earlier was bawling in his mother''s arms, but Honey''s eyes were as dry as a dessert as if he was immune to the painful slap.


    "SOMEONE GET ME ICE. It''s okay, sweety. Just a little more. We are getting ice to stop the stinging." She took out a cucumber wet-wipe to wipe his face, but he snatched it from her hand and rushed, skimming his way through the crowd to reach the two girls standing in the corner.


    ''Yuyu and Lan?'' Suyin frowned and walked to them.


    for visiting.


    Honey checked Yuyu from top to bottom, and then gently wiped her palms with the wet-wipe, blowing cool air in between. Yuyu''s delicate white palms were red and bruised. "There there don''t cry Yuyu they are getting ice.... The pain will fly away."


    Yuyu sniffed, pointed her chubby finger at Honey''s cheek, "It must be hurting. I''ll tell Uncle Shi Shi about it."


    Lan sneered at the teacher who slapped Honey, "I''ll ask momma to give her hundred slaps back. She''s unfair. It was not even our fault, they started it." the sight of his swollen red cheeks made them feel hurt. Emotional. Bitter. Angry.


    Honey patted his two sisters, "I''m fine. Nothing hurts. Don''t forget I''m a ma---"


    Suyin''s expression changed, and she hurried to catch Honey in her arms. "HONEY."


    "Honey Bro."


    "Honey Bro"


    The little fairy''s body couldn''t act strong anymore and he fell down. She instantly checked his eyes and ear. "Mr. Principal, take me to the medical room and call the medical officer. Yuyu, Lan, don''t worry your Honey Bro will be fine. I promise."


    Both girls got scared seeing Honey lying limp in Suyin''s arms. "Pretty sister, we want to come with you," Lan asked and followed on getting the permission.


    The teacher/mother who had slapped Honey got scared and followed too. Out of rage, she failed to control the strength and slapped him really hard. It was so hard that her palm was red and stinging.


    ******


    In the medical room,


    Suyin ordered the medical officer to take care of the injuries of other kids while she examined Honey, who was still lying unconscious.


    "I''m writing a medicine. Please send someone to get it." putting down the otoscope she scribbled the medicine name on a paper and gave her credit card along with it. "Rest assured, I''ll talk to his father about the medicine I''m using."


    The Principal accepted the paper reluctantly. "I think I should take him to the hospital. This boy. he he is."


    "I know his identity. He''s Dr. Wang Shi''s son." Suyin whispered, "He has a perforated ear-drum in the left ear. Let me give him the medicine first." She rolled a clean cotton ball and closed his ear cavity before start nursing his other wounds.


    From time to time she gave an assuring smile to two girls who were standing beside Honey. Whenever they questioned her, she answered them patiently.


    The medical officer was done nursing all the kids and came to report Suyin, "Miss, the baby girl has bruised palms and the two boys have hit injuries on their bodies. Nothing serious. How about this boy?"


    "Perforated ear-drum and bruises." She narrowed her eyes at the teacher sitting with his kids, still acting high and mighty. "It was because of the slap his ear-drum ruptured and he fainted. The other injuries are just like what these two kids have got. Nothing serious. Now if you could please take the kids outside. I need to talk to this madam,"


    "Pretty sister, we don''t want to leave Honey bro."


    "Just for a few minutes. I promise to call you back." Suyin patted Yuyu''s head. ".....and stop crying, your Honey bro will not like it,"


    "I won''t talk to anyone. Let my husband come." The teacher''s gaze hardened, and she got up to leave, but Suyin blocked her way.


    "I can do this even in front of your kids but trust me this wouldn''t be good for either of you. And don''t threaten me with your husband, I don''t give a damn who he is. You''ve committed a crime, I just have to make a phone call and get you under arrest." She took on a hard edge and warned.


    Leavin the Principal, Suyin, unconscious Honey, and the teacher, everyone left. Just as the door closed Suyin threw a hard back-hand slap across the face of the teacher, shocking her. She was yet to recover from the shock when another landed on her face.


    "You"


    "First one, for what you did with this little boy. And the second, to make you realize how humiliating and painful it is. If it was Honey''s mother who had slapped your kids and had taken her own child''s side, will you be able to accept that?"


    "It was the fight between kids. A common thing! But the moment adults get themselves involved, it escalates. And here you harmed a little boy physically. Do you understand the medical and emotional consequences of it? Even your own kids will turn violent as parents'' are first idols for them."


    "I might have let this pass but you crossed the limit by hitting him. Mr. Principal, taking legal action is up to Honey''s parents. But I''m reporting this matter to the education board, asking them to send her for six months community service and then a further six months'' probation in a government-funded school."


    The teacher was horrified, "Who do you think you are to punish me? Not like you are this child''s mother."


    "She may not be, but she''s responsible for them." The Principal used an authoritative tone, "Because she''s secretary-General from the ministry of Women and child development,"


    The teacher''s mouth was left wide agape.


    "She''s what?"


    "You heard me,"


    ******

 Chapter 76: he failed as a father

    "So what if she''s the secretary-General."


    "Quiet. You should have not slapped this kid. Just apologize sincerely." The principal warned her as if trying to communicate something, but the teacher was deep into her pride and ego.


    "I will not apologize."


    "Mrs. Yang Try to understand. You''re a talented teacher, I''m sure Miss. Zhao will let this pass once."


    She snorts, failing to catch Principal''s gaze, "let my husband come,"


    As if Suyin was interested in her apology!? Feeling something odd about The Principal''s behavior, she sent a message to her assistant and her interns on their wechat group, giving them their next assignment.


    "Mmmm."


    Suyin took two fast strides and placed a motherly hand at Honey''s cheek, "Hey sweetie. Still hurting?"


    Honey ignored his condition, and Suyin''s question as he frantically looked around for something. Suyin understood and opened the room''s door. "They are here. Safe and sound!"


    She has guessed it right. Despite being asked to leave the room, the two girls were standing outside the closed door, waiting to be called in.


    The love and bonding these kids were showing could put anyone to shame.


    As Suyin made them sit on the bed, they instantly activated their protective sister mode and hugged Honey, frowning at the teacher in front. It was like two cute fox cubs protecting a tiger cub. Cute. Heartwarming.


    "Madam, medicine." the attendant returned with medicine.


    "Yes," her hand reached out and touched Honey''s cheek, "Your ears are ringing, right? This will stop the ringing and make the pain fly away. Just like Yuyu''s. May I put two drops? I promise it won''t hurt even a bit." keeping in mind how sensitive his ears are, she kept her voice low.


    Lan pulled Honey''s arm towards her, "Pretty sister is right, lie down in my lap."


    "And it''s done," she closed the cavity of Honey''s ear after dropping medicine. "Lan, hold this ice bag against his cheek, okay?"


    "What happened? Why did you call me--- why are your cheeks so swollen?" A man dressed in a grey suit strode in, he cast a condescending gaze at Suyin and then at kids.


    for visiting.


    "Yang Xiu, she did it. How come disciplining a naughty kid become my fault? It''s a teacher''s duty, right?"


    "Of course it is. There''s nothing wrong,"


    "And this wild child is a school bully, he targeted our innocent kids. Isn''t it a moral duty to teach him a lesson as a teacher and protect my babies as a mother? I-It''s just I lost the control of my footing and slapped him a little harder. But this woman had taken advantage of her influential position in the ministry and slapped me twice."


    Furious by the teacher''s words and her trying to justify herself, Suyin lost her ''footing'', her hand acted on its own and another slap came flying. "Oops. I lost ''control of my footing''"


    The teacher was left with mouth agape.


    "YOU. How dare you?" Yang Xiu scowled down at Suyin. It hurt his pride more, as the woman before him didn''t recognize him. "Do you know who I''m?"


    Argh again this question! Why do rich people keep forgetting their identities?


    Suyin, "Yes. A patient suffering from Amnesia. Get a treatment ASAP so that you can recall who you are."


    "YOU..Principal Yi, how can you let such a woman enter the gates of a prestigious school like Little Star? I let my wife familiarise herself with the working of the school so she can take over your position post-retirement after three months and here you let her be slapped? Is this how the future principal of the school be treated? Did you not tell she''s from the family of the founding members of the school?"


    Dumbfounded Suyin looked at the principal, who was sweating. She finally understood the reason behind the Principal''s eye-warnings and him constantly asking to apologize. So this Principal is biased.


    They are going to regret this


    "Daddy. Momma.Uncle Shi Shi" Yuyu and Lan called, seeing everyone enter the medical room. They pointed their fingers at Honey''s cheek and then at the teacher. "Uncle ShiShi Honey Bro, hurt."


    When the two girls were out, Yuyu excused herself for the bathroom and took out the phone she had stolen. Cough ''borrowed'' from the medical officer to make a call to her parents and Uncle. Knowing Honey was hurt, she wanted to bring the help ASAP. And there''s no better help than her parents and Uncle.


    "Ma-ma." Xiu Mei picked Honey in her arms and let him snuggle. Her hand went to caress the swollen cheek, asking him what happened. "Small fight. I''m fine." He tried to hide his cheek from Wang Shi but failed.


    "No small fight Honey Bro was--"


    "YUYU.." Honey shook his head.


    "Not anymore Honey Bro. We are just kids and so as you Pretty sister said when elders get involves in kids'' fight it escalates. Let Mommy and daddy know what''s happening here. " Suyin gave a surprised look to the little Lan, who heard her words from the closed door.


    Oh Wait! Kids have a higher sense of hearing!


    Wang Shi took Honey from Xiu Mei and checked him. Though Wang Shi was silent; his pursed lips, tensed body, and stiff jaw narrated his state of mind. No need to guess, he was beyond furious.


    The red marks on his son''s cheek, cotton stuffed in ear, and bruises on arms and knees were cutting his heart into pieces.


    "Who did this?" Honey tried to squirm out of his lap and Wang Shi didn''t allow him to move. His chest grew tight seeing how a six-year-old baby was trying to hide his wounds from his own father. "Honey."


    Honey didn''t reply and rested his face against Wang Shi''s shoulder.


    That moment Wang Shi realized he failed as a father.


    "Lan, tell me what happened?"


    "Uncle Shishi, we went to eat lunch under the canopy, but two boys came and demanded our place. When Honey Bro ignored, they used foul language and called him a wild child. Mumma, what does a wild child mean?" she asked Xiu Mei who was checking her carefully.


    "It means a bad boy. Am I right daddy?" Yuyu gave an innocent reply as she looked up at her father who was holding her bruised palms. She pouted, "When I asked them to not say poor words to Honey Bro, they pushed me. sniff. I fell down and got hurt."


    Suyin glanced at Honey and seemed to understand the reason for this fight. The boys hurt Yuyu, and Honey couldn''t accept that and went to fight for his sister. A child showing maturity. So rare!


    He ignored their foul words because they were meant for him, but didn''t accept his sister getting hurt. Sweet!


    Yuyu, "Pretty sister, catch Honey Bro before he could fall and hurt himself again. She also gave him medicine."


    Lan, ". and I hear her spank evil teacher''s butt. Good! She deserves it. Those two boys always look to pick a fight with Honey bro. I once complained to the principal, sir, but he did nothing."


    The principal patted his bald head and face with a handkerchief.


    Dammit!


    The two girls were unstoppable!

 Chapter 77: Lullaby

    "Jianyu, just see Lan for a minute,"


    Xiu Mei turned to face the couple.


    The arrogant man continued, "Who are you? I''m Yang Xiu, one trustee, and hereby expels these kids for disturbing the decorum-"


    *PAK*


    *PAK*


    *PAK*


    Dumbfounded! A gush of wind passed and three slaps landed on his wife''s face standing beside him. The slap was as loud as a clap, leaving a red welt behind. His wife staggered backward, clutching her cheeks that tripled in size because of all the slapping she had received.


    "This is for slapping my baby."


    A few seconds passed by and he just stood there in silence looking at Xiu Mei who was burning in rage. He wanted to take a step to do something, but his thoughts tumbled when his eyes met with Jianyu''s.


    These three people seemed familiar, but Yang Xiu could not recall where he had seen them before.


    The aura and power they radiated, he had a gut feeling not to mess with them. Or maybe he had already done something that he shouldn''t.


    Wang Shi wanted to do something worse, but right now his priority was Honey, who needed some tests and medicine. But that does not mean he''ll let them go unscathed. He called his assistant. "Yang Xiu and Principal Yi You have one hour."


    He picked Honey and stepped out.


    Suyin saw Wang Shi''s departing back, as if melancholy softly called him away from happiness. Being a single parent is emotionally challenging for both children and the parent.


    Her steps automatically followed Wang Shi and Honey.


    Feng Jianyu and Xiu Mei picked their girls and left....


    What left behind was the arrogant couple and the Principal, brooding over what would happen next!?


    "M-Mr Feng Let me explain--" The Principal tried to follow the trio but halted when Feng Jianyu''s bodyguards stopped him to go anywhere near him.


    ''Mr. Feng? Is he Mr. Feng Jianyu, President of FJ group of companies? Then the woman just now was President XM of R-Tech!?!?!? But who is the other man? Is he also someone powerful?''


    F*ck!


    Yang Xiu gulped. He was abroad all this while and had returned to the country a month back to take over his father''s business. While familiarizing himself with the aristocrats of the country, he had seen the couple''s picture in a business magazine.


    "Idiots! Bunch of idiots! That boy your wife had slapped is Dr. Wang Shi''s son. Is there a need to tell who Dr. Wang Shi is?" the Principal dropped to his knees. "It''s YOUR kids who are school bullies. In the past month, I''ve received hundreds of complaints about them, but instead of giving a lesson to her kids, she used violence against the complainants and YOU supported your wife. What amazing examples you set for them!"


    "But guess everything has an ending. And yours is going to be brutal. Including mine. Why did I accept your money?" The principal was bitter for himself. To spend his retirement peacefully, he accepted an enormous chunk of money to recommend Yang Xiu''s wife to the board for the position of next Principal.


    "D-Dr. Wang Shi? Do you mean the president''s son? Wh-why didn''t you tell me before?"


    "SHUT UP! Dumb woman, you ignored my warnings."


    The Principal was even sure she didn''t even read the list of selected VIP students and the documents he had sent earlier. The number one on the list was Wang Qiang (Honey). When he was brought for admission, he made the entire management to sign a special contract and non-disclosure agreement. According to the first point, it prohibits the staff from raising a hand at him.


    Since corporal punishment in schools was not illegal in the country, Dr. Wang Shi made the management sign the contract for his son.


    An exclusive contract! But never mentioned the reason behind it nor anyone dared to ask him.


    "Ah Xiu, should we ask father-in-law for help? His influence would"


    "SHUT UP." Yang Xiu yelled at his annoying wife. He knew this was not over yet. Before leaving, Wang Shi made a call to someone and took his name. Just what is he going to do?


    ******


    Suyin followed Wang Shi all this while until Honey''s checkups were done. She only breathed in relief when the reports came negative for any other injuries other than perforated ear-drum.


    Wang Shi canceled all his appointments for the day and took him to the office while everyone followed, including Yuyu and Lan.


    "Mei, now that Honey is fine, you should take Yuyu and Lan home." Seeing them half drowsy, Wang Shi suggested. "Yuyu might get a fever because of the TT shot. Just give her half tablet of antipyretic."


    "Okay,"


    "Let Mei go, I''m with you."


    "No," Wang Shi rejected Jianyu, "Handling two kids with one of them sick would be difficult for her. Besides, Yuyu and Lan don''t sleep without you. Just go."


    "Fine. If you need anything, call me." He picked sleeping Yuyu, but she stirred in her sleep, feeling something off.


    for visiting.


    "Honey bro."


    "Shhhh we will come back tomorrow. Let Honey take a rest." Jianyu coaxed her back to sleep.


    "If Daiyu failed to do the task, you can call me anytime." Getting his nod, Xiu Mei picked sleeping Lan and looked around. "Where is Suyin? I want to express my gratitude."


    "She went to take a call. I''ll tell her when she returns."


    Xiu Mei left but stopped at the threshold of the door and looked back. "Brother Wang."


    "Huh?"


    "I like Suyin."


    Wang Shi paused and then let out a breath. "Take care, Mei. Bye"


    *****


    "Sir, this" Daiyu came with the information on Principal Yi and Yang Xiu but paused seeing Wang Shi holding a finger to shush him. Honey was having difficulty in sleeping already and he just relaxed a few minutes ago.


    Wang Shi gently placed him on the couch, tugging him with a blanket before stepping out to talk to Daiyu.


    By the time he returned, what welcomed him was his son sleeping peacefully in Suyin''s arms, as she sang a lullaby for him while patting his back.


    "Come stop your crying


    It will be all right


    Just take my hand


    Hold it tight.


    For one so small


    you seem so strong


    My arms will hold you


    keep you safe and warm


    I''ll be here


    Don''t you cry


    Cause you will be in my heart


    Yes, you will be in my heart


    From this day on


    Forever and more...."

 Chapter 78: Getting back

    "Suyin.."


    ''Shhh.'' Pausing her soft singing she holds a finger against her lips and mouthed. [Sleeping.]


    Wang Shi blinked and writes a message on the phone before showing it to her. [I have got urgent work to finish. Will return in two hours max. Can you take care of Honey for me?]


    To reply, she took his phone and typed a message with one hand.


    [I know where you are going. But don''t make it look obvious that you are doing everything for Honey. Your every action has an equal impact on President Wang. There are many wolfs waiting to dethrone him at every opportunity. If you don''t mind, I''ve a perfect plan; just check the file kept at the table.]


    Wang Shi''s brows rose, but he walked over to the table without a word and settled gracefully to read what she had prepared while Suyin returned to humming lullaby for Honey, taking strolls around the room.


    Nothing was romantic between them, yet everything was beautiful and serene.


    Don''t know if he was impressed by the detailed plan or her mind from where the plan popped out. She was savage and sharp, but this type of arrangement to destroy the enemy can only come from a mastermind of politics.


    The file she gave contained over seventy-two statements from other kids who had been bullied by Mrs. Yang and her two kids. It even included some statements from the teachers who were unhappy by Mrs. Yang and the Principal''s biased behavior.


    What shocks him the most was she had a confession of the Principal where he accepted taking money from Yang Xiu. How did she get it? Well, he could never guess she had left her phone behind to record their after conversation and later Long Tao procured it for her.


    She plans to use the statements and Honey''s case as the evidence to take the school management under ministry''s control, fearing the safety of students. Since it''s a sensitive topic, everyone would support her undoubtedly. Including parents, media, public and law!


    However, the success and failure depended on Wang Shi as she could only temporarily take the school under the ministry''s control.


    Since four founding members were influential figures, and the school had been a money minting machine for them, they would never let it slip from their hands and will try to dust off the matter by letting Yang''s be dismissed from the management and the principal to resign.


    Whether they were involved was debatable, but Suyin has decided to set this incident as an example for all the schools and make them double-take their stance on corporal punishment and biased behavior of teachers.


    To make it permanent, Wang Shi had to use his power to force all the founding members to surrender it willingly. And how will he do that?


    Simple!


    He just has to destroy Yang''s business to scare the other founding members. It won''t be rocket science to guess how Yang''s business tumbled overnight but without evidence no one will say a word to not bring the wrath of Feng''s, R-Tech, and People''s group.


    Wang Shi walked holding the document and raised his phone up. [You''ve a scary mind. How did you get these statements?]


    for visiting.


    Suyin smiled and typed, [I didn''t. My interns showed teamwork and asked around the kids and teachers to collect more evidence.] Brimming with a proud smile, she showed him the message.


    "Sir," Daiyu knocked, hinting him everything''s ready.


    Wang Shi typed the last message, [If he wakes up, feed him something. I''ll ask the chef to cook something for you both.]


    [No need. Since he can''t chew as the sound will amplify and irritate him, I''ll make herbed porridge. You''ve a kitchen here; send nurse Miya to help me.]


    He nodded and leaned to give a kiss to his son sleeping on Suyin''s shoulder. Unintentionally, his cheeks brushed with Suyin''s sending a wave of electricity into her, turning her into a mannequin.


    He mouthed, [Bye]


    Suyin smiled at his departing back and touched her cheek where the remnants of his touch was still lingering.


    ******


    While the city was sleeping, Wang Shi pushed Yang''s family into the dark abyss. They were into the antique industry and involved many trades that were definitely not legal. Trading fake antiques, hiring grave diggers to find antiques and smuggling were few of the underhanded methods of their business.


    Wang Shi made a phone call to one of his acquaintance who was the director at the national museum and informed him about the consignment containing an ancient vase, a painting and jewelry from the Tang dynasty, ready to depart from the dockyard.


    He mailed him the details of the ship and the company involved along with other findings. Director pushed to his feet and took immediate action, knowing the call was from Wang Shi.


    "Good job, Daiyu," Wang Shi praised.


    In the Yang Family villa,


    "What? How did police find out about our consignment?" Yang Xiu yelled at someone on the phone.


    A servant came, "Sir, police have barged into our showroom along with experts from the National Museum. They are verifying every product. Including the one in the warehouse."


    "Ah Xiu, dad called just now," Yang Xiu''s wife came running. "The officials from the tax department have come for a surprise check. They have found some evidence on tax evasion." Even her maternal family was in trouble.


    Phones started ringing non-stop


    "Bastard? Tell me what you have done?" his father rushed out from his bedroom holding a ringing phone. "There is no way this is happening coincidently. Who have you offended this time?"


    Yang Xiu gave a look to his wife as she happens to understand everything and lower her head.


    "Look what you''ve done. I''m doomed because of your idiot wife," Everyone looked at the door as principal Yi entered in his pajamas, scowling down at Yang Xiu and his wife. "They arrest my son in country H for accepting bribes."


    "SHUT UP, you old man. Your son must be corrupt. Don''t blame us."


    The principal started laughing like a mad at Yang Xiu''s wife''s words. "Look who is calling the kettle black!? Looking at your face, I''m sure your condition is worse than mine. Now, do you understand the power of Wang Shi? We all know it''s him who did this, but we can''t support our statement. Can we?"


    "Dr. Wang Shi? Do you mean President''s son? Why is he targeting us?" Old man Yang asked.


    "Ask your daughter-in-law who first slapped his son and then acted cocky in front of Feng Jianyu, XM, and Wang Shi. Even your own son supported his idiot wife."


    "WHAT?"


    ******


    Just like Wang Shi, Suyin was fast enough to reveal the news of what she witnessed during her visit to the Little Start International school, along with the statements and the audio proof.


    Though it was the nighttime, it became the breaking news. Not only she ignited discussions on the biased behavior of school owners but achieved her prime motive to bring attention to corporal punishment.


    All this while she kept Honey''s identity hidden and just included the news that the concerned child was left with perforated ear-drum, yet the founding members tried to justify their actions.


    On her orders, Long Tao wrote a post on the official Weibo stating Zhao Suyin''s intention of taking over the school management under the ministry because of biasness of the founding members and the Principal, and their justification on corporal punishment.


    Her interns shared the post among their friends and relatives. Somewhere they were proud and happy that Suyin involved them in this case.


    It enraged people when they hear the recording, and a series of never-ending negative comments started pouring.


    Suyin kissed Honey''s cheek. "Little Fairy, I won''t let this slap go waste."

 Chapter 79: Pinky promise

    "Little fairy, look what''s for dinner. Herbed porridge with cheese!"


    As if waiting for the golden time, the moment Honey stirred in her arms, Suyin woke him up and made him sit on her lap. Though she hated herself for doing this with a sleeping and sick kid, she can''t let him be empty stomach.


    Seeing his adorable face with lips jutted out, accusing her for the world''s biggest crime, she couldn''t hold back from teasing him. "Little fairy, don''t give me this look, you are tempting me to marry you."


    Honey "."


    "Muahhh. You look so adorable. I''ll eat you up. How are you feeling now?"


    "Where are Yuyu and Lan? What about dad?" wiping his wet cheek, he looked around but other than Nurse Miya who was setting the table for them he didn''t find any. He waved a hand at Nurse Miya to greet her.


    "Yuyu and Lan went home. And before you ask, Yuyu is absolutely fine. Your dad had some urgent work, so he went out." She blew air on the spooned porridge and bring it to his lips but he avoided it.


    She put the spoon down. "What happened baby, don''t want to eat? Trust me, the porridge is delicious, try it once. Or you can tell me if you want to eat something else?"


    Seeing him fidgeting with his hands and not saying a word, Suyin excused Nurse Miya from the room. "If you want to say something, you can tell me. I promise it will be our secret."


    He looked up, "Promise?"


    "Pinky promise."


    She patiently waited for him to say something..


    "Was he disappointed at me? Trust me, it didn''t hurt even a tiny bit. I was not in pain. There was no need for him to trouble himself and come to school."


    "Honey, sweetie," lifting she straddled him on her lap to have a face-to-face conversation. "Stop saying it didn''t hurt. Don''t forget your dad is a doctor, he knows how much pain an injury can cause. And second, by hiding your problems, you are hurting him more. Today he must have felt himself as a failed father."


    "No, he''s not. He''s the best,"


    "Really? Then why is he not worthy to hear your problems? Do you think he''s not as good as Yuyu and Lan''s dad?"


    "My dad is best, without a doubt. Don''t make me repeat." Suyin raised her hands when he pointed his finger in anger and nodded like a pecking chicken to coax him. "I just want to help him. Can''t I?"


    Suyin knows he wanted to say something more, his inhibitions has some other reasons as well but he was still not comfortable to open up to her completely. But at least, he started talking. it was more than enough.


    She squeezed him and laughed, "My little fairy, the best way to help him is to take care of your health, eat lots of food, play, study, and TELL ALL YOUR PROBLEMS. Your dad is powerful like superman..let him show his powers and bully the ones who bullied his son. You know he is furious at that teacher and went to teach her a lesson."


    He giggled, much to Suyin''s amusement. "I saw her face when Aunty Mei and you gave her three slaps each. It was funny! Even the man beside her was making funny faces by pushing his eyes out..... I''m sure they won''t be able to handle dad''s anger. He''s hell scary when he gets angry."


    ''So he was awake when she slapped the teacher and lectured her? Is this the reason behind his changed behavior towards her?''


    "Well I''m scary too. Didn''t you notice the power of my muscles?"


    He squeezed her non-existent biceps, "Hmm.. nothing like my dad, but you''re strong. How much do you eat in a day?"


    "How much do I eat, huh? Let me show you." she poked his waist to tickle him and he let out a shrill and squirmed.


    "Oww No, don''t. Oww Ahhh hahaha. No please HAHAHAHAHA."


    "Hahahahaha. Ah, my little fairy Why you are such a beauty? I''ll take you home. Muahhh muahhhh"


    "Hey" he put her palms at her pouted lips, "Stop taking advantage,"


    "Bummer," She snorts and picked the porridge bowl, "Say Aaaa."


    After feeding him two full bowls, she didn''t take him back to sleep and waited to let him digest. "Little fairy Didn''t you say you want to help your dad? I know how you could do that."


    "How?" he beamed.


    She whispered something, and he moved back. "No. That''s a terrible idea. How can it be a help? No never"


    "Up to you. If you don''t do this it will only increase his workload. And this is the only way with which you can make him realize he does not failed as a father."


    Though he replied nothing, Suyin was eighty percent sure; Honey will do as she said.


    With no further communication, she feeds him the next dose of medicine and took him to the lounge. Seeing the bed, he rushed and settled back on to the couch. "I''m not sleepy."


    Suyin smiled. The actual reason he''s not sleeping had been the constant ringing and heaviness in ears which he felt after lying down. Sleeping on her shoulder was much more comfortable, but his mountain size pride was prohibiting him from asking her.


    "No problem. I''ll accompany you." she thumped on the couch.


    Hardly after ten minutes, Honey fell on her shoulder and she picked him back into her arms.


    *****


    Wang Shi walked in, muffling his footsteps to not disturb Suyin or Honey''s sleep. But to his horror he saw a half-asleep Suyin sitting on the couch holding Honey on her shoulder. Patting his back.


    for visiting.


    His eyes caught the attention of the casserole, and a bowl kept on the table in front. Just to make sure, he lifted the lid of the casserole and found it almost full. Only the small bowl had some remnants of food sticking around.


    He sighed.


    She fed Honey, but herself ate nothing.


    "When did you come?" Suyin stifled a yawn.


    "Just now," He took the casserole in the lounge to reheat the porridge and returned with a spoon. "Let''s eat something first,"


    It dumbfounded Suyin seeing him holding a spoon against her lips. Was he going to feed her?


    "You didn''t ask about Honey?"


    "I don''t have to. He was under the care of the ''best''"


    Suyin ""


    ''This is a dream. Go back to sleep.''

 Chapter 80: With her saliva, DNA and mouth bacteria on it!

    Wang Shi snapped his fingers to get her attention. "What are you thinking? Open your mouth."


    "Oh!"


    Taking a deep breath, she consciously relaxed to relish the opportunity. It won''t come again. With the first bite, she felt proud of her cooking. The porridge was delicious even better than other times she made it.


    "Ah, is everything settled?" she asked.


    "Yup. People''s group is the new owner of the Little star International Schools all over the country."


    Startled, she blinked. He said it so casually, as if instead of shedding millions of Yuans he had bought some vegetables while returning from the office.


    She had only suggested him to get the management rights transferred but let them retain the ownership. But alas, he bought the entire group.


    Unaware to her, he didn''t do much as Suyin''s masterstroke pushed the remaining founding members into a panic and they contacted Wang Shi to apologize after learning about the incident from the Principal.


    It was then Wang Shi offered 75% of the market price to buy the little star group. 20% less because his son suffered and the rest 5% adjusting its price to the incident.


    Despite their reluctance, they sold the group as the odds were completely against them. On one side it was the President''s son, while on the other the matter was witnessed by none other than Zhao Suyin. They''ve seen what she had done to the Qi group and Hui Guozhi. Their reputation was hit badly after the press conference.


    "It was unnecessary."


    "It was on my mind to spread the People''s group to the education sector, but my busy schedule delayed it." His words enlighten her; taking off the burden, he didn''t do it under her influence. "Though my team will handle things from here on, you can go ahead with the plan and use it as an example to change the rules of corporal punishment and unbiasness."


    "Thank you. I promise not to disappoint you." accepting another bite she said, and he smiled, spooning another bite for her. "Heyyyy..Don''t feed me all. Keep half for yourself. I know you''ve not eaten anything."


    "Suy."


    "I''m deaf. Sleepy. Tired. You''re disturbing me and my little fairy. Go away Shoo."


    ""


    He can never reason with her, ah!


    The spoon dropped back into the bowl and he moved to the other couch to eat the rest of the porridge.


    Suyin peeked with one eye to make sure he''s eating the other half, but her eyes flew open. Blushing was a small word as what happened to her cheeks was they turned as red as clowns''. Wang Shi didn''t bother to get another spoon and was eating with the same spoon as hers.


    With her saliva, DNA and mouth bacteria on it!


    Isn''t it done between couples?


    Isn''t it a way of sharing a kiss?


    Why he didn''t get another spoon? Don''t tell me he''s that lazy!


    So shameful!


    for visiting.


    "Aren''t you sleepy now?" she heard his gruff voice and shut her eyes in panic.


    ''I saw nothing. I saw nothing.''


    She wished for a Scooby-Doo style trapdoor in the floor to jump in it with Honey. But sadly, there was no rescue; she had to endure this torture. Argh this memory would be seared into her brain forever.


    *******


    The next day she woke up feeling light with no soreness in her arms she has expected to get after holding Honey for the entire night.


    No, wait! She''s light because there''s no Honey in her arms.


    She jolted and looked down on the floor first, thinking she dropped him in her sleep.


    "I''m here,"


    Her head snapped to the right. The little fairy was awake and sitting next to her, playing a game on her phone. Such a cutie from the surface, but a devil from inside!


    "How did you unlock my phone?"


    "You sleep like a log. I lifted your finger, touched the finger-print sensor and bam But I can tell you are an ancient woman who doesn''t know the ABCD of technology. What a mess it was!?"


    "Was?"


    "I fixed and organized everything in it."


    "Oiiii." She picked him and kissed his nose, "My little fairy. You''re so cute Muahh muahh. Thank you for solving my biggest problem."


    ''Kids these days are sure intelligent!''


    His face crumbled, as he wiped his wet cheeks and nose, "Yukk The first thing you did in the morning is to take advantage of a man."


    "When the man is so cute, only a fool will let go of the opportunity." Finding him adorable, she pushed his hair from forehead.


    "For God''s sake, don''t start fighting now. It''s a request." Before Honey and Suyin could start another round of bickering, Wang Shi pushed himself up and warned his personal Tom and Jerry.


    Just like them he too slept on the couch.


    ... on a different couch.


    To guard them??


    Naah!


    To prevent Suyin and Honey from kicking the blanket. They share this horrible habit and kept him on toes for the major part of the night.


    "Dad, what''s with dark circles?"


    "Don''t ask." Wang Shi picked Honey to examine him. He could tell he was feeling a lot better, and had slept peacefully.


    "You guys talk, I have got a meeting to attend." Suyin tied her long hair into a messy bun before putting her contacts on.


    Wang Shi, "Go after eating breakfast."


    "Nope," She walked and bends down pretending to kiss Honey''s cheek but whispered, "Show me you''re a real man and your dad is just as best as Yuyu and Lan''s." she still kissed, taking advantage of him giving looks to her.


    "Good-Bye, Dr. Wang. I''m not going to be the light bulb in between a man-to-man conversation." Swinging her bag, she walked off leaving behind a father confused and a son in a very difficult situation.


    Wang Shi''s raised brows made Honey sigh. Making a talk when you''ve never done it before is difficult, but if this makes his dad happy, he''ll do it. "Dad, I want to tell you something."


    "Sure, son. Let''s have a man to man conversation as Suyin mentioned." he strode to his luxurious desk and made Honey sit over it while he took his swivel chair. "Let''s start."


    "A-At the beginning of the session a group of four students used to pass bad comments on me." unlike other kids, he maintained eye contact with his father, "They just never stopped. Every time I pass, they had to comment. At first, I ignored, but it turned uglier and got extended to physical bullying."


    "Aunty Mei once said that one should retaliate if someone bullies otherwise people take it as your weakness. So I beat the two of them and warned to keep their mouth shut. But.after that day, they tagged me as a school bully and warned other kids to stay away."


    "Not that I mind, but it affected Yuyu and Lan too as no one wants to befriend them. It''s true I want boys to stay away, but friendship with girls is fine. Anyway, coming back to bullying. When the Yang boys took admission, they joined the group. Taking advantage of their mother''s position, they started poking me every time they see me and pass the same comments."


    Wang Shi''s brows furrowed, "What comments?"

 Chapter 81: Evil glint

    Wang Shi''s brows furrowed, "What comments?"


    "You know everything,"


    Wang Shi frowned, ''No, he doesn''t. Why is saying that?''


    He pretended, "I want to hear from you,"


    This time Honey''s eyes lowered, "Bad words,"


    "What bad words?"


    "Is it important?"


    "Very,"


    Honey pulled his lower lip in, "T-That my mother abandoned me because I''m a wild child."


    Wang Shi fought the urge to slam his fist on the table, but it would only scare Honey.


    He pulled his swivel chair forward and cupped Honey''s small face. "You are my baby, my life, my heartbeat, and my everything. Don''t forget there are people in the world who loves you unconditionally, and it''s only there words that matter, okay? Don''t let the words of unimportant people affect you. And never call yourself a wild child. You were never one."


    He jumped and went to sit in Wang Shi''s lap.


    "I want to tell you something more."


    "Right, tell me the name of the student who started the rumor?"


    These types of rumors are not common, especially when everything about Honey had been kept confidential. If this has come out, it can only happen from someone who knows something. Wang Shi had an idea, but he wanted to get it confirmed.


    "Yes, that''s what I want to tell you. Aunty Suyin told me you are investigating very hard to know the name of the person who started everything. And because of this, you''re stressed."


    A realization struck Wang Shi. So this was how Suyin coaxed Honey to talk to him. Knowing he could never see his father in a stressful situation, she made up a story. Cunning but effective.


    And what was that???


    Aunty Suyin!?!?!?


    When did she become Aunty from Weird Duck?


    These two..... He shook his head. "Then tell me."


    "It''s Wang Nan."


    "But Wang Nan doesn''t study in your school."


    "He''s a friend with those four boys. They go to the same sports complex to play basketball. I once hear them talking about it."


    When Wang Shi didn''t reply, Honey looked up but saw him smiling with an evil glint. "Dad, why does it seem you are up to something?"


    Instead of getting a reply, he got a pat on the head. "Thank you for letting me know his name. You''ve no idea how big of a help it was. I''m so happy that I want to pull your cheeks." He did exactly that, annoying Honey.


    *****


    After breakfast, Wang Shi asked Honey to play in the office, but he decided to eat Daiyu''s brain and forced him to teach hacking.


    Poor Daiyu!


    Seeing Honey busy with Daiyu, Wang Shi walked to the balcony to make a phone call.


    "Tell grandpa, Honey and I are coming for dinner."


    [Young master and little master are coming for dinner]


    He heard the butler announcing it, and what followed was the exciting noises and shuffling.


    ******


    As Suyin stepped in her office the expected interns were standing, waiting to hear some words. Probably praises. Each of them had dark circles, yet their eyes shone in anticipation.


    "Superb job, team." She''s not a stingy mentor who will disappoint her interns. "You. Made. Me. Proud. As a reward, you all receive +5 points and a letter of appreciation confirming your contribution to the case. You can add this to your resume."


    She continued walking and heard a celebratory shriek from behind.


    Kids!


    As she pushed the door to her office, Chen Wenwei was waiting for her already.


    "Hey. Did I make you wait?"


    Chen Wenwei glanced at her watch, "Seven minutes and four seconds."


    "That''s more than enough to drink a cup of coffee and re-apply the lipstick."


    They both laughed as Suyin take off her blazer and hang it on the coat-stand.


    "Tell me how Qi Wren embarrassed himself."


    "By walking with a hickey in front of me in the name of a meeting. Can''t believe you were married to him once."


    "I know even I wonder the same."


    Chen Wenwei carefully looked at Suyin''s black dress that had been common every time they had met. Only the color of the blazer changes.


    Suyin pointed at her boobs. "I know they are attractive, but yours are nothing less. 36 A! Now give me the money. I''ve to buy groceries."


    "36B it is. And besides, I was looking at your black dress. It''s always the same." Chen Wenwei slides the check Qi Wren gave her. "I saw the news tomorrow. How do you manage to bring attention to such ignored topics? Corporal Punishment and unbiasness! Ouch!"


    "First, this is my uniform. I don''t have the strength to battle with the choice of clothes every morning. Second, I don''t look for topics but they look for me instead. You are following this case. Send a legal notice to Yang Xiu, his wife, and the principal. I want maximum punishment. And the ministry is taking over the management of the school, handle the legalities."


    "Already on it." Chen Wenwei studied her face. Not even once she asked about their conversation with Qi Wren, "Don''t you want to know what Qi Wren had said?"


    "Let me guess" Suyin rubbed her chin, "He had asked for a meeting with me?"


    "Will you go?"


    "Only if I have the mood to piss me off. Which I don''t. Rest assured, sooner or later it''s bound to happen." Suyin shrugged and passed a paper. "I''m signing this project with People''s group. These are the exclusive terms and conditions between me and Dr. Wang. Ministry has nothing to do with it. Form a separate contract."


    As Chen Wenwei extended her hand to accept the document so Suyin didn''t let it go. "You doubt I''ll leak this info."


    "This contains one of my biggest secrets. If I''m entrusting you with it, you better not let it out."


    Chen Wenwei looked through it and gasped, "You are the famous Zz!???? I heard it from one of my surgeon friends."


    for visiting.


    "Pretend you know nothing." She got herself busy in the day''s work. "Please do it ASAP. We are signing this contract this week."


    After Chen Wenwei left, Suyin pressed the intercom, "Assistant Long, come in."


    Barely a minute later Long Tao knocked and entered, "Mam."


    "Did you get the information?"


    "Yes, mam. It''s confirmed Qi Wren and his wife are attending the art event. They are one of the VIP''s."


    "You may go."


    Her mischievous smile that followed sends a shiver run down his spine, confirming she''s up to no good.


    ******

 Chapter 82: Dynamic Ninja

    "Where are we going, dad?" Gazing outside the window Honey asked the fifth time and received a pat in response an equal number of times.


    Hell!


    What does this mean?


    They were on this lonely road for an hour but neither the destination was coming nor Wang Shi was revealing the suspense.


    Honey sunk into the leather seat with fluffed cheeks. Looking as adorable as ever!


    Wang Shi cast a glance and poked one of his cheeks, "because of ''these'' Suyin gives you so many kisses."


    "You also need kisses?" he cocked his head, "try doing this in front of her. At least she would spare me."


    Wang Shi "."


    "No, thanks."


    Slowly the roads ahead turned wider, welcoming them with a row of lush green trees on both sides. Honey craned his neck as things turned familiar. "No! Don''t tell me we are here to meet great-grandfather."


    He whined. Not like he hates his great-grandfather, but he doesn''t like the two cousins living in the house with him.


    "Yes, we are." Wang Shi drove the car into the white gates of the oriental-style house with dragon roofs. Uniformed guards make the salute and returned to their duty. The duty to guard the house of the former president of the country!


    "Welcome home Young Master," The housekeeper of the house opened the car''s door and bowed.


    "Uncle Mo. Long time it is. How are you?"


    "With the grace of Buddha and elder master, healthy and thriving. Thank you." His eyes beamed seeing Honey in the passenger seat. Taking a jog around the bonnet, he opened the door. "Little master, welcome home."


    The housekeeper was the old man, working in the house even after his retirement and was respected by everyone. Though Honey doesn''t like this surprise visit, he gets down and gave a ninety-degree bow to the man. "Grandpa Mo,"


    "Oh, Little master, you are so adorable. Let''s go in, the elder master is waiting for you." Housekeeper Mo was overcome by emotions. He grabbed Honey''s small palm in his large wrinkled ones and directed him in.


    Elder Wang had been informed of their arrival, however, he had been waiting in the living room since Wang Shi call. His eldest great-grandson Wang Nan kept him company by playing a few rounds of ''Go''


    "Hey my, Little one, come to this old man." While sitting on the couch the jubilant elder spread his arms and Honey walked into, ignoring the tall-boy sitting on the other side of the game. His cousin Wang Nan!


    "GG,"


    "Ah, it''s been a while someone has called me with this name!" speaking Great-grandfather was tedious and difficult for Honey, especially when he was younger. His cousins used to make fun of his pronunciation.


    While learning the alphabets, his mind came up with this idea to solve the problem. GG! Great-grandfather! Easy peasy!


    "What happened to your ear?" caressing a thumb at Honey''s soft cheeks though he questioned him, his eyes looked at Wang Shi. But before he could get a reply from him, Honey''s sweet voice sounded.


    "Nothing serious. Some minions tried to mess with me; I and dad handled them well." What Elder Wang failed to see was the clash of eyes between Honey and Wang Nan, standing next to him.


    Wang Nan, "Hey shorty, it''s been a while. How are you?"


    Elder Wang snorts, "Nan, do I have to remind you every time not to call him short?"


    "It''s okay GG. I''m confident about my genes. This is temporary." While saying he winked at Wang Shi. "But I think it''s the cousin who should worry more as I''m a dynamic ninja at the perfect height whose wave of the fist can become a punch in someone''s D."


    "YOU."


    "Nan, you should not tease your cousin like this." Wang Chuzhi walked in from the entrance and chided his son. "Don''t forget you are thirteen, much older to Honey. Treat him well." His attention changed to Wang Shi. "Brother Shi, you should come here often to let these two brothers bond. Just like us."


    Wang Shi went along and nodded, greeting his young cousin with a shake of the hand.


    Just like us? When did that happen? Blatant lie in front of kids!


    Wang Chuzhi and Wang Shi are paternal cousins while Feng''s are his cousins from the mother''s side. It''s not a secret that Wang Shi was closest to Fengs and so as Honey, who loves Feng Jianyu''s daughters but barely endure his two other cousins.


    "Grandfather, I''ve something important to discuss with you." Wang Shi adjusted the sleeves of his shirt and stood up.


    Elder Wang, "Let''s discuss it in the study. Even I want to talk about something important."


    "Honey," Wang Shi called and get down to his knees to talk to his son. "Will you be okay? Promise it won''t take long. But still, if you want to come."


    Honey leaned on Wang Shi''s shoulder to whisper, "I know you are worried because of last incident. But I''m a brave man now, and Aunty Mei''s magical watch is with me. I''ll ping you if I need help."


    It was at New Year''s dinner last year; Wang Nan played a dirty prank at Honey and tricked him to the dark and dirty storeroom. To worse, he put the lock at the door and pretended as if he knew nothing.


    Later, when Wang Shi realized Honey was missing and ordered the house search, the servants failed as the door to the storeroom was locked. It was only after checking the security footage he came to know Honey was last seen with Wang Nan.


    On confronting, he confessed.


    When the Honey was pulled out of the storeroom, he was unconscious. The dreary place with insects and cobwebs scared the poor child.


    That was the last day Wang Shi and Honey came to the old manor.


    Ruffling Honey''s hair, Wang Shi got up. He helped elder Wang to his wheelchair and pushed it to the study.


    for visiting.


    Though a little uneasy in heart, he was sure Honey won''t let himself be tricked for the second time. But even so, he made a secret gesture to Butler Mo to take care of Honey.


    Wang Chuzhi frowned. He had a feeling of premonition but neither could he ask the reason of their discussion not he could stop them. "Nan, where are your mother and sister?"


    "Mother went to shopping, and sister accompanied grandmom to a doctor. They''ll be back by dinner."


    Wang Chuzhi gnashed his teeth in annoyance. He had told his wife to stay at home when Wang Shi comes, but shopping seems more important to her. Does she not know they were walking on thin ice until the old man transfers Wang Industries to him?


    "Hey, shorty, want to play a game?" Honey was still pondering how to kill time when Wang Nan asked. Ignoring him, he settled on the couch and picked the ancient book his grandfather must be reading currently. ''Attacks and Defences of Go''!


    Wang Chuzhi ignored the kids and went to his room. He hoped his son could crush this bastard child.


    Feeling humiliated, Wang Nan sneered. "It''s a game of geniuses. Leave it. You better read fairy-tales. Oops we don''t have such book in the house!"

 Chapter 83: shes like.

    Honey remained silent and didn''t bother to look up from the book.


    Wang Nan, "Acting arrogant, huh? How about a match?"


    Honey rolled his eyes while keeping his eyes at the book. This fly was constantly buzzing him and he can''t swat it away. Life sure throws lemons sometimes!


    Determined, Wang Nan set the game and took the seat. "The loser will know-tow three times.. In front of the entire family and the servants. How about this now?"


    Housekeeper Mo clutched his chest. Wang Nan was the national champion in ''Go''. There''s no way Honey could defeat him. He tried to pick the wooden board of the game, "Master Nan, let''s not force little master. He''s just a child. I''ll wrap it for you."


    *SPAK*


    "Stupid servant," Wang Nan slapped away Housekeeper Mo''s hand. "Don''t you know how expensive this hand-carved wooden board is? Each of the stones is made of jade. People like you should never touch precious things like these. It''s only for aristocrats."


    Housekeeper Mo was used to Wang Nan''s snobby behavior. Right now all he cares was not to let Honey be bullied.


    However


    "Let''s play." His soul flew away when Honey took the seat across Wang Nan. "But if I win, you would know-tow three times in front of grandpa Mo and apologize." He gave a smile to the anxious old man before returning to his old indifferent self. "Do you dare? If not, I''ll look down upon you."


    Wang Nan''s expression darkened, "Done. But let me tell you, I''m the National Champion. You better not cry in your daddy''s arms later, SHORTYY."


    ******


    In the study room,


    Wang Shi helped Elder Wang to his favorite king chair near the fireplace and took the one opposite him.


    "Before you start, let me ask" Elder Wang adjusted the shawl on his legs. "Was Honey hurt because of Nan?"


    "I''m sure your resources have informed you everything by now."


    "This kid."


    "Kid? This only happens under the influence of parents. Kids don''t have the mind to the scheme. Everyone in the family knows Honey is sensitive to this topic, yet they used it as a weapon to crush his confidence. Should I tell you what the reason behind it is?"


    Elder Wang was tongue-tied. He knew he did it at the instigation of Chuzhi to kill Honey''s chance to get the company.


    "It''s your fault. I had asked you many times to take over Wang industries but all you did was to start People''s group in collaboration with Feng Jianyu. Don''t you have any responsibility towards the company built by your grand-mom?"


    He''s still concerned for the company, as it was the result of his beloved wife''s hard work. When he decided to give full time into politics, she stepped into his shoes to handle the family business and later expanded it exponentially.


    "I''ve fully acquired the People''s group from Feng Jianyu already. My hands are full, I can''t handle Wang Industries. Give it to your other grandson (Wang Chuzhi) and spare me."


    Elder Wang banged his walking stick in rage, "Give it to him and see the company return to ruin just how his father (Wang Chuzhi''s father) did it years back!?!? If you don''t want it, I''ll give it to Honey. You just manage till he reaches the age."


    After the death of his wife, he divided the company equally between his two sons, Wang Huang (Wang Shi''s father) and Wang Bo (Wang Chuzhi''s father).


    However, Wang Bo lost his share of the company in gambling. Before he could be confronted, they found him dead in the bathtub. Heavily drunk!


    It was only because of Wang Huang''s hard work that the company survived the heavy blow. Technically, the company belongs only to Wang Shi as Wang Bo had lost his share already, but Wang Chuzhi was seeking another division if not the entire company.


    "Calm down, you''re not of the age where you could afford to get angry," Wang Shi passed a glass of water, "second, don''t drag Honey into this mess. He''s just a kid; don''t make him the target of these schemes."


    "Fine. I''ll give a small part of it to Chouzhi. It will be enough for him to continue to maintain his lifestyle. But you''ve to merge the rest of the company with the People''s Group."


    Wang Shi pinched his glabella. Why the old people are so difficult to reason with?


    "Grandpa, sometimes it''s best to let things go. Weather Chouzhi will ruin it or not. that''s up to him. You are already ninety-one; don''t make my life miserable before you depart."


    "YOU" Elder Wang huffed, "You cursed me!"


    "I just reminded you a brutal truth."


    Wang Shi looked at his watch. Dinner time it was.


    "Do whatever you want. I won''t give this company to anyone else other than you. My will is signed already; you better respect it after my death." He panted and slapped Wang Shi''s hand when he tried to help him on to the wheelchair. "Promise me first"


    "I promise,"


    Elder Wang frowned at how easily it was done. Before he could react, he was seated at the wheelchair already. "R-Really you promised?"


    "Yes. I promise to respect your will." He said while pushing the wheelchair, "And I promise to transfer everything to Chouzhi within an hour."


    ""


    Elder Wang instantly pressed the button to stop the wheelchair and look offended when Wang Shi raised his brows. "Why? Will you haunt me after death?"


    "After death, my time is for your granny. But..I''ve nine years remaining. In this time I''ll surely haunt you to the extent you''ll be forced to accept everything." He spoke after a while. "There''s one more way. get married."


    ""


    "GRANDPAAAAA.."


    "I''ve found a perfect match. She''s young, beautiful, and intelligent. Her family background is good as well, and the best part is she adores kids. I think you should consider.. Why. Are. You. Giving. Me. That. Look?"


    "If you like her so much then please marry and surprise grandma after death." The reply came.


    ".."


    "Just meet her once. She''s very successful. I''m sure my choice won''t disappoint you."


    "Glad you like her. My blessings for the fresh start,"


    "You punk Tell me if there''s a woman you like? I''ll support you," Elder Wang held Wang Shi''s hand and looked emotional, "Shishi, it''s not only about business, but I really want to see you settled. You have got a long life ahead. Let someone share your burden." Saying he placed a photograph in his hand.


    He grabbed the photo and tore it into two. "Let''s get done with this dinner. I''m tired." Closing his eyes, he forced himself to calm down. Can''t believe his grandfather dragged the topic to marriage!


    No woman can ever accept someone else''s child unless she''s like..


    she''s like.


    like.


    The picture that flashed in front of his eyes was of.....


    Suyin!?


    for visiting.


    Suyin!


    ******

 Chapter 84: Attack and defense

    Readers were confused in the last chapter if the photograph given by the old man was of Suyin or Wang Shi thought about her. Well. Wang Shi thought about her.


    I won''t say anything about the woman in the picture. Anyway, he tore the photograph already.


    ********


    Black stone 59th move, 6th point vertically, 9th point horizontally.


    Wang Nan smirked at his smart move, ''I''ve occupied the star points. There''s no way this kid could defeat me.''


    "I''m surprised you know how to play this! And I must say you''re a skillful player." Though Wang Nan doesn''t like Honey (credit goes to his father''s instigation), he was not stingy to praise Honey''s skills.


    Being a crazy ''Go'' lover and a national champion, any other player who displays exceptional skill in this game of mind was worthy of his respect. Even if it''s an enemy, he won''t shy to learn and appreciate his skills.


    Without a change in expression, Honey pressed a little white stone between his own little fingers and placed it on the board.


    "What? How did." shocked, he can''t break through Honey''s strong defense and found himself cornered, "How come I didn''t notice I was surrounded from behind? When did you do that?"


    "Be a man! Kow-tow!"


    "First tell me how did you do that? What strategy did you use?" While looking at Honey''s stones, he tried to decipher but failed. Just like chess, no one can cheat in a game of Go. So this was definitely a new strategy!


    "All you did was attack, but I attacked and defended both. A king should always have an exit plan ready to leave if the situation turns unfavorable. This way, he could attack the enemy again, with a different strategy. Now, kow-tow."


    "Leave a way out and take a step back if you find yourself trapped and attack again! Woww.." Wang Nan stared down at the board. He was a better player without a doubt, but Honey was a strategist that gave him the upper hand. "Where did you learn it from? What else strategy do you have?"


    "KOW-TOW!"


    "Will you tell me after that?"


    Honey frowned, "I won''t repeat."


    Wang Nan earnestly stood up and kow-tow thrice to the old housekeeper, shocking everyone in the house.


    What just happened? Has this snobby master lost his mind?


    Though it was not done sincerely, the housekeeper nodded seeing Wang Nan''s pleading eyes. Bringing him to his knees was already more than enough.


    "Now will you tell me everything?" like a kid expecting a reward, Wang Nan moved back to Honey''s side. However, this little master was famous for his temper and coldness who would only speak to the person he wants. Everyone else may go to hell!


    Elder Wang saw the scene unfold. "Did you see that? That''s the reason I want the company to be passed onto Honey. Such a genius my little one is."


    Wang Shi didn''t reply, wondering from where Honey learned this trick. According to his knowledge, he learned this game from the butler of the house. But this thought process behind the game was definitely not butlers''.


    Sigh. He''d ask him later.


    *****


    At the dinner table, the atmosphere seemed harmonious, but everyone knows it was not. Wang Chuzhi''s wife, daughter, and mother had returned.


    "Bother Wang Shi," Tang Wenyi took the seat next to Wang Chuzhi. Though she doesn''t want to be at the dinner table with them, she had to put up a facade in front of Elder Wang.


    Wang Shi acknowledged her by a mere nod but gave a warm smile to his aunt, Sima Yong, who returned the gesture with a smile of her own. "Is everything fine at home, Shishi?"


    "Yes. Thank you. How is the pain in your joints? Did you see the doctor I suggested?"


    "En, I''m using the oil and medicine prescribed by him. It''s much better now." Her gaze faltered between Honey and Wang Shi, and then at her own granddaughter next to her. "Yeping, won''t you greet your uncle and brother,"


    Young Yeping of just eight; first looked at her parents, then at her brother. Getting a zero response, she pursed her lips. "H-Hello,"


    She does not despise Wang Shi and Honey like his parents and brother. But the petty girl was scared to bring their wrath on her and had always maintained a distance. As far as Honey was concerned, he was still irked because it was she who lured him into the storeroom last time.


    Least he knew his elder brother had threatened her.


    At that time Wang Shi''s phone rang. Instead of excusing himself, he answered it. "Tell me okay okay yes, expel all four. Make sure they don''t get admission in Imperial City. Find out the source of this rumor. I''m not going to leave anyone. Ask around the sports complex. This instigator will receive the worse ever punishment."


    "Cough cough" Wang Nan choked on food. Even Wang Chuzhi understood the hidden meaning behind the call and shared a worried glance with his wife.


    Wang Shi passed his glass of water to Nan, acting indifferent. He patted Elder Wang''s thigh beneath the table, noticing he was about to bash at Nan.


    Though Sima Yong was oblivious, she could judge it was related to his son and grandson.


    *******


    After the dinner, Wang Shi was standing near the door while Honey received a bear hug from the elder.


    "Keep coming, sweet child. I miss you."


    "GG You can always video call me."


    Getting the opportunity Wang Nan sneaked and pulled Wang Shi''s sleeve in secret, pleading him to come out for a moment.


    for visiting.


    Wang Shi went to the back garden, followed by Nan.


    "I''m sorry, uncle." Nan comes straight to the point. "It was me who spread the rumor and instigated those four boys. Can you please not get me expelled? I''m selected for the next interschool basketball championship and the Asian tournament of Go in Singapore. Your action will debar me from both the events."

 Chapter 85: Call the fire-brigade, please!

    "Selfish! Still thinking about yourself! What about Honey? Have you ever thought about how he will handle this sensitive topic? You even hurt him physically." Wang Shi didn''t hide his anger or showed mercy.


    Wang Nan shook his head in panic, "I-I never asked them to hurt him physically. Why would I? I know the consequences. Trust me, it was only verbal. I even warned them not to go physical." It was only now he came to know Honey was targeted physically.


    "In any case, it was you who started it. Since my last time''s warning didn''t work, I''ve to take action this time."


    "Uncle Uncle, please Uncle, just one more chance please. Beat me, but don''t get me expelled."


    Wang Shi yanked Nan''s hand, turned to leave. If he turned soft, there would always be a third time, then fourth, and so on and Honey would keep suffering. A lesson is always taught hard-way!


    "Let him go, dad" Honey came there, holding hands with Sima Yong and rushed into his arm.


    "I don''t want to. Just let him learn a lesson, once."


    for visiting.


    "It''s not something I can''t handle. Consider this as his last chance. C''mon, dad just once." Wang Shi sighed as Honey removed his hand caressing his ears, "I''m fine! This is a small injury."


    He turned to face Wang Nan.


    "I''m letting you and your friends go this time. LAST TIME!"


    As he turned to leave Sima Yong expressed her sincere gratitude by caressing Honey''s face before she moved for her grandson, Nan.


    "Nan, no need to worry about your career!" She said, "The way you are progressing, it''s just a matter of time when there won''t be a career for you. At that moment, you can only blame yourself. Keep following your father''s advice. His advice will take you higher."


    Sima Yong knows her husband''s wrongdoings. If it was not for the Elder Wang and Wang Huang''s support, they would have been rotting somewhere in poverty. Sadly, instead of paying gratitude, all his son could think of was to snatch the Wang Industries.


    And now his grandson..


    Sigh


    ******


    While driving back, Wang Shi noticed Honey was in a good mood. He had switched off the air-cooling and had rolled down the window, enjoying the beautiful night view and cool breeze.


    "Forgive and forget, huh?"


    Honey supported his small head at his palm and looked sideways, receiving a chuckle in response at his cute gesture. "Forgive? I''m not Buddha. Forget? I don''t have a memory issue."


    "Then?"


    "C''mon dad..I saved myself from prospective trouble. If you had punished Nan, he would have surely come at me in the future. But not now! Hasn''t he said it would be his last time?"


    Wang Shi was surprised and pulled Honey''s soft cheek, "Smarty boy. when will you stop surprising me, huh? And how did you learn the tricks of Go?"


    "That." He dragged, joining the tips of fingers in guilt. "I saw it in Aunty Suyin''s phone. She had some amazing tricks about the game with examples and detailed information, so I just.."


    "You just."


    "I-I copied everything to your phone and later mugged it up to use it against the Butler Chu." He was tired of getting defeated by Butler Chu, it elated him when he saw the notes and can''t stop himself from taking them.


    "You copied without her permission?"


    "I-I returned the favor by letting her kiss me. Is this good enough?"


    ".."


    "No! In the next meeting tell her everything and apologize. This is wrong."


    "Okay. But then I''ll ask her to stop taking kisses as well."


    "."


    ''As if she''ll let that happen''


    *******


    The next day,


    "Wow just wow."


    "Omg."


    "My precious heart and my ovaries ouchhh!"


    "This male God is too much.."


    The next day Wang Shi went to Suyin''s office with a team of three to sign the contract. Letting go off his uniform, he was dressed in a blue suit and perfectly matched tie in maroon, receiving all king of stares from the man and woman on his way from the moment he got off the car.


    He had the charm that stops you in your tracks and forces you to take a second look. He was surely used to this attention to the extent it seems normal now. He was so modest with it; it made girls fall for him all the more.


    With a gentle yet accessing gaze, he followed Suyin''s assistant who came down to welcome him.


    Suyin was scrambling restlessly in her office. She was not afraid of the meeting but the man who was about to come.


    Argh she better keep herself in check!


    Wang Shi saw the direction board hanging above. "Mr. Long, let my team wait in the conference room, I''ve something important to discuss with Miss. Zhao."


    "Right sir," Suyin had already informed of him of the private meeting with Wang Shi. He knocked at Suyin''s office door. "Mam, Dr. Wang is here."


    Suyin, "Send him in. Make sure no one disturbs us."


    Leaving Wang Shi to Suyin, he escorted the rest of the team to the conference room.


    *****


    As he entered, Suyin made sure not to gulp and smile brightly but her smile froze and she gulped at the sight of Wang Shi wearing formals.


    Call the fire-brigade, please!


    "Hi," He flashed his charming smile, that simultaneously communicated, ''look I''m here, signing this deal with you''. "Don''t your office employees watch zoom TV?"


    His abrupt question brought her to senses, "Sorry?"


    "Yeaaa. They were gawking at me while I came here."


    She gestured him to the couch, "Mirror is in the washroom, take a look. Answer to your question will stare back."


    "Really?"


    "Stop acting innocent when you are not the one. Forget about my employees, I bet even Honey''s classmates and teachers will follow the trend." She passed the file containing her contract. "Check this. I will not negotiate on any point. Take it or leave it."


    "Looks like you are immune to all of this." He mumbled, looking at the T&C she mentioned. But Suyin rubbed her nose. He had no idea how she looks, thinks, and sees of him.


    Delicious meat dangling in front of the eyes!

 Chapter 86: Art events are boring. No they are not!

    "That''s it? You accepted the conditions just like that?"


    When Wang Shi signed the document without a word of discussion, Suyi couldn''t help asking before she accepted the document. However, he placed the document in front of her and picked the teacup she brewed for him.


    Her conditions were not difficult, leaving the Zz part where she had strictly cleared her stance of not revealing her identity, not to start a case discussion in front of a third person, and he could only reach out for her aka Zz in emergency cases subject to discussing it in private.


    Rest she asked for a personal office, flexible working hours with a maximum of 2 hours a day limit, unrestricted access for her assistant, and additional passes for the interns...were some of her conditions.


    "Suyin, do you know how difficult it is to understand you?" the frown that followed made him smile, "Who''s words it was- ''I will not negotiate on any point. Take it or leave it''? Now that I''ve taken your words for literally, you are questioning me!"


    "But." She let out a defeating sigh, "Right! It was a non-negotiable contract,"...but she wanted him to question, argue, or at least try the negotiating with her. He didn''t even bother to negotiate on the division of funds.


    "If you don''t like it, then we can negotiate on Zz. I''ll welcome you. I mean Zz with open arms."


    "NO!" she let out a panic reply, feeling shy of the use of the words ''open-arm''.


    "Oh, I forgot!" saying he took out an envelope and gave it to her. "Honey''s asked me to give you this."


    "Ah, Honey!"


    Grabbing the envelope like an excited child, carefully opening it to see the content as if making sure not to hurt the poor envelope, her actions amused him.


    "Oh, it''s a caramel chocolate." A bite piece size of chocolate came into view, along with a letter. "Uh!!!???"


    She holds the A4 paper to him. On the entire sheet, he wrote only three things, ''SORRY! THANKYOU. )


    "What does this mean? Why sorry? Why thankyou? And why.." at the last word she pulled the underneath of her left eye and sticks her tongue out, copying the emoji.


    Wang Shi shrugged, forcing himself not to laugh. Sometimes his son is too much! And on top, her reaction was worth million dollars. "Ask him when you meet next time?"


    "Right," she still tried to decipher Honey''s code language by staring at the paper and then at the caramel chocolate. "Oh, howz he? Any pain? Discomfort? Swelling? Tingling?"


    "Much better. And no, none of these."


    "That''s good! I''ll be shifting to my apartment tonight, can''t wait to see my little fairy''s expression."


    "Let me guess. Horrified, he would be."


    *bizzz..*


    They shared a laughter as she picked her phone from the table when it vibrated.


    "Shall we head to the conferenced room and do with the remaining formalities? It''s about time."


    "After you,"


    ******


    Minister Wei Yuan was impressed by Wang Shi and Suyin''s well constructed projected. Without a doubt it would not only help people in need but contribute significantly to the People''s group reputation. Leaving aside the perks that come with working with the President''s son.


    "Congratulations Dr. Wang," Suyin''s beautiful face remained impassive when she shook hands with Wang Shi.


    He stood and buttoned his suit, "Welcome to the People''s group. Looking forward to working with you, Miss Zhao."


    "Same here,"


    "And with this, you steal my most precious employee for whom I''ve waited over three months to get her here." As everyone shook hands to congratulate each other, Minister Wei Yuan spoke up.


    "Minister Wei Yuan, are you complaining?" one of the lawyer came with Wang Shi voiced out.


    Wei Yuan waved the signed document, "Do I look like?"


    "When the employee is so good, it''s normal for other companies to scout her." Lin Han the director of the People''s Hospital kept his gaze on Suyin and Wang Shi who were standing side-by-side and can''t help but be awed at how good they look with each other. "Beware maybe the owner of People''s Group steal her forever."


    The corner of Suyin''s lips lifted slightly.


    Steal her forever!


    It sounds so...


    Good!


    Chen Wenwei, who was the lawyer from the ministry''s side, whispered to Suyin, "That''s highly possible. The way you are smiling, it seems you like the idea already. Even Dr. Wang seems happy."


    Suyin instantly shrank her lips and gave a sneaky warning to Chen Wenwei.


    "Suyin, will you ever do that? Don''t forget you are only allowed to work for 2 hours a day at People''s Hospital."


    "Minister Yuan, relax. I''m not going anywhere. Ministry is my second home."


    "You heard that Mr. Li, she''s not going anywhere. Stop thinking about the impossible." Sunk into the joy of signing the contract, Minister Wei Yuan didn''t hesitate to share a light moment with others.


    He led the way to the elevator to escort his guests.


    Suyin was panicky of Wang Shi walking with her, his hand brushed with hers twice. The more she tried to control, the more she felt restless. He shared a few words with Minister Yuan, but nothing interests her so she just concentrated on her walk, making sure not to trip.


    As they walked together, his phone rang, and he excused himself to answer it, bringing an abrupt halt to their walk.


    Since Minister Yuan had another meeting scheduled, he left soon after, letting Suyin handle this.


    "Art events are boring." Wang Shi muttered while returning to her side after getting done with the call.


    "They are not. I''m looking forward to the upcoming event at the National Gallery."


    for visiting.


    Her words caught his attention, "You are attending it?"


    "Yup, Gu Feng had sent me a personal invite. How can I disappoint him?" she finished their small walk outside the lift lobby, failing to register the change in his expression. As the lift arrived and Wang Shi''s team stepped in, she breathed a sigh of relief. Goodbye, Dr. Wang."


    "Wait," instead of stepping in, he holds her elbow and dragged her to the corner. "We should make an appearance together to let everyone know of this collaboration"


    "."

 Chapter 87: Finally, shes happy by my setting!?

    "We are not actors who have signed a movie or a TV show and need to announce it to everyone."


    "Right, but if we do it, it will strengthen your position and attract more funds. People''s Group is one of the best companies in Asia."


    Suyin''s brows shoot up, "You are asking me to take your advantage?"


    for visiting.


    "I won''t mind doing that for my friend."


    His words caught her by surprise, and she inhaled sharply.


    When do they become friends?


    Not like she''s complaining, but he could have told her at least.


    "All right, I''ll see if there''s an event coming----"


    "There is," he interrupted, confusing her. "This art event is a perfect opportunity. Since we both are invited, let''s go together."


    "."


    "Art events are boring, aren''t these your words?"


    "C''mon, I can do this much for you. No big deal," the smile that followed made him look more handsome. God, this man.


    Wait!


    That''s not the point!


    How come he became her partner just like that?


    Why did he make it sound like he''s doing a favor?


    "B-But."


    He stepped into the elevator and faced her, smiling. "It''s decided, Suyin. Take care."


    The door closed.


    ".... I''ve promised Jammie," she finally uttered the remaining words, sadly no one listened.


    Just as she turned, Chen Wenwei was standing with hands crossed and a mischievous smile tugged at her face.


    "WHAT?" Suyin scrunched her lips to hide the faint smile and Wenwei shrugged.


    "What was that song by Carly Rae Jaspen.... Ah, ''call me maybe''." Singing, she started swaying her shoulder to the beat..


    [I threw a wish in the well,


    Don''t ask me, I''ll never tell,]


    "Keep singing, and surely someone will take you to the hospital," Suyin stormed towards her office and locked the door first.


    With her back against the door, she touched her racing heart


    Rocking on her heels, swirling her hips, she sang.


    [..I looked at you as it fellAnd now you''re in my way


    I''d trade my soul for a wish,Pennies and dimes for a kiss..]


    "Muaah muahh I love you, God. You are so sweet. So generous. Thank you."


    God choked on saliva when he saw her throwing flying kisses at him.


    ''Finally, she''s happy by my setting!?''


    Sigh.


    *****


    At Suyin''s new apartment at City Spire,


    "I''m Mr lonely I''ve nobody"


    While she was setting her cupboard, a certain lone bird was seated on the bed, hugging Suyin''s favorite penguin plush, murmuring two lines.


    "I''m Mr lonely I''ve nobody"


    "Shut up Jammie, this is the hundredth time you''ve said that," she yelled, taking a step back to appreciate her perfectly organized cupboard. "Lift your ass from my bed and put these two boxes on the upper shelf."


    "See, you can''t do anything without me, yet you betrayed me for your hottie bum." pushing the boxes into the cupboard, he stood with a pout and she pinched his cheeks and air-kissed him.


    "Yes, my hottie bum would always come first. Wanna look for another friend?"


    "I could, but then you would be alone. I''ll just endure it." he set his hand at her shoulder and dragged her to the mirror, "Our couple is the best..I mean ''friend''s'' couple."


    She stared at their reflection, "You are not angry, right?"


    "My cute, Susu." He rested his head at her shoulder, ". you know the answer already. But I still think I look better with you, OWW."


    She hit her arm. "You will never change. Now call Evan. Where is he? Isn''t he supposed to come for dinner?"


    "Later, first I need you to do something,"


    Leaving her confused, he went to the living room and came holding a gigantic box. "Try these"


    As she unboxed it, it contained five exquisite gowns, all designed by her mother. Apparently this was the secret transaction between James and Suyin''s mother. He grabbed the opportunity to get the secret condiment recipe in exchange of sharing the information that she''s invited at the art event.


    Knowing how colossal fashion disaster her daughter is, Si Han shipped her five best pieces, including accessories and heels at James'' address.


    ******


    After two hours, Suyin fell down on the bed wearing a beautiful white and black off-shoulder mermaid dress. "I''m can''t do this anymore. Why do clothes matter so much?"


    "Get up; you''re spoiling the dress, silly girl. Don''t tell me you were going to wear that uniform of yours." seeing her nod, he threw a fit, "I knew it. You will forever be like this. Now try this one again,"


    If he doesn''t like the dresses arranged by her mother, he had arranged some too. But there''s no way he would let her go looking even 1% bad. Especially when that arrogant Hui Chouming would be there too!


    *DING-DONG*


    "I''ll check," before James could move, she grabbed the opportunity to escape his clutches.


    "You wait right there Don''t think I''ll let you go easily,"


    She sticks her tongue out and unlocked the door, "I''ll complain to your hubby that you called us a best couple."


    James rushed to cover her mouth before he gets screwed by Evan again..


    However....


    "Susu, keep your mouth shut. Evan will"


    Since the door was unlocked already, the person pushed it and saw the two of them.


    Suyin''s back was facing the door, while James was standing facing her with his hands at her mouth.


    ''Eeee. It''s Dr. Wang Shi,''


    James let go of his hand from Suyin''s mouth and took three-step back.


    "Haaha. What now? Scared?" She placed hands at her hips, "Let me tell him.... You danced for me two days back when I cried watching a movie. You kissed my forehead last night before going to bed and just now you rested your head on my shoulder and called us the best couple."


    James "."


    "Susu, shut up."


    "No. Let me say more."


    James gulped. For some reason, he doesn''t like the expression on Wang Shi''s face and prayed for Evan to save him.


    How he wished he could tape Suyin''s mouth.


    "Yeah tell me more."


    "Right He"


    Suyin ""


    This voice!??????


    F*ck


    *Gulps*


    *****

 Chapter 88: Now, its perfect.

    *TING*


    Idea!


    "Jammie, my BROTHER, I know you did all this because I''m your little SISTER, right? So sweet." Using her sweetest voice, Suyin wrapped her hand around James'' and turned to face Wang Shi, flashing a cheeky smile, "teasing between siblings is a must, right?. Hehehe. Do you do that too?"


    James ".."


    Instead of replying, Wang Shi kept his gaze focused at her wrapped hands around James'' until James yanked his hand when he saw the man standing behind Wang Shi.


    Suyin looked up in question.


    "My hubby is standing behind yours," he whispered only for the two of them to hear. Leaving the two alone, James rushed to pacify his hubby before a disaster occurs.


    In the living room, Wang Shi''s intense gaze kicked Suyin''s heartbeat, making her realize she was in a gown. He walked with a subtle smile on his lips and pinched the hair-clutcher at the back of her head to undo her messy bun, letting her hair fall like a waterfall.


    "Now, it''s perfect."


    The warmth of his voice and the feel of his eyes on her face make her skip a heartbeat. She blushed in delight that he noticed her and complimented.


    "Thankyou,"


    "Thankyou? Say sorry, instead." He chuckled seeing a slight frown knit on her horsehead, "Because of you, we will be the center of the attraction in the event."


    "Sweet talker, huh! You forgot how people gawked at you in the ministry today." Suyin poured a glass of water and passed it to him, pretending to be calm, but in reality.. he made her giddy. "Anyway, did you bring that for me?" she pointed her finger at the tiffin box kept on the floor near the door.


    "Ignore it,"


    Thinking she would be busy in organizing the apartment, he brought food for her. But seeing her Michelin star best friend and the scrumptious meal on the table, he left his humble home-cooked food at the door.


    "Dr. Wang Shi," There conversation was interrupted by a man who walked in with James and Evan. He was of the same age as Wang Shi, probably a year or two younger, maybe more. His hazel eyes under his inky hair, squinted at Suyin as he came to the table where the two were standing, "Hi Suyin, long time it is. I was expecting to meet you here, but Dr. Wang Shi''s presence surprised me."


    Though he didn''t let it show on his face, her changed look shocked him. From ugly duckling to swan. She even looks better in person.


    However, neither Wang Shi nor Suyin had a pleasant expression on their faces at the sudden intrusion by the person they dislike.


    She looked at James in question and he pursed his lips, feeling helpless and ashamed of Evan''s doing.


    "Dr. Gong Li, even I''m surprised by your presence. Is there a particular reason you are here?" Though Wang Shi kept his eyes on Gong Li, he was concerned for Suyin and discreetly placed his hand at her back as if telling her he was there for her.


    When Suyin was debarred from medicine, she was the junior doctor practicing under Gong Li''s mentorship. And he was also the same doctor who spoke against her in front of the medical council and demanded a strict punishment.


    "I''m here at the invite of my good friend, Evan Ricci, who asked me to be Suyin''s partner for the art event."


    Evan''s brows furrowed, on one side his sweetie was angry while on the other he could feel the tension between Gong Li, Wang Shi, and Suyin.


    "Well, too bad you won''t get a chance. I''m her partner."


    "Oh, so she chose you once again," He cast a look at silent Suyin, and scoffed, "Doesn''t matter. Not like I care."


    Before her cheating case, Gong Li had offered her a place in his team, but she didn''t even bother to consider his offer once and went ahead with Wang Shi''s.


    for visiting.


    She was silent not because of their past or she''s guilty, but to maintain the respect of the student-mentor relationship they once had. That''s it!


    "I-I think we should eat dinner first. I''m famished." Before the situation worsens, James interrupted and pulled a chair for himself.


    Wang Shi had just taken a step away when he felt a tug at his sleeve and looked back. "I''m not going anywhere. Just getting the lunch box from the door. This food won''t be enough for everyone, its best I bring it too. I cooked it personally and will rate my cooking 8.5/10. Not bad, right?"


    "En, mine is 4/10."


    She settled down next to James on the round dining table for six. Gong Li deliberately took the other seat next to Suyin and whispered. "Looks like you''re planning to return to medicine using Wang Shi as the ladder. Do you think you are worthy? It''s better you back off, your presence will only stain his career."


    Suyin smiled, "You don''t have to worry about Wang Shi''s career. He''s the shining sun which no one can even dare to touch, forget about putting a stain. As far as I''m concerned, I''m very happy with my current job."


    She got up and sat down leaving a seat, not willing to argue or talk anymore. Wang Shi automatically took the vacant seat between Suyin and Gong Li, irking him.


    throughout the dinner Wang Shi never let go of Suyin''s hand even once, keeping her small palm wrapped in his large ones under the table, passing her the warmth.


    He knew she was strong enough to fight this, but a support doubles the courage of the person. And he wanted to be that support of her life.


    As a result, only two people were relaxed and enjoyed the food while others behaved as if sitting on the hot pan.


    It worried Evan seeing James''s expression, understanding Gong Li, and Suyin had some kind of unpleasant past between them. James fidgeted when Suyin didn''t touch any of the dishes cooked by him and ate from Wang Shi''s box. She even rejected when he tried to place a peeled shrimp on her plate.


    Gong Li on the other hand felt ignored and unwanted by everyone. If it was not because he needed Evan to invest in his hospital, he wouldn''t have bothered to come here.

 Chapter 89: Country Ts tradition

    After dinner, James left with Evan and Gong Li without a word. Talking to her at the moment was senseless, he had to clear a few things with Evan first.


    Before leaving Wang Shi touched Suyin''s head, "Some things are not worthy of you. Don''t keep yourself awake all night thinking about it, okay? I''m just a floor away; call me if you need anything."


    As he was about to leave, she tugged his hand once more, tip-toed and softly pecked his cheek, shocking him and herself both.


    "In country T''s tradition, gratitude is expressed by giving something in return. Thank you and Good Night."


    Without waiting for a reply, she shut the door at his face.


    Placing a hand at her beating heart, she felt its rhythm as she sat down on the floor with her back against the door. How can she be so brave to kiss him in the name of following the tradition?


    Her hands went to touch her lips.


    Argh..


    "Suyin, you''re so shameless,"


    ******


    On the other side, Wang Shi stared at the close door as if there''s a magic behind it. He could feel the sparks in his brain, desperately trying to understand what just happened, but instead it just caused a short circuit.


    His hands went to touch his cheek, the feeling of her soft lips still tingled on his skin. With the paralysed brain, he moved towards the lift like a zombie but then returned to take the box he had hidden behind the tall areca palms outside the door.


    It was the haute-couture gown from the leading designer, painstakingly selected by him personally after spending two hours with the designer. It would be the first time he would make a public appearance with a woman in the arm and wanted to make it special. both for him and her.


    He had hidden the box at the door to surprise her latter, but instead she surprised him by appearing in a gown. Since she had selected the dress already, it would put her in a tough position if he had gifted it.


    "Put this box in my car," he gave the box to the caretaker of the house, and went to his room, failing to see the shocked gaze of the old man glued to the lipstick mark on his cheek.


    The old man thanked Buddha Honey was sleeping, otherwise, he would have created havoc.


    *****


    Wang Shi was still lost in thoughts when Feng Jianyu video called to congratulate him on the successful collaboration.


    "Hey, where were you? I called you twice but neither had you answered not reverted back."


    "Busy. Anything important?"


    "I got to know you finally signed the project. Congratulations! It''s an amazing CSR project; I''m considering partnering with you."


    "Thanks,"


    "."


    "Wang Shi, what''s wrong? Why are you so lost? Did something--" Feng Jianyu was interrupted by his wife Xiu Mei, who came to give him a goodnight kiss. As they kissed, Jianyu hugged his wife passionately, humming in the pleasure.


    He touched his wife''s head with eyes full of warmth, "I''ve to finish reading a document. Don''t wait for me. My cute chipmunk."


    "En, try to come early. I can''t sleep without my human pillow. " She looked at the screen, "Good Night, brother Wang."


    Wang Shi, "Good night, Mei. And thanks for the lovely flowers."


    "It was the congratulatory message. Jianyu is late, don''t let him go easily."


    "Chipmunk do you want punishment?"


    "Chipmunk disappeared. Bbye."


    Feng Jianyu smiled.


    Wang Shi, "It''s been years since you both are together, has given birth to two kids, yet you both are like this."


    "You will understand this when someone special will enter your life and strike the chords of your heart."


    "How will you know someone special had entered your life and is striking the chords of your heart?"


    Feng Jianyu "."


    Shocked Jianyu pulled the tab closer, "Who are you?"


    Wang Shi rolled his eyes, "Shut up! Just tell me how did you know it was Mei?"


    "Hold on! Move your face to the left." Jianyu ordered, and when Wang Shi did that, he cannot stop himself from smiling. "You are trying to understand your own feeling by asking about mine."


    "Tsk Jianyu."


    "This lipstick girl is Suyin, right? That''s why you are lost." Jianyu drew a conclusion.


    Just as he said Wang Shi rushed to the bathroom to check and sighed. Blushed.... smiled....


    "Spill the beans." Seeing him pick the tab, Jianyu ordered.


    ..


    ..


    ..


    He described the events happened at her home and the one that concluded the day. Kiss! Including the gown that''s now lying in his car.


    for visiting.


    "Hahaha haha. I can''t believe you are this slow, Wang Shi. Wait, let me laugh first."


    "You know what??? I''m hanging up."


    "Wait wait wait. ARE YOU SURE YOU DON''T WANT TO KNOW THAT YOU''VE FALLEN FOR SUYIN?"


    Wang Shi ""


    His hands about to press the end button paused mid-air. "I''ve What?"


    "Yup you are standing at the same place where I was years back."


    "Enlighten me,"


    "Let me ask you a few questions based on my experience. Just answer in yes and no." The camera shook as Jianyu picked the tab in hand and settled on the couch.


    He pinched the glabella, "Go ahead,"


    "She''s on your mind every time?"


    After serious thought, he answered, "Yes."


    "You are happy around her and want to keep her by your side at any condition."


    "Y-Yes.."


    "You can''t see her hurt or in pain. Neither can you let anyone bully her? A natural protective feeling comes from within?"


    Wang Shi recalled a few incidents when he acted on instinct to help her, protect her, and support her. His lips pursed, "YES,"


    "Good going, brother. Three yes, we have. Do you want Honey and her relation to improve? And seeing even a minor improvement, you feel relaxed."


    This time Wang Shi gulped. It was as if Jianyu could see through his mind, soul, and heart and asking the exact questions he was struggling with. "Yes,"


    "Just one last question, brother." Jianyu turned serious, "Forget about everything in this world, even Honey, and tell me. Does this feel right?"


    Wang Shi''s eyes teared up, and he averted his gaze from Jianyu''s. "I won''t put Honey aside."

 Chapter 90: Invisible connection

    "So that''s what holding you back. It''s Honey! The decision of right and wrong depends on Honey''s presence in your life." Jianyu made a deliberate pause to let him understand. "Who was the man who asked me to follow my heart and pursue Mei? You can''t be that."


    "It was different, Jianyu. You were single, young. But I''ve Honey with me." Wang Shi looked away; his gaze fell on the photo frame at the bed-side table. Honey, Yuyu and Lan, rain dancing with him and Jianyu.


    "And that''s the additional benefit you have. Should I remind you Honey is alive because of Suyin? Though she''s not his biological mother, somewhere she is."


    "Don''t say."


    "Why? You can keep Suyin''s photograph in your wallet to remind yourself of the favor she had done on you, but cannot bring the courage to accept her. Are you sure your feelings are not because you feel pity for her?"


    "NO" Wang Shi put the frame down, "It''s true I feel bad for her, but my feelings have nothing to do with what she had done. Th-This just happened naturally. I don''t have control over it."


    "Wang Shi, just how things happened with you naturally, it will happen with Honey too.. The invisible connection between her and Honey is the strongest connection in the world. They are bound to feel for each other. Didn''t you see how fiercely she protected Honey in school?"


    Wang Shi opened the drawer of the bedside table to his wallet. In the corner pocket, at the back of the debit card, he pulled out a hidden photograph of Suyin..


    A five-year-old photograph.


    Stroking his hand at the photograph that had yellowed with time, he had thanked her millions of times for saving Honey.


    The picture conduits to the memory neither he could like or hate. Yet he cannot decline what she had done for him.


    "Jianyu, I''ll talk to you later,"


    "Okay. But remember, this is a second chance for both of you, don''t let it go waste. And. somewhere I and Mei we both feel, she likes you too. But something is holding her back, just like you."


    After hanging up, Wang Shi went to Honey''s room with Suyin''s photograph in hand. Lightly pushing the door in, he padded his steps and sat down at the edge of Honey''s bed.


    Subconsciously, his hand went for Honey''s heart and he closed his eyes to feel the beat.


    "Though you are my flesh and blood, this thing beating inside you has come from Suyin. Will you accept her?" Caressing, he pecked Honey''s cheek lightly before getting in his blanket.


    Hopefully, the effect of the medicine will keep him asleep and Wang Shi could sleep a night with his son. On his small bed!


    Surprisingly, Honey didn''t move or wake up when Wang Shi pulled him closer and hugged him to his chest, just how Suyin sleeps with him.


    "Goodnight, son,"


    *******


    for visiting.


    "James, wait. Listen to me." Evan tried to stop James who went straight for his car, ignoring him. Gong Li silently followed the two.


    "What the hell do you have to say now? Haven''t you done enough?" James yelled, yanking his hand from Evan''s grip.


    "I-I just wanted you to go to the art event with me."


    "Stop lying. You did this because you were jealous of her." He struggled as Evan pressed himself against him. "How many times do I''ve to tell you, don''t make me choose between you and her? You will always lose."


    "And that the reason I''m jealous." Evan pinned James to the car, "Why can''t I be your priority? Do you think she gives you the same priority?"


    James made a frustrated noise, "You''ve never understood my Susu, and neither you will. Just take this shrew from here and go."


    Gong Li, "Who the hell did you call shrew?"


    "SCRAM," Evan yelled, pressing his body harder against James'', "I was not aware he had some past with Suyin. Otherwise I."


    "Otherwise you would have brought someone else, right? Does this change the fact you did something wrong?" He clawed at Evan''s arms, "You''re supposed to trust me, love me, and understand my relationship with her. But.. can''t you see what you''ve done, Evan?"


    "Call me Evi,"


    "No. Just stay the hell away from me. I need a break from you."


    Evan''s hand went under James'' trousers, "Say that again and I swear I will take you right here,"


    "Do it," James didn''t resist and suddenly relaxed, spreading his arms eagle, "This is the only way with which you can screw the problems between us, right?"


    Evan circled his palm around James'' wrist and took him to his limo. Pressing the button, he instructed the chauffeur to drive before lifting the partition. Gong Li looked dumbfounded as the car rolled off in front of his eyes, leaving him alone in the City''s posh location with a ride to go home.


    Evan shoved a hand in his hair and exhaled, "I''m sorry."


    "This doesn''t change the fact I need a break."


    He grabbed James''s palm, "I can''t change what I''ve done, but I promise to never meddle between you and Suyin again. Just don''t cut me off..One last time,"


    James sighed, "I''m not leaving you, but asking for time. This is suffocating me. If we continued, our relationship won''t survive long. Besides, I need to check on Suyin too, the man you brought was one of her mentors who spoke against her in the medical council."


    Evan pursed his lips, "Is this your final decision?"


    "Yes..umphhh,"


    As James nodded, Evan sealed his mouth with his, pressing him to the seat. Unlike his wild kisses, this one came gentle. Their glances battled oddly as if arguing before a tear rolled down from Evan''s eyes and fell on James''s cheek.


    James sighed, wiping Evan''s tears, "Don''t make it difficult. This will give us the opportunity to think about our future. You know, we can''t carry on like this."


    Evan couldn''t bring himself to say a word, he knows he had messed things up this time. He just lie above James''s and hugged him tightly.


    *******

 Chapter 91: Give me good entertainment

    Note- To clear the doubts about the last chapter please read the points.


    1. Honey is not Suyin''s biological child. I never intended to do that, the story would have been monotonous if I had done that. Anyway It was already clear from the start but none of you matched Honey''s age with the time Qi Wren forced himself on Suyin.


    2. Honey is 5+ (Though he calls himself 6 to portray himself as a man) And things happened with Suyin 5 years back. It takes 9 months for the baby to come out. So technically Suyin''s child (if there is any) should be 4+ right now.


    3. Honey has a donor heart that belongs to Suyin''s baby. She got pregnant after that incident with Qi Wren.


    4. Lastly, why she doesn''t know anything, and how Wang Shi met her five years back. It''s a part of the story that will unfold later.


    ********


    The day of the art event,


    "Jammie, should I wear this choker or not---" she sighed, looking at the empty room from the mirror''s reflection. Had he been here, he would have given her the perfect advice.


    She put the choker back in the box and glanced at the clock. It''s time Wang Shi was about to come. She took a last glance in the mirror.


    The gown she was wearing for the event was sexy red, which hung on one shoulder and went down into a V cut cleavage, fitting perfectly on her body, finishing with a slit running down from right upper thigh.


    She paired it with gold pointed heels with a matching clutch and diamond teardrop earrings. Following Wang Shi''s advice, she kept her hair open, lightly curling at the ends. Just as she looked in the mirror, her old black and white gown stared from the corner which apparently was not wearable. Thanks to Suyin''s carelessness it had food stains, nasty wrinkles, and dirt at the hem and butt.


    When the doorbell rang, she strode to the door, pausing right at the threshold to take a deep breath.


    Just as she opened the door, her heartbeat thumped. Dressed in a black handmade suit paired with a red vest inside, he looked every inch the powerful CEO or President of a company. Handsome as ever!


    She saw him getting shocked; maybe he was not prepared to see her in this new gown and had expected the earlier black and white.


    "Hi,"


    He chuckled, "You will never stop shocking me, right? If last night you were amazing, what should I call you right now?" lifting her hand he brought it to his mouth,


    His kiss reminded her of her own, and a jolt of electricity passed through her extremities. "A goddess maybe,"


    "Isn''t it bold of you to call yourself a goddess?"


    "Saying the one who failed to conceal the shock on his face,"


    She could swear Wang Shi blushed at that moment.


    "I think we should leave now,"


    *****


    At the venue,


    The guests started pouring for the event. They showed their passes, left a message at the gigantic book kept at the entrance, and moved in.


    "No need for this. You are my partner." She had just opened her clutch to take out her pass, she heard him say.


    "You don''t need a pass?"


    "You''ll see."


    ""


    for visiting.


    Unlike others, their car pulled through a different route and stopped at the back door where the director of the National Gallery was present to receive him.


    Suyin''s mouth twitched. ''Of course, why would he need a pass when the director himself came to receive him?''


    Wang Shi gets down from the car first, proffered his hand to her, and gracefully helped her out of the car, shocking the director and the surrounding people. Don''t know if they were more shocked by Wang Shi attending the event with a woman or if his partner was Zhao Suyin.


    ******


    At the event Qi Wren was studying the paintings, noting down the ones that interested him while Hui Chouming tugged at his arm, proud as usual, getting the attention of people passing by.


    Wearing a body-hugging dress in white with back bare in a sharp V cut that stopped just above the butt line; undoubtedly she looked sexy, highlighting her curves.


    "Suyin, I had something to discuss with the director. Do you want to stay or take a walk around?" Wang Shi asked.


    "I''ll take a walk. You finish whatever it is." She excused herself and went to check Gu Feng''s paintings first. Maybe she could congratulate him personally.


    She paused to take a glass of wine from the server and stopped by a painting that caught her attention. A crippled man surfing on the tides, his smile hides the flaw in him. So beautiful!


    "Ohhh. The woman in the red looks so stunning. I want to know the designer of her dress."


    "Who? Wow I like her breasts."


    "Isn''t she Zhao Suyin from the ministry?"


    "Oh yes, she is. But what is she doing here? Isn''t the event for the elites?"


    "Well, her status is not defined by money but by capabilities." The elites jolted when Chen Wenwei passed a comment out of nowhere. She took a sip of champagne and walked, "You won''t understand that,"


    Hui Chouming heard the whispers and looked toward Suyin. Subconsciously her head snapped at Qi Wren to see his reaction, and as expected he was checking her out. ''Blood bit*h''


    Chouming gestured her best friend, and Ling Xeumo caught the hint, "I don''t know how she managed to come here. The invitations were limited to a hundred invites. Even the officers above her rank are not invited. Maybe she''s someone''s partner..." her ambitious tone was loud and clear for most of the people to hear, including Suyin.


    "Partner? Who is her partner then? I can''t see any man with her." Someone asked.


    Ling Xeumo pretended to be worried, "I''ve heard she had sent her lawyer a few days back at your company, demanding the compensation, and Mr. Qi rejected her. Do you think she''s here for him?"


    "Xuemo quite, she had already cleared her stance in the press conference. Maybe she''s really here at the invite." Though Choumimg said it politely, inside she was burning with fury.


    "And you believed at her nonsense. If it''s true, then she must be having an invitation. Let me ask her," Ling Xeumo grabbed Chouming''s hand.


    "Nice painting," holding a glass, Chen Wenwei came beside Suyin, "And I''m excited,"


    Suyin, "Why?"


    "To see how you''ll shoo away the approaching bees. Give me good entertainment, this event is so boring. I''ll treat you later."


    ""


    "Miss Zhao Suyin, I never thought for the sake of little money you would follow Brother Qi all the way here."


    Suyin sighed, hearing a ridiculing tone come from behind. "...and here comes free entertainment."

 Chapter 92: Ill run away with Honey if you do it.

    Ling Xeumo''s eyes roved over Suyin''s appearance just when the later turned at her voice. It was really hard to believe that an ugly nerd would transform into this fire goddess. She never looked this good!


    for visiting.


    She sneered, "Where goes the strut you showed at the press conference and pretended as if you really have nothing to do with your ex? Just look at you, how shamelessly you followed Brother Qi here when he declined to entertain your unreasonable request in the name of compensation."


    Standing alongside Chen Wenwei, Suyin had an expressionless face as she enjoyed her wine sip by sip. From the corner of her eyes, she noticed Qi Wren pretending to be busy in conversation with guests but kept his eyes at them.


    "Xeumo, this will attract unnecessary attention. I''m sure Suyin is invited, let''s go." Chouming looked at Suyin apologetically, "I''m sorry from my friend''s behalf. She can''t see me getting wronged."

 Chapter 93: Dare to say a word and they will have to face him.

    What the two women failed to notice was Wang Shi never looked at them. All this while he was looking at Suyin and her flushed face because of all the wine she had been drinking.


    for visiting.


    He conversed with her with eyes, telling her not to drink anymore. Suyin understood and put the glass on the tray as a server passed by and picked juice instead.


    Ling Xeumo retrieved her extended hand.


    Qi Wren excused himself from the guests he was talking to and came to where Wang Shi and Minister Gu were standing. He can''t let go of the opportunity to get associated with them. "Dr. Wang,"


    Qi Wren''s extended hand goes unnoticed too.


    Embarrassing!


    Chouming let go of the idea to extend her hand.


    She better not!


    "Miss Xeumo, you really think highly of yourself." Since Suyin was busy admiring Wang Shi, Chen Wenwei grabbed the opportunity, "He''s the fat-greasy-old man you asked for a moment ago. Go say hello again."


    Wang Shi "."


    Greasy?


    Fat?

 Chapter 94: They are glued

    "Stop being nave. As if you didn''t understand anything."


    for visiting.


    "No, I don''t. Enlighten me."


    Suyin skewed a piece of meat from the variety of snacks at the table, dipped it in sauce, and appreciated the flavour the moment she took a bite. "Ah c''mon, Wang Shi, a man like Qi Wren will never be happy seeing his ex with a man millions of times better than him. Seeing me with you is the hardest slap on his face--- WHAT?"


    The way he looked at her with a smile bothered her.


    "I think there''s something wrong with my eyes."


    "Why didn''t you tell me earlier? Let me see." worried, she comes to him, hold his face between her soft-warm hands, and pried open his eyes. "No redness, no foreign object, no liquid discharge, no swelling. What''s making you uncomfortable?"


    "You are looking so gorgeous tonight; I can''t take them off of you. They are glued." He replied straightforwardly, wiping the sauce from the corner of her lips.


    Suyin ."


    Ba-dump!

 Chapter 95: A minute of silence for Qi Wren.

    Suyin, "I entrusted the sale of all these three paintings. How can I not know their actual value? It was barely around eighty million, but I made him pay over 220 million. And.. I bid for Gu Feng''s paintings because I was sure Chouming would buy it to save her nose."


    As he set the plater aside, he burst into a peal of laughter. "You used the opportunity to extract money from him by bidding for your own paintings. Too much you are! But sellers can''t bid for their own items, how did you do it?"


    "Jammie helped me, the paintings are under the name of his acquaintance. other than you and them, no one knows it''s my handiwork. Qi Wren would never know the artist behind those paintings is the one he once pronounced useless." Her voice turned meek at the end.


    for visiting.


    Wang Shi reached out and covered her hands with his. "Be happy, you are a millionaire."

 Chapter 96: but it scared me

    "LET GO," Suyin growled, "RIGHT NOW,"


    Qi Wren''s forceful grip on her hand disgusts her, bringing back the memories she hated from every cell of her body.


    His eyes flickered over her bare shoulder, sliding downwards to the cleavage. He looked up from her breasts, and then shot her a cocky smile, "Why? Aren''t you doing all this to get my attention? Even your appearance beside Wang Shi was to tease me, right?"


    "Qi Wren, don''t think too highly of yourself, you are not worth it," within a few seconds Suyin realized he was badly drunk and tried to pull out of his grip. "Bastard let go of me."


    She cocked her head to look behind him and hoped she was not alone in this corridor. Sadly, the chances were dim; the exhibition was over and most of the guests had left already as it took her longer to help Chen Wenwei clean.


    for visiting.

 Chapter 97: *Title is a spoiler*

    "Where? Is it far? Isn''t Honey waiting for you at home?"


    "Nope. I''ve messaged him already, I''ll be late." Wang Shi pulled over at the lakeside and get down from the car. Suyin followed.


    Looking him lean against the car, Suyin did the same as they both looked at the lake ahead. In the sultry night in mid-October, the surface of the lake was as smooth as black glass, untouched, clean, shining with only the reflection of the moon on the surface. Its water was entirely without motion, but the air was pungent with a fragrance of Jasmine.


    Though she couldn''t see anything clearly, she was sure the place was beautiful. She instantly made a mental note to revisit this place in the daytime.


    "Wang Shi, this.."


    for visiting.


    "Sometimes you need a quiet place to speak what''s on your mind. That''s why I''ve brought you here," he didn''t let her complete the sentence. "Shall we sit near the lake or just like this?"

 Chapter 98: Password

    As much as Suyin tried to hold it in, the beads of water fell down one after the other without a sign of stopping. She lowered her head to hide her embarrassment, but the muffled sobs wracked the silent night.


    "S-Suyin, stop crying, please. Sorry, if you are offended, but please stop crying.." Wang Shi held her against his chest, rubbing her back softly while battling with his own fears. For the first time in life, he confessed, and the woman was now inconsolable. "Sorry.don''t cry please!!!!"


    Oblivious to him, she was not crying because she was offended but because there were countless things that happened in this split moment, making her cry. She was happy and sad!


    Happy with the surge of emotions one feels when being confessed by their crush. Happy because it was HER he chose!! Happy, that he feels for her!! Happy, this is not one-sided anymore!! Happy, he kissed her!! Happy and happiest.


    But sad.


    Because few things can never work out..


    for visiting.

 Chapter 99: I dont know!!

    Don''t know how long it passed when Wang Shi finally let her go. He leans in so that his forehead rested against Suyin''s. He saw his eyes close, eyelids fluttering, wet and swollen cherry lips, and cheeks beet red.


    God, she looked so adorable as their breaths shake. "Thank you, Suyin," he spoke barely in a whisper.


    "For what?" Suyin opened her eyes, her voice wavered from the moment they shared.


    for visiting.


    "For being you, for letting me know you too feel something and for the second chance,"


    "Delusional! When did I do all that?"


    "Really?" he freed her from his arms and took a step back, "Then why am I in single piece yet? Knowing how savage you are, the moment I confessed you should''ve slapped me or to worse give the same kick as before."

 Chapter 100: Et tu, Brute?

    The next day,


    "AHHH!!!! If I get late, mom would lecture me. Shoes!?! Where are you? I promise I won''t throw you carelessly next time," wearing a red sneaker Suyin hopped in her bedroom on one leg, looking for the other pair. "All this is happening because of you."


    The accused ""


    for visiting.


    "Who told you to act on your own? Everything was going perfectly fine, BUT NO!!! You''ve to poke your leg in my life and screw it."


    She dragged her swollen eye bags and looked at the ceiling, "Look at this! My precious eyes! I barely asked for a retake of a kiss but you made him confess. Are you for real?!? Why don''t you go look for someone else to curb down your boredom? Or maybe go to the Bahamas on holidays. But spare me!!!! You are bad, I won''t talk to you again---"


    *Knock knock*


    James knocked, interrupting her conversation, "Susu, with whom you are talking?"

 Chapter 101: Thats where I failed

    Arrival terminal, Airport..


    "Ouchh. Stop doing that!" Suyin rubbed the side of her head when James''s Elbow hit her second time.


    He instantly took a step away while continuing rotating his shoulder in the air. "Not my fault! You punched me so hard, it''s hurting. Bully!"


    "Shut up. Say thanks I didn''t punch your beautiful face. Next time, don''t leak any information about me. Even if it''s Wang Shi," she craned her neck in the direction from where the passengers were coming. "Her flight landed an hour before. What''s taking so much time?"


    "Immigration and customs check,"


    "Hhaha. so intelligent!" The next second she squealed in excitement, "There she is! Mom!!!"


    Si Han waved her hand at the duo standing in the crowd, flashing her gorgeous smile. Suyin had inherited most of her looks from her father, but the smile comes from her mother.


    for visiting.

 Chapter 102: Better say oops

    After eating the tastiest lunch cooked by Suyin''s mother, James left for his home. Though he wanted to spend more time with them, he was not selfish to not let them have some time with each other. Especially when Suyin had a lot to talk about.


    Throughout the day, Suyin helped her mother set her wardrobe, and talked about her time in the city, including how she swindled money from Qi Wren at the art event. Excluding Wang Shi!


    But mother being mother, it didn''t take long for her to notice something was bothering Suyin. When was the last time Suyin faked her smile or zoned out in front of her?


    Throughout the day she waited for Suyin to open up with her, however, after eating dinner, she caved into her room.


    Si Han went to Suyin''s room and knocked. Getting no reply even after waiting for a good one minute she turned the knob and saw her sitting in the breezy balcony wearing a thin nighty as she hugged a mickey mouse plush.


    for visiting.

 Chapter 103: She was right

    The next day Suyin woke up early, freshen up, and rushed to the parking, waiting for Wang Shi near his car.


    It was the nth time she looked at her watch. It was already fifteen past eight, what''s taking him so long? Isn''t it his duty to drop kids to school?


    After fifteen more minutes, she saw the two figures coming in her direction. A handsome big bun, holding the hand of her cute little fairy. Gosh this father-son duo was a killer!


    for visiting.


    "Oh, no! Let''s go back." Honey''s gaze fell on his predator ahead, waiting to take a bite of his apple cheek. And nose too! He instantly turned 180 degrees on his shoes, but Wang Shi''s grip on his hand was firm. "Dad, I want to pee. Now."


    "Stop lying. I know why you are running away." He squirmed as Wang Shi pulled him in his arms.


    Now it''s impossible to run away from the ''predator''!


    "Hi, little Fairy!" Suyin''s delightful voice echoed.

 Chapter 104: Right, Gilbert?

    Fei Hong put her phone down upon seeing Suyin coming. "I was waiting for you."


    "How are you? How did this happen?" Suyin''s gaze landed on Fei Hong''s bandaged hand and then at the patient''s chart kept at the table. She had an itch to read it but neither she was a doctor nor she had the right to meddle into Fei Hong''s personal matter.


    "I-I didn''t realize the window was broken; my palm brushed through the glass."


    Though Fei Hong tried to give a sound explanation, Suyin felt it absurd. But since Hong doesn''t want to tell the exact reason, it''s better not to trouble her.


    "Tell me exactly what you have heard. And why did you feel it''s important to call me?"


    Because of the excessive blood loss, Fei Hong had to walk into the emergency to get her hand treated. Though it was late at night, it''s normal for the emergency department to be active. Patients keep rolling at any time, even in the middle of the night.


    for visiting.

 Chapter 105: I cheated

    "ZHAO SUYIN,"


    for visiting.


    "Shh. Drink some water, Gilbert. I''m not interested in murderers. At least not now!" Suyin flicked the coaster of the glass kept at Gilbert''s desk. "Give me the patient files, that''s it. We can do this easy way or you can always make it difficult. Either way, I''m going to win."


    Gilbert''s eyes never left her; the ferocity of her words was impossible to ignore. Though she doesn''t have any proof against him and Ling Xeumo, the fact she''s a talented doctor and was falsely framed remains unchanged. Even today she can challenge his daughter in medicine and surely win.


    Years back.


    After that night, Suyin failed to appear for her last exam. Not only losing the opportunity to work with Wang Shi but was forced to drop a year and continue working as a resident under Dr Gong Li.

 Chapter 106: Doubting my capabilities?

    There is some tension between you and him," Chen Wenwei pointed her thumb at the closed door behind as she came out of Ling Gilbert''s room. Suyin''s bitterness didn''t go unnoticed from her eyes.


    "Yes. But that''s something personal. I don''t want to talk to about it." They walked out so quickly she didn''t pause in her stride and answered while checking her phone. Long Tao was waiting for her in the emergency. "Assistant Long is waiting in the emergency room for me, do you want to join me in the investigation or.."


    "I''ll leave, have to release the post on Qi Wren you asked me to prepare. By the way, do you know he''s admitted here? Any reason?" Wenwei had a hunch this had something to do with Suyin. She just vanished from the art gallery and later Wang Shi''s men dropped her home. Since they were together, he must have done it for her.


    for visiting.

 Chapter 107: Antibiotics and Steriods

    "Eleven?" the unexplained finding baffled Suyin. She looked at the scattered documents on the small table in the cafeteria, no wonder she couldn''t find anything suspicious about the hospital. This was not hospital related, but something bigger. "Any patient undergoing treatment at the moment?"


    "Um.." She heard the sound of paper shuffling, "No. The last patient was discharged two days back. But if this is something bigger, I''m sure more will come."


    Suyin thought of something, "Wang Shi, Ace hospital has a patient undergoing treatment with similar symptoms. Let me try talking to the family, maybe they will allow me to see the patient."


    for visiting.


    "Okay," He let out a sigh, pushing against his chair. For a brief second his gaze fell on the clock, "Did you eat anything?"

 Chapter 108: Tiramisu

    Once again Suyin was left dazed, speechless, lost, as Wang Shi kissed her tenderly. His lips were soft, laced with the flavor of her favorite drink. Coffee! He exerted the right pressure, arousing the feeling to clutch his hair and kiss him back.


    She just loved the way he kissed her. Skilled. Passionate. Gentle. Like he was drinking the taste of her and still living thirsty.


    His kiss sealed her in the moment of time. She only woke up when the handbag in her lap dropped on the floor, making a sound and she turned her face to check.


    He groaned and pulled back to see the beet-red face of Suyin. "This is how Honey looks when he kisses you. Are you Honey, Honey?"


    for visiting.


    "Wang Shi!!!!" pushing him, she averted her gaze, envisioning how red she must be for him to compare her with Honey. "W-What are you doing here?"


    He leaned to grab the bento box from the backseat. "I don''t like the idea of eating a burger."

 Chapter 109: Cunning Man

    People''s Hospital,


    "Hong, this is the last time I''m asking. How did you get hurt?" Hovering over Fei Hong''s head, Feng Junjie''s tone turned harsh.


    She crossed her arms, "and this is the last time I''m answering; my hand rubbed on to the broken glass pane. That''s it."


    "Damn you, Hong! Stop lying." Junjie shoved a hand through his hair and exhaled, only to rein himself as Xiu Mei''s touched his shoulder. "Sister Mei Mei, does she really take us as her friends?"


    Xiu Mei was suddenly very exhausted with the way Fei Hong was behaving. "Hong, is there something bothering you? You can share it with us. If not with Junjie, with me at least. We are best friends!"


    They stared at her, hoping for her to tell them something.


    "Baby doll, you''re overthinking! There''s nothing like that."


    "Great!" Junjie lost his patience and got up to leave, "Let''s go home sister Mei Mei, we''ve already hit a dead end. There''s no sense of talking to a stubborn person."

 Chapter 110: Laws of motion

    "Mom, Uncle Juju, Godmother..."


    Everyone silenced seeing the kids enter. Junjie picked Yuyu as she stretched her arms at him. "Godmother, why were you yelling? Did Uncle Juju did something again?"


    "No one was fighting," Xiu Mei said, placing Lan on Fei Hong''s bed and she instantly crawled when Hong spread her arms. "Tell me, why you all are here? This place is not for kids. You too, Honey."


    Honey, who had just got his hands on Wang Shi''s phone, looked up startled. "I''m a man, Ma-ma. You said KIDS."


    "Really? Tell me Albert Einstein''s law of motion."


    "."


    Yuyu, "Who was he?"


    Lan, "Isn''t he the man with a bird''s nest on the head? I''ve seen his pic in school. Scary, he looks."


    "."

 Chapter 111: Haters of Suyin

    "Ahh. Ahhh. It''s hurting. Give me something for the pain. Please." Long Tao''s daughter shuffled on the bed, clutching her lower abdomen, sweating profusely. There was an abnormal purple tint on her lips, under eyes, and nails.


    "5cc of morphine," Wang Shi instructed the nurse. "Did you experience something like this before?"


    While letting Wang Shi feel her stomach, she shook her head, clutching the bedsheet beneath, "N-No."


    "I''ve never seen my baby girl like this. Please, do something.." Long Tao''s wife said, holding on to her husband''s arm.


    "AHHHH!! Why are you not giving me any medicine? I NEED PAINKILLERS!!!!"


    Wang Shi exchanged a look with Suyin standing near the door. Their thoughts matched. Just a moment ago she was administered a dose!?


    for visiting.


    "5 cc more." He ordered, moving onto check the rash on her skin.

 Chapter 112: These two!!!

    Wang Shi scrolled the information as collected by Xiu Mei, "Toxic shock can happen to anyone, irrespective of their gender and age. It can be caused because of cuts, burns on the skin, recent surgery, viral infection, or anything. Though more than fifty percent of the cases are reported in women of menstruating age, shockingly here we are landed with all women cases. None of them is a man!"


    Fei Hong paused taking the next sip, "Wait! Why menstruating age?"


    Suyin answered, "Because of the use of products women put in their vagina. Be it tampons, pads, menstrual cups, or any other thing that goes down there."


    Xiu Mei frowned, "But"

 Chapter 113: I got the answer

    "Age, profession, jobs, localities they live, even the brands of sanitary products.. everything is different. other than the gender, nothing is common." Suyin threw the stash of paper on the table.


    "Let''s keep looking. There must be something we are not paying attention too." Wang Shi picked the stash of paper but his pager buzzed. "Sh*t. It''s Sarah!"


    The interns panicked seeing the two rush out and looked at each other. Junjie clapped, "C''mon guys, don''t waste time. Buck up. We can do this. Let''s look at the points we might have missed."


    In the ICU,


    Wang Shi pulled the gloves up and looked at the monitor, "What happened?"


    "She had a seizure before you came." The doctor on call answered.


    "What''s wrong? What happened to my girl?" The mom panicked, "She opened her eyes a few minutes ago and then."


    Wang Shi, "Give one of Ativan, 500mg of Dilantin. Turn her to the side.. mam, please step out."

 Chapter 114: We women keep these things hidden

    "Guys, check all of their social media accounts. Our answer lies in it." Suyin pushed open the door and shocked everyone by her words. "Sarah''s a fashion blogger. An influencer who had received a PR package from a company about their new highly absorbent tampons."


    "Her last post was four days back, where she was holding a packet of tampons, giving a thumbs-up for the product. Though she gave a positive review, and hide her appearance with the layers of makeup, her eyes were a complete giveaway that the poison had started acting in her body."


    ..


    None of the interns moved but looked at Suyin with utter silence.


    "They want to know about Sarah." Wang Shi tugged a hand in his pocket as he stood next to Suyin. The way they had rushed earlier scared them.


    "You are the doctor. Go ahead."


    "I won''t lie, Sarah''s condition is still serious. She''s in a coma, fighting. We need to fight too so that no other woman reaches the state where Sarah is."

 Chapter 115: You are lucky

    The next day Honey woke up and found himself buried in something soft with a whiff of the floral fragrance emitting from it. He loved the fragrance and nuzzled against the self-assumed pillow.


    However, the constant heaving of the ''pillow'' and a faint sound of breathing that isn''t his own flung his eyes so wide each orb were a perfect round. After a second, he deflated like a balloon and made a crying face.


    ''Why?''


    ''How?''


    ''When?''


    "Good morning, son," Rubbing his wet hair with a towel, Wang Shi looked from the mirror and smiled at Honey who was deeply pondering his next action. To yell or sneak out? Jeez! The drool patches on Suyin''s clothes had put him in a hard situation.


    "Dad, I need" he looked at Suyin warily and lowered his voice, "I need explanation."

 Chapter 116: Good Mom!

    "My mom. She.. she.sh-she. Nothing." Something he wanted to say, something reached the tip of his tongue but SOMETHING stopped him..


    Before he could burry his small head on her chest, Suyin cupped his cheeks between her warm palms.


    "You are lucky too, my love." Her words made him look into her eyes. Confused. Asking countless questions. But he likes her voice when she called him ''my love''. It was soothing for his little heart. So soothing, he wanted to hear it again.


    for visiting.


    "I know, it''s hard growing up without a mother, but it''s easy when you have a father who plays both roles.. And only a special man can do that. Don''t tell me you don''t take him as your role model."


    Honey''s little face which had withered a moment ago suddenly lit up, his eyes sparkled as he showed his cutest smile which looks like Wang Shi''s.


    Ah! Suyin can die for this smile!


    "Yeah, my dad is the best-est. No other man in this world can match him. Not even Uncle Jianyu."

 Chapter 117: what are boyfriends for?

    *Tick-tok.


    *Tick-tok.


    The wall clock ticks like the timer on a bomb, filling the silence of the conference room where three persons were sitting at the table. With each tick, the anger bubbles inside Suyin as she read the reports of the tampon sample collected from Sarah''s house. Including the one doctors removed inside of her.


    The so-called highly absorbent tampons were made of a mix of synthetic fibre treated with harmful chemicals and the revolutionary ''gel'' technology. Ridiculous.


    Poisonous!


    The presence of the gelled carbon methylcellulose in it acted as the breeding medium, providing for the bacteria to grow. Not only that, but test results also found some stray bacteria on the samples that pointed at the unhygienic conditions of manufacturing.


    This money-making company negligently, wantonly, recklessly, tortuously, and unlawfully was responsible for the death of all these women.


    Which includes Sarah''s condition!

 Chapter 118: A coward?

    "Attempt to murder?" Wang Shi jeered at the lawyer accompanying the police, looking at the warrant and the attached documents.


    "Yes, three days back she had hit my client Tong Po on the head with a bottle of alcohol and fled after he refused to give her the job."


    "Brother Wang"


    With the rise of finger Wang Shi stopped Fei Hong from speaking without breaking eye contact with the lawyer, "And where was your client for the past three days?"


    for visiting.


    "I-In the hospital. Unconscious." Don''t know why, but the lawyer couldn''t bear the pressure of Wang Shi''s gaze.


    "I just asked a question. Is there a need to sweat?" Wang Shi appeared to be calm and easy-going, but the body language and the command in his voice were enough to make one shudder. "Officer, Miss. Fei can''t go with you."


    The lawyer revolted, "B-But"

 Chapter 119: OPEN THE DOOR!

    "Yes, MY FAMILY! That night..."


    After Fei Hong''s heated feud with Neo Huo, the director of the radio station, her life was not the same anymore at work and was subject to unfair treatment and hostility from employees.


    No need to guess who was behind it!


    She hastened her efforts to find a new job. Though the place where she was working at was the country''s leading radio station, she can''t withstand the sight of that obnoxious Neo Huo.


    The second best was Big music owned by Tong Po. With her experience and qualifications, it shouldn''t be difficult to get the job. However, she hadn''t received a reply from Big Music. So weird!


    She wanted to call and ask for the update, but that would have made her sound in need and lower her brand value. Jeez! This is the disadvantage of being the number one RJ of the country.

 Chapter 120: Let me be a coward

    Glistened in tears but burning in rage, Suyin''s eyes opened.She recalled she had picked her phone which was at the table before leaving. Though she couldn''t use it.


    She called at the nearest police station to complain and narrated the incident. However, the moment she named the culprits, something unbelievable happened.


    "Madam, these are powerful people, why do you want to make your life miserable? Don''t you know what else they can do? Just let it go."


    Let it go!


    LET IT GO!


    They actually said that!?


    She kept on dialling, but no one answered. If answered, they hung up hearing her voice.


    Hours passed by, sitting in despair as she stared at her phone screen, it was her two best friends. Xiu Mei and Junjie!


    If she calls them, without a doubt they will come here, even if it''s the middle of the night. But she waited until sunrise.

 Chapter 121: Give me a proper answer

    "Do you know anyone from the kitchen staff or chefs of Unicharm company?" Suyin asked James over the phone. Since he was in the food industry and was well acquainted with almost all the contractors and chefs, she tried her luck.


    She heard some shuffling noise over the phone as he didn''t reply for a good twenty seconds. "What did you say? Unicharm? That personal care company?"


    "Yes,"


    Once more he took a few seconds.


    "Mmmm. Good boy! Now, take it whole. That''s it! Now suck it.Moremore. Like it?"


    Suyin "."


    "JAMIE, YOU BASTA--" Suyin stopped as her interns threw a curious look, "bastard! Haven''t you said you are only taking a break from Evan? It''s temporary. I can''t believe you are doing THIS behind his back. Tell me who that rascal is, I kill him first before killing you. Horny man!"


    James ".."

 Chapter 122: R E P U T A T I O N

    "Who is she? Why did you bring her here?" Everyone in the room present heard the tone Junjie used and the implied meaning behind it as he acted nonchalant while looking at Fei Hong.


    Hong snorted, "I''m Fei Hong, but it''s good that you don''t know me. Damn, I just wasted my time to come here and check on you." She turned to leave.


    "Oh! Now you are worried about me? Why? Who am I to you? Just a passing person, ah!"


    She turned.


    "Shut up, okay? Why are you acting as if I''ve done a crime? We are just friends after all. Must you"


    "BEST FRIENDS!" Junjie exploded, correcting her words. It was loud enough to jolt her. "GODDAMN IT. We are BEST FRIENDS, Hong. Don''t devalue our friendship."


    "All right! Best friend it is. So what?"


    He stilled, waiting to see what she wanted to say.


    "Does that mean I should tell you about everything going on in my life?" she said finally.

 Chapter 123: Pretty please

    An interminable silence followed, which made Honey doubt of Suyin was still there or not.


    "Hey! Did you fell asleep?"


    Suyin "."


    "No! I''m very much awake and pondering what are you up to?" she snapped, painfully recalling how he pranked her in the morning by swapping the name tags of salt and sugar jars. He went on challenging her to race with him who would finish the glass of milk first. The stakes were ten kisses.


    If Suyin won, she would get ten kisses, however, if Honey won, he would deduct ten from the pot of their pending kisses.


    She rubbed her chest, feeling nauseous just by recalling. Anyway, the good part was she didn''t lose and managed to get ten instant kisses.


    Ah! Honey''s expression was picturesque. She even made a video to tease him later.


    Scratch that! To tease him all his life!


    "Bad Aunty Suyin. Do you think I''m that naughty?"


    "Naughty is a paltry word in front of you. Tell me what ''favor'' do you want."

 Chapter 124: This was right.....

    "Mrs. Gu"


    "Call me Gu Yuan. Stop being formal." Gu Yuan said with a warm smile, gesturing her to take a seat. "Don''t make me wait anymore. Tell me."


    Suyin understood her eagerness and explained everything. A strong woman like Gu Yuan would behave similarly if given an opportunity to become independent once again.


    On the surface, Gu Yuan remained calm as Suyin explained, but inside the death of those 75 women caused by the use of Unicharm''s tampons shocked her.


    ". You have been a doctor and understand everything about TSS and Tampons. Now that the issue is under light, I want your help to educate women about the correct usage of the product, precautions, safe fiber components, and the risks associated."


    If the women are educated it will help them understand things clearly when the truth of Unicharm comes out.

 Chapter 125: Ill talk to my baby on my own.

    Suyin hugged him for don''t how long and Wang Shi just let her do it. Sometimes a hug is all a person needs.


    She pulled back and looked at his handsome face keeping her hands wrapped around his neck. "Two hours!? Don''t do this next time." His smile that followed irked her, "I''m serious, Wang Shi."


    "I''m serious too! You are my woman. What''s wrong if I waited for some time to cheer you up?"


    The rush of delight was overwhelming as she visibly struggled to give a reply. As usual, rendered speechless. Touched.


    Without saying a word, she buried herself back into his arms.


    He felt her squeezing him tight. "Don''t be guilty, Suyin. While waiting for you, I finished reading some important journals. So, it was not a waste of time."


    "I don''t know with whom you are talking."


    "The one in my arms. Barefoot." His tone hardened, "Where are your shoes."


    "Stop diverting the topic."

 Chapter 126: They were just good friends.

    In the middle of the night, Fei Hong woke up and propped herself on the bed. She was supposed to be discharged, but due to Tong Po''s police case, she had to stay there.


    In the past two days, she had planned everything, but executing it was challenging. Once she stepped on it, she had to stick on to the path and fight against the challenges that would follow.


    Grabbing a shawl, she stepped out of the room to get some fresh air. Startled, she blinked at the man sleeping on the bench outside the room.


    Junjie was sleepy; his head lolls, and the contours of his face relaxed, releasing the work pressure of his day. But why sleep here? Shouldn''t he be in his villa, sleeping in the comfort of his room luxurious room instead of this cold bench?


    "You are a lucky woman."


    A voice caught her attention, and she turned only to find it was the nurse on duty. "I-I don''t understand."

 Chapter 127: Where are you looking at?

    "Why is she not here yet? Even her interns have reached." Chef Zaki asked James over the phone as he waited at a location he had asked Suyin to report at.


    "It''s not time yet. Two minutes are remaining." James answered, understanding the reason behind Zaki''s quivering voice. He was scared. "Trust her. She won''t disappoint you."


    Chef Zaki was a small businessman, running a catering company responsible to handle the canteen of Unicharm and a few other companies. At the request of Suyin, he had included three additional people in his staff who would accompany him to Unicharm''s manufacturing unit.


    All three will work as servers and cleaners.


    Yeah!


    Servers and cleaners!


    The two men standing before him were dressed just as that. Blue uniform and a cap.

 Chapter 128: Fair enough!

    "Mrs Gu,"


    "Mr Tong," Gu Yuan greeted, "I would skip the formalities and come straight to the point. I''m sure you''ve heard about the ongoing rumour about your company."


    "Yes, I have. But trust me, Unicharm has nothing to do with it. We maintain high manufacturing standards and use only the best quality products. Don''t know who played dirty by dragging our name." Unicharm''s CEO, Xu Tong walked over to stand by the floor-to-ceiling window. He was afraid Gu Yuan was holding his company responsible, "We followed the guidelines, and have even included a TSS warning on the packets."


    "I know. I''ve seen the packaging, and it abides by all the guidelines. Frankly, TSS is a common risk associated with Tampons, that''s why I''m spreading the awareness about it." Her words calmed down the frantic muscles of Xu Tong, who was literally counting his breaths.


    "That''s great. Thank you."

 Chapter 129: I promise

    Suyin pushed the slipping wide glasses on her nose and bowed, "Sir,"


    "Boss," showing his crooked smile, Maddie bowed as well. "We were cleaning the machinery, boss. He is from the kitchen department, so I was teaching him the correct method to avoid any damages. Am I right, four eyes?"


    Four eyes!? Yeah, he addressed Suyin as that.


    "Y-yes b-boss." Suyin stuttered, feigning nervousness, but for some reason she felt weird under Xu Tong''s gaze.


    "Tell the truth. I saw you put something in your pocket. Either tell yourself, or I''ll ask them to strip you and check." Xu Tong flicked his finger at Maddie and then at his shoes.


    The bodyguards cracked their knuckles, taking a position at either side of Suyin. However, she kept her gaze glued to Maddie as he kneeled on the wet floor to clean the invisible dust off of Xu Tong''s shoes.


    other than the God, no one heard Suyin mutter curse under her breath.

 Chapter 130: Its in everyones best interest if we get killed too

    Ang Lee saw the scene unfold and wanted to come out from his hiding to help Suyin. However, he stopped when she signaled him to stay put. Her brows further frowned when all she saw was Ang Lee alone. Where was Long Ju?


    Hope he''s fine!


    "Do you really think I saw nothing?" Xu Tong''s cold voice pierced through the air. His foot-steps slowly approached Suyin. "Now tell me who send you and from which news channel you are."


    He mistook Suyin as a reporter who had come to his factory to collect evidence after reading the ongoing rumors. In his eyes, the person standing before him was a man.


    Suyin showed no fear against them, all she hoped was Ang Lee to leave without her. She even tried to signal him, but he couldn''t read her. Not his fault, though!


    "Won''t tell?" Xu Tong grabbed Suyin''s chin roughly and pushed her on the floor. "Then I''ll ask your partner. Guards, get that sneaky scum out."

 Chapter 131: Two more people have joined your life.

    People''s Hospital,


    "Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who in this land is the fairest of all. And the mirror answered. Oh, queen, you are fairest of all I see, but over the hills, where the seven dwarfs dwell, snow-whiteYuyu, are you even listening?"


    "No." Sitting at the edge of Suyin''s bed, Yuyu continued poking Suyin''s cheek. "Snow-white is boring. I''m more interested in her. Why is she still sleeping?"


    "I don''t know."


    "When will she wake up?"


    "I don''t know."


    "Why is she here?"


    "Because she''s hurt."


    "How?"


    "."


    "Yuyu, Honey bro is not an encyclopedia. Stop pestering him like an annoying fly. Note down your questions and ask pretty sister when she wakes up."


    "Hmpf, bully."


    "."


    "Mmmm. Puppies," Suyin mumbled, her eyelashes fluttered.


    Lan jumped, "Ah, she woke up. I''ll call Uncle Shi Shi."


    Yuyu runs behind Lan, "I''ll join you too."

 Chapter 132: Do I need to justify my actions?

    "Ah, Wang Shi, I can''t stay here any longer." Ignoring the shooting pain in her back, Suyin kicked the blanket off, but he held her knees tight, pinning her to the bed.


    "Suyin,"


    "I saw kids at the factory. Their condition was awful, heart-wrenching. Apart from fighting from hunger and staph infection, there was a kid among them who was badly beaten and was high on fever. Though I brewed a traditional medicine for him, it''s not enough. He needs antibiotics, nutritious food, care, and lots of rest."


    Suyin struggled to leave the bed as she reasoned with Wang Shi. She had been so distracted by Honey and him that Maddie and her promise slipped her mind. "I lost all the pieces of evidence, otherwise I would have shown you their condition. In fact, I think they are the source of the staph bacteria which eventually carried into tampons as they helped in the production. I have promised to help them, let me go."


    "Shh. I know everything. In fact, I have seen it."

 Chapter 133: Honour?

    As per Suyin''s plan, Gu Yuan had released a statement on her official Weibo saying she''s going for site tour in Unicharm''s factory and would share it through live streaming and prove it''s all the rumours spread by haters to tarnish the company''s reputation.


    Gu Yuan''s initiative of educating the women had caught everyone''s attention, bringing her under the attention of the political party to which her husband belongs to. They supported her initiative.


    On the other side, Suyin wrote a short message that today she would be revealing the name of the company and a shocking truth about it. Everyone should stay tuned. It''s her first project in collaboration with the People''s Hospital.


    The people''s group, Feng Corporations and R-Tech (Xiu Mei''s company) shared the post to let it reach the masses.


    "Do you think the company Zhao Suyin pointed at is Unicharm?"


    "Don''t know. But if she''s true, Gu Yuan can only dream of moving ahead in politics."

 Chapter 134: KIDS

    "What just happened? Did Gu Yuan really accuse Unicharm for the death of all those women? Wait! Let me go through the clip again."


    "But wasn''t she there to prove Zhao Suyin wrong? Why would she say something like that?"


    It shocked the people watching live streaming. Confused. They looked forward to more information.


    However, just then Xu Tong approached Gu Yuan. Showing stern eyes. "Mrs. Gu, watch your words. Slandering is a crime."


    She let out a gentle laugh as if heard a joke. People don''t even stutter while lying! "Slandering? Are you sure about it?"


    A few men disguised as reporters formed a safety barrio around Gu Yuan.


    He whispered, "Gu Yuan, don''t think your husband could save you. Do you think this will help you boost your political career? What evidence do you have? You better apologize right now and correct your statement, if you don''t want to live a miserable life. Maybe I''ll let you live."

 Chapter 135: Yes I will do it again

    *KNOCK*


    *KNOCK*


    *KNOCK*


    Wang Shi tapped against the ceiling with a pole.


    "What are you doing?"


    "They had sedated the kids, that''s why no one is responding. The entire roof is made up of cement, but the door can only be of wood or metal. Probably they have painted it to keep it hidden." He replied and continued tapping, paying attention to the sound.


    Soon the others caught up.


    "This one! Everyone, step back.." With a swift inward push at the door, the bosom of the loft fell open, hanging from the ceiling.


    Suyin rushed once more, but this time he stopped her and looked at the senior police officer. "Get the kids out. Careful, they are sedated."


    "I-I."


    "Miss. Zhao Suyin, I know you are worried about them, but some things are best left for others. You cannot get everyone down safely through the ladders. Can you?"

 Chapter 136: Why her facts differ from his?

    "W-whenever I see a child in suffering, in pain, in tears- it reminds of my baby.. He died because of m-me I was being an irresponsible, heartless mother who left her sick child into the care of the so-called doctors believing he was in safe hands and went to s-sit for the viva in front of the medical council to save my career."


    Tears began to spill from her helpless eyes, rolling down her cheeks to Wang Shi''s hands.


    Suyin was not an emotional person, but the only thing that breaks her had been the memory of her baby. She still blames herself.


    "Maybe if I had not left him, he would have been alive. Safe. Happy. By my side. B-But I"


    "Shh. Don''t say Let''s just drop it here." Her grief surged with every breath, reaching higher with every spoken word, not even soothing with long intakes of breaths. This was the second time he had seen her sobbing.

 Chapter 137: Im sure its fake

    "You" Honey covered his cheeks and ran behind the desk. "I got rashes because of you. The doctor has asked to refrain anyone from kissing me."


    Suyin ""


    Wang Shi narrowed his eyes, "Which doctor?"


    "Dr. He Jeff."


    "He''s a psychiatrist, not a skin specialist." Because of his smooth interactions and bantering with Suyin, there had been a significant change in Honey. Not only had he started being vocal, but his weekly therapy session with He Jeff had turned into a complaining session.


    Unlike the other time where he remained silent, these days all he does was talk and complain about Suyin.


    A sign of improvement!


    Surely, it was one of Dr. He''s idea to instigate Honey and ignite another interesting bantering between them.


    Unlike her true self, Suyin didn''t speak a word or argue with him and sat down on the couch with the help of Wang Shi. Her lips twitched to the side, showing her disapproval.

 Chapter 138: His daughter!

    The news that a man requires a heart for his son and was willing to pay any price was passed to all the hospitals. He knew this step would arouse the greed of hospitals, but maybe a needy parent be willing to donate.


    But it seems it sacrificed an innocent baby to save the son of a rich man.


    Wang Shi had lost all hopes when one day he was informed that a heart was able that fits his requirements. The baby was already brain dead, and the heart was supposed to be harvested ASAP. He checked the details send to him and further got it confirmed by collecting the samples personally and had it tested in his own hospital.


    He did everything in record time, on priority.


    "Wang Shi,"


    "Wang Shi,"


    "Shishi,"


    Jianyu left his seat and pressed on Wang Shi''s shoulder, who was lost in thoughts and didn''t respond despite being called thrice.


    He jolted up and looked up.

 Chapter 139: Am I that useless in your eyes?

    Wang Shi had never felt this tired. He dragged himself to his office, and as expected, the two sunshines of his heart were sleeping in the lounge. In each other''s arms.


    Honey''s palm was at Suyin''s cheek.


    It''s still a mystery for him why he does that.


    The scene was so beautiful that he would love to be greeted by it every time he comes from work. Unable to control, he bends down to place a kiss on their temples. Not at all surprised that Suyin stirred and pulled Honey closer. Protectively.


    Her motherly instincts were at alert even in sleep.


    "Mmmmm." She hummed herself and slit open her eyes. "You are back."


    His hand went to touch her back, "Is it hurting? Do you need me to give you painkiller?"


    "I''m sleeping with my painkiller." Swaying in deep sleep, she made space for him. "You should sleep to."


    Wish Suyin could see his reaction. All he did was to kiss her forehead; his lips lingered there for long. "Sleep. I''ll freshen up."

 Chapter 140: Mumma bear!

    Fei Hong feel jittery, she had to take deep breaths after every few seconds to remain calm sitting with one of the best racers. It was difficult to believe the man who helped her that night was none other than Zhao Zeng!


    She opened the book, taking a look at her favourite cars to divert her mind.


    "This one''s my favourite," he pointed at McLaren MP4/4 car.


    "Mmm-hmm" Her hands flexed restlessly as she nodded.


    He looked at her for a few seconds, and then finally asked, "Am I making you nervous? Maybe I should have not let you see my face."


    Oh hell! She pursed her lips. If it was some other time, she wouldn''t be this nervous but now she''s not the same famous RJ Fei Hong. Well.. she''s still famous but for some other reason.


    "It''s not you, but me. Aren''t you scared your reputation will be stained if someone photographs you with me?"


    "It will stain my reputation? Why? Have you done something wrong?"

 Chapter 141: Thats what Im most afraid of

    Out of option, Wang Shi had to lead the way to his office. Before leaving, he didn''t forget to grit his teeth at the oldie Li Han, who gave a mocking thumbs up.


    The three entered the elevator, Wang Shi''s heart raced at the sight of the numbers flashing at the control panel, knowing there''s no escape.


    They stepped out and turned to take a quick walk to his office. Wang Shi''s eyes riveted at the end of the corridor, hoping Suyin would come out of his office in search of him. Gaah! The chances were negative. The medicines she had taken would keep her in deep slumber.


    From the corner of his eyes, he looked at Si Han''s confused, suspected, and frowning face. Even James was walking at a distance, afraid of the beating he might get.

 Chapter 142: I like his son, but I like him too.

    "Careless girl," Si Han muttered, taking fast strides to help Suyin, but Wang Shi was faster and snaked his hands around her waist. Without a care in the world, he put his left foot forward and make Suyin stand on it. Shocking her.


    She hinted him with her eyes about the presence of her mother but he was busy making her stand comfortably. Annoyed, she pinched him. He looked down to see her red face, the morning glow of her face brought a smile on his.


    "What happen? Is it hurting a lot? Endure it for a few minutes, because of body stiffness it''s normal to hurt in the morning."


    Hell! Who cares about the pain in front of Si Han''s brooding stare!?


    "M-Mom," she couldn''t dare to look into her mother''s.

 Chapter 143: The complimentary Wang Shi cant be ignored

    Wang Shi''s hug around her tightened, and he cuddled her closer. He doesn''t have the words to tell her how important she''s to him, and he really wants to keep things intact with her. In recent days, she had given him the reasons to smile and look forward to more of Honey and her cute bantering.


    "Wang Shi," Suyin felt him nuzzle at her neck, his hot breath tickling her, sending a wave of sensation through her body.


    "Suyin," His lips paused at her collarbone, breathing in her intoxicating natural scent. After a momentary pause, he finally spoke, "We will always talk things out, and hear each other if things go wrong between us and won''t let it affect our relationship. Can we?"

 Chapter 144: I have an information which.....

    "Honey bro!"


    "Honey bro!"


    "Let''s go. Otherwise, we''ll be late." The two little ones chirped while standing at the door. Their little ponytails swing in the air as they started pulling Honey''s hand.


    "Wait, let me pick my bag." Honey ran to the lounge.


    "Ah, you guys are looking so cute. Can I pinch your cheeks?" Suyin crouched down, pinching their apple cheeks. Soft.


    "Hmpf, beware she''s a wildcat and can even scratch you." While adjusting the strap of his bag with one hand Honey pointed at his chin with the other. A nail scratch! It directed the shocked gaze of two girls at startled Suyin. No need to guess who did it.


    "That''s because you were resisting my kisses. I''m sorry!


    "No need to apologize. Dad, make sure to give me a TT shot after I return and vaccinate her. Bye!"


    Suyin "."

 Chapter 145: What does he mean?

    "Look, what they are saying? It''s all because of your teaching. I''m glad you took me as your student. Your only student in five years." Xeumo gloated, pretending to be closer to Gong Li.


    The interns giggled, seeing them standing intimately and whispered among each other, much to Xeumo''s excitement.


    "Mam, treat! We are sure even Zz would be willing to work with you now. After all, he only works with the best."


    Xeumo''s face strained, "No, I''m not ready yet. I''ll apply after practicing for a few more years. You all know, once rejected by Zz, one has to wait for ten years.But I''m happy that Dr. Gong works with him."


    That was another lie brought up by the hospital. Gong Li was already rejected three years back, when Ling Gilbert had applied on Zz''s portal on behalf of Gong Li, asking to work along.


    "But I won''t disappoint you. Party is on me!" Xeumo''s smile came back. "Gong Li, tonight at Jo''s bar. Sounds good?"

 Chapter 146: Dark. Dangerous

    She shook her head, "I didn''t. When he failed to give me moral support, what else I could have expected from him. That time, mom and I broke our FD''s, and dad supported us by selling his old paintings at a throwaway price."


    "So why didn''t you shift him after that?"


    "Go check your hospital records. I was about to shift him the other day after finishing up with my VIVA. I had even made the deposit and had spoken with the pediatrician of your hospital. But... overnight his lung infection worsened, and develop fluid around it, congesting it, which put strain on his heart and they pushed him to OT"


    "Wait!" He interrupted, "Did you see the fluids personally? Through ultrasound?"


    "Not Personally, I was in a different city at that time. But I have checked the scans attached to the reports. It was there. I saw it."


    Another lie!

 Chapter 147: My preferences have changed

    Sitting at the table, Suyin instead changed her line of sight and looked outside the window instead of her Zhao Zeng who waved at her.


    His stride faltered fractionally by her frosty attitude, but that didn''t stop him from approaching her. "Hey,"


    He took off the mask and gave a kiss on her forehead. His hands rubbed her cheek- a gesture that had not changed over the years! He always enjoys caressing her soft cheeks.


    "How are you? I heard you were hurt?" He eyed her from top to bottom and noticed a belt around her waist. "Susu, this"


    "Cut it out, ge. You know I don''t like this concern of yours." She snapped. Her attention shifted to see where Fei Hong was standing and gave a curt nod, "You have a lady with you, please look after her." It was she saying to Zeng, ''please leave me alone.''


    "Woww. You both know each other!" Fei Hong came to her table, "Wait! You both are Zhao!? Are you siblings, cousins or...???"

 Chapter 148: hes Dr..

    "Hi, Hong! What a pleasant surprise." Attacked by Wang Shi''s words, Junjie barged into the restaurant and took the seat across Fei Hong before Zeng could sit on it.


    Zeng, "Excuse me!"


    Junjie, "Strawberry shake, Sangria, fried prawns, chestnut dimsums, and grilled pork with sweet and sour sauce. Hong, if you want to eat something else, order it."


    Zeng ""


    Fei Hong "."


    "Cough," Fei Hong cleared her throat, and leaned to whisper, "Junjie, he''s not a waiter, but Zhao Zeng. The Zhao Zeng, one of the best formula one driver."


    "Oh!" As if he doesn''t know! He extended his hand to Zeng, and he shook it. "Feng Junjie. Her best friend."


    "Zhao Zeng. Her ''new-friend'' and the one who brought her here for dinner." He reminded him, "That''s my seat you''ve taken." All Zeng cares about was to sit from where he could get an unobstructed view of Suyin.


    Junjie checked around, "Did you bring it along? I thought it''s the property of the restaurant."

 Chapter 149: Accident or murder?

    "..he''s Dr. Gong Li from."


    Nurse Miya was yet to complete the sentence when a gush of wind passed through her ear. Wang Shi had already stormed out towards the elevator. "Sir,"


    She had been working with Wang Shi since the day he started this hospital and knows him very well. Knowing he would give further instructions while walking, she hurriedly chased after him.


    "I''ll be back in half an hour, shift him to the VIP floor, and monitor closely. Appoint extra security outside. No one is allowed to see him without my permission, not even the police officers. Just make an excuse if they insist and tell Li Han to handle them."


    Miya noted the instructions. The door of the elevator was about to close when Wang Shi struck his foot. Everyone present in the elevator looked in confusion.


    He paused for a fraction of the second, "Everyone, OUT."


    The staff shuffled out within a second.

 Chapter 150: Code Blue

    "Beware. Don''t forget who you are talking to." Icy yet strangely calm, Wang Shi''s voice forced the remaining words down into Ling Gilbert''s throat. Li Han''s position in the hospital was next to Wang Shi, he wouldn''t tolerate a word against him.


    "I-I barely said"


    He was ignored as Wang Shi turned to Li Han. "Only family members are allowed. Don''t let random people cross the restricted area."


    "W-What is she doing there? Dad..."


    At Xeumo''s words, Gilbert turned to look at the glass wall and was shocked to see Suyin standing near Gong Li and it seemed they were interacting. At that very moment, Suyin turned and walked to draw curtains, shutting them from looking in.


    Gilbert cast his questionable gaze to Wang Shi but wisely kept his mouth close, least he gets humiliated or something worse. However, his daughter was not wise enough and questioned.


    "What is she doing in? She''s not a family member either."

 Chapter 151: I believe in two eyes, four limbs and thousand chopped pieces

    Suyin sat down on the cold bench arranged at the end of the corridor, leaning back with closed eyes. ''Magazine! Boy! Ph.! What could be the third word? What do the first two words hint at?''


    "What do you want?" she asked with closed eyes.


    Gilbert stood behind her, not at all surprised she was aware of him following her. "What did you do just now?"


    She slit open her one eye but closed it again. The lenses were hurting, she needs a new pair and had to consult a doctor ASAP. "Elaborate,"


    Gilbert scoffed, "As if you don''t know what am referring to?"


    "Nope. I don''t," she reached to rub the side of her temples in a circular motion. "Either come to the point or care to walk away."

 Chapter 152: I-I had some urgent work.. mommy

    Suyin marched into Wang Shi''s office lounge and was welcomed by a mouth-watering aroma of something cooking in the kitchen.


    "Mmmm. My Hottie bum has arranged something yummy for me." She mumbled, hastily changing into house slippers which he had kept arranged for her when his arms came around her from behind, taking her by surprise. "Ahh!"


    "What took you so long?"he hummed near her ear, his hot breath tickled her skin, lifting her shoulder up. "You washed your hair? I told you not to let water touch your bandages?"


    She turned before he could lift her top to check bandages, "Nurse Miya helped me to cover it. Now can I see what''s cooking, I''m starving, Ahh!"


    To which he pinched her cheeks, "Careless!"


    Her eyes caught something, "Hey, why is my fairy sleeping on the couch?"


    "I don''t know. When I come here, he was already there. Let him sleep."

 Chapter 153: Title is a spoiler*

    "Ah, my Little Fairy, don''t give me that look. I might pounce on you at any moment."


    To Suyin''s amusement, Honey shuffled a few steps back with a horrified look, and as usual, his hands went to cover his non-existent bosom. "Behave, I''m talking something serious."


    Suyin nodded like a pecking chicken, mesmerized by how adorable he looks. Junior Wang Shi! Scolding her in his childish voice! Can it even be called a scolding? She was about to put the Gnocchi bowl down when he stopped her.


    "Are you done eating?"


    She looked down at her bowl. "Um."


    "I''ll wait, finish it first." Suddenly he noticed something, "Where''s the fork?"


    From behind, Wang Shi raised the fork up and grinned, much to Suyin''s annoyance. Thankfully Honey''s attention was at her.


    "."


    "Um. I-I was eating with hands."

 Chapter 154: ill-luck

    ... and after that, Honey was the centre of attraction in the class.


    However, he felt bad when in one of the pictures he saw her pale face and blood-stained top. It hurt even more knowing how badly he treated her, yet she never complained and always hugged him lovingly, asking for kisses.


    For the first time, he felt something weird in the heart. It made him uncomfortable.


    Suddenly he recalled Suyin''s smile whenever she asked for kisses, and his heart eased away.


    No matter how annoying she was, but she''s sweet too!


    After coming back, he rushed to see her, but to his disappointment, she was nowhere seen. He waited for her the entire day, eventually ending up sleeping on the couch.


    Suyin picked the Honey and went to the lounge to lie down with him. "My Little Tsundere, lecturing me for not taking a rest, what about you? It''s past three. Don''t you have school tomorrow?"

 Chapter 155: Her own family!

    Xeumo jumped in fear and stood with clasped hands. "S-Sorry dad, I''ll prepare another."


    "Fool. That old man already disliked you before, do you think after your today''s act, he would let Gong Li''s share passed on to you? GET LOST! GOOD FOR NOTHING!" He snarled, but as she turned, his voice rang again, "Don''t think I missed my aim. If it was not for the fact, I need this face of yours intact, this tea would have been over you instead. One more mistake, and I''ll skin you alive."


    She bit down on her lips to hide her trembling lips and bowed before leaving.


    After she left, Gilbert stood up to access his safe and took out a phone and a sim.


    "It''s me!" he said, "Gong Li died before he could reach the hospital, but I doubt he had said something to Suyin before dying. She''s going to investigate the case."


    ..


    "No, I don''t know what she knows. But judging by how controlled she was, I doubt she''s anywhere near the truth."


    ...

 Chapter 156: This particular organ always fascinates her

    Qi Enterprises was pulled into the ditch along with Xu Tong (Owner of Unicharm) for lending an enormous amount in the form of a loan from a subsidiary of Qi Enterprises.


    He was severely criticized by public and came under the eyes of authorities for the unknown source of money which was probably his black income. They even found evidence of tax invasion and involvement in illegal activities.


    Investors started pulling out their money, confirmed projects got canceled, and the value of his shares plunged sharply.


    Once more, it benefited her directly. Within a short time, she was becoming the public''s favorite with not even a single negative news. Don''t know why, but her popularity was growing at an abnormally faster rate. Is this only her work or someone else pulling the string as well?


    Is it you, Wang Shi?


    She was still reading an article when a call disturbed her.

 Chapter 157: You are asking me to cover your hickies!?

    Wang Shi suppressed his laughter as Suyin puckered her moist dewy lips, waiting to receive a kiss. Teasing her has been so much that without even realizing it, it had become his favorite hobby. The cherry on top was her priceless expression!


    After waiting for like infinity, Suyin peeked and saw the tall man standing with a raised chin, and an annoying proud smirk pasted to his lips.


    "Wang Shi!" she stomped on his shoes.


    His brows raised, feigning ignorance, "You want something?"


    "."


    "You are deliberately doing this." She snapped, puffing her cheeks like Honey, beckoning Wang Shi to pinch them. "Don''t forget I''m the savage and shameless Queen, Zhao Suyin. You better give me a kiss right now."


    Her demand and impatience warmed his heart. You only make demands in front of your loved ones. If she''s making one to him, this shows how much she puts him in her heart.

 Chapter 158: Weirdos! Cat and Monkey!

    Wang Shi was already waiting for her in the office, a healthy meal was kept at the table. The sound of her slippers caught his attention, but her tomato-red face made him laugh. Don''t know if it was her anger or shame.


    She made eye contact and growled. Anger it was!


    Flaring her nostrils, she took the farthest seat and self-served, ignoring when he passed a plate.


    "Dad,"


    Suyin''s anger flew out of the window, replacing it with a cheerful smile, and she opened her arms. "Little fairy!"


    "Wow!" He paused, the school bag dropped, "What happened to your neck? Why are there so many bandages? Who did that?"


    ".."


    "Dad, what" this time he paused in his words, "and what happened to your lips? It was not there in the morning, who bit you?"


    "."


    "A wildcat." Wang Shi answered, provoking Suyin.

 Chapter 159: shes the same woman!

    While Wang Shi drove Suyin, she kept looking out of the window with her eager interest to know where he had been taking her to. After a short drive of forty minutes and navigating their way through dirty alleys, he pulled over at a decrepit residential area.


    It was downtown, where the city''s poorest lives. Smelly, disorderly, broken houses with wires hovering over, and puddles everywhere.


    Wang Shi opened his tab and glanced at her. She had been looking out the window at the poor people and kids doing their daily chores. Understanding her mood, he gently touched her chin, "We have our limitations. No matter how much we try or question ourselves, we cannot help everyone in this world."


    "I know, it''s just" she sighed, "leave it. Tell me, why are we here?"


    "Look at this video."


    By now Suyin had seen many videos as collected by Daiyu and Xiu Mei. This one was no different.

 Chapter 160: crumbled like a puppet

    By now it was sure something happened with Gong Li before he left Ace. The blood on his shirt as said by the boy pointed at many things.


    Suyin flipped the magazine pages and found a page with something written, but she decided to read it once she''s out of here. "Thank you."


    They turned to left.


    "Brother, isn''t we supposed to receive a reward. Why is she"


    "Shhh."


    Wang Shi glanced at Suyin, who was lost in the magazine, ignoring the kids. That''s against her personality! His hand went to rub her back to get her attention, and he turned, "He said, she will give you a lot of money?"


    The kids looked vacantly.


    Finally, it caught Suyin''s attention, and she looked up.

 Chapter 161: When did I message her!?

    A day passed by but Suyin was still unconscious. Though her condition was just a reaction to the trauma she received after knowing of her baby''s death and her reports were normal, Wang Shi was getting restless with every passing minute she spent unconscious.


    The staff looked at their calm, composed, and mighty chairman, looking at the woman sleeping in the room just a few meters away from him as her family members accompanied her.


    He had run his hand thousands of times in his hair, looking beyond exhausted. So unlike him! Where goes the man who''s always energetic even after finishing with a few back to back surgeries?


    Standing at the nurse station, he looked at her anxiously, tried to concentrate on work but that seems impossible. Inside Si Han and James were sitting by her side. Suyin would surely rage that he didn''t lie about her condition to her mother when she called to enquire. But that''s least of his concern.


    "Sir! Sir! SIR!"

 Chapter 162: Missing!

    "No. I was just making myself feel good. It''s been a while." Fei Hong rubbed her nose. "Now that you are done questioning me, I would like to enjoy this tasty food. Alone." she raised the bag up,Did you ask them to make everything extra spicy?"


    "Yup. Everything is according to your taste, Medusa. But don''t be a glutton and eat everything alone. I haven''t eaten yet, let''s eat together." he self-invited himself inside and flip the plates kept at the dining table, taking out bowls from the cabinet. It was one of his apartments; he was fully aware of where to get things from.


    "Maybe some other time. I''m not in the mood today."


    "Then it''s the perfect time to lighten up your mood. What''s better than tasty food and a glass of old wine! C''mon, pass me everything...."


    With a heavy sigh, Fei Hong emptied the contents of the bag, and passed it to him one by one, occasionally taking a glance at the clock. Two it was!

 Chapter 163: What did you get in return?

    Rows of marble tomb stood like guards rising from the grass. It''s spooky yet it was a place where the soul rises above to meet God, leaving the loved ones crying over remains. That''s why the graveyard echoes with painful grief and the heartfelt loss.


    Suyin looked around. Her eyes drip with tears and moment by moment the rain covers it.


    How can this place be so full and empty both? The only ray of life was the flowers planted around, and the majestic cherry blossom standing tall in the corner. It had a red scarf wrapped and a bell hung on it.


    Suyin let her feet tread lightly over the drenched grass until she was near the cherry blossom tree. Her eyes land on the beautiful engraving on the ground, Zhao Fai.


    Fai means the beginning.


    With a heavy heart she rung the bell, "Mumma is here, baby." and sat down amidst the downpour.

 Chapter 164: Take a break

    "N-nothing. He forgot. God doesn''t give me anything." Suyin sniffed.


    "No God didn''t forget. He must be preparing a bigger gift for you. Just be patient. It will come for sure. Even my gift arrived late." Unaware to her, he looked up at the sky and squinted his eyes, sending a warning to the almighty.


    God frowned, ''Brat! I already send it weeks back. But the blind woman failed to see it. Keep me out of this. I''m innocent.''


    "Honey, can I take you as my gift?" Suyin''s voice was soft, almost pleading the child like a child.


    He stopped pecking her cheek, "But I''m dad''s."


    "So let me take both of you. Please."


    God, ''YES! That''s your gift! Take it! Take both father and son, and spare me.''


    "Okay. We both are yours. Happy now? Now stop crying." Honey only said it to console her, and make her stop crying. Surely, she wouldn''t be interested in taking them forever. When the crying mess in his arms would be sober, she would forget all this. Is it?

 Chapter 165: Title is a spoiler.

    "Let''s take a break from each other."


    These words fell out of her mouth easily but landed into his heart like shrapnel. He could feel his insides tear and his jaw clenched. He would have laughed, but she''s serious. It''s visible in her eyes. "Say. That. Again."


    Suyin stayed rooted, lowered her lashes. She had spent the best time of her life with him, feeling loved, secure, pampered, and respected. But how can she be selfish to put his and Honey''s life in danger for her personal revenge? "L-let''s call it off-- ah!"


    He pinched her chin, pressing it hard, and forced her to make eye-contact. Then he spoke with the voice that doesn''t take no for an answer. "Every relationship requires efforts from both sides. If your resolution was this weak why did you agree at the start then? To play with me! Where goes your promise that you made me?"

 Chapter 166: Take care of Honey.

    "Wow! I will beat you." Suyin brought her fists up. She was stunned silly by Wang Shi''s sudden confession. Shocking really! Her mind reeled two minutes back, comprehending if she really heard it? A few minutes before she was talking about the break-up, but the weird man confessed her instead!


    Subconsciously, her defensive stance kicked in, taking his words to be a joke. If he really was playing with her, she would eat roasted Wang Shi for lunch.


    "ZHAO SUYIN.... Out of all the words I expected to hear from you, you said this!? Like seriously!?" he seethed.


    She opened her mouth to say something, but he pinched her lips. "No more nonsense. You are spoiling the mood. Let me finish this."


    He pushed wet strands of hair sticking to her neck, "I have never seen a woman before who could put every other woman to shame. For this confidence in your soul, sarcasm on your tongue, warmth in heart, and love in eyes, it is my heart I lose to you."

 Chapter 167: Every woman is evil

    In the VIP ward of the hospital,


    Wang Shi rushed to where Honey was admitted and saw the senior pediatrician examining him. His brows furrowed seeing the spiked heart rate on the monitor. His son was drenched in sweat, restless, twitching in sleep.


    "What injection are you giving him? Stop it." Everyone present breathed a sigh of relief seeing him coming in.


    "It''s to stabilize his heart rate."


    "No need. Show me his EKG." he checked the paper strip with black lines running on it. His expression darkened. Honey''s condition was serious, but it had nothing to do with him going out in rain. It''s something else. Something familiar.


    A psychological trauma!


    Wang Shi pulled the oxygen mask from Honey''s mouth and wiped the perspiration on the top of his lips, whispering softly. "Honey, hey bratty.... I''m here. Dad is here." gently massaging his chest. Since his condition resulted from the shock, coaxing him helps. Last time it did.

 Chapter 168: Then continue the lullaby for our baby.

    No matter what efforts Wang Shi made, but he failed to stabilize Honey''s condition. He didn''t wanted to use heavy dose of medicines on his frail body, preferring to use light dose and natural ways of coaxing him to make him feel secure. Calm. Warm.


    He glanced at his watch, it''s had been thirty minutes but Suyin was nowhere in sight.


    Dr. He Jeff pulled Wang Shi to the side, "Where''s Suyin?"


    "She told me to come here in five minutes but it''s been over thirty. Don''t where she got stuck." he noticed his mother glancing at her phone frequently. A suspicion crossed his mind, and he whispered something to Miya.


    However, before Miya could leave the room, she saw Suyin strode in. Her appearance was disheveled- Wet and uncombed hair, mismatched clothes, dry skin, and chapped lips.


    She was everything but an elegant lady that should appear in front of the President of the nation and his wife.


    Who cares!

 Chapter 169: A soft touch

    Instantly Suyin took Honey back and started to pat him, whispering sweet nothings. Wang Shi caressed him, showing obvious displeasure towards his mother.


    "Mom, please, don''t be unreasonable. Do I have to remind you Honey is not close to you?"


    "Wrong! Not only Honey but even my own son is not close to me." mumbling, she hugged her husband. It was the bitter truth of her life! "I won''t disturb you anymore. I''m sorry."


    If it was some other time Suyin might have nudged Wang Shi to console his mother, but right now she had stopped caring about anyone.

 Chapter 170: Why fear when your weirdo duck is here!?

    An hour ago,


    Honey slit opens his eyes and felt panicked as if recalling something. As he tried to bolt out of bed, a strong arm pressed his back and then leaned to whisper near his ear. "I''m here.... I''m here...."


    The familiar fragrance calmed him, and he turned his head. A tear rolled down from his eyes.


    "Da--"


    Wang Shi placed his finger at Honey''s lips before he could say a word, caressed his soft cheeks with the thumb. "I know everything, buddy. But before you say something, I want you to see this--" having said he plugged the earphones in his ear, holding the tab up to show a CCTV recording.


    ******


    In the empty corridor of the newly constructed wing of the hospital, a familiar figure made Honey shiver and his grip on sleeping Suyin tightened.

 Chapter 171: Finally, you are caged!

    One day before,


    "C''mon Zeng, where the hell are you!" sitting in the restaurant Fei Hong sighed. It''s been an hour already, and the man was nowhere in sight. She glanced at her phone, the last message reads ''I have reached''.


    He didn''t even reply to her!


    "He should have dropped a message at least! Irresponsible! I will wait for another five minutes, if he didn''t come by then, I''ll leave." the woman sitting at the adjacent table stared at her as if trying to recall something which adds on to Fei Hong''s irritation. "Yeah, I''m the woman from the online video.Any opinions?" she snapped.


    The woman sneered.


    Irritated by the prying eyes of people, Fei Hong left the restaurant after five minutes. However, she ran into a problem as she went to the parking. Her bike had a flat tire!


    This can''t be a coincidence, someone must have done it. She looked at the CTV camera and nodded before leaving the restaurant to hail the cab.

 Chapter 172: NO MEANS NO!

    Fei Hong shuffled to the corner of the room, giving them the satisfaction as if they have cornered a mouse. "So it''s you who sent your men after me." though she already knew, she wanted the confirmation from their mouth to which they shamelessly affirmed.


    "Isn''t it obvious, stupid woman?" The third man with brown noodle-like hair closed a step in, "Tell me, what''s the need to fight in court for the crime we haven''t done? Accompanying a man in the hotel, dressing up like this- Aren''t a lowly woman like you approach rich for--" he licked his lips, darting his eyes at her white legs, itching to rip her shorts blocking his vision.


    "So my clothes, me being independent, agreeing to dine alone with a man in a hotel, be outspoken, frank, smile and ME being ''Me''- everything gives you the right to make assumptions and take me as your private property?"

 Chapter 173: Shameful!

    THUD


    She fell down on her back, barely able to think straight from the pain. Her eyes flicked at her phone hidden near the golden showpiece.


    "Junjie...."


    She proved her innocence! She did it! But the only hope of her survival was her best friend. Feng Junjie. He better come here now.


    Why was he not here yet!?


    Did he not get her message?


    "Junjie...."


    Slowly, slowly, her eyes drooped. The door break open, tens of men flooded into the room. No! They were some rogues and not Junjie''s organized security personal dressed in protective gear.


    This was the end!


    However, amidst the chaos, she heard another sound. The sound that made these rogues shuffle to the corner like cowards, crying like slaughtered pigs when a sophisticated team took over.


    Her heart settled, she felt safe. He was here!

 Chapter 174: My life, my rules

    "Take these medicines."


    "NO!"


    "This is the last time I''m saying. Next, I''ll stick a needle in your ass."


    "No means no!"


    "Honey, just what do you want?" Suyin was getting impatient of the little human''s tantrums as he kept himself wrapped in a blanket.


    "I don''t like repeating my words."


    Suyin''s gaze shifted to the table where some medicines were kept. She cursed Wang Shi under breath, "Fine! I''m taking them." and swallowed them one by one under the gaze of a certain someone peeking from the blanket.


    Honey giggled seeing her make funny faces, "Now you know how bitter it is. That''s my revenge." and accepted medicines, letting go of his fake tantrums. He smiled inwardly, ''Mission accomplished.''


    .....


    .....


    In their fight, they did not notice the two people watching them from the glass wall. With their experienced eyes, they watched Suyin''s interactions with Honey.

 Chapter 175: Are you sure you are not talking about yourself?

    "Ten. Ten kisses. Just stop dad."


    "Suyin, don''t you dare."


    "Pretty please...."


    "I''m warning you, Suyin."


    "Fifty kisses."


    "SUYIN...."


    Poor Suyin was split between the father-son duo as they tried to pull her to their sides. Undeniably, they both look funny. Wang Shi calls them Tom-Jerry pair, but right now, the father-son pair were like Tom and Butch fighting for Toodles.


    Oh! She''s loving it!


    A peal of laughter rippled amidst the fight, shifting their attention to the woman. It was blissful wholehearted laughter they saw for the first time. Her laughter created a small propitious moment, a blessed relief from all the distress they had been through. It cheered Wang Shi and Honey and they share a smile, chuckled with joy.


    She laughed until tears rolled down her face, her tummy hurt. Slowly turning into half laughter half hiccup as she sat down on Honey''s bed, suppressing something within.

 Chapter 176: Scar him forever

    "Can you wait for me here?"


    Honey peeked into Wang Shi''s office and saw the two people seated at the table in the balcony, ready with a lavish spread of many dishes. They were his grandparents, yet he was reluctant to join them. "Do I have options?"


    "No." Wang Shi crouched down, "Consider it as my request. I promise to join you in no time. Rest assured, mom won''t talk about anything that makes you uncomfortable."


    "You are going after ''her''" the ''her'' in Honey''s statement was Suyin.


    "Yes. I''m worried Suyin didn''t bring up the topic of your mother--"


    "Don''t call her my mother." Honey''s frosty voice caught Wang Huang and Liu Jeilan''s attention as they both turned to look. Honey lowered his voice, "Come fast, I''ll be waiting for you and..... and.... cough....nothing. Just come fast."

 Chapter 177: I love..... I love....

    Wang Shi brushed her falling hair from her neck and gave a longing kiss at her shoulder to which she flexed. He looked up and smiled. "Your arrival changed my life. And bit by bit, I drowned in thoughts of you. I chose you, and I''m willing to repeat my actions every time I see you. I love you." and he sealed his words with a kiss.


    Suyin gasped, her heart raced matching with Wang Shi''s. His words erasing all the negative thoughts and insecurity that occupied her mind. She brought her hands in his silky hair, "I-I.... I love.... I love Honey." saying she instantly covered her face.


    Wang Shi "...."


    "Pfft," Wang Shi chuckled, pulling her hands down, "What a perfect way to spoil the mood. Bummer. Anyway, I''ll wait to hear those words, weirdo duck." he pinched her nose until it turned red.


    "Only my fairy can call me that. Don''t you dare."


    "Well... your little fairy is waiting for you."

 Chapter 178: I like you

    "Did I come at the wrong time?" Suyin asked Hong, pointing at the two men.


    "Yes, and I''m thankful for that. I needed a break from these two." Fei Hong eyed the two sternly, noticing the nervousness on Zhao Zeng''s face as he tried to look anywhere but at Suyin. He didn''t want Suyin to question the swelling on his face.


    Even Junjie pursed his lips. He was involved in a physical fight with Zeng upon knowing it was on Zeng''s invite that Fei Hong sneaked out.


    "Suyin, Howz Honey?"


    "Absolutely fine." Suyin took the only empty seat and waved. "I''m here to congratulate you. It takes the courage to do that. You''ve become an inspiration and many women have come forward, talking about their abuse and how their voice was suppressed by the influential businessman and politicians."


    Fei Hong blinked, "Really?"


    "Yup. The ministry has received many complaints and requests asking for support. We are going to help them."

 Chapter 182: Who cares? Suyin cares.

    "What now? I.... we.... I mean, I did it many times. . Tell me he''s some big-shot and not an ordinary man. He''s my only bargaining chip to control dad and brother." Zena continued.


    "Sorry to disappoint you--" amidst the sound of someone pacing in the room, the female on the other end chuckled. The phone was on speaker. "I checked, he was staying in a deluxe room with XYZ identity. Just an ordinary man you screwed yourself with."


    "Argh, so he''s just a commoner who maintains his physique. Bummer." the woman threw the cold rug from the floor on Wang Shi''s naked butt. Probably she was disgusted by him.


    "By the way, was he good?"


    "I told you, he was a pain, and I had to use the entire quantity meant for two uses at once. Even then he resisted for don''t know how long. I even got hurt in the process of controlling him."

 Chapter 183: She lied.

    Wang Shi looked out the window while the driver drove his car to Suyin''s office. Once more his memory pulled him back into the maze of thoughts.....


    Zena couldn''t keep her facade in front of Wang Shi as the latter knew everything. The fact she left the kids in the orphanage and let them die added fuel to his rage.


    For the first time, he used his powers and gave Zena the biggest blow by wiping out their family businesses as a warning to keep away from kids and never to come after him.


    It worked.


    That''s what he thought.


    .....


    It''s been almost three years since Honey''s surgery- Wang Shi got himself a little bundle of joy that kept chirping around the house. Honey was doing amazing, both physically and mentally. There was no relapse or complications. Just two more years and Wang Shi would cut down Honey''s daily medicines.

 Chapter 179: Its not my loss, but yours.

    Fei Hong''s heart dropped into her stomach, freezing her on the spot while her brain malfunctioned. Junjie''s possessive attitude was a warning bell, but she shrugged it assuming it a reaction to her abuse. Yet, here she was...


    Damn!


    It''s the most difficult situation one can stuck in. There''s nothing more romantic than two best friends falling in love, they have that understanding and chemistry- required to make a relationship work. However, her case was entirely different.


    Her best friend was a gem of a person, really she meant it. He would create havoc on earth if it comes to family and friends. By friends she means herself- she''s his one and only friend after all.It''s just he''s not convincing enough to be a suitable life partner. Not yet. Amongst his brothers, Junjie was the most immature and impatient, somewhat his elder brothers were to be blamed for that. They shouldn''t have been so indulging for him.

 Chapter 180: Perfect reply

    In the parking, Feng Junjie saw a beautiful scene of Wang Shi and Suyin holding hands while the latter was giving instructions to the driver who was on the verge of tears. Though he doesn''t know what he was instructing, the way Suyin was stealing glances at Wang Shi, smiling ear to ear, her eyes spoke a thousand words.


    When his brother was done lecturing the driver, he opened the car door for Suyin, placed his palm on her head while she got in..... but Suyin turned swiftly, placed a kiss on his cheek, taking him off guard.


    She winked.


    Wang Shi blushed.


    It was love. And it made Junjie sad and envious.


    "Junjie," a soft touch on his shoulder jolted him while he turned on shoes to find his sister-in-law. Jeez! She caught him. The way she looked- probably she knows everything already. Yes, she did. Xiu Mei was standing outside the room when Junjie confessed.

 Chapter 181: Mental Asylum

    Zena''s chest heaved with anger. The sight of the two men watching her pathetic state reminded her she''s again proved a loser in front of them. Not to forget, the horrendous creature''s subtle smile flashing from the iPad added salt to her wounds.


    Instead of being grateful for bringing him into this world and support her in front of Wang Shi, Honey destroyed everything. He''s the reason her entire clan was annihilated overnight.


    Now all that''s left was her....


    "Ironic, right? You wanted to trigger Honey''s trauma and use it to separate Suyin and me, but it became the very reason for Honey''s closeness to her." Enjoying the bleak darkness on Zena''s face, Wang Shi stood up and walked to her.


    Zena shook her head. "No. It''s impossible. It can''t be.... BLUFF. YOU ARE TRICKING ME." She yelled, trying to convince herself more than anyone.


    Wang Shi''s brows rose, "Do you think my last warning was a bluff too?"

 Chapter 184: Doctors prescribe pills bigger than that

    Suyin''s car flew past Wang Shi''s yellow car, ignoring it. It stunned him. Is it possible for her to ignore his yellow car, especially when she dislikes his color of choice? Naah! It''s obvious she did it deliberately to let him know that she knows.


    What a cute angry bird!


    The driver named Lee stared in the mirror while the white car vanished within a few seconds and couldn''t stop appreciating the lady driver''s skills. He then noticed a subtle smile on his boss''s face. Shocking.


    "Follow her."


    Lee was the part of Wang Shi''s team of expert bodyguards, and it didn''t take him much time to understand Suyin already knew about them. At least he doesn''t have to make efforts to hide from her, which would have been difficult considering her insane driving.


    After forty minutes, she pulled over at the gates of a nightclub and waited.


    ... waited.....


    ...waited.....

 Chapter 185: Its your turn now

    "You may start now," Suyin covered her ear and mumbled. She had barely thrown a punch and two kicks when Wang Shi''s men barged in out of nowhere and took control of the situation. She was prepared for this, but c''mon.... they didn''t let her do any action and instead formed a protective barrier.


    The security personals took away Song Kun and his friends, while a tall man named Lee showed her the way to Wang Shi''s car. The considerate man didn''t forget to give her a heads-up on Wang Shi''s off mood.


    As expected, when she got into the car Wang Shi neither kissed nor he greeted her with his forever charming smile. He didn''t even say a word throughout the way, neither he paid heed to her clarifications.


    He brought her to a hotel owned by the Feng group and opened a presidential suit. What''s the use of spending thousands of buck to scold your girlfriend? He could have done it in the car as well.

 Chapter 186: Twenty four hours and you will come begging me again

    Unedited. (I don''t know what happened but my pro writing software was not working. I''ll fix the mistakes later.)


    "Where is she?"


    "I-In your office." the receptionist hung her head low at Suyin''s glare. She knew visitors are not allowed to sit in the office. Especially in Suyin''s absence and that too without her permission. The waiting lounge was made for this, but she helpless, "It was Minister Yuan." it was best to tell the truth and save your ass first.


    Ignoring her, Suyin stomped her way into the office followed by her best intern Yun Mixi who had been helping Daiyu in managing Suyin''s schedule and workload.


    "Surprise surprise," The haughty smile on Zhao Feiyan''s face irked Suyin more. Her eyes swept to the pen stand at her table, itching to use it as a weapon and kill her there and then. "Sweet niece, how are you?"

 Chapter 187: In just one blow

    "PREPOSTEROUS! WHO TOLD YOU TO GO THERE?"


    Zhao Feiyan trembled at her husband''s voice, subconsciously looking at the door to make sure it was closed properly. They have servants and Song Kun''s wife at home. The AC was on, but she knew the blood had run from her face.


    ''F*ck, Zhao Suyin, I will kill you. Let me get over with this.'' it''s the first time Song Xianxi had raised his tone at her.


    After getting out of Suyin''s office, she contacted her people again, even offered a bribe, tried to hire lawyers, but all in vain. Don''t know what on earth happened, but just at the mention of Suyin''s name, every person turned their back. And now.... her husband was yelling at her for no reason. Judging by the dark look on his face, she knew even he failed to get their son out of jail.

 Chapter 188: Neighbours

    Wang Shi''s penthouse,


    A certain little fairy was standing on the balcony of his room, his desperate eyes trying to get a glimpse of the balcony below, but was it possible? Especially when Wang Shi had got it covered with bulletproof glass, leaving it open from above.


    It''s been almost two days. Two days! Yesterday she didn''t come to the hospital at her usual time, and today he waited in the parking where she used to catch him for daily kisses but even after waiting for thirty minutes, she never came. Is she alright? Is she angry because he called her with names and said she had no fashion sense?


    He just wants to make sure everything was fine, she''s working with his father on an important project after all.


    Yup, it''s just business-related. He''s definitely isn''t missing her!


    Nope.


    "Honey bro, what are you looking at?" Yuyu joined the peeking competition, but other than a woven tapestry of the city and glittery lights she saw nothing.

 Chapter 189: Traitors

    It''s only Wang Shi giving a hundred percent while Suyin was only enjoying a free ride of his love and care. He has become her backbone in search of the murderers, providing all the resources and never complaints. But she....


    "Stupid," James sat down straight and looked down at her, "Didn''t you say Honey had started to warm up to you?" she opened her mouth to say something but James beat her to that by adding, "When I started with Evan, a wise woman had advised me to go slow in a relationship. The faster you go the faster it will end. Any idea who she was?"


    Seeing Suyin shook her head cheekily while pointing a finger at herself, he hit her forehead. "Of course it was you. Things are going smoothly between you two. Must you mess with it by hasting things?"


    Suyin stared James for a few seconds making him conscious, and then hugged him suddenly, "My love expert! Just how many boyfriends have you charmed?"

 Chapter 190: Secret

    However, just then the door was pulled open from the inside, and there stood Suyin with a smile plastered on her face, wiggling her brows comically. Thanks to Yuyu who was continuously looking back, Suyin saw Honey. Moreover, their short height was a giveaway.


    Honey gulped.


    The old butler stood rooted, battling if he should run or stay. He was pulled into this mess by force by the little masters of the house.


    "Little fairy, you want something?"


    Honey "...." ''Yes, my traitor sisters who are sitting on the couch, licking the cupcake.''


    Honey alternated his eyes at his sisters and then at Suyin.


    "A-airplane,"


    "I like it. Thanks for the gift."


    "..."


    "My sisters,"


    "They are sleeping with me tonight. Thank you for sending them." Suyin beamed, looking over the shoulders, and the two girls pecked their heads like chicken. "I have taken permission from your aunt already."


    Honey "..."


    "B-But me--"

 Chapter 191: Nothing is a coincidence

    "I can''t believe what I just heard! Greed is a bottomless pit, and Song Xianxi and Hui Guozhi are perfect examples of that." Xiu Mei thumped her gadgets and laptop on the table as soon as she returned home.


    Wang Shi leaned against the bar counter and shoved his hand into the pants pocket, bringing the phone out to check Honey''s countless messages, all complaining about Suyin.


    [Weirdo duck slammed the door in my face. She didn''t even let me inside the house. I''m angry.]


    [She stole my sisters and airplane. I''m not talking to them again. You should too.]


    [Yuyu and Lan ditched me for cupcakes. Girls are unpredictable.]


    The last message reads,[Dad, when are you coming home? Scold that weirdo duck for stealing my things. I''m canceling our kissing contract.]

 Chapter 192: Guilty

    "Wait for me, I''m going with you today." Si Han put a slice of toast in mouth and grabbed her handbag. She caught Suyin''s narrowed gaze, "I know I''m more beautiful than you, but if you keep staring at me like this, we''ll be late for work."


    "Mrs. Si, do you think I''m stupid to not understand your motive?"


    "Ah, such amazing genes you have! So sad, they are useless in front of human puppies." She''d make sure Suyin doesn''t spoil her plan of reverse psychology and head straight to the office. The time perfectly clashes with the kids'' school timing, and there are hundred percent chances they would run into each other in parking.


    Suyin could only stomp her feet in anger. Who was she trying to argue? That''s Si Han!


    As the elevator reached the parking and they turned left towards their car, Suyin''s heart started singing. It was Honey and his two sisters with school bags hanging on their back. Adorable.

 Chapter 193: What match you were for Zhaos?

    "Disrespectful as always." Patriarch Zhao snorted, dismissing the tea house staff with a wave of a hand. His assistant thoughtfully stood behind him, his hand secretly resting on the dagger hidden inside sleeves.


    "Respect is earned, and you have done nothing worth to earn it." Si Han countered, noticing caretaker Li Sheng''s subtle action of keeping his hand under the sleeve. As if she doesn''t know! "I''m violent only when someone targets my kids. Remember it?" she hinted at something.


    Patriarch Zhao''s mouth twitched. Of course he remembers.


    It was the day when Si Han broke her ties with the Zhao family. She left Suyin under the care of her parents and returned to the Zhao''s home to fetch their passports. Not surprisingly, his useless youngest son, Zhao Shu, didn''t stop his wife from taking the drastic step and just let her take whatever she wanted.

 Chapter 194: Do not disturb us till then.

    "I''m fine.... tsk.... I''m FINE! Suyin, stop it!" Suyin looked over Si Han''s body for any visible injuries. She knew how ruthless the old man was. "Are you sure you are not hurt anywhere? We can go to the hospital."


    "Worrywart," Si Han flicked Suyin''s forehead. "Tell me what are you doing here."


    "You forgot the design book in my car....." when Suyin came back to return the design book, the staff told her everything. Though Si Han rejected to follow Li Sheng, knowing they might go after Suyin she anyway went to warn the old man.


    Si Han reached to run a finger over the frown lines formed on Suyin''s forehead. "Everything''s under control. This old skunk won''t come after you anymore." but Suyin yanked her hand earning a sigh in response.

 Chapter 195: It was not that!

    Wang Shi paused to examine Suyin''s expressive eyes. They were the mirror to her soul. And he deduced she was not upset but... happy?


    As if reading his thoughts, Suyin instantly sealed her lips over his, giving a silent answer with a long wet kiss. Her tongue savoured and licked his lips slowly that made him pull her closer and reciprocate. Her hands went to his hair, tugging it.


    She sealed the moment with a kiss on his forehead. "Thank you."


    "For what?" He shrugged off her gratitude by a playful tapping at her nose. "I''m merely helping my woman. You know we couldn''t move ahead before taking care of our past."


    "You mean my past." she corrected him. "You have no idea how much this had caused trouble to my family. My parents'' were blamed for Uncle Hede''s death even before I was born. And.... It''s one of the reasons Zhao Feiyan never liked me. Maybe, if uncle Hede was alive, none of this would have happened.... my baby--" she paused.

 Chapter 196: Jelly bean

    James joined Wang Shi and Suyin for the amazing Italian he had cooked, keeping Suyin''s taste in mind. As Suyin tried to ease the atmosphere with light conversations, unlike other times, James seemed distracted.


    "Is everything fine?" she tested him by adding roasted aubergine to his plate. He hates it.


    James stopped toying with a fork and snapped out of daze, "Yup," he replied, poking the aubergine with a fork.


    "Since when did you start eating aubergine?"


    His eyes shifted to the aubergine hanging on the fork and then at Suyin. He understood it was her handiwork to test him. Damn! She can read him like an open book, leaving no space for him to hide. He sighed, "You are one hell of a scary human. Dr. Wang Shi, beware."


    "Hm, I like this quality of hers. It''s scary but heart-warming." Wang Shi replied, he was remarkably aloof all the time. Other than adding food to Suyin''s plate, he showed no other interest.

 Chapter 197: Indication of evil

    "SO--" Suyin came to her senses at Wang Shi''s sudden pull on her waist, "What were you saying, madam?"


    "...."


    Gulps!


    "That....." she bit her lips, looking everywhere but at him. The five pieces of petite fours caught her attention, and she instantly picked one to hold it between her lips. Her hands went to hook around his neck, rubbing the sweet at his lips, offering him. With a heavy gaze glued to her face, he took the bite, his expression softened much to Suyin''s relief. "My Jelly bean, only you have the right to do this. Don''t be angry....."


    She smiled beautifully, batted her long lashes, waiting for the man to loosen his grip, and return to his sweet self. But instead he holds her firmly.


    "Continue. We have four more pieces left, and our dinner is still half done."


    "...."


    She picked the spoon.


    "Not like this. Use the method you used just now." she pleaded with her eyes, "It''s your punishment, sweetie..."


    "...."

 Chapter 198: Ill give them a show

    "Oh dad, when will you learn how to lie properly?" Song Xianxi finally took a whiff of the lavender tea which he hadn''t touch, taking a moment to enjoy the calming aroma. "I know you too well, you''d never confess until that''s the only way left. Right now, you are ousting me from family to save your ass, hoping Suyin would not target you and Xian, right?"


    He smirked as the old man''s brows scrunched in discomfort, and he rubbed at his chest. "What happened, dad? Feeling tightness in the chest? Shortness of breath? Or something more? Maybe, approaching death."


    Elder Song''s eyes protrude out in shock, "You--"

 Chapter 199: CRUSHED

    "Another sad day for Song Group. After two days of heavy search, Song Kun''s charred and mutilated body found in a warehouse."


    "Family drama. Song Kun was kidnapped soon after they bailed him. Zhao Feiyan who had accused Zhao Suyin to be the mastermind now accused her of murdering her only son."


    "Zhao Suyin unreachable for comment. The molestation case against Song Kun filed by over fifteen women was under Secretary-General Zhao Suyin''s care."


    "According to resources, Song Kun misbehaved with his own cousin in a club and was thus arrested."


    "Song Kun''s seven months pregnant wife Ning Yue not in a condition to comment. Song Xianxi calls it a well-planned murder."


    "Murder mystery of Song Kun- Who killed him?"


    "Despite family accusations- netizens and ministry on Zhao Suyin''s side."


    .....

 Chapter 200: A Cheshire grin

    [Such a good day it was!]


    Song Xianxi received a text message that raised the corner of his lips. It was the code text for the successful completion of the mission. His eyes glinted victoriously.


    ''My son had left the country safely, dad''s property is in my hands and Zhao Suyin is dead! God''s definitely in my favor these days!''


    Accidents happen daily, there''s nothing new. Wang Shi made sure to keep the news of the tunnel accident filtered out, leaving Xianxi confused why the news of Suyin''s death didn''t surface over. He wanted to send his men to get an update, but the risk involved prohibited him.


    Maybe waiting for a day was a better idea, who knows if police were still investigating everything. Or maybe something else. Anyway, other than waiting, he had no other option.


    ********

 Chapter 201: I didnt kill him

    A Cheshire grin lit up Suyin''s face. At that moment her motives were laid bare, she was the mocker today.


    "My parents were innocent, yet you poisoned Patriarch Zhao''s ear and instigated him against them. What for? To get the family business! Disgusting you are." she spat, "--and so the old man sitting in the wheelchair. He turned my parents'' life into hell by punishing them for the crime they never did. I and my brother were treated like an eyesore. You got me married to eliminate me from inheriting a family business. When Zhao''s went bankrupt, you swindled money sent by my brother, and even forced me to contribute to the daily expenses, ignoring my baby''s urgent medical needs while your own son use to spend nights in clubs."


    Her eyes narrowed down at the old man whose eyes were emotionally bankrupt. "How ironic that you spend over three decades to avenge the death of your most loved son and simultaneously supported his killer. Good job!"

 Chapter 202: He killed her son!

    "I-I was aware of the risks involved. Had anything happened wrong, they would have framed me without a second thought." By ''they'' Zhao Feiyan referred to the one who offered her five million. "S-so as a precautionary measure I bribed the floor janitor of the hospital and asked him to keep a watch for me. T-There he saw a man entering your son''s room and and....."


    Feiyan''s throat parched, the next few words just refused to come out in the pressure of Suyin''s gaze that held the power of a wildfire, ready to set everything ablaze that comes in contact with.


    "----and and he t-turned off the o-oxygen."


    What followed was silence.


    A silence that made everyone''s blood as cold as Siberian wind. There was no whispering, rustling, or noise. The silence was a poison, for in the void of the sound the bitter truth of the past was laid bare.

 Chapter 203: Its good hes dead

    *CLAP CLAP CLAP


    Echoing applause snapped everyone''s attention to the neglected corner where a man was sitting. The wide hat covered his face, only revealing the sharp jawline.


    He shoved his hands into the pockets of the trench coat and covered the distance so that everyone could take a look at this intruder that look both young and old at the same time. His shoes making a rhythmical noise against the marble floor. As he comes closer, his facial hair was thick, although barely more than stubble.


    As the man lifted his head and takes off the hat, a gasp escaped Patriarch Zhao''s mouth while Zhao Feiyan and Song Xianxi''s sobs stuck in their throat.


    Zhao Shu!


    If Suyin''s changed appearance was a shock then Zhao Shu''s no different. The man if anything was fitter looking and in better shape than expected. Tall and handsome, with peppery hair falling over the shoulders like a lion''s mane.

 Chapter 204: Andrea

    The Little star International School


    "Like what you see, do you?" Though the broad smile on Suyin''s face was the obvious answer, Wang Shi wanted to hear it from her.


    "Oh my, you really brought me here!" her gaze glued to the huge banner written in golden letters- ''75th Annual Sports Day''. The thought of watching Honey participate in sports, and her cheering for him.... it was just too much to handle for her poor heart. "You know I do. I love it! You should have told me before, I would have brought healthy drinks, juice, snacks, chocolates, and a placard to cheer my fairy."


    Pressing his cheeks to the side of her temple, he chuckled, "Keeping in mind the security of kids, parents are not allowed to bring any food item. The authorities have prepared everything on the premises."


    "Oh! Then what are we waiting for, let''s go."


    He pulled back, taking out two masks from his pocket, "First wear this."

 Chapter 205: Girlfriend-boyfriend

    "Everyone''s sitting in the marquee, cheering for our housemates, " Honey slowly approached Andrea and sat beside her on the bench facing the basketball court. Only he knows how much he pushed himself to talk to her and tried to be real. It''s a hell of a task to talk to a girl!


    "Yeah," said Andrea, without even looking up to see who the boy was. Of course, she knows, he''s the annoying Wang Qiang- her classmate and seat partner. Seeing her poor grades, the teacher forced her to share the seat with the class topper aka Wang Qiang.


    "That''s some beautiful stickers. If I may ask what happen to your arm?" He gestured at the pink cast on her elbow, decorated with Pokemon stickers.


    "Broke. I fell down from the stairs."


    "Oh! Teacher asked me to write the names for the parents'' race. Is your--"


    She stood, "They won''t be participating. I got to get back to the marquee."

 Chapter 206: Harming herself

    "You think I abuse my daughter? NO!" Andrea''s mother exhaled harshly, she looked at her husband, "Will you say something?"


    "Miss. Zhao, I know it''s a part of your job, and I really appreciate you for it. But trust me, Andrea is our only child, there''s no way we''ll harm her--"


    "What we? She''s obviously pointing at me!" She cut off her husband.


    "Will you let me talk to her?" he snapped. His lips pursed when Suyin stood with folded arms and didn''t say a word as if studying them. "Did Andrea say something to you? Let me talk to her. I''m sure there''s some misunderstanding."


    Mother, "Yes, there is! My daughter would never say something like this-- wait-- Are you behind all this? Did you ask Andrea to complain about me to child services? Can''t believe you''ll droop so low."


    Father, "Shut up. I didn''t."

 Chapter 207: You are selfish!

    "Where are you going? Don''t go there, she''s hurting you." Honey blocked Andrea''s way when she was about to go to her parents. "Stay with us, Aunty Suyin is from the ministry, she''d help you. She''ll get your mom punished."


    "Honey!" Suyin chided.


    "What are you saying? Why would she get my mom punished?" Andrea looked at Suyin questionably, showing the signs of panic and anger, revealing how much she loves her mother.


    Suyin, "I won''t. Don''t listen to him."


    "Because your mother beats you. I saw it in your drawing." Honey continued, ignoring Suyin''s stern eyes.


    "SHUT UP, WANG QIANG." Tears slipped from Andrea''s eyes. "Everyone was right, you are a bad boy. Very bad!"


    It worried Suyin that Honey was taking it all wrong. He probably was linking everything to his own experience with Zena.

 Chapter 208: Suicide mission

    Suyin looked up at the hurdles placed for Honey, deeply worried- what if he got hurt or strain his heart? There were two hurdles, one was passing through the tunnel, and the other was jumping the obstacles.


    She looked around and beckoned a child who was not part of the race. He was wearing knee and elbow caps and a helmet. She requested him to give it for some time to Honey. The child hesitated but anyway compiled on Suyin''s request.


    "Qiang, use my protective gear for the race."


    "Did she ask you?" Honey gestured at Suyin.


    "Yes, your mother is really cute and has a sweet voice. She gave me this chocolate."


    "She always lures kids with sweet words and chocolate," Honey muttered under breath. "I don''t want this."


    "But..."


    "Clear the tracks. The race is about to begin."


    The boy stepped away and shook his head at Suyin.


    .....


    .....


    ''READY! STEADY! GO!

 Chapter 209: The seventh floor

    Experts strongly believe that children could thrive through a divorce. Though it''s equally disturbing and difficult for them, the real harm comes by staying in an unhealthy marriage, having constant conflicts, and teaching your children every wrong thing about love. The longer you drag it, the harmful it will be for your children. They need to be talked to understand the scary and confusing thing happening around them called DIVORCE.


    The best to protect your children from this saddest thing is to leave the relationship with your spouse on a healthy note. Let them grow up knowing what happiness and letting go is rather than misery, fights, and hatred.


    "There!" Xiu Mei was quick enough to scan the CCTV recordings within a record time and get Andrea''s location. "The last she was going inside that room.....on the seventh floor. Which class is that?"

 Chapter 210: Talk

    "Miss. Zhao," Andre''s mother called. "At what time can we meet you on Monday?"


    Suyin peeled her eyes away from Honey. His innocent face has stirred her heart once more, but she was really hurt this time. Not because he spoke rudely, but he dares to ignore his health to vent his anger.


    "Mrs. Bing, now that you''re aware of the situation, I''ll rather ask Dr. He Jeff to guide you from here. I''ve seen his work myself, he''s very good." standing on the side, Dr. He Jeff nodded and gave his card. Suyin walked to the little Andrea, and Honey towed along, cautiously holding on to Suyin''s dress in his small fist. She was ignoring him! "If you feel like talking to me, take my number from Dr. Jeff and give me a call. I''m always there for you, okay?" she extends her fist, asking for a fist bump to which Andrea happily complies. Honey noticed Suyin''s action, feeling abandoned. They never did that! Why?

 Chapter 211: Wang Shis death certificate

    In Feng Jianyu and Xiu Mei''s mountain villa


    Xiu Mei''s lower lip quivered, "Jianyu, this--" she began yet words couldn''t make their way out of her mouth. She just couldn''t tear her gaze away from the documents her husband had shown and continued turning pages only to read the heart-wrenching lines written in black.


    The Legal custody of Wang Qiang.


    In consideration of the events that happened five years back, Wang Shi has transferred Honey''s custody to Suyin.


    [Zhao Suyin shall have the sole and exclusive custody of Wang Qiang and all final decision making authority related to his welfare. The father, Dr. Wang Sh, shall have access to the child in accordance to the terms and timing set by Zhao Suyin if any. If the mother does not permit, the father has to abide by it and will not be entitled to meet the child.]

 Chapter 212: Parallel soul

    "Han!" Zhao Shu''s eyes glided towards his beautiful wife, his face sparkling like never before. "I was just having a casual chat with Yiny, telling her how lucky she is to have an intelligent, caring, courageous, and strong mother to guide her in life. Right, Yiny?" he looked at Suyin with a plea in his eyes.


    Suyin could literally see her father with two puppy ears and a wagging fury tail at the sight of his beautiful wife.


    "Don''t bring my daughter between us, I''m warning you," Si Han reached to check Suyin''s reddened ear and noticed her tear-stained cheeks. Her head snapped at Zhao Shu at lightning speed, "You even made her cry!"


    "No, I didn''t." Zhao Shu cautiously moved a step back, "I didn''t. Trust me. I just came here to give you these flowers and met her outside. Trust me, fireba--- d-darling. Happy anni--"


    "Darling your ass, go away." she bared her teeth in warning and concentrated on Suyin again. "What happened?"

 Chapter 213: Can you tie my shoelaces?

    Sleeping after a fight with your most loved person felt like a fleeting chore. Suyin wrestled the entire night trying to find comfort on either side but sleep was on a strike. Honey''s sweet voice, his tear-stained face, him wriggling in Wang Shi''s arms and calling out Aunty Suyin while running after her-- was torture to her soul.


    She even considered the sleeping pills but pushed the thought at the back of her mind, comforting herself in the thoughts and memories of the past. She, Honey, and Wang Shi sleeping together!


    Her tired mind by refueled by Wang Shi''s loveable and considerate act of updating her on Honey.


    She instantly shuffled through the blankets in search of the most precious gadget of hers. Phone! In Wang Shi had sent Honey''s photograph after he had slept. It was in the middle of the night, undoubtedly even her little fairy slept late.

 Chapter 214: Alpha

    While Suyin and Wang Shi were busy sharing a light moment amidst their problems, they had turned the lives of a particular group of individuals upside down.


    Teamwork makes the dream work, and the vision becomes a cakewalk if there is perfect coordination between the members. In Wang Shi and Suyin''s case, with their unparallel understanding, and thorough support towards each other, they can achieve any milestone.


    For centuries, the best strategy to eliminate the enemy had been to surround him from all directions, closing all escape routes and kill his resources.


    The truth of Song Kun''s and Elder Song''s death was ruling the headlines for the past few days. Song Xianxi and Zhao Feiyan had become the laughingstock, and once more Suyin came out clean. People called it their karma that they caused their own son''s death.

 Chapter 215: Secret den of a drug mafia or maybe an underworld king

    "I''M ASKING YOU SOMETHING DAMMIT! DID SUYIN KNOW SOMETHING ABOUT HER DEAD CHILD?" upon not getting any reply from Gilbert, Tang Sui yelled.


    Gilbert''s mouth twitched. Had it not been because he needs her support in the shareholders'' meeting, he would have shown her her actual position. "I-I don''t know."


    "What do you mean you don''t know?"


    "It means as I say. I DON''T KNOW." he repeated, recalling her last conversation with Suyin in People''s hospital where she had blatantly told him Gong Li''s death had something do with her baby''s death and she believes in revenge. "I don''t know how much she knows. She was with Gong Li at his deathbed, that''s how she started suspecting things."


    Silence ensued.


    "Does she know about me?"

 Chapter 216: Blue-eyed hunk

    The locket Zhao Feiyan had given them not only contained the address of the place where she had kept the janitor, but it contained a micro image of a sketch- only visible if zoomed thousand times.


    This was the sketch drawn on the basis of the janitor''s description.


    Smart move!


    Wang Shi took the tablet from Daiyu and showed a 3D picture of a man, drawn using special software by Xiu Mei. "Just see, if you have seen this man before,"


    Suyin shook her head, "Nope. Never." before Wang Shi could pass the IPad back to Daiyu, Suyin clutched it in her hands, locking her grey orbs on the screen. "I want him. Alive. Can you do it for me?" Wang Shi''s resources and reach was much wider than hers, and after witnessing this super-secret place, he was the right person to find this man for her.

 Chapter 217: Ill myself interrogate him for you.

    "Shifu, what are you trying to convey?" Suyin asked slightly irritated. She doesn''t even want to assume Wang Shi would kill an innocent child to save his own son. He''s not like that! "Don''t put that murderer buyer alongside Shishi."


    "I''m trying to bring your attention to a greater picture, which you are ignoring and taking everything personally. Let''s put aside the buyer and concentrate on something else." Colton said.


    "And that is?"


    "Have you ever thought why Gilbert let another man into his hospital to turn off the oxygen? There are many other ways to brain dead a patient. Isn''t it absurd to cut off the oxygen supply first, delay the treatment, and then revive the patient? Have you seen anything as such before?"


    Suyin froze.


    Colton pursed his lips at Suyin''s frozen expression. She''s still the same! Though it looked like she was looking at him, he knew she was already lost, processing his words deeply.

 Chapter 218: Rebooting my dead system

    "Shishi, what animosity can one have against a baby that they want him dead? Who do you think can it be?" Suyin asked. Throughout their walk to the car, she had already talked about her conversation with Colton. What she doesn''t know was Wang Shi had already thought about it before and ordered an investigation on it.


    Upon not getting a reply she looked sideways, but he opened the car door for her, "Get in,"


    She slid across the seat and adjusted her dress. Her gaze glued to Wang Shi until he settled on the driver''s seat and the door was shut. "Are you upset?"


    To her reply, he caressed her cheeks gently and then reached to the glove box. She saw him taking out some photographs, "Zhao''s were already destroyed by Qi Wren, and you literally had nothing left that someone will target you. But..... you were carrying his child in your womb. His flesh and blood. The biggest threat to Hui Chouming''s future kids."

 Chapter 219: Argh, my poor back!

    Honey crossed the distance between him and Suyin and hide behind her. He popped his head out as little as possible, "Look what you have done! The entire day she ate my brain cells and was clingy to me. Now save me from her, I don''t want to be rude." He could have easily shooed away Andrea but was afraid to bring Suyin''s wrath. What if Andrea complains and his and Suyin''s fight gets worse?


    Honey''s cuteness had Suyin''s heart skip a beat. She eyed Wang Shi and then the little bun, amused by the vast difference. On one side, the father shamelessly uses cheesy lines from time to time to woo his girlfriend, while his son was running away from pretty girls. Don''t know if she should be thankful that the little one didn''t inherit his father''s shamelessness or be sad.


    Suyin didn''t take off her mask and greeted Andrea''s parents with a slight nod. She crooked her fingers, beckoning Andrea, "Come here,"

 Chapter 220: I love you both

    "Why are you putting all the green vegetables on my plate?" Suyin caught Honey''s hand, stopping him from adding another piece of stir-fried broccoli. With all the veggies on her plate, she had started to feel like a cow.


    "I''m just being considerate of your health, why do you keep pointing faults in everything I do?" Honey pouted, adamantly adding the piece despite Suyin trying to cover her plate. "Dad, aren''t greens healthy? They contain--"


    "Little brat, I know what they contain, don''t teach me." Wang Shi chided, understanding Honey''s intentions. "Suyin, he hates eating greens. That''s one reason he''s underweight."


    "Ohhhhhhhh!" Suyin dragged and emptied all the greens on Honey''s plate, "Finish this. Now. And if you didn''t, I won''t talk to you ever."

 Chapter 221: I dont know

    The same night,


    Racers secret club, The den,


    "So this is what the secret den of racers looks like?" Fei Hong''s mouth twitched at the sight of the average nightclub. Perhaps it was a bad idea to raise expectations considering their cool profession.Racing! There was nothing ''racing'' but just an ordinary night club! Zeng could have said that, she knows far better clubs than this.


    Zeng smiled, understanding the reason behind her disappointed expression. He flashed his VIP card. The gorgeous woman smiled and led the duo to the far end of the luxurious hotel to a place that she never even knew existed. For a second she wondered if it was part of the hotel?


    After five minutes walk, she opened the doorway to the majestic world.

 Chapter 222: Meditating buddha

    "Hi, Zeng,"


    Fei Hong turned her head to see the most gorgeous woman standing near their table. Her long wavy hair, tall frame and slender figure were like of a model straight out of the magazine cover. She was dressed in a shimmery dress in blue that rested way above her thighs, complementing her olive skin perfectly but barely hiding her asset.


    It barely took Hong a few seconds to recognize she''s the famous supermodel, Sophia.


    "Sophia," Zeng greeted her.


    Sophia eyed Fei Hong; to be exact, she eyed Hong''s dress dismissively and shifted her attention to Zeng. "Long time it is. Why didn''t you call me after coming back? I would have planned a party for you."

 Chapter 223: Title is a spoiler

    "Mom!" Wang Shi gasped, he pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling things were going to turn messy. His gaze shifted to Honey accusingly.


    His mother''s schedule remains jam-packed just like his father''s. The only person in this world who can prompt her to make a change in it.... couldn''t be anyone other than her darling grandson.


    He stood up from his desk and sauntered towards Liu Jeilan. "What are you doing here?" Liu Jeilan glided towards him with a smile on her face and sparkle in her eyes..... but....


    She passed by his side, treating him like air, and went to hug Honey. "See, grandma''s here. Didn''t I say I''ll be there on time?"


    Wang Shi "...."


    "Grandma!" Another wave of shock hit Wang Shi when Honey opened his arms like starfish and walked into Liu Jeilan''s embrace. No words could describe his mental state at the moment. And no genius in this world could understand the intricate mind of his son.

 Chapter 224: Title is a spoiler

    "I''m not stopping him from going with you. Just give us five minutes."


    "Okay. Five minutes you have," she sauntered to the couch and sat down with crossed legs. "You both can talk. I''m not listening."


    Liar.


    Even God knows the power of a woman''s ears.


    Honey saw Wang Shi pleading to him. He puffed his chest, and patted, mouthing, ''Watch me,''"Grandma, please."


    She snorted and stood up, "Fine. I''m waiting for you in the guest lounge."


    ...


    "Ow...ow...ow....Dad!" Honey wriggled when Wang Shi picked him and tossed him on the couch. "That''s child abuse. I''ll complain to Aunty Suyin,"


    "Explain," Wang Shi saw Honey leaving the seat beside him and taking the one opposite while smoothening his clothes. "What are you planning?"


    "Ha, I know you understood everything." Honey said as a matter of fact, noticing his father trying to suppress his smile. "Stop hiding it. I can see you are dying to do a happy dance," finally Wang Shi grinned.

 Chapter 225: Difference between sounds?

    "I''m fine," Without turning Wang Shi picked the half-filled glass of water probably left by Honey earlier and drink it. He needed it to loosen the lump in his throat.


    Honey walked closer and stood, "Don''t tell me you are emotional now? Men don''t Cry."


    "And who said that?" Wang Shi set the glass down and crouched to come at Honey''s height. He held Honey''s shoulder, "Another lesson, pay attention." Honey''s ears perked, this was something between them where Wang Shi would often enlighten him and teach about life. "Crying is a powerful emotion and just like all the emotions, we have the equal right to express it. We should."


    "But it will portray us as a weak person, only girls cry,"


    "So.... you mean girls are weak because they express their emotions? Crying is gender-oriented?"


    "Isn''t it?"

 Chapter 226: What type of brother pushes his sister like this?

    "I''m fine, listen to me. I don''t need a shrink."


    "Last night you were rolled into the emergency complaining severe headache on the scale of ten on ten." tired of hearing the ''fine'' word, Suyin looked up from the tab, "Upon examination, the attending doctor found you were highly drunk, tachycardiac, high blood pressure, agitated, and showed psychotic symptoms,"


    "Psychotic symptoms? That''s a lie! You did this, isn''t it? Bloody shrink!" Zeng cursed at Dr. Jeff, resisting the urge to lunge at him for writing something like this on his chart. "He is a shrink, so obviously everybody he sees he looks for some sort of a mental problem with them. But Not me. It was just a headache. It probably happened because I drank a lot, had a few cigarettes. But that''s all. He''s framing me."


    "Zeng, you were delusional and mumbling gibberish. It was me who called Dr. Jeff to examine you," Fei Hong broke in, shocked at his contorted face, boiling with anger.

 Chapter 227: Story of Su and Ze

    "Is he sleeping?"Suyin asked the nurse in a soft voice, mistakenly waking up Zeng from his sleep. He instantly sat pressed the remote to elevate the bed, worry laced his handsome face.


    "Your X-Ray?"


    "No fracture, no blood clot, no concussion. Just scraped elbows which will probably take longer for the scars to heal. You better compensate me properly," flashing her beautiful smile, she walked to his bed, "Make space for me," Shocked by the sudden request, Zeng fumbled for a second before scooting to the side and lifted the blanket.


    "So, what should I do to compensate you?" he gently touched the white bandage on her elbow.


    "Not much, teach me how to skid,"


    "Keep dreaming. That''s risky." He rested his head on her shoulder, enjoying the rare moment. Don''t know if he''d get the opportunity again. "Ask something else,"

 Chapter 228: Things started to make sense

    "I do, the symptoms you have mentioned are very common to me. Earlier they were not this frequently, but over years they have increased." Zeng Said, his voice getting lower suddenly, "And truth to be told..... sometimes I''m so depressed that I don''t feel like living anymore."


    "Ge," a panicked cry forced itself up her throat, and she grabbed Zeng protectively. A drop run down her cheeks, "You won''t. Promise me you won''t." she demanded.


    As if her small gesture lifted his age-old worries, Zeng''s lips alight on her forehead to soothe her anxiety. "Whenever I feel like giving up, I reminded myself of you, mom, and dad. Believe me, I''d never do that."


    "Thanks,"

 Chapter 229: Its a yes

    Just one word ''Hypnotism'' and things started to make sense. Suyin knew the serious side-effects of hypnosis if done with malicious intentions and under wrongful practice. Using hypnosis repeatedly ultimately weakens the mental state of an individual, destroying the very essence. No doubt Zeng''s personality changed so much over a period of time.


    She recalled something, "The phone call?"


    "Yes, probably it was the phone call." Wang Shi answered, "We get it checked, the call lasted barely ten seconds. The number is issued under a fake identity and it''s not reachable now, probably disposed,"


    "And... before you ask, the reason your brother behaved violently was because of me." Suyin and Wang Shi both frowned at Dr. Jeff, scaring the old man. "Hold it. Hold it. I have done nothing wrong. Let me explain...."

 Chapter 230: Am I dead?

    "Ow....ow...Shishi, you are hurting me," lying on her stomach, Suyin''s fingers curled around the bed-sheet as Wang Shi pressed around the tender area on her naked back. She let out a breath when he withdrew his cold fingers, halting the torture. Warmth flooded when he pulled the blanket on her back.


    Lying on the pillow which had a faint fragrance of Honey, she looked sideways, shuddering as the man was now ready with a portable ultrasound machine to begin another round of torture. "Not again."


    Brushing the strand of hair off of her face, he caressed her cheek, "Sorry, but there''s swelling, and the skin has turned blueish. Promise it will be quick," she turned her face to the other side, squeezed her eyes shut and bite down the corner of the pillow to not let him hear her. Thankfully, he was quicker, and the torture lasted barely a few seconds.

 Chapter 231: Beta

    Gilbert was leisurely enjoying the morning tea, satisfied for achieving the first step of the new assignment assigned to him. Alpha gave him a month''s deadline, but Gilbert estimated to get the work done within twenty days.


    He took a sip of his freshly brewed Jasmine tea and let out a content sigh thinking about the endless possibilities that lie ahead once he fulfills the assignment successfully, and gets Ace within his grasp.


    "Missy!"


    Gilbert''s head turned to the door when a servant let out a gasp as she opened the door and saw the young miss of the house standing in a half sleepy state, reeking of alcohol. Xeumo slowly looked up and followed the eyes of the servant as it drifted to the man sitting on the couch. Her own eyes widening in shock, fear taking over her senses.

 Chapter 232: Pictures

    In the hospital, late night....


    "Sir, please, it''s against the rules," Nurse Mia pleaded in her soft voice, her hand holding the phone trembled, "If Dr. Wang--"


    "I''ll take care of him. You don''t have to worry. Just show me once,"


    Her heart sank. The person over the phone was stubborn, hell-bent to get his way. Pressing her footsteps against the marble floor, trying to muffle the sound as much as possible she stealthily moved towards the VIP room, cursing her ill-luck for answering the call of this man. Damn, why didn''t she put it on silent? That''s what happens when you break hospital rules!


    Slowly she pushed the glass door, biting her tongue when the curtain made a noise as she pushed them. She craned her neck to make sure the woman on the bed was sleeping. Her face was the other way. She walked around the bed and turned on the video of the phone to let the man see her.

 Chapter 233: What if I never let you touch me?

    Honey pouted, almost crying, "Who gave the right to parents to click naked pictures of their kids only to threaten them later?" he lifted his palm from the screen to check the pic and squealed in shame, "Duh, grandpa, this is a crime! Child abuse! You should speak about it in pigment,"


    "You mean parliament,"


    "Same thing,"


    "Really, did Wang Shi send your naked picture? How cute! Let me see," Liu Jeilan put the cup down but Honey ran to cover the distance of almost fifty meters and warned from there.


    "Stay there. No one is allowed to see it. If someone dares, I won''t talk to him ever." he looked at the picture which was probably taken when he was three. Sitting at the terrace of their penthouse, Wang Shi was done giving him oil massage and clicked it soon after. But right now, his devil father has hidden ''the pepe'' with emoji to tease him more.

 Chapter 234: I wish you all the best for your life ahead.

    SILENCE


    Silence is the most dangerous thing. Call it a two-sided sword. Sometimes it can save a relationship, sometimes it can even destroy it. All that we know is- silence isn''t empty, but it''s full of answers.


    But right now, with every passing second, Wang Shi''s silence was cutting through Suyin''s heart. She knew he''s a master of words, and her heart desperately wanted to hear the words that could comfort it. But when he doesn''t, her mind forced her to think otherwise. It challenged her beliefs in the man she''s crushing over for the last ten years.


    ''Hold me, hug me, kiss me, love me, and do everything that you do. Save this relationship, don''t let it break apart. I want to be with you and Honey''


    Without blinking she just looked into his eyes. Don''t know what she was looking for, but she wanted to face this bravely and not like a desperate woman seeking a man''s support in her life.

 Chapter 235: Kill us all

    "Who are you, people? Why have you brought me here? Someone answer me....."


    CLITTER


    CLATTER


    CLITTER


    It''s been a few hours, but the clangor of heavy metal chains had been non-stop. The man bound to them struggled, pulled the chains, and hit them on the floor with his all might to break free himself. All he heard in response was this sound, helplessly coaxing his heart by it.


    Last night a mysterious man stopped his car near him and asked for an address. He was barely assisting him with the direction with a good intention when something sharp pierced his neck and he lost his consciousness.


    Upon regaining his consciousness, he found himself at this place that had an awful stench of disinfectants. A few hours ago a scary man with fuzzy hair came and asked him weird questions about murdering a child five years back.


    Murder?


    He had never killed a rat, how can he murder a child!?

 Chapter 236: Man or woman

    Unedited chapter**


    Xion didn''t say a word in response, he knew Colton more than anyone and understood what he was trying to do. There''s no way anyone he would have found out about Wang Shi. No one could. Colton was just trying to get information from Xion based on his probability.


    Or maybe he really found something. Xion waited for Colton to reveal more information.


    Suddenly Colon started laughing, it was a known Xion would never fall into his trap and say anything. "I know you won''t confess. Then let me show you something...." he took out two folded papers from his pocket and place it on Xion''s table.


    When Colton''s men came back with zero information about the person who bought the heart, it raised Colton''s suspicion. There''s no way the king of the underworld wouldn''t get information as small as this. It never happened before!

 Chapter 237: The man sealed his lips with hers

    "How many?"


    "Twenty. Ten in each box."


    The right side of Suyin''s handsome face tugged up to a sinister smirk. Yeah, calling her beautiful wouldn''t be the right word when she was dressed like that. With that look, she could give competition to any male actor in the industry. Long nose, sharp jaw, unapproachable cold blue eyes, and the classy trilby hat in black added an unparalleled charm to her personality.


    No one could guess there was a woman under that burgundy suit. Even the man standing with her took a double look, yet he couldn''t convince himself he''s really talking to Zhao Suyin.


    Suyin reached to grab the two coin size glass containers, but the man closed his fist before she could take it. Suyin slapped at his fist, "Stop it Dex, I already showed you my ID. Stop looking at me with those suspicious eyes. I AM ZHAO SUYIN. If it''s the color of my eyes that''s bothering you, they are lenses."

 Chapter 238: Daddy please

    "Cough.... cough.... cough...." Tang Sui plopped on her knees, coughing wildly. Feeling disgusted and confused both. Just a second before the man was talking bullshit, and another second he kissed her, emptying the content of his mouth into hers. "W-What have you done? Cough..." her cheeks turned red as her gaze met with the handsome man.


    A smirk grew over Suyin''s face like a check mark as she wiped her wet lips with the sleeves of his shirt. "Looks like you didn''t take my words seriously when I said ''I''m your end''. Now do you believe I can do many bad things without worrying about the consequences?" Suyin took out a sharp knife from the pocket of her coat, her eyes popping out a little wider, her tongue shot out to lick her thin lips.


    ...

 Chapter 239: Ticks

    "Hey hey hey.... At least listen to me," Suyin chased after Wang Shi and his little version as they speed-walked to the lounge, ignoring her completely. She knew this was just the beginning, the worst would come when she''d enter the lion''s den. In her case, the cub was more ferocious than the father.


    He was literally the tiny firecracker that everybody ignores because of its short size, but when it burst~ it shakes the entire house. Honey had already braced himself to narrate the entire story with some added spices.


    "You can''t do this with me. This is unfair,"


    "Later later. I will explain everything first," With quick steps Honey ran inside the room, kicking his shoes en route. Using Wang Shi''s swivel chair as steps, he climbed onto his table as if a leader ready to address his people from the stage. "So....The story goes like.... Aunty....oops, Uncle Suyin....."

 Chapter 240: Crush on me

    Suyin bathed and changed into casual clothes, feeling relaxed getting out of those clothes and makeup. She twirled in front of the mirror, praising her man''s awesome choice of clothes. Trousers in blue, which Wang Shi bought for her, and a knitted sweater in cream, stolen from his cupboard. Sadly, he never objects it; wish he would fight or at least say something when she does that. Sigh.... she made a mental note to ask him to fight with her.


    Whatever, it''s happiness at a different level when you wear your boyfriend''s clothes and look better than him.


    She checked on a certain fairy who had occupied his father''s chair in his absence and was browsing something on the computer. Her eyes squinted seeing the picture on the screen. A tick!!


    No! It''s the same Australian tick Suyin used on Tang Sui!


    Can''t believe Honey would be so interested that he''d look for more information on the internet.


    "What are you doing?"

 Chapter 241: Naughty Suyin

    .....


    ********


    Redeem codes- CHRISTMAS


    and SMILES


    For 50 coins each code. Buy my privilege and participate in giveaway. Last two giveaway and ten codes of 100 coins to be won. I will share it on 29, 30 and 31st.


    .....


    Merry Christmas sweet readers!!


    Ho ho ho...


    .....


    .....


    "Breathe in breathe out..... Sense the calmness of your surrounding. Feel the feeling of breath entering your lungs and slowly release it out...." Holding Zeng''s hand in her warm ones, Suyin guided him the healing process through meditation. Her voice came slow and soft, reducing decibel by decibel until Zeng reached a relaxed state. "Now slowly open your eyes and look at me." she smiled.


    Zeng lets out a breath. The session was anything but calming. His head buzzed, and he hated this feeling. Wasn''t it supposed to make him feel better? "How much time passed?"


    "Fifteen minutes. We''ll increase the duration slowly,"

 Chapter 242: I love you with all my butt

    "Behave,"


    "Suyin! Behave,"


    "SUYIN! What are you doing?"


    She giggled feeling goofy about how she was making things difficult for him early in the morning. He was sitting on the bed, reading something on his tab, while Suyin...


    sigh....


    Let''s rewind a little....


    Through the window the gentle rays of sun filter into the room, and amidst that a king like man was sitting on the bed, reading something on iPad. Earlier, when he noticed Suyin had stirred in her sleep and was now awake, he parted the curtains, letting the room warm up. However,the sleepy woman groaned and pulled the blanket up.


    He patted her gently from the blanket, encouraging her to wake up.


    Sometime later, she poked her head out of the blanket, her eyes squinting at the naturally lit room. She stretched and turned her attention to the man only to see her heart jump out of her body.

 Chapter 243: You think I didnt come prepared?

    Merry Christmas everyone!!


    .....


    .....


    There are some people in this world the sight of whom you cannot digest and want to puke out your guts on their face. Qi Wren was one of them. Every time Suyin see him, it reminds her of something, giving an irresistible urge to stab him to death.


    With a morose and irritated face, Suyin left for Hotel Zeus soon after she got off work. If it was not for Wang Shi''s insistence she''d never had said yes to the meeting. Not even in this lifetime!


    Just when she reached the hotel, the hotel manager himself was present to greet her. Then he guided her to the open dining hall with only a handful of people occupying the seats.


    Her seat was booked facing the beautiful night view of the city. Sigh, if only this was a dinner date with Wang Shi and Honey, it would have been a perfect setup. Just then she noticed a red envelope on the table and looked questionably, but he just smiled and left.

 Chapter 244: Perfect man

    That night Qi Wren wrote his end with his own hands by awakening the devil himself.


    Suyin might appear to be cold from outside, but she''s still soft-hearted. On the contrary, Wang Shi appears to be calm and gentle from the outside, but he''s no less of a devil if compared to Jianyu and Xion.


    Earlier it was only Honey who could bring this devil out of him. He did. While rescuing him from Zena''s hand Wang Shi annihilated her entire family overnight. And tonight it was Qi Wren''s turn for he dares to disgrace devil''s woman.


    Seeing this side of Wang Shi Suyin doesn''t know if she should be scared or feel touched. She always knew Wang Shi was powerful and wealthy, but now she got to know his real capability and ruthlessness. It was nowhere near her imagination.


    To date the man was just holding himself for her sake, letting her play with everyone at her own pace. But not anymore.....

 Chapter 245 - The press conference -1

    "Mom," Chouming broke down as soon as she walked into Tang Sui''s room in the hospital. She held her mother''s hands-- No matter how many efforts she put or how many people she had approached for help, they shut every door she knocked. Even her own distant relatives and Tang family cousins whom she and her husband had provided resources many times didn''t step up to help.


    Everyone knows some mysterious power was pulling down the Qi enterprises and the people associated with them. No one wants to be dragged into their mess.


    Her husband was missing, their bank accounts and properties were sealed, and now they just have enough money to pay for Tang Sui''s medical expenses for the next two days at max. To save money she had already requested the hospital to shift Tang Sui to the normal ward instead of the VIP.


    "Why? Why is this happening to us? Just a few months back we were living a life that people can only dream of, and now all this suddenly....." shattered, disappointed, broke, helpless, defeated, Chouming dropped her head on the bed. "That Suyin-- she''s heartless. She snatched everything from us.... God will never let her live in peace."


    Chouming cried as if her entire being was shredded from inside. Emotional pain flew out of her every pore, and she could only curse one person for her misery-- Suyin. From the room came the most hysterical crying, but none bothered to pay a look. It''s a hospital; people working here have heard worse than this. And they knew what kind of person was occupying the bed in there.


    "D-Did you talk to Suyin?" Tang Sui pulled down her oxygen mask and asked with difficulty. Since the last two days she had been feeling her lungs would give up anytime. Had it not been for her condition she''d have definitely come up with something; the money she stole from Zeng was still in her secret account that no one knows about. But again, will Suyin let her do that? That woman was literally on a rampage.


    "She asked me to tell you to confess and she might consider letting us go." Chouming looked up with teary eyes, "I wish we had killed her along with that bastard child. Why is she making such a fuss about it? And that Gilbert allied with us too, but he''s not affected at all."


    "Gilbert? Did you speak to him?"


    "Yeah," Chouming takes out something from her pocket. Hundred dollar note. "This. I got this from him as help. And if I need more, he asked me to come to his home. MOM!" Chouming panicked when Tang Sui started coughing uncontrollably. "Mom please... don''t strain yourself. No matter what, I won''t go to him. But Gilbert--"


    Tang Sui squeezed her daughter''s hand, understanding her thoughts. If this was their end, they will drag every person with them. Including Gilbert. Including Suyin. "C-Call media. Everyone will pay."


    Outside the door, a ward-boy heard everything and sprinted to give the news to his master. Gilbert!


    *******


    The next morning, Suyin received the news Tang Sui was holding a press conference and had invited every media representative to hear her out. Already their family was so much in the news thanks to the latest chaos in the business circle, everyone was eager to hear her out and get spicy news out of her.


    The people around Suyin were more excited than her and joined. They knew something more was going to happen; Suyin had greater plans. Even Zeng who could not leave the hospital threw a huge tantrum and adamantly joined his family on their way to the venue. The Ace hospital!


    "Where the hell are you since last night? You left without a message, and now your phone is unreachable. Call me as soon as you receive the message." James typed a message for Evan. Last night when he woke up to use the washroom, he found the other side of the bed empty. Upon not finding Evan anywhere in the house, James called him, but his calls went answered. This was the second time in a month Evan did this.


    Sigh... "Only God knows what you are up to. Just come back, I''ll throw a huge tantrum until you tell me everything." he lightly punched the photo frame at the bedside, "Just you wait, your wifey will punish you hubby."


    He picked the keys, wallet, and a small container of ham sandwiches he made for Suyin and left to support his best friend. He was beyond excited for her.


    .....


    The press conference was scheduled for ten in the Ace Hospital''s spacious conference hall. To prevent Gilbert from stopping Tang Sui from holding the press meet in the hospital, Tang Sui had already stated her poor health as the reason to hold the conference there.


    Suyin played a minor role; taking advantage of her position in the ministry she made sure no one can stop Tang Sui from holding the press conference. She even sent doctors from People''s hospital just in case the doctors'' at Ace hospital don''t cooperate.


    But Gilbert''s calmness all this while surprised Suyin. This leads her to conclude Gilbert was up to something.


    At the scheduled time, Chouming brought Tang Sui to the stage in a wheelchair with contraptions and a monitor attached to her. The ever so poise Tang Sui looked entirely different. Patched lips, unhealthy skin color, weak body, lifeless eyes-- when Si Han saw her in this state she didn''t feel even a tinge of sympathy. She had seen Suyin in a state worse than this.


    Suddenly two warm hands pressed on hers, and she looked. It was her son and husband. She slipped her hand under her husband''s and placed it on Zeng''s. Zeng gave a kiss on her temple, gesturing her to concentrate on the monitor.


    Zhao Shu rubbed his hand, feeling the remnants of his wife''s touch. He looked outside the window, "Have you seen where Suyin is? I can''t see her car anywhere."


    "She''s in that black SUV." Zeng answered.


    "Oh, I thought her car was white."


    "It''s her boyfriend''s."


    "Oh. Wait, what? She has a boyfriend?"


    "Dad, please. It''s not time to answer that. I''ll explain to you later."


    Zhao Shu grumbled.


    ...


    "Mrs. Tang, can you please tell us what happened to you?"


    "What announcement you have to make?"


    "Can you shed some light on the recent fall of your business?"


    "What is your next course of action to save your business?"


    "Where is Mr. Qi?"


    The reporters didn''t wait anymore and started throwing questions like hungry vultures eager to get as many as they could.


    Tang Sui pulled down the oxygen mask from her mouth, while Chouming adjusted the mic near her mouth.


    Tang Sui, "Mr. Qi? Vanished."


    The entire room fell silent hearing the words.


    "It''s everyone''s favorite Zhao Suyin who is behind his disappearance. It''s Zhao Suyin who pushed me to this state. It''s her who destroyed our businesses. It''s her who did everything."


    "F* ck!" Zeng cursed. "She''s again targeting Susu. I''ll kill her."


    Si Han pressed his hand, "Just watch. I have confidence in Suyin."


    A reporter stood up, "Why? Why Zhao Suyin did all that?"


    (What is James'' original name?)


    "To get revenge." Tang Sui said, and started telling what Suyin ordered her to do. Condess. "T-Things started five years back when her parents killed my fiancee in an accident on the day I was about to marry him. I swore to give a worse fate to his killers and their kids. So I instigated Zhao Feiyan against her brother and used her to make things difficult for Shu and Han."


    Later, when Zhao Shu sent his eldest son overseas, she planted a man beside Zeng who assisted Tang Sui to perform hypnotism on the young boy and started using him as a money bank to boost Tang''s family business to become powerful support for Chouming. This later comes in handy to lure Qi Wren later.


    When Suyin started going to college, Tang Sui started her next part of the plan. Tang Sui knew Suyin had always been a weak girl, always dependent on her brother. If she had to break Suyin, she had to break her strong support, i.e. her brother.


    Zeng''s assistant kept Tang Sui informed of his meetings, whereabouts, schedule, and everything. He even kept a tap on Zeng''s phone calls and messages. Whenever the siblings made a plan to meet, Tang Sui used it to her benefit.


    It worked.


    Zeng''s failure to provide moral support to Suyin when she needed most became the reason not only Suyin but Si Han distanced herself too. Zeng turned out to be a disappointment in their eyes.


    "I hypnotized Suyin''s brother so he could not help her when she was about to get divorced, when she was to be debarred from the medicine, and when her baby was sick. I used Zeng to my advantage for his money." Tang Sui said robotically, keeping her eyes on the floor as if that interests her more. "Later, when Suyin''s baby was sick, I again hypnotized a man and send him to the hospital to kill the child. She-- she was holding Qi Wren''s baby. His existence was a threat to my daughter''s future. How could I have let him live?"


    The hall broke into loud whispers when the door was pushed open and in walked the person they least expected. Zhao Suyin. Camera flashes burst around her like fireworks as she walked to stand in front of the stage, facing tang Sui. Her angry eyes were the sword, ready to slaughter everyone that comes on her way.


    Tang Sui looked up, "And the one who helped me in everything is the acting chairperson of this hospital, Ling Gilbert. He let my man into your child''s room. He was the one who framed you during surgery and got you debarred from medicine. He even got your mentor Gong Li killed. YOU WITCH! ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?" she yelled.


    ... to be continued.....

 Chapter 246 - Press conference-2

    Somewhere on the other side, in a luxurious mansion surrounded by lush greenery, a little boy was sitting in the comfort of his bedroom. Since morning he hadn''t come out of his bedroom and even called for breakfast to his room with the excuse of doing homework.


    However, his eyes were glued to the laptop screen watching the live-action happening in the Ace Hospital. Staying in the president''s house comes with a benefit you get all resources at the lift of a finger. The perks multiply if you are the precious treasure of the President couple. Though a little tricky, Honey managed to get the IT team to set the live coverage for him to see.


    The moment he heard Tang Sui''s words, subconsciously his gaze locked at Suyin''s face. There was something in her angry yet numb eyes that made Honey reach to rub where his heart beats. Had he been there, he''d have definitely given her a warm hug.


    "Aunty Suyin...."


    ....


    "ARE YOU HAPPY NOW? Now give me the antidote of the poison you and your boyfriend have forced into me."


    "And release my husband from your captivity." Hui Chouming broke her silence. "Don''t know what have you done to him."


    Since it''s the end of Tang Sui and Hui Chouming, hr mother-daughter duo didn''t let go of the opportunity to tarnish Suyin''s image in the eyes of the people. "Did you see everyone, she''s no saint either. You cannot blame it was my fault entirely." Tang Sui said.


    The door to the conference hall was opened once again, bringing everyone''s attention to a disheveled Ling Gilbert as he walked in with the help of his assistant. Wrinkled and dirty clothes, unpolished shoes, sagged backbone, and tired face- he had the appearance as if life had been challenging for him recently. His eyes were so heavily lidded and weighed down with folds it was like he hadn''t slept for days.


    Suyin frowned when the assistant helped Gilbert to the stage and seated him. "It''s okay, Suyin. Let''s hear what he has to say." she heard Wang Shi''s voice from the Bluetooth connected to her ear.


    It stunned Suyin when Gilbert gave her a sinister look. What was he up to?


    "Y-You are saying I did everything, but why don''t you tell everyone what you did to me?" Gilbert started speaking in a trembling voice, his body shook, or more like he was a pro in acting. "I-I did everything as you said. I followed every order you gave me. I worked for you like a dog, yet you.... yet you killed her."


    The words confused everyone.


    Killed her?


    Who?


    Gilbert glanced at the reporters, "I will tell you the reality behind her allegations. The truth! Yes, I worked with this woman and let a free pass to the man into the NICU, but I was forced to obey her command. She had snippers planted around my daughter and had threatened me to help her in that crime. But God knows, I never wanted the innocent child dead. I immediately rushed into his room to save him as soon as the man went away. Alas, the child was deprived of oxygen for too long and I failed. I failed as a doctor."


    "LIE, I never threatened you, you did everything for money."


    "Says the one who had hypnotized Zhao Zeng for his money. If this is a lie, then tell me where Xeumo is? Where have you kept her? What have you done to her?"


    "Mom had been in the hospital for almost a week now. How can she kidnap your daughter? And don''t forget, we have given you our Ace''s shares when you blackmailed mom."


    The assistant step up, "Those shares were received months back against full payment along with ten percent premium. Master was worried about the hospital''s future after Dr. Gong Li''s death and borrowed a huge chunk of money from the market to buy the stake in your hands. It was done in cash." he presented the proof, again shocking Tang Sui and Chouming.


    The evidence was irrefutable. Signed by the mother-daughter duo.


    Tang Sui and Chouming looked at each other. The said money on papers was just numbers; they received nothing in reality. In order to dupe authorities, they showed it as a profitable business deal which was in talks for months and finalised soon after Gong Li''s death.


    The papers were definitely real, and Gilbert was using it to his advantage. Had they denied now, who will believe them?


    "Tell me where my daughter is?" Gilbert cried. "My Xeumo..... Bring my daughter...."


    Suyin whispered, "Shishi,"


    Wang Shi, "I know. This old coot is trying to kill two birds with one stone. Beware, if I''m not wrong he''s going to come after you."


    "I''m waiting." She covered her mouth, whispering, "But you have to find Xeumo fast. She must be in Gilbert''s captivity or maybe he has done something to her. In any case, she''s important for us."


    "Where could she be? Do you suspect anything?"


    "Not really. If I was Gilbert, I''d hide Xeumo somewhere where the blame could come directly on me. My house, my properties..... But other than my house at City Spire I don''t own any other place. Wait! The properties I acquired from Zhao Feiyan, and Song Xianxi. Maybe...." she heard Wang Shi order his men to search all the properties including the one her parent''s own.


    "I''m getting them checked."


    A reporter stood up, "Can you tell us since when your daughter is missing? Why do you think it''s Mrs. Tang and Mrs. Hui behind this?"


    "I last saw her when she returned home after attending a friend''s party seven days back. Later that day she left home for the hospital but never reached here. She had the emergency surgery scheduled, and there''s no way she''d be careless towards her patients. Upon knowing, I called her many times, but her phone was switched off. Then--- I received a letter written in blood on my car''s windshield, she''s kidnapped. The person had threatened me not to call cops if I want to see her alive. For the last six days, I''m waiting for a ransom call that never came. But---"


    Amidst his narration Gilbert broke down suddenly. Once more the loyal assistant played his role perfectly and stepped up. Suyin swore to get this annoying assistant punished too. Duh, now she hates assistants after learning what Zeng''s assistant did to him. Should she be wary of Assistant Long?!? Naah!


    The assistant, "Last night master received a photograph that shattered all his hopes." He showed Xeumo''s photograph on a projector. Everyone was taken aback, the woman had bruises all over, and was bleeding badly. Though her face was swollen, with her facial features Suyin easily guessed she was Xeumo. Don''t know if she was even alive or dead. But if she''s alive, she needs immediate medical attention.


    It was hard to believe Gilbert would do this to his own daughter. Suyin''s mind sent reeling, unable to comprehend how to a father be this cruel to his daughter. The same daughter for whom he destroyed Suyin''s career!


    buzzzzzz


    Her phone vibrated, followed by Wang Shi''s voice.


    Wang Shi, "Suyin, take a look at the message. You will get the answer." She peeked at the message'' it was old hospital records of a lesser-known hospital in Guanzo province. Gilbert had his wife abort her fetus many times after determining their s.e.x. Another report was from a hospital in the USA where Gilbert had been seeking treatment for impotency for years, but all in vain.


    Suyin understood everything. He never loved his daughter but used her a means. And even today he was doing the same.


    Horrible monster!


    Buzzzzzzz


    Suyin check. Assistant Long was calling her. She put Wang Shi on the conference, and answered it, "Mam, I think it was the hoax call. It''s a deserted place near the forests with no signs of human activity." this morning Suyin received a call from a woman in distress, begging to be saved from her in laws before they do something to her. Apparently, it was a dowry case.


    Suyin, "Did you check properly?"


    "Yes, mam. We are certain. The location is this only." two of the male interns were with Assistant Long.


    [Sir, I found the phone.] Suyin heard the voice of one of her interns. [It''s the one with which the woman called.]


    "Oh, shit."


    "Shit."


    Something clicked in Suyin and Wang Shi''s mind simultaneously.


    "Assistant Long, check your car properly," Assistant Long felt confused hearing this male voice but followed the order. They had barely moved when the wailing of emergency sirens was heard, a declaration that it was what they had been looking for.


    She looked up, her eyes meeting with Gilbert.


    "Assistant Long, don''t panic, but there''s a body in the car booty. Cooperate with cops, someone will come to you shortly for help. I won''t let anything happen to you or interns." Though nervous, assistant Long hummed in reply. "Now be good, and check the woman in the car''s booty. Hold two fingers on either side of her neck and tell me if you feel anything. I''m holding."


    Amidst the heavy breathing sound, she heard Assistant Long reply. "N-Nothing."


    ....


    Announcement- Don''t forget to read the author''s note. It''s important and most of you don''t read and later complaints.


    Important note- There are two winners of the giveaway who have not contacted me on discord to claim the prizes. If you didn''t claim it within a week, I''d forfeit it.

 Chapter 247 - Press conference-3

    Hey dear readers,


    Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year!!


    Let''s welcome 2021 with open arms and forget all your worries.


    Life is short, so don''t forget to break the rules, forgive quickly, laugh uncontrollably, love truly, give second chances, AND..... NEVER EVER REGRET OF ANYTHING THAT BRING SMILE TO YOUR FACE. ???? ????


    .....


    ...


    RING


    TING


    TING


    BEEP


    Suyin''s ears perked. Without even bothering to look behind at the reporters she knew what made their phones ring. She could already see the drama ahead, Gilbert had reached to answer his phone excusing himself for a moment; only to let out a shocking gasp as he heard the news.


    "WHAT?"


    Silence ensued in the hall when they heard Gilbert''s voice.


    "SHOW ME..... SHOW ME, NOW!"


    His accusing eyes drifted to Suyin; silently bringing everyone''s attention to the two. The next second he peeled his gaze away from her and looked at the phone''s screen.


    PLOP


    His knees gave up. "That''s her..... that''s my baby...." What followed was the painful mourning of a father for his only daughter. It looked really heart wrenching to witness something like this, but Suyin already knew the reality behind it.


    ...


    "W-Why did you kill her? WHY? Your animosity was against me, why did you kill my daughter? You have crossed every limit of cruelty Suyin. I never wanted to kill your child, it was Tang Sui, then why you killed my girl? My Xeumo..... Life had always been cruel; years back I lost my wife in an accident, and now you killed my daughter. Why not kill me as well? Just kill me..."


    [The information I got says Zhao Suyin''s assistant was caught in the outskirts of the city with a woman''s body in the car''s booty.]


    [It says he was trying to dispose the body. And two of Zhao Suyin''s interns were with him too.]


    [So it''s true! So it''s true what Mrs. Tang had said. ]


    [It seems so.....On one side Zhao Suyin poisoned Tang Sui, and disappeared Mr. Qi, while on the other she kidnapped Ling Xeumo and killed her. According to the information we have received so far, it seems Zhao Suyin did it for revenge.]


    [But it looks like Mr. Gilbert suffered the biggest loss. Poor father.]


    [I agree. Miss. Zhao had all the reasons to do this. She was a mother herself, how can she kill someone else''s child?]


    Reporters whispered.


    Tang Sui and Hui Chouming shared a glance and scooted away. Perfect timing! Though they hated watching Gilbert portray himself as a victim, they were extremely satisfied seeing Suyin pulled into bigger trouble.


    "SHUT UP!" James was sitting in the corner watching the drama unfold, but when everyone started accusing Suyin he couldn''t stand it. He walked to Suyin and clasped her cold hand into his. "Every truth has two sides, you might as well look at both before passing your non required comments. Don''t forget, every word said from your mouth, can and will be used against you."


    "Exactly, how can you blindly believe in that pig''s words? Do you have any evidence my Susu did it?" Suyin saw her family enter the room and stood with her. Her eyes watered when her own brother spoke for her and held her other hand.


    Gilbert, "Xeumo''s body was found in her assistant''s car. What other proof do you want? It''s not a secret she hated us. Firstly, it was because of her medical license, and let me say it last time- It was Suyin''s mistake in the surgery that costs her medical license, I have nothing to with it. Second, I genuinely tried to save her child. So stop blaming me. Thirdly, I now doubt, Gong Li''s death has something to do with her. She''s a madwoman who can go to any extent just to get revenge. She''s a danger to the society---- Gong Li, my daughter, Mr. Qi, and now Mrs. Tang Sui is already poisoned. Who''s next? Me? Mrs. Hui? Or who? SPEAK. WHY ARE YOU SILENT NOW?"


    Suyin smiled, "Actually, I''m enjoying the drama in silence. Just missing the popcorn and Pepsi. Jamie, you remember we used to binge-watch Netflix every weekend. Don''t you think live action is better?"


    "I hundred percent agree. If you want, I have brought ham sandwiches for you with mint mayo."


    They both said loud and clear for the entire hall to listen.


    "Keep those sandwiches safe. We will eat it after all this is over," she whispered.


    "Oh, wait!" Zeng squeezed Suyin''s hand to get her attention, "You never watched Netflix with me. Btw, what''s Netflix?"


    James wrinkled his nose, "Which planet has your brother descended from? Did he just question what Netflix is?"


    "I know!" Suyin dramatically placed a hand on her chest, "It''s a sin, ge. Just shoo shoo.... you cannot join our team."


    Zeng pulled Suyin closer; fighting to snatch Suyin from James, "Hey don''t say like that. I''ll read about it. Every detail! Next time you will watch N-Netflix with me. I wonder what this show is about?" he muttered.


    James rolled his eyes, "Hey watch it, you are stepping into my boundary. My hubby won''t like it. And btw, Netflix is not a show but an OTT platform."


    Every person present nearby wanted to puke blood at these three people''s audacity to discuss Netflix at a critical time like this.


    Si Han glanced at the reporters, thanking God these people didn''t hear the rest of the conversation. "Ahem... ahem..." Suyin caught her mother''s eyes and her father''s too, both giving her a look. She smiled.


    "Actually, let''s get over with this drama first." She took a step while tying her hair into a messy bun, securing it with a pen she borrowed from a reporter from a front row. A confident and attractive action. "So.... Since my assistant is in a trouble right now, let me ask my two boys to assist me. Jamie, there''s a tab in my bag, please connect it with the projector and help me. And ge, I need you to coordinate with someone over the phone." saying she threw the Bluetooth device at Zeng.


    "First, let me enlighten Mrs. Tang that she''s not poisoned. I have read your reports, and your symptoms point out two diseases. Either lime disease, or tick paralysis. Mostly the latter. Probably you contracted it from someone who went overseas and brought it with him. So relax, you won''t die. Doctors, please check her." Then she looked at Hui Chouming, "Isn''t it really silly of you to ask about your husband to me? For God''s sake, I''m not a dumb woman to put a crown on a clown twice. Besides, I know what you do to those women who come closer to your husband. For example Fixten lake. Jamie, please play the slide named Chouming...."


    It was a well-organized video made with photographs, pointing at something.


    A crime!


    It showed the missing reports of six women who vanished over the last five years. And the photographs showed they were last seen with Qi Wren. The latter part was a confession of a man who committed all the crimes at the order of Hui Chouming.


    "I have already handed over the man to the cops and have asked them to search Lake Fixten. I''m sure you all are intelligent enough to understand what happened here. I won''t bother you with this part because I have something more important to look after..... For example- the honorable Mr. Gilbert! I''m very sorry for your loss; If you had another child, life would be easier to spend at this age. Right? If may I ask why you chose not to have another child? Or marry again after your wife''s death?"


    "WHAT?" Not only Gilbert, but every person felt the same at Suyin''s questions. "Can''t believe you will be this inhuman."


    "Miss. Zhao, asking such questions is ridiculous." The assistant spoke up.


    "Just humor me once. I''m curious. Or let''s say it''s important as you mentioned something about your wife and accident,"


    Gilbert sighed, "I wanted to give all my love to my first child. That''s it. And I didn''t marry, because I love my wife with all my heart. I will forever love her. Did you get a problem with that as well? Someone call the cops, I don''t want to see this monster in front of me"


    "Oh my God, I''m touched." Suyin said, "Jamie, someone has sent me a mail just now; with the name W. Please put those doc.u.ments on the projector. Let everyone see Mr. Gilbert''s, unparalleled love."


    Suyin briefly glanced at Zeng who was talking to someone over Bluetooth and let him be. Don''t know what Wang Shi was doing on the other side. Gilbert''s eyes widened in shock when he saw the name of the hospital on the doc.u.ments.


    "These are Mr. Gilbert''s wife''s medical reports from a low key hospital in Guanzo province. Four IDX procedures. For those who don''t know, we call this surgical removal of the fetus. I''m sure honorable Mr. Gilbert''s wife developed complications in every of her pregnancy and had to go through this. But I wonder, why he chose this low key hospital instead of getting it done in Ace? Were the facilities not better there?"


    "And.... there''s something more. He had an appointment booked for the fifth IDX, but while he was on his way there, he met with a serious accident and was thrown out of the window. Though his wife and the baby survived, his wife received severe brain damage. On Mr. Gilbert''s insistence doctors put her on the ventilator for four months to let the baby give some more time to grow and later she gave birth to a premature girl before dying. Mr. Gilbert, may I ask why you were going for the fifth IDX when the baby was perfectly healthy?"


    "I-It was a problem with my wife. There were high chances for her to die because of her poor heart."


    "Yet you pushed her to five pregnancies instead of using protection. What a love!"


    "I-I--"


    "Don''t speak in between. I''m not done yet," her voice came low and dangerous, announcing the game was still hers. "Let''s move on..... just now you said you love your daughter and wife dearly. Then why are you seeking treatment for your impotency for the last two decades? I wonder what another use your d*ck has that you are eager to see it at the job once more." On cue, James gladly started showing doc.u.ments containing the details of the treatment.


    "...."


    "Pfft...." Zhao Shu covered his mouth instantly, least he does something embarrassing. Si Han looked sideways and scowled.


    "This.... this she inherited from you!"


    "And I''m loving it."


    "Shut up."


    "You---" Forgetting he was to act weak, Gilbert bolted up and yanked all the wires attached to the projector. "You are trying to deviate from the topic. How all this concerns my daughters'' death--" he had a feeling of premonition when Zeng step up and whispered something in Suyin''s ear, bringing a devious smile to her face.


    "Who said your daughter is dead?"


    ******

 Chapter 248 - Press conference-4

    Unedited...


    ....


    BEEP.....


    BEEP.....


    BEEP....


    Standing behind the glass wall, Suyin''s clasped her hands together as she cast an anxious glance at the moving lines on the monitor attached to Xeumo. Right below, Wang Shi was performing an emergency surgery to save Xeumo''s life.


    "T-this..... How?"


    Suyin turned to face Gilbert, "What question is that? Isn''t your daughter a fighter by birth? See.... she''s alive. But Mr. Gilbert, why does it seem you are not happy? Or are you really not happy?"


    Gilbert snapped out from his shocked state, and controlled himself. His eyes take in the presence of the twenty media representatives Suyin had brought with her to the room from where interns watch live surgery. "Rubbish. Why would I be not happy? She''s my daughter. I-I wonder what happened that she''s so badly injured."


    "Oh! Looks like I took your sweating for something else. My bad." Suyin didn''t let go of any chance to throw hints at the media representatives and kept on poking anxious Gilbert. These media representatives were not fool to not notice it, especially when she had already said a lot in the conference hall. "Anyways, let''s wait outside gentlemen. Soon we will hear the truth when Miss. Ling wakes up. I''m curious to know what happened to her exactly."


    "I''m not going anywhere. She''s my daughter, don''t know which quack is preforming surgery on her. He''s doing it wrong. That''s not the correct way. I''m sure this quack was planted by you to kill my daughter. I''m going down; I will myself do the surgery."


    "Mr. Gilbert, I know you are worried for your daughter. But please use you brain; Miss. Zhao will be at maximum loss if I something happened to your daughter." A senior reporter spoke up. He had been covering news on Suyin since the day she took charge of her position in the ministry, and by his experience he understands her very well. "Besides, you are not in a condition to perform a surgery. Better let the doctor do it."


    "Thankyou, sir," Suyin said to the reporter, "But let me introduce you to the ''quake'' who is in the OT. This will curb down Mr. Gilbert''s anxiousness, or maybe shoots it...." she pressed the intercom connected to the OT, and spoke, "Doctor, may I ask for a second of yours? If you could please take off your mask and let everyone know your identity. Because according to Mr. Gilbert you are a ''quack'' who is doing the surgery incorrectly."


    "Miss. Zhao is this a joke?" Wang Shi paused for a second, gesturing a nurse to pull off his mask and looked up, getting a priceless reaction from everyone. "Mr. Gilbert, any suggestions are welcome. Please enlighten me."


    Reporter 1, "That''s Dr. Wang Shi!"


    Reporter 2, "Dr. Wang Shi!"


    Gikbert gulped; that''s the God of surgery himself he called a Quack. "I-I...I don''t understand why you have opened her chest when there isn''t any source of bleed there. Shouldn''t you stop the internal bleeding in her abdomen first?"


    "I''m surprised that you know there was an internal bleeding in the abdomen when I have clamped it already. " Gilbert bit his tongue at Wang shi''s reply. "There''s a concave deformity in the left atrium of the heart, manifesting a pericardial effusion. Blood is leaking behind the heart, restricting the heart''s ability to expand and fill, reducing its efficiency. Do I need to explain more why I have cracked open her chest?"


    "N-No. I''m sorry Dr. Wang."


    Suyin smirked. ''QUACK''


    Ha!


    ....


    "I request you all to please stay here until we get an update." As soon as Suyin came out, she politely requested the media representatives. "I know I''m asking a lot, but please understand, I have been trying very hard to find out who are behind my baby''s death. You all have heard Tang Sui, and Gilbert were involved. But someone is trying to portray ''himself'' as a victim and I won''t let that happen."


    "Miss. Zhao, we don''t have problem in staying, but are you sure Miss. Ling knows something?" A reporter asked.


    "She does. My team found something written on Xeumo''s right arm when doctors cut off her clothes to check injuries. She''s a leftie. We doubt she was trying to tell something. As of now, I won''t tell what that was, let her wake up first."


    Suyin looked sharply at Gilbert, fearlessly accusing him, "The story doesn''t end here. We will get to hear more. I promise to look into this mater unbiased, and bring out every culprit''s name into the media."


    "Y-YOU ARE ACCUSING ME." Gilbert points his shaking finger. The tension in the room retched up.


    "Yes I am. And trust me, once you are in police custody, I will make sure you spurt out each and every name of your masters." Suyin played her master stroke by scaring Gilbert. Why not? If you play a game nervous, you make mistake. "Dad, cam you please ask cops to secure the floor. Make sure no one leaves and enters. Mom, take four of my volunteer interns and lock Mrs. Tang and Hui in a room. Jamie, Zeng, please help me arrange refreshments for everyone."


    "James, "Sure. Chef at service!"


    Everyone split duties to take care of the media representatives while they waited for Wang Shi to finish the surgery, James noticed something was off about Zeng. He was nervous, sweating, trembling, unable to concentrate on the task in hand and his attention kept riveting to Suyin


    James walked to Zeng, "Hey, is everything okay?"


    "You got a problem, dude? Just mind your business." Zeng dismissed James'' rudely and sat down away from everyone but James followed.


    "You are the problem. Just tell me what are you hiding. Don''t add onto my Susu''s problems."


    "You--" Zeng took into his surroundings and pulled James to a vacant room. "I am her real brother. Don''t step out of your boundaries."


    "Look...." James stopped Zeng from leaving the room by placing a hand on his chest but Zeng yanked it. "I and Susu share every problem with each other. I''m not stepping my boundaries, but just concerned for you because it will affect her eventually."


    Zeng pushed James harshly, and shoved his hand into his hair. He took a step back and hit the wall, making James believe that Zeng was once again hypnotised and was in someone''s control. Which was not!


    "I think you should stay here," James was about to lock the door when Zeng lunged at him with his full force.


    "Idiot. What makes you think you can do that?"


    James threw Zeng off and blocked his punch. Then he shifted sideways to stop the incoming blow to his face. "Wake up, Zeng!" James tried to push Zeng off of him but later''s strength was too much to handle. "Zeng, think of Suyin. Please, wake up!"


    THUD


    James was ready to receive the punch, he even heard the sound, but pain?? He peeked open his eyes and saw Zeng lying in the corner, rubbing his jaw.


    "You dare touch him,"


    "Evan!" James bolted up to stop Evan before he lands another kick on Zeng. "No no no... Please. Don''t hurt him, he''s hypnotised."


    "WHAT?" Zeng shouted. "Bloody hell, get your brain treated first. You are overthinking." James narrowed his eyes, "Get over me, dude. You already have a boyfriend."


    The situation turned odd. James misunderstood Zeng. He wanted to apologise, but before that Zeng left the room.


    Evan, "You okay?"


    "Yeah, though he''s strong," James exhaled, "But what are you doing here? No wait! I should ask how did you know I''m here, and how did you get in?"


    "Isn''t it obvious you would be here to support your bestie? Suyin asked the cops to let me in." Evan said, "Looks like situation is serious here. I have seen a lot in news. Was worried for you so came here to check."


    "Yeah, we are waiting for Ling Xeumo to wake up from surgery and tell us."


    Evan leaned against the wall, "hm, reporters are giving every update. It''s the most discussed topic outside. Where is she?"


    "Don''t know." James pulled Evan by his elbow, "Let''s go out. I''m helping Suyin in managing everything."


    *********


    Eighteen hours passed by....


    And the person who was most worried all this while was Ling Gilbert. He was like the trapped fly in a spider''s web, waiting for his death. His heart hammered against his chest, yet he has to keep his gait calm with no hint of nervousness. They can''t know about happened to Xeumo, and definitely not about Alpha and Beta. Was she awake at that time?


    Neither he could run away nor he could ask ask for help from someone.


    Wang Shi and Suyin stood outside the glass wall, looking at the woman hooked to various contraptions. Beside them Zeng was sweating, fidgeting with his fingers.


    "Ge, will you stop doing that? You are catching attention!"


    Zeng, "How can you both be so calm? I''m worried. If the plan fails, you both will land up into a big trouble."


    Wang Shi glanced at his wrist watch, "I think it''s time--" he pushed open the door to Xeumo''s room.


    *******


    At time, the reporters were made to sit in the conference room to watch everything through the projector due to the security reasons.


    Gilbert stood in the corridor with Suyin''s family and friends, watching as Wang Shi was in the room with his team of doctors. Suyin stood near the glass window, she had a walkie-talkie in hands. "Dr. Wang, I have only on question for her. In know she can''t speak because of the tubes in her throat, but can you ask her if she knows who did this to her?"


    Wang Shi turned to see Suyin through the glass, replying Xeumo''s answer with the nod of his head.


    "According to Gilbert it was me, but I think.... it''s Mr. Gilbert himself. Right now, we both are standing. Can she points her finger to the real culprit?"


    "NO NO NO... SHE''S LYING. IT''S NOT ME," Gilbert let out a hysteric shout when. Xeumo lifted her shaky hand to him. He barge into the room, but the cops nabbed him on time before he get closer to the patient''s bed.


    Suyin stepped into the room , "I know it was you. You are a horrible person who even tried to kill his own daughter. Xeumo, tell everyone what does the letters on your arm says. Who is that person. for whom your father is working? Give her a pen and paper, let her write,"


    However, Gilbert went berserk, and snatched the police officer''s gun tugged at his waist. He shot thrice towards Xeumo, and sprinted to take Suyin on gun point.


    "HALT! STAY AWAY EVERYONE, OTHERWISE I WILL KILL HER."


    BANG


    Suyin, "SHISHI!"

 Chapter 249 - Press conference-5 (last)

    "Shishi where are you going? You are bleeding, dammit." With one hand pressing at the open gunshot wound on Wang Shi''s shoulder, Suyin tried to hold him back from following Gilbert.


    Everything happened in a blink of an eye that her mind was still dizzy, trying to put pieces of whatever happened barely a minute ago. All she saw was Wang Shi lost his control when Gilbert held her on gunpoint and lunged at him without a thought or a second''s delay.


    Goosebumps yet to settle on her skin, the man even don''t care about his life!


    Was her revenge that important for him that he won''t value his own life!


    "STAY WITH ME. Cops have gone after him," She pushed him down but ignoring the bleed Wang Shi stood up.


    "This is important for me, Suyin. My entire life depends on this. I have to know who is behind all this."


    "SHISHI! WAIT, DAMMIT! SHISHI...." Her voice fell on deaf ears, and like the gush of the wind the man was already out of the door, leaving her helpless, drowned in guilt and worry.


    As she ran out of the room her gaze fell on her parents, "MOM, DAD, ASK THE REPORTERS TO LEAVE. THAT''S ENOUGH NEWS THEY GOT." her voice echoed in the corridor as she ran after Wang Shi.


    ...


    On the other side, Gilbert was chased by cops as he tried to find a way out of the hospital. Just now not only Suyin exposed him, but he had shot the president''s son that''s considered as a capital offence. Within an hour the cops of the entire country would be after him.


    Least Gilbert knew Wang Shi would come in the way of the bullet when he tried to kill Suyin.


    On his way he turned over the medicine cabinet, broke the glass bottles to borrow some time.


    "Fu*ck, if I get out of here safely, I''ll definitely kill you, bitch," Talking to himself, he pressed the emergency button to open all the fire exits.


    Suyin brought him to the extent where he had no other option but to run. If he let himself fall onto the hands of the cops, they would definitely interrogate him to get the names out. But before that Alpha will get him killed somehow.


    However, if he managed to get out of here safely, he still had a chance to escape and make a come back after a few years.


    Running away was the best option.....


    To divert cops, he opened the door to the fire exit, but instead of leaving, he hide himself in the opposite emergency pharmacy.


    The approaching footsteps clip-clopped down the marbled hallway, Gilbert ducked under the gurney. As the cluttering noise came to a halt he peeked through a slightest gap at the cops holding a gun in their hands.


    "The door to the fire exit is open, I think he went this way,"


    "Let''s go,"


    "Alert the team downstairs to be ready,"


    Whilst Gilbert slink in the shadows the cops allowed to echo off, announcing they are left. Gilbert pulled down the muzzle to check the number of the bullets left. Three fires at Xeumo. One at Suyin which hit Wang Shi and one in the corridor to scare away everyone and make way for himself.


    That brings him to one bullet left!


    He grabbed the gun closer, racking his brain to find a way out of here when the sound of the whirring chopper caught his attention. He crawled to the nearest window and parted the curtains to check if it was what he was thinking.


    Air ambulance!


    If he could manage to get on it, and hold the pilot on gun point....


    Cautiously he came out of his hiding; his eyes scanning the surroundings to make sure the path was clear before he followed the way to the terrace.


    Ace was the second biggest hospital of the country; knowing the hospital''s layout in and out was Gilbert''s greatest benefit which he was using throughly.


    The distance between the hope of survival and turning it into a reality was just a helicopter away from him. With eyes protruding out like a maniac, and a creepy smile plastered to his face, Gilbert waited to let the helicopter land while hiding on terrace.


    But.....


    But just when it was just a few meters away from the ground, it started moving up again, taking away Gilbert''s last hope of survival with it.


    "HEY!" subconsciously Gilbert waved his hand.


    "Oh! So you are here!" The sound makes the old man jump. He took in a sudden intake of breath and stumbled backward, jamming into the wall. Gilbert''s eyes staring blankly at the man with wide horrific eyes; he pointed the gun out.


    Though he doesn''t know who the man was, he had seen him standing beside Suyin''s people earlier.


    The man''s expressionless face matched his chillingly cold voice, laced with danger. He takes out a pen from his front pocket, earning another reaction from Gilbert. The pen! The pen with a delicate carvings! He had seen this silver pen! Isn''t it the same dangerous weapon used by Alpha''s most dangerous assassin, Beta?


    "B-Beta?"


    "You better die." All of a sudden the man charged at Gilbert at a lightening speed. Gilbert let a wince when the man roughly grabbed his hand to stop from pulling the trigger and pushed the pen''s tip at his heart.


    Without any force, it dug deeper and deeper. A painful shrill reverberated throughout the terrace, Gilbert convulsed violently, feeling something burning his heart from inside. The blood seeped out from his eyes, nose and ears.... it was the end of the hope of survival. It was the death.


    BANG


    What followed was a gun shot, and a long silence after that...


    ********


    Wang Shi heard the scream, and ran towards the direction from the sound came. He felt his heart drum in fear, Gilbert was the important link to the case and he need him alive.


    "Gilbert!" Wang Shi found Gilbert at the verge of the death. He had a hole in chest; black fumes with a hissing sound of burning of flesh was flowing out. "Just hold on, " Without hesitating Wang Shi placed his hand on the wound, only to withdrew instantly, feeling his own palm burn by the chemical.


    "Shishi!" Suyin came running, she takes off her jacket and bundled it on Gilbert''s chest. But there was no way to save Gilbert when the chemical was burning his internal organs from inside. Right in front of their eyes, they saw him dying.


    "NO NO NO..... YOU CANNOT DIE ON US. TELL ME WHO DID THIS? I WANT THE ANSWERS, DAMMIT!" ignoring his own injury, Wang Shi gave chest compressions. "WAKE UP, WAKE UP. Suyin, bring the crash cart, and epi. I can save him."


    "He''s dead."


    "NO. I''ll keep his heart beating. Go get help,"


    "He doesn''t have a heart left for you to give compressions. The chemical melted it." Suyin touched Wang Shi''s hand, pleading him to stop. With a heavy heart, Wang Shi withdrew his hand, and Suyin rushed to hug him.


    When everyone came to the terrace they saw the couple sitting beside Gilbert''s dead body. There was foul stench of chemical in the air.


    "H-he''s dead?"


    Don''t know who asked but Suyin replied with a nod. Slowly she lifted her gaze, followed by Wang Shi, locking it on a certain person in the crowd; compressing a wound on his waist.


    His existence only fuelled the fire burning inside Wang Shi. They underestimated ''him''. "Arrest him."


    Everyone looked among the crowd hearing Wang Shi. Soon a team of black dressed men they didn''t knew was standing behind everyone, came to the front and nabbed Evan.


    James held Evan''s hand, "Hey, what are you doing? Why are you taking him? NO! Suyin!" James looked at Suyin pleadingly, but she averted her gaze, "Will you tell me what his crime is? He''s the one who chase after Gilbert to help you, and was shot by him. See...." He hugged Evan when nobody listened, "Suyin, please. He''s Evan! Ask your boyfriend to let him go."


    Suyin looked up, "Jamie, let him go. He''s the killer."


    *********


    Hey dear readers,


    Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year!!


    Let''s welcome 2021 with open arms and forget all your worries.


    Life is short, so don''t forget to break the rules, forgive quickly, laugh uncontrollably, love truly, give second chances, AND..... NEVER EVER REGRET OF ANYTHING THAT BRING SMILE TO YOUR FACE. ???? ????


    ********


    I thank you for the immense support you gave me this year. Love you a hundred times for all the motivation and love you showered on me.


    Here''s the 100 coin code that can be redeemed ten times. Hope you won''t be selfish and would only redeem it once so that others can have it too. Let''s start with giving!


    AB8UYXKBCFDSAG2QA


    *******


    Love


    dream_ash


    ******


    Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year!!


    Let''s remind ourselves of one thing that brings a smile to our face in 2020. To me, it''s my braces. I finally freed from them! Yayyyy!


    Tell me what''s yours smile moment in the comment section.....

 Chapter 250 - The locket matched!

    "How on Earth Evan is involved in this?" with hopeful eyes of a child James squeezed Evan''s shoulder, "Tell them, you didn''t do this. You have nothing to do with this man''s death. Even if no one believe, I will believe you." Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #!_50913382093604836 for visiting.


    Seeing tears rolling down James'' eyes, Evan''s bottom lips quivered. He growled, wanting to reach out to wipe his tears, but the guards cuffed his hands.


    "WHERE ARE YOU TAKING HIM? STOP IT," James yanked the cuffs. "It''s a misunderstanding. Don''t do this, Susu. My Evan--"


    "He''s not Evan!" James'' grip on the cuffs loosened, everything inside him went still, "The real Evan Ricci died over a year back." At Wang Shi''s order, Lu Xion''s team in France got the Ricci family''s properties and home checked. They stumbled into a bone-chilling scene. A horror show.


    At the ancestral home''s bas.e.m.e.nt were lying seven skeletons, scattered around in a most inhuman way. Butchered.


    Two women and five men.


    It was the entire Ricci family, including the real Evan Ricci.


    "They were all murdered, Jamie. Isn''t it the same time when Evan came into your life?" Suyin helped Wang Shi to stand up and supported him on her shoulder. "Get me a wheelchair. Ge, call Dr. Colton ASAP, the number is in my phone."


    She paused in her steps and looked between Evan and James, "I don''t know with what purpose he entered our lives, but whatever it is, he''s up to no good. I''ll explain to you everything later, but first Shishi needs to get this bullet out of his shoulder."


    Behind her, James took a shaky step away from Evan, looking as the guards take him away. For some reason, he couldn''t avert his eyes from Evan''s face, searching if he could really kill someone. It made him sick to think of Evan as someone who used him as a means to fulfill a personal goal.


    All sound lost to the faint voices, reminiscing of the time they had spent together-- and none of them say Evan can betray him.


    ......


    Frantic. Anxious. Worried. Helpless. James wanted the answers like NOW. Every passing second was a nightmare for him. He ran to where Suyin was waiting for Wang Shi''s surgery to get over.


    "GET OUT, EVERYONE." He snarled, "I want to talk to you. Don''t you dare brush me off with excuses. I don''t care about your boyfriend when mine is airlifted just now. I want the answers, dammit."


    Zeng, "Can''t you-"


    "Leave us alone," Suyin said. She just sat there in the waiting room, staring at the floor, her shoulders slumped as if something''s bothering her. Zeng wanted to go up to her when he felt a press at his shoulder and looked up; Si Han shook her head.


    Si Han, "Don''t interfere between them. Come out with me."


    Suyin looked up at a screeching sound of a pull of a chair and James seated himself facing her, ready to interrogate. She looked down at his shaking hands and reached out.


    "DON''T, I WANT ANSWERS." James crossed his hand on his chest, "Last time also you almost created a misunderstanding between us by saying you saw him in the street but it turned out Evan was here to surprise me."


    "He lied." she said, "He never left the country all this while." she phone dialed her mother and asked her to send her IPad in. It was with Zeng. In no time Si Han came in to give Suyin''s IPad. "listen to this...."


    [Oh! So you are here?]


    [B-Beta?]


    [You better die]


    The audio ended up with painful grunts, and screams of Gilbert, followed by a gunshot.


    James recognized the owners of the voice. He looked up at Suyin in question. But instead of answering, she next opened a video of a masked man jumping off a wall, zooming on a locket.


    "Can you recognize it?" She asked, and James'' expression was the answer to her question.


    It was because of the locket that Suyin doubted Evan at first. The familiarity of the locket was too striking for her to overlook it. She just couldn''t stop herself from thinking about it; it was as if everything was in her brain, she just couldn''t grab it.


    It was then when things clicked suddenly. She had seen it on Evan.


    Once she had bumped into James and Evan almost making out on the couch. That day when Evan bolted up and buttoned his shirt in haste, she noticed the locket. The locket''s intricate design of a serpent wrapped around the letter A was too eye-catching for Suyin to ignore.


    To confirm, she instantly checked her photo gallery. Once James had sent his and Evan''s picture sleeping on the bed while James was stealing a kiss from him in the morning.


    The locket matched!


    After that, it was easy for Suyin to collect further information on Evan as Wang Shi had Xion and Xiu Mei to help him.


    Xiu Mei checked Evan''s passport; not so surprisingly, he never left the country for France.


    Despite this evidence, she gave a benefit of doubt to Evan for James'' sake and planned to use Gilbert as a bait to lure the masked man out to see if he was Evan or someone else. But plans rarely go as planned.


    Because of the sudden accusation of Xeumo''s death, they changed their plan and decided to use Xeumo to trap both Gilbert and his acquaintance.


    "Xeumo was already dead when Assistant Long found her, but we showed it as if she''s alive." The chances of the plan''s failure were high as being a doctor Gilbert must have had confirmed Xeumo''s death before placing her in Assistant Long''s car. However, when Wang Shi decided to step up, she was certain no one will ever doubt her claim.


    And that''s what happened.


    "We didn''t find any markings on Xeumo''s arm or anything. It was a trap and Zeng helped us; remember he was the one coordinating with Shishi?" James looked at her shocked, understanding the reason behind Zeng''s weird behavior. He was just nervous, that it. "My first hope in Evan crushed when he contacted me and asked me to let him in."


    For James''s sake, Suyin held on to the last hope and gave Evan another chance. Yet, Evan lost that chance as well....

 Chapter 251 - Y-You are cruel, Suyin

    Zeng slipped a mini recording device in Evan''s clothes which later turned out to be the biggest evidence.


    "While entering the floor, Evan passed through security checks and they didn''t find any weapon on him." Suyin continued, "Technically we had no solid evidence as it was only later when Xion''s team informed us about the Ricci family. So we waited for him to do something..."


    Evan was extremely calm, he didn''t even look for any opportunity to approach Gilbert or anyone else, other than James.


    She sighed.


    But things went wrong in the end.


    "When Gilbert shot at me, and hurt Shishi, our team and everyone was distracted because of me and Shishi, which delayed everything. This gave Evan a perfect opportunity to kill Gilbert." she stood up, "And before you question me Evan''s waist injury. That''s just a minor cut; no organs are hurt, he''d be fine after getting a few stitches."


    Everything was laid bare in front of James. The undeniable evidence left him howling alone, reminiscing the beautiful moments he had spent with Evan. Subconsciously he rubbed the love band on his finger, Evan gave him the night he gave a surprise visit.


    Lie.


    It was all a lie.


    The betrayal of the man he loved the most left him abandoned. He had opened his heart after a long time, just to face this?


    "I have sent Evan to Xion''s underworld base for interrogation. I want answers from him." Suyin informed.


    Suyin looked down at her best friend, sitting, staring at the iPad''s screen paused at the golden locket. His fists curled so tight that his knuckles turned white. That''s when she heard a sound that almost stopped her heart. A sob. A sob like a child who just lost his most precious loved one.


    Suyin stoned her heart. "I know I did something that hurt you, but I''m not sorry for that. I will never be. Evan entered our lives with bad motives. A few days of crying is worth it if it can save your life from turning into hell."


    "Y-You are cruel, Suyin. They will torture him there, might even kill him." He cried like his spirit needed to break loose from the inner anguish.


    "If he didn''t cooperate, they will. Now it is more important for me to know what brings him here. You can beat me, yell at me, throw tantrums, break our relationship, or do anything to let your anger out. But I won''t budge from my decision. You might think I''m selfish and doing everything for my baby. But you are no less than my baby to me. Evan is not good for you, and I won''t let you two continue." she was the strict momma that always cared for James and don''t shy from taking brutal decisions.


    James leaped and hugged Suyin, his upper body and shoulders wracked with every sob that forced their way out.


    Zeng heard and saw everything from the ajared door. His mind was stuck in Suyin''s words. He thought this will be the end of James and Suyin''s relationship, giving him a perfect opportunity to earn his place back. But.....


    A press at his shoulder caught his attention, he looked, "Mom, they-- Neither Suyin apologized, nor James is mad at her. Earlier, he was just upset and seeking answers. I-I don''t understand what it is between them."


    "You will never understand this, Zeng, even I failed. They both found each other at their lowest and journeyed through the hardest phase of their life with hand in hand. This minor storm has no identity to challenge their relationship. And you should stop that too." Zeng turned to face Si Han, "I know you don''t like James. Just because Suyin let you in her plan and kept James out of it, don''t assume things. James is still Jamie in her heart."


    The way Si Han looked at Zeng confirmed the harsh reality. James was here to stay, and he would have to share his family with him.


    ...


    "Let me see him once," Suyin heard James'' voice and wanted to push him from her hug but he hugged her tight, "No No, listen to me. I know he entered our lives with some motive. But he never harmed me. I was with him for over a year, he had lots of opportunities to kill me, kill you, but he didn''t."


    "Don''t forget, he always hated me. Many times he even tried to make you chose between me and him."


    James pulled back, "That makes a few things clear. Maybe he was after you all this while, and just used me as a ladder to reach you."


    "That gives me more reason to keep you away from him."


    "Susu, just once. Please. I won''t be able to live peacefully unless I talk to him. You might say I''m stupid, blinded by love, but the fact is he never mistreated me. You didn''t see his eyes when the guards took him away, but I did. It was the same."


    "Jamie--"


    "I think I can get answers from him better than anyone. Just one chance."


    She sighed, "I will ask someone to take you there."


    *********


    After Dr. Colton was done with Wang Shi''s surgery in Ace, they shifted him to the People''s Hospital. The news of the President''s son being shot was all around and had caused a lot of commotion both in the business and political circle.


    Wang Shi was not only the chairperson of the People''s group, but he was the heir to his father''s position. Though he never showed interest to join politics, he was already everyone''s favorite because of his wise and gentle personality, and the immense charity work he does.


    At Feng Jianyu''s order, Junjie returned to take charge of the People''s group in Wang Shi''s absence to maintain the steady flow of work. Though a minor incident, it can cause an enormous loss if not taken care of.


    On other hand, Jianyu and Xiu Mei stayed in the hospital and manage things from there. The biggest problem that came in their way was to handle the backlash Suyin was receiving as everyone believed she had used Wang Shi.

 Chapter 252 - She is family

    [This is to inform everyone Dr. Wang Shi is doing fine, and there''s no danger to his life. The bullet pierced his shoulder and lodged into the shoulder blade; thanks to the quick action and thinking of the lead surgeon who refused to be named, the injury won''t have any long terms effects and he will be back to work soon.]


    [The cops are still investigating the matter and refused to comment to maintain the secrecy of the case. We further refuse to comment on Dr. Gilbert. We request everyone to value the sensitivity of the issue and the privacy of the family.]


    [We are thankful for Miss. Zhao Suyin to be present with Dr. Wang Shi at that time and provide him with timely first aid. It was a voluntary action taken by Dr. Wang Shi to protect Zhao Suyin from the incoming danger. We request people to maintain dignity and abstain from speaking ill over the internet.]


    The president''s house issue three statements, all signed by Wang Huang. The last statement was issued against Liu Jeilan''s wish who was fuming mad seeing Wang Shi in this condition.


    "Thank you uncle," Feng Jianyu said.


    "I did this for my son and grandson. But that does not mean I''m not upset. The video is all over the internet, everyone saw the target was Suyin but Wang Shi came in between. Don''t know what magic she has done that my son is willing to give his life?" he muttered, walking to the room where Wang Shi was taking rest.


    "Tell me what else you are hiding?"


    "I don''t know what you are talking about."


    "Oh, shut up! I know you brothers very well. You are definitely up to something." he looked over the shoulder at Feng Jianyu following him. The man they had arrested was transferred to a secret place instead of turning him to the cops. And Xiu Mei made sure to keep his identity a secret by hacking into Ace''s server to take control over all the CCTV''s.


    Judging by the perfect coordination between Jianyu, Xiu Mei, Xion, and Wang Shi, Wang Huang was sure they were hiding something from him.


    "Since you know us that well, you already know whatever happens between us remains between us."


    "GET OUT. HOW DARE YOU COME HERE?" Followed by Liu Jeilan''s loud voice, Suyin was thrown out of the room. She stumbled and prevented the fall by taking the support of the wall. Feng Jianyu and Wang Huang took fast strides towards them.


    "Look what you have done. It should have been you at his place--"


    Liu Jeilan''s words stuck at the back of her mouth when she swayed a little by a sudden push. She looked down to meet his grandson''s angry little face, pushing her with all his force. He wiped his wet cheeks with the back of his hand and flared his nostrils like a baby bull.


    Leaving her confused, Honey took fast strides to Suyin and took her hand in his small ones. In no time she was into the room beside Wang Shi''s side and the little bun stood by her guarded.


    Suyin crouched, "You--"


    "Shhh...." Honey shushed her with his finger on her lips and gestured with the other hand to keep her voice low. Suyin hauled him at the little space on Wang Shi''s bed. Her eyes searched his cute face for anger, disappointment, despise, hatred, or anything but looks like she hadn''t understood this cute fluffy bun. "Don''t explain. I saw everything live."


    "And you are not angry at me?"


    "Now I''m angry." Honey said, stroking Wang Shi''s needle pierced hand as gently as ever. "In dad''s absence I''m the in-charge of the house and it''s my duty to protect you. No one can bully you when I''m around. But tell me one thing.... will you always do this?"


    Her head lowered thinking he was referring to Wang Shi, "I''m sorry. It''s my fault--"


    "Duh, look you are doing it again." Suyin looked up when Honey poked her head to get her attention, "I''m angry because you asked such a stupid question when I already told you I saw everything live. I don''t know why grandma is calling you responsible. Isn''t it a duty of family members to protect each other?" His head spun towards the door where a dumbfounded Liu Jeilan was staring at them, "She is family."


    Suyin couldn''t help but stare at Honey, "Family?"


    "Ducky don''t look at me like this, you are making me uncomfortable."


    "Am I your family?"


    "Idon''tknow." his cheeks suddenly went bright red. Suyin was gawking at him non-stop.


    Suddenly Suyin''s defenses were paper, a paper melting by her own tears and the warmth of the little bun. Before she can draw in the air her body needs, she hugged Honey in her embrace, feeling the little heart that beats within him.


    The little human would never stop shocking her with his cute attacks. "Ah, my little fairy, stop being cute. I''ll eat you one day."


    "Hmpf, you dare."


    "Can I take a kiss?"


    "No,"


    "Hey, am already civilized by asking you politely. You better give me otherwise I will start being--"


    "Ok ok ok.... but only one. Hey..... this is cheating. You are taking more than--"


    "Shhh.... you don''t want to wake up your daddy, do you? Then let me have my way with you,"


    Honey''s lips curled into an adorable pout. He eyed his father while silently bearing the torture on his cheeks. ''Dad, she''s at it again. Wake up fast. I can''t handle her anymore. Don''t know what else she might do next. God, in the meanwhile can you please help me?"


    God, ''I myself need help Fairy boy. Someone please get me out of this drawer. It''s suffocating here. Crazy woman, let me get out of here once, I''ll teach you a lesson. Argh, my wifey must be waiting for me at home. Wifey..... wait for me!''


    Wang Huang came to stand beside his wife, "You didn''t understand Honey even a tiny bit while he was with us."


    Liu Jeilan spun, "What do you mean?"


    "Honey came to our house and amended his relationship with you only for Suyin''s sake. The more you resist Suyin and Shishi''s relationship, the farther Honey and Shishi will go from you. We don''t have a choice, Lan."


    "But she''s so messed up. For once I can ignore everything, but what about this revenge Suyin is running after? I got an update they have arrested a man who killed Gilbert. Does that mean there''s more to come? I don''t want this chaotic woman for my boys."


    Wang Huang pulled his wife closer when her voice turned heavy, "I know. I know. Let Shishi wake up; I will talk to him. Suyin has to drop everything if she wants our boys."


    *******

 Chapter 253 - you beat me to that!

    "She''s turning into a problem for us. If we don''t stop her on time, she will ruin our years of preparation." The man''s voice over the phone was loud and irritating that Alpha put it on speaker and continued joining the broken pieces of a vase with gold. Japanese art called Kintsugi.


    "Raising your voice will never make things better. Try doing it again and I will show you what Alpha is." A momentary pause and the sound of heavy breathing curled Alpha''s lips upwards.


    "There''s no news on Gilbert." The man said, keeping his tone in check.


    "I''m sure he''s dead. Beta never disappoints me." Alpha poured some liquid gold on the broken edge and bring together the separated fragments.


    "You lost one of your trusted men; aren''t you worried Suyin is moving closer to you?"


    "Suyin is not moving closer to me but towards the destruction of the Wang family. It''s just, the plan which was supposed to start after a few years has begun earlier. You better start preparing."


    "I-I need time."


    "Which you don''t have. Just because she didn''t say a word about organ trafficking in media, it doesn''t mean she will hold her silence. Now I''m certain she and Wang Shi are working together. Before the matter slips from your hands, you better start working."


    Without waiting for a reply, Alpha hung up. He pulled open the drawer and right on top was Suyin and James'' picture with him. "I was right about you. We should repair broken things because sometimes in doing so we get more valuable objects. But I must admit, you surpassed my expectations. I was supposed to introduce you to the reality behind your dead child, but you..... you beat me to that!"Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #!_51004922056998768 for visiting.


    ********


    At James''s apartment,


    "Why the fuc* are you following me? Leave me alone,"


    Zeng pushed the door harder before James could shut it on his face and welcomed himself into the living room. "Do you think I''m enjoying babysitting you? If it was not for Suyin, I don''t even care whether you live or die." Suyin had asked..... nope! She had forced Zeng to follow James and not leave his side for a minute till she was with Wang Shi in the hospital.


    Initially she wanted to ask her mother, but Si Han got a bad migraine because of stress. So she let Zhao Shu take Si Han home while sending Zeng after distressed James.


    James took a deep breath to calm himself before his inner demon takes over his senses and he chops down a certain someone with his chef''s knife. "I will talk to Susu, she''ll understand me. But you--" he pointed at the door, "Out!"


    His blood boiled when instead of listening to him, Zeng searched around the apartment- parting the curtains, looking beneath the couch, behind the door, into the kitchen....


    James, "Ill mannered monkey, what are you looking for--" he took a step back when Zeng raised a baseball at him and lunged at him. "W-What are you doing? No need for violence, we can talk peacefully." though he suggested talking peacefully, he too ran to get the vase kept on the table.


    BANG


    BANG


    BANG


    BANG


    "HEY, WHAT ARE YOU DOING? STOP IT!..... NO NO NO, NOT THIS."


    BANG


    Zeng, "Oops, I did it."


    Ignoring James, Zeng continued stomped around the apartment, breaking door locks. After what seems like eternity whereas only ten minutes had passed, Zeng slumped on the couch, letting a satisfying breath.


    James won''t be able to lock himself into any of the rooms.


    "Hm, that''s one hell of a useful product. Though I doubt you even know what it is," he smirked seeing the fuming James, and let go of the baseball bat. "Pizza?"


    "Screw you,"


    CRASH


    Zeng dodged the flying vase aimed at his head, "I was about to pay for the locks but now I won''t. Do you have any idea what is the value of my face?"


    "I won''t even pay ten cents for a pig''s face over ass''s body."


    "...."


    James stomped into his room and banged the door hard. Fuming mad, he locked himself in the bathroom. This must be Suyin''s instruction to not let him lock the doors, but must he use this tactic?


    Not a minute later James heard the knock at the door. "Sharky, don''t drown yourself in the pot. I bet Susu won''t hug you ever--"


    BANG


    He threw the shampoo bottle at the bottle "GET LOST."


    "Fine, I''ll let Susu know you locked yourself in the bathroom." James heard from the bathroom, his ear perked, "Susu, I can handle this cry baby, please come fast. He had locked himself in the bathroom; what if he does something--" with a click sound James came outside, "Oh, he''s out! And looks absolutely fine. Available in a single piece--"


    James snatched the phone, exhaling in frustration that Zeng was just faking it.


    "Look at you! It''s hard to believe you once supported my sister at her lowest, cry baby. I have heard you both share secrets! Wish you had learned never to cry over the man who brought you pain." Zeng snatched his phone back, "Because Susu never cried over that jerk, Wren. I''m ordering Pepperoni with double cheese, don''t dare to lock yourself again, I''ll break that too."


    ********


    In the Hospital,


    Twelve hours passed by and with every passing hour so was Honey''s anxiousness. Neither he could eat nor he could sit peacefully unless Wang Shi wakes up once and coax him with his words about his health.


    "He''s fine, little fairy. Trust me."


    He looked up at Suyin, "Than why is he not waking? Did something wrong happened?"


    Instead of answering, Suyin stood up and walked to the edge of the bed. She folded the blanket to uncover Wang Shi''s feet. "Watch his expression," saying she ran the tip of her long nail downward to upward at the sole of Wang Shi''s foot, catching him frown and flexed his toe in sleep. "You see that? Reflexes are working fine. He''d wake up in no time."


    "I want to try that too!" that caught Honey''s interest as if he discovered something. He copied Suyin''s action, giggled when Wang Shi grunted in sleep, and flexed his toe. "Wow! Let me try it again,"


    "Ok," She ruffled his hair, "Let me bring something to eat. Don''t go anywhere." Honey barely hummed in reply while enjoying troubling Wang Shi.


    Suyin had just closed the door after her when her gaze fell on the President couple sitting in the living room joined to Wang Shi''s VIP ward. Their gaze boring daggers into her, but she kept the courtesy and bowed.


    Wang Huang replied with a nod, but Liu Jeilan just stood up and left for Wang Shi''s room.


    "Don''t mind her. Lan is not vicious by heart, she.... she''s just scared." this was the first time Wang Huang took the opportunity to talk to Suyin, shocking her in return. "Shishi and Lan''s relationship had always been strained. It got worse after Zena''s incident. Um.... Zena is--"


    "I know. Shishi had told me everything about Zena." Suyin replied; not going into the details as she knew Wang Shi had not disclosed the secret of how Zena conceived Honey. They still believe it was a mutual relationship between Wang Shi and Zena, and their son broke the ties because of personal reasons.


    "Ahem, Suyin," an inadvertent smile came on Suyin''s lips when the President called her by her name. "I have heard about your baby''s death. I''m sorry for him. I really am. But now that you have found the culprits, can I consider this is over and you will not run after revenge--"


    "Mr. President." Suyin''s tone came so hard that it surprised Wang Huang, "With due respect, may I ask what Mr. President knows about my revenge or why am I running after my past like a crazy woman on loose?"


    Wang Huang opened his mouth to form a word, but couldn''t find the correct one when he saw her eyes getting red.


    "Gilbert stole my baby''s heart and sold it in the black market for millions of dollars. It''s not only a fight for justice for my child, but I''m fighting against the exploitation of human life by a group of mafias. It''s a slavery of 21st century where victims are left voiceless in their graves." a tear rolled down her cheeks, "Life is a gift of our creator, and it should never be up for sale."


    She wiped the tear, "Now if you''ll excuse me; I''ve to get something to eat for my baby." she deliberately used the term ''my baby'' to boldly announce Honey and Wang Shi were hers, and whatever thoughts he had, drop it.


    **********

 Chapter 254 - My body reeks of you

    Wang Shi woke up to the softness of the two people squeezed on his left side, and the morning light slipping in through the blinds. A smile came on its own when upon seeing Suyin and Honey''s sleeping faces; they snuggled into each other.


    As usual Honey''s hand rested on Suyin''s cheek while she embraced the little one like a precious treasure. It''s exactly the scene he felt so blessed to get these two in his life and he got to witness it frequently now.


    With a gentle kiss to both, Wang Shi started the day. A quick glance at the table clock told him it''s freaking ten in the morning. He debated for a second if he should get up or just stay in the bed, but considering how the two stayed glued to him until he woke up last night, he chose the latter option.


    The worrywarts were just too much last night! He managed to convince everyone to take a rest or either go home but Suyin and Honey. Eventually when Wang Shi couldn''t bear to see the exhaustion in their eyes, he ordered the hospital director to join another bed with his'' so that these two could remain glued to him and yet take some rest.


    "Hey," Wang Shi said when he saw Suyin peel open her eyes. He held her hand from rubbing her eyes and lifted them up to his mouth, kissing her slender fingers one by one.


    "How are you feeling?"


    "Better, and you?"


    "I''m not the one who was shot?"


    "I was not referring to the physical state,"


    "I''m fine." Suyin broke the eye contact and moved to concentrate on Honey, kissing his cheeks. He smelled exceptionally pleasant in the morning. However, Wang Shi sensed something was off about her. She was lost.


    "Talk to me," he said, rubbing the pad of his thumb on her cheek. He wasn''t sure what was in her mind, but he had a hunch whatever it was he wasn''t going to be pleasant. Suyin faked a smile that didn''t go unnoticed from his eyes and stood up.


    Honey frowned and m.o.a.ned in sleep only to return back to slumber when Suyin patted him gingerly.


    "I have to accompany Jamie to the underworld base." she whispered, tying her hair into a messy bun, "Evan had not said a word yet. Maybe he would talk to Jamie. You take rest, I will keep you informed."


    "I will come with you." he pushed away the pillow under his elbow.


    "No. You should take rest-"


    "I''m not asking for permission. I''m coming, that''s final-- Ah," He froze, letting out a grunt when stitches pulled. Suyin rushed to his side and helped him.


    "Careful!"


    "You are definitely hiding something from me. It''s fine if you don''t want to talk but don''t lie at least."


    She sighed, "It''s true something is bothering me, but I don''t want to tell you unless I confirm a few things first. Please understand," to pacify him, she leaned to give him a kiss on lips. Wang Shi willed to keep the thought aside and nodded. But don''t know what it was, his heart was unsettled for some reason.


    "Let me prepare sponge bathe for you."


    "It''s okay. I will ask nurse Miya--"


    "Dare you to let someone see your body, and you will be single again."


    "...."


    Suyin, "I''m getting hot water and towels. Take a seat on the bed."


    "Um, wait!" he said, "I-I need to use washroom first. Please.... God knows how many IV bags they have given to me, my bladder is about to burst," saying he sprinted to the washroom ignoring Suyin was about to say something.


    A second later he came out with a sullen face and met with Suyin''s knowing eyes. She was standing right outside the door.


    "Before I could say something, you sprinted off," she ushered him back to the washroom, lifted his pajama top to expose the knot at the navel and undid it and pulled the pants down. "Call me when you are done." pretending indifferent she walked out of the bathroom only to slump at the door and cover her flushed face.


    Behind her, Wang Shi facepalmed.


    Embarrassing.


    **********


    "He''s weird." a man spoke to Dr. Colton, "No matter how much we torture him, forget about screaming in pain, there isn''t even a frown on his face. Which rock is he made of?"


    "I can see that," from the transparent glass wall Dr. Colton looked at Evan''s bleeding wounds, blood dripping from fingers from where the nails had been yanked and salt rubbed.


    Though a level one torture, almost everyone had blurted out whatever asked at this very basic. It''s impossible not to get a reaction from the person.


    However, Evan was sitting on a chair as if he''s immune to pain.


    Pain.


    Dr. Colton pondered if it was what he''s thinking?


    CIPA.


    A rare disease that causes affected individuals to be unable to feel pain and unable to sweat. If that is true, it would be impossible to get any information from Evan or to know his purpose of killing Gilbert.


    The only way to determine if he had the disease was to do a genetic test, or either Evan answers it himself, the chances of which are almost zero.


    A man broke his attention when he came into the room to inform Suyin''s arrival.


    "Clean him, fast,"


    ...


    James''s eyes met with Suyin''s, and he looked at the door behind which Evan was. There was strong stench of iron in the air shaking his entire being.


    Suyin glared at Wang Shi. She had asked him not to do anything, but it looks like they ignored her instructions. Why? Wang Shi in response shook his head. He was unconscious all this while. How could he pass any instructions?


    "It''s just some basic, nothing much." Dr. Colton solved the mystery and didn''t bother to give further explanation.


    She looked as James pushed her aside and turned the knob of the metallic door in silver. Suyin could barely catch a glimpse of a silhouette sitting between the hazy yellow lights; her nose wrinkled when the stench of iron mixed with disinfectants got stronger.


    She waited for some time outside in case James turn back. She still hated the idea of letting James meet Evan, especially when the latter was tortured.


    ....


    It''s the sound of footsteps that finally caught Evans'' attention as he looked up. He was here! His wifey was here, standing merely two feet away. He blinked rapidly as if waking himself from something.


    "Why are you here?" Evan scowled, rattling his chains in anger. James frowned, for a second he saw Evan''s face brightened up seeing him, but it seems it was his mind playing tricks.


    James was at a loss for words. By the strong stench of blood and disinfectants, he expected to see something worse. Evan''s mutilated body and blood-soaked body, blood-stained floor and torture equipment, and what not. Thankfully, none of them happened. However, he felt a pang of pain when his gaze fell over Evan''s hands wrapped in bandages.


    "Don''t you know why am I here?" James extended his hand to Evan but Evan growled and avoided James'' touch. "So you are even avoiding my touch. Earlier you use to love it, crave for it. In your words it was the touch of love," James rubbed the emptiness between his fingers.


    Evan spit, "Don''t flatter yourself. I was merely following the orders, otherwise, I''d never let someone like you near me. A faggot."


    Behind the glass, Suyin''s fingers curled in anger, "Bastard, he''s my Jamie. Just JAMIE. JAMIE!" Zeng and Wang Shi held her curled up fingers.


    James, "And you have kissed and slept with this faggot, remember?"


    "Don''t remind me of that disgusting act. My body reeks of you." Evan looked anywhere but at James who had pulled a chair right in front of him. Suddenly Evan let out a laugh, "No doubt you are outcaste by your family. An heir of a prestigious family, but sleeps with boys. Shame on you. Your mother must be cursing her w.o.m.b for creating a thing like you....."


    James had heard these words so many times that he had turned deaf towards them. But now when he heard it from Evan it brings him the pain a thousand times more.


    "If you hated me this much, why did you come near me?"


    "Are you deaf? I said I was following orders."


    "Whose orders?"


    "You wish," Evan scoffed, "Ask over my dead body." Evan glanced at the two-way glass, "Seriously? You witch, did you really think I''ll answer this sissy''s questions? Why don''t you open my hands for once, let me show this sissy my reality."


    "Liar. Everything about you is a lie. Even now, you are just lying." James fought back the tears, and came closer to Evan, "I understand you more than anyone. You want to hurt me, right? Then do it. See, I''m standing within your reach. DO IT. DO IT--"


    THUD


    One second James was inches in front of Evan, the other he was kicked so hard that he crashed to the glass wall. James grunted in pain and raised his hand at the glass wall gesturing not to come in. He wiped his bleeding mouth.


    "Just this much strength? I know my Evan very well, he''s a monster. If you really had the intention to hurt me, I wouldn''t be standing on my feet right now." Once more James came closer to Evan, "Tell me, what''s the truth. I promise--AHH!"


    THUD


    Once more James was kicked. This time the kick was harder.


    "It''s your delusion and naivety that will cause your death one day, bastard. You want to know the answers, hear the truth? Then take it--"


    Evan bites off his tongue and spit the bloodied lump of meat on James'' face, shocking everyone.


    *********


    Guys, do you prefer long chapters like this one or the shorter ones? [This chapter costs 9ss with 1678 words, and the 6ss chapter word counts somewhere around 1050]


    Let me know in the comment section.

 Chapter 255 - Its like a glimpse of whats coming next.

    "JAMIE! JAMIE! Please listen to me,"


    Ignoring Suyin''s voice, James walked faster towards the exit hoping to get out of this ominous place faster.


    "Listen to me once," Suyin knew how James must be feeling; Evan had crossed every limit. James had devoted himself to this relationship from his heart and had even dreamed of birthing two kids with Surrogacy.


    James passed along the corridor and into the elevator. He leaned heavily against the handrail, watching the door close before Suyin could catch up. He was torn and the road to recovery would not be easy.


    But who was he trying to run away from? She was Suyin! If he could stick to her for months to convince her to talk to him when James first saw Suyin in the amus.e.m.e.nt park, then so was she.


    Suyin took the stairs.


    Huffing-puffing, trying to catch a breath, she stopped James by shoulder outside the premises. Jamie turned, his teary eyes met with hers, and the next second Suyin was pulled into a bone-crushing hug.


    None of them said a word, the silence was comforting itself.


    A minute passed when James broke the hug, "I have a request,"


    "Order me,"


    "Can you not torture him?" James said, surprising Suyin, "I know I''m asking a lot, but please.... don''t torture him anymore. You might say I''m blind in love, but I have this strong feeling Evan did everything for a reason. Please....."


    "Okay," Suyin didn''t take a second to say yes. Dr. Colton had already told her about his suspicion that Evan can''t feel pain; it''s useless to torture him.


    [I''m sorry Susu. No one in this world could understand Evan better than me. I saw the pain in his eyes when he said those harsh words; I sense his body shaking when he kicked me; I saw the helpless anger and complaints when he bit off his tongue to stop himself from speaking anymore. My Evan is not bad, and I will rake the entire world to know the truth.]


    "Jamie, did you ever realize Evan can not feel pain?"


    "What?"


    "Yeah, Dr. Colton suspects he has CIPA, a disease where a person is immune to any kind of pain. Though tests will confirm it, Evan''s action just now was another proof."


    James was out of words. They had been dating for over a year but he never realized Evan can''t feel pain. His consciousness takes him back in time to recall some incidents....


    The answer was yes.


    James never saw Evan complaining of pain.


    Be it while cutting himself while chopping vegetables, shaving cuts, bite marks, or even there gruesome se*. James''s used to think it as Evan was trying to act bravely in front of him. But....


    *******


    "Let them talk, you come with me," Wang Shi was stopped by Dr. Colton before he could follow Suyin. Sparks of hostility flew between them, but none of them said a word considering Zeng''s presence.


    "Zeng, tell Suyin to meet me at underground level 3," said Wang Shi and followed Dr. Colton to his lab. As they reached, Dr. Colton closed the door, "Sit, let me examine you,"


    "You haven''t called me to examine me, do you?" Wang Shi sat down at the chair near Colton''s desk, and let him feel around his shoulder.


    "Right. This is to remind you you are running out of time."


    "Why are you doing this?" Wang Shi asked back, needing to vent out his anger of continuously being reminded of. And needing Colton to explain why he was pressurizing him.


    "We are doctors, and knows it very well what happens when a patient denies the harsh reality of his disease-- he denies the treatment as well," Wang Shi flinched feeling Colton press at the tender wound, "The longer you drag, the deeper she will be hurt." Colton stepped away and threw his gloves into the recycle bin. "Don''t make me do the hard task. It will not be good for you."


    ********


    The sickening feeling in guts prohibited James from getting inside again. He had other important tasks to do, and the most important was to know what Evan was hiding from him. Since Suyin''s work at the base was not yet complete, James didn''t drag her with him and left.


    Obviously, Suyin didn''t forget to ask Zeng to go after James, letting pass their disliking towards each other.


    "To home, or your hotel?" Zeng asked after taking the driver''s seat.


    "Palladium apartments," James tied the seat belt, "That''s Evan''s place. I want to start my search from there," James register Zeng staring at him, "You have the option to get down anywhere you want, I will take the car from there. But don''t dare to mother me, I''m not in a mood."


    "Actually you are right. Let''s start with Evan''s place." James''s head snapped at Zeng, "Don''t be surprised! We have different motives. You are doing it for your man, and I''m doing it for my sister. Let''s get to the bottom of the truth together."


    ********


    When Xiu Mei came to know Wang Shi and Suyin were at Xion''s base, she messaged Wang Shi to wait for her there. She had found something....


    "This is not just a locket but a computerized system that records information and forwards it somewhere," Xiu Mei placed forward a box that contains dissected parts of a machine. To Suyin it looks like rocket science though. She knows her weakness, so she paid her utmost attention to Xiu Mei''s words.


    "What type of information?"


    "I was coming at that, brother Shishi," Xiu Mei said, "Live tracker, heartbeat recorder, digital identity card, a compass, and a security pass to enter a place maybe a secret den or base like this," she gave Xion''s underworld base as an example.


    "This means we are busted," Dr. Colton said. "Whoever the person is, he already knows we have Evan with us,"


    "Half-truth. This place is installed with jammers, so as my house." Yesterday Xiu Mei had taken the locket home to investigate it. "But yes, whoever Evan''s boss is, he knows something is wrong with Evan. To him- either Evan is dead, or he''s captured."


    Suyin felt unsettled, ''Is this the reason Evan didn''t say a word and pretended to be bad in front of Jamie? Was Evan protecting Jamie or was it something else?''


    Wang Shi, "Tell me you have found where the information was transmitted,"


    "Wish I could say that, but the transmission had been programmed one way." Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #''s-like-a-glimpse-of-what''s-coming-next._51123351501994924 for visiting.


    Suyin, "You said it''s a digital identity card. Does that mean whoever holds this locket works for ''that'' person?"


    "Probably. As it''s the only locket we have, I can''t tell on what basis ''that'' person distributes this locket to his men. Evan might be the only one."


    "There are more," Suyin said.


    Wang Shi, "Have you seen it on someone else too?"


    Looking away, Suyin clasped her hands, "I think yes, but can''t recall." unknown to her, Wang Shi noticed the uneasiness in her behavior. His eyes were taking in every action of her. "I''ll get Gilbert''s place searched, maybe I''ll find something there. Xiu Mei, is there a way to cut off the tracker and heartbeat recorder, and reassemble it?"


    "Are you looking to keep the locket to yourself?"


    "Yes,"


    Xiu Mei and Wang Shi exchanged a glance, and the latter approved with a nod. "Give me two days. I will do it."


    ....


    On their way to the parking Wang Shi noticed Suyin was on her own, taking fast strides. Even Xiu Mei noticed and inquired if they had fought.


    He intercepted Suyin, "Is something bothering you? I''m worried,"


    "Nothing,"


    "This means it''s definitely something." There was a note of chastis.e.m.e.nt in his voice.


    "Nothing means nothing," she said flatly, turning around to ask Dr. Colton, "Can I borrow your car, Shifu?"


    Wang Shi caught her by the elbow, "We are going together,"


    "We can''t. I have to go to Gilbert''s house and office to search, while you have to go to the hospital. It''s time for Honey to come back from school." she slowly peeled his fingers curled around her elbow, watching Wang Shi not liking her action even a bit.


    Wang Shi, "Mei~"


    "Um, I don''t have any meeting today; I can pick kids from school. Anyway, it''s been a while I have given them an ice-cream party."


    "Honey complained of itchy throat in the morning. Please don''t give him anything cold." Suyin was quick to react. "Shifu?"


    "Yes, " Dr. Colton looked for the keys in his pocket, "Here you go. But I''m sure you won''t like my choice of vehicle," she followed Colton''s gaze and resisted the urge to sneer. It was a bike! This revelation didn''t go well down her throat.


    "Let it be, I''ll ask assistant--" Before Suyin could fish her phone out, Wang Shi caught her by waist by his uninjured hand and hauled her tight against him before leading her to his car. "Your stitches!"


    "I can bear that pain, but not your coldness. We need to talk. RIGHT NOW!" he hissed in her ear, his hot breath lingering at her cheeks. "Your morning mood has gotten worse. Can''t take the risk to drag it till night."


    "And I told you whatever it is, I can''t let you know unless I confirm a few things." she shot back, "You are only making my mood worse. Sometimes it''s good to give some space to your partner instead of being ridiculously dominating."


    Wang Shi let her go from his steel grip. There was not even a single frown line on his face. Even Colton and Xiu Mei staring at them from a distance wouldn''t be able to pick the tension between the couple.


    "Take madam wherever she wants to go," He commanded the driver and opened the car''s door for her. "I''ll be waiting for you to talk to me."


    Suyin, "What about you?"


    "I''ll take X''s car and driver. Don''t worry." before closing the door, he touched her cheek, "I and Honey would be waiting for you over dinner. Whatever it is that''s spoiling your mood, solve it fast." his hand twisted into her hair, pulling her for a soft kiss. Whenever Suyin shows this attitude, and ask for space, it scares him. It''s like a glimpse of what''s coming next.


    ********

 Chapter 256 - She has seen a similar locket on **** as well.

    Suyin along with her interns spend the entire day searching Gilbert''s house and office. They confiscated his phone, laptop, and hard-drives and sent them to the IT department though she doubts she''d get anything useful from them.


    Gilbert was not dumb to keep things at such obvious places. But he was not stupid not to keep any bargaining chip in hand.


    She expected to find a similar locket as that of Evan, but couldn''t find any. Which was surprising.


    Desperate to get something useful, she searched at the weirdest of places- beneath the desk and chair, inside the vase, behind the wall paintings, air vent, electrical outlet, inside the pens on the pen stand....


    Alas, it''s only the disappointment she got. Just when she had called the day off and was on her way to the People''s Hospital, she received a call from the forensic department asking her for a visit. She''s on good terms with the doctors of the forensic department and had asked them to keep her updated. In fact, she''s the first person who they always inform. Working for Zhao Suyin had its own perks. The best part was she''s honest and never betrays.


    They gave her a pen which was not a pen but a pen-drive found in Gilbert''s clothes.


    Suyin didn''t delay a second to check the contents of it, however, found it secured with a password. For the first time she wished she has had studied IT instead of medicine, least she was left handicapped in this situation.


    Now the only person who can help her unlock it was Daiyu and Xiu Mei.


    But won''t that mean whatever the information was inside it, be passed on to them as well?Eventually reaching Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi! For some reason she doesn''t like the idea.


    Her phone rang; it was a message from Honey, [Ducky, waiting for you at dinner ??]


    Lie! Honey would never send her a heart in a message. It was Wang Shi behind it.


    She messaged back, [Won''t make it. You enjoy.] Next, she called Dr. Colton, who took a long to answer the call.


    However, just when the call was answered, Suyin hung up, watching Colton calling back but she choose not to answer it.


    Suddenly she doesn''t want to trust anyone. Not until she clear this doubt haunting her for two days. Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #****-as-well.%C2%A0_51170953681501529 for visiting.


    The exhaustion comes to her both physical and mental. Her body needs rest, yet her mind needs to keep working to burn the anxiety right out.


    The locket!


    She has seen a similar locket on Zena as well.


    Zena! The woman who birthed Honey!


    What does that mean? Is Zena also a part of the organ trafficking gang?


    Zena, Wang Shi, Honey.....


    Had Zena helped Wang Shi in getting a donor heart for Honey?


    If yes, whose heart? What means she had used?


    Sitting in her car with her Laptop on her lap, she opened the calendar dates five years back, staring at the cursed month. December.


    Isn''t it the same month she and Wang Shi both lost their kids? The last time when she had visited her son''s grave, Honey had told her the other one belongs to his twin sister. Suyin remembers every word written at the tomb; both babies died a week apart.


    So, technically, it should be the same month as Honey''s surgery.


    Though she doesn''t know what was the exact date of Honey''s surgery, she couldn''t help but notice~ one baby lost a heart, while the other one found a heart.


    One lost.


    One found.


    "AHHHHHH," She tugged her hair, fighting against her own thoughts. "You are overthinking. OVERTHINKING. OVERTHINKING. Don''t forget what Zena did with Wang Shi. Don''t let your trust be shaken just because of a measly locket. Trust your man. Trust his love. Don''t let your mind wander in the wrong direction."


    Suyin was desperately seeking a way to meet Zena once. But other than Wang Shi, no one knows where Zena was. However, Suyin can''t ask Wang Shi about it, can she?


    Looking for a break from everything, and to give a much needed distraction from her stray and harmful thoughts, she switched off her phone and threw herself into a pub which she and James often handouts at.


    The place was safe for women, and the entry was subject to membership.


    *******


    "She''s not coming," Honey said, peeling his eyes away from the phone. He blew the candle at the dinner table and strode to his room. Though the idea of sending a message was Wang Shi''s idea, it was Honey who put lots of thoughts to write a short and sweet message. Upon knowing Suyin was feeling down since morning, he even included the heart to cheer her up but she....


    Sigh.


    Wang Shi followed Honey to the lounge. "It''s okay. She''s busy. Let''s not bother her." Honey didn''t move a finger and kept himself curled up inside the blanket, "Come, let''s eat something. It''s your favorite dishes!"


    "Not hungry," Wang Shi heard Honey''s muffled voice, "I won''t talk to her. I won''t even let her kiss me. She promised to join us at dinner. How can she back off at the last minute?" the disappointment was more as the father-son duo had made efforts to plan a candlelight dinner in the balcony. And then finish the night with a movie together.


    "You can scold her when she returns. At least eat something first." Honey didn''t reply, "These days are difficult for her. We should understand and try to help her instead of being demanding. Come, she won''t like it if she saw you sleeping hungry stomach."


    Honey peeked out of the blanket, "We will wait a little more. Maybe she change her decision."


    *********


    Suyin flashed her membership card at the security, and the security let her pass with a respectful bow. The card was given to her by an acquaintance with whom she had worked on a few projects. Speaking of that acquaintance, he had even proposed to her thrice but got rejected every time.


    Surprisingly she had turned down every proposal that came in her way, accepting only Wang Shi''s. Isn''t it obvious, none of them had a cute little fairy like Honey with them?


    The club was electric tonight, the sound of BTS''s sensational song dynamite welcomed her as she stepped in, taking in the wild crowd as everyone feeding off the drinks, smiles, and dancing.


    "May I help you, mam?"


    "To the bar,"


    A gorgeous waitress nodded taking a look at Suyin''s card and led her to the VIP bar on the first floor overlooking the dance floor below. Suyin ditched sitting on the couch, and took her favorite seat~ at the bar, not forgetting to tip the waitress.


    The handsome man at the bar gave a salute to Suyin, recognizing her. "Paloma or something new?"


    "Paloma, please. Make it double."


    "Ooooo....I better inform the security then. We have a special woman in the house who can''t handle her alcohol and she''s....." he looked around, "Alone?"


    "Alone. Now give it fast."


    "Who said she''s alone?" a warm hand squeezed her shoulder and settled at the stool beside her. "The lady is with me."


    Suyin blinked, "Sean?"

 Chapter 257 - Do you have any evidence of his crimes?

    "Ah, god to know you still remember me! The drink is on me then." Wu Sean gestured to the bartender getting a nod in response. He leaned forward to give her a hug. "Finally, we met again."


    "Yes, but how did you find me?" Suyin returned his hug awkwardly, trying to avoid it as much as possible.


    "I was stalking you," Suyin arched her brows to which he raised his hand, "Just kidding. I''m a frequent visitor to this club. Saw you walking in. Besides--" he snatched the card which was still in Suyin''s hand, "--a waitress notified me of this." he was the acquaintance who gave Suyin the VIP card.


    Suyin took the card back, "I don''t like being pried into my privacy," and folded the card multiple times, destroying it. She smiled, "Don''t mind."


    "Ah, still the feisty Queen you are! That''s why I like you so much." He looked at her seriously, changing the subject, "You didn''t reply to any of my messages." He had dropped over five messages since the time she had returned to the country, but none replied.


    "Occupied with work," Suyin replied before taking a sip of her icy drink, enjoying the refreshing taste, and set the glass down. She glanced at the handsome man of the same age as Wang Shi, Wu Sean, dressed perfectly in khakis, a blue shirt, and a black blazer. He looked good, but just average if Wang Shi was to wear similar clothes.


    She doesn''t like the over-friendliness he always uses around her. Neither she has a reason to meet him or reply to his messages. They had barely worked together on two projects!


    It was a clear no from her side, it''s senseless to meet him with no reason. Least the man takes it as some kind of hint!


    Wu Sean openly and shamelessly studied her while enjoying his drink. His gaze locked on her face as if searching for something. Suyin noticed it but chose to ignore it. She can''t ask people to close their eyes, can she?


    He swirled his drink, and Suyin knew a question was on its way. "I saw you on TV. Glad you are safe."


    "I owe this to Dr. Wang Shi,"


    His gaze dropped to his drink, "Looks like he cares about you a lot. No one does that for a stranger."


    "Maybe you should ask him. I''m sure you must have met him many times." Wu Sean''s father was in the same political party as President Wang Huang. It''s just that he was Vice President. Wu Sean himself has the Ministry of Law and Justice under his control.


    "Not really. Wang Shi rarely attends political parties or get-togethers." he looked at her again, "Do you know he has a son?"


    "Really? Never got a chance to meet him. I''ll ask Dr. Wang Shi, maybe he''ll let me see his son."


    That made Sean laugh harder, "Don''t know if it''s the drink, or I''m really hearing stuff? You and Wang Shi have an ongoing collaboration, he had spoken about you live on radio, you both are practically working together yet you are saying you have never met his son?"


    "We are just working with each other. It''s professional."


    "Really? But the video yelled your and his concern for each other."


    "Very perspective! Think whatever you want, but keep it to yourself. Spreading rumors is harmful."


    "So you have nothing to do with him?"


    "Wow! You are overstepping your boundaries, Sean. How does this concern you?"


    The drink started to take effect on Suyin, her head buzzed, making it difficult for her to hold her sanity. Damn! what a terrible decision it was to come here. Worse, she bumped into him.


    "Just a warning, don''t be charmed by him. He''s not a saint but an opportunist and had dirtied his hands in the crimes one can not even imagine." he sneered when Suyin gave her card to the bartender to swipe it for her. He snatched it, gesturing the waiter to add to his account.


    "Do you have any evidence of his crimes?"


    Wu Sean opened his mouth to say something, but closed it, earning a mocking chuckle, "No-thanks for the warning though," she struggled to keep her eyes open.


    He extended his hand to place over Suyin''s which she avoided it swiftly. "I believe I can give you a life better than him. I have seen his parents, they are the most difficult ones to handle. He has a son. And he shares a strained relationship with his cousin. What more, you will just lose your identity with him by your side."


    She stood up, swaying, "Say another word and I won''t be accountable to my actions. You are just pissing me off. I don''t know why you are saying all this. Stop trying your luck."


    Wu Sean swallowed the drink in one gulp and stood with her. "So direct and brutal in rejecting me."


    "Better giving false hopes,"


    His mouth quirked up in an impassive smile, she''s always this straightforward, "Let me drop you home. You are drunk."


    "No. I''m calling my friend."


    ....


    Wu Sean helped drunk out of the club against her wish. She struggled, but he insisted to be with her until her friend arrives. Just then a black SUV was pulled at the entrance and stepped out, a man whose aura speaks a thousand words.


    Even the sling around his shoulder didn''t put a dent in his king like personality. But Wu Shen was no pushover either. He sn.a.k.e.d his hand around Suyin''s waist, pulling her close to which the woman squirmed, "Hey, don''t touch--" before she could complete the sentence, a wave of nausea hit her, she retched, pouring a smelly liquid on him.


    Seeing the foul liquid dripping from Suyin''s mouth, Wu Sean pushed her away in disgust. Wang Shi caught her swiftly and wiped her lips.


    He helped her knelt down and patted her back until there was nothing but an empty pit in her gut. The driver brought the tissue and water on his boss'' command.


    The brown mushy liquid smelled so bad that even the driver held his breath at the strong odor, wondering how his boss was helping the lady. Not even a single frown line marred Wang Shi''s face.


    Suyin raised her heavy eyelids only for them to fall shut. One bleary look was enough to tell she was asking to take home. A second later Wang Shi helped her inside the car, and the car drove off, leaving Wu Shen glaring until they were out of sight.


    **********


    Yayyy! Two chapters for today!


    Love


    dream


    By the way, who do you think Wu Sean is? Any ideas?

 Chapter 258 - I am angry

    The next morning Suyin woke up groaning, feeling a weight pressing against her stomach. She wiggled, trying to get free of the object buckling her to the bed. But failed. Her eyes flung wide open taking in every ray of light, giving an unrestricted view of the face right in front of her.


    A nudge to her ribs makes her wince in pain, jerking away from the last trace of drowsiness. "Wake up. Wake up, WAKE UP!!!!"


    Suyin glared at the little fairy who was definitely not a fairy but a devil at the moment, sitting right above her. She poked his puffed cheeks, "Next time I''ll do the same while waking you up. You better be ready."


    "Hmpf," Honey slapped her hands. "I''m angry,"


    "Bad for your health,"


    "I AM ANGRY."


    "Not my problem."


    "I. AM. ANGRY. Shouldn''t you do something?"


    "...."


    "I told you not to disturb her," Their heads snapped towards the bathroom; an instant blush creeping on Suyin''s cheeks.


    "Don''t look," Honey slapped his hand over Suyin''s eyes like a concerned parent stopping a kid from watching something bad. Wang Shi had stepped out of the bathroom in briefs, clumsily trying to tie the belt of his bathrobe with one hand. "Dad, how can you--" Honey sent a warning gaze, reminding his father of a certain someone''s presence. Bundling the blanket on Suyin''s face he warned her, "Ducky, be good, don''t peek. It''s bad to see a n.a.k.e.d man." and jumped off Suyin to help Wang Shi with the belt.


    "Thank you for saving me from an embarrassing moment in front of the lady,"


    "Anytime, dad. I know how much shame it is to let your protruding belly be seen by someone." Honey said prompting Wang Shi to take a look at his flat tummy.


    "Brat, get ready for school," Wang Shi grumbled, hiding his smile, and strode to Suyin to check on her. Suyin''s eyes fluttered, feeling a warm hand on her forehead, "How are you feeling?"


    "Headache." she groaned, watching the man pass her a tablet and a glass of water prepared beforehand. "How did I--"


    "Last night you dialed my number taking it to be of James."


    Suyin set the glass down and get off the bed taking in fairy lights set around the spacious balcony. As she walked closer, the sight of a beautifully set dinner table for three with aroma candle and lily flowers in the middle caught her attention.


    On the right corner, a bed and a blanket were sprawled, opposite which a projector, a huge popcorn bucket, chocolates, candied fruits, and a bottle of mango juice thoughtfully kept. It was a heart-warming setup for a family and judging by the selection of the movie ''The croods'' she could tell it was Honey''s efforts.


    She lifted the food bowl lids, finding everything untouched.


    She turned to face the little human who was pretending to arrange his school bag while his eyes were taking Suyin''s actions. A knowing accusing look and snort as she came closer told her he''s showing his disappointment.


    She apologized by crouching down and pinched her ears. Unknown to her, Honey waited for her until sleep took him over and was jolted awake by the noises Suyin made when Wang Shi and Feng Junjie brought her to the lounge.


    Since Wang Shi couldn''t pick her up with one hand, reluctantly he called Junjie to help him with the task. Calling Jianyu was futile, he wouldn''t touch another woman other than his wifey.


    Not surprisingly she turned docile seeing Honey and hugged him to sleep. Though angry, Honey couldn''t bring himself to push her away in this condition. Especially when he knew her mood was damp since morning.


    "I am angry."


    "Understood. Sorry."


    "Will you do this again?" Honey pointed his stubby finger to Suyin''s nose.


    "No,"


    "Will you compensate us?"


    "Yes,"


    "How?"


    "I don''t know."


    "...."


    "Ducky!"


    "I really don''t know. You tell me what can I do? But please don''t be angry. I love you the most."


    "Dad, did you see that? I can ask anything." All this while Wang Shi was away from the limelight, making efforts to get ready with a single hand. He hummed, struggling with the zip of his trousers.


    "Yes, please ask me to marry you."


    "Ducky! The first thing is~ you will never ask me to marry you from now on. You are too old for me."


    "I will wait until you grow up and gain some muscles--" Honey''s squinting eyes were enough to shut her mouth. She zipped her mouth and put the invisible key in Honey''s pocket. No matter how worse her mood or whatever problem life throws at her, she''d let nothing affect these precious moments. It was a mistake she didn''t come to Honey last night, and she''d never repeat it.


    Even in fights, she''d keep Honey away from it and pretend nothing happened.


    Honey glanced at the ben10 watch on his wrist and jumped from the couch. He patted Suyin''s cheeks, "It''s a rare opportunity. I will make sure to curry maximum benefits from you..... Weirdo ducky." he called her name teasingly like a syllable and was ready to sprint out but Suyin captured him in her claws and peppered kisses all over his face.


    "Hey, ducky, leave me..... yukkk.... let go.... I''m getting late for school....no more kisses..... it''s an order....."


    Wang Shi looked at the two from the mirror. Things seem so normal that no one can guess there''s a storm brewing within, ready to erupt once Honey leaves for school.


    ..... And that''s exactly what happened.


    Her smile faded with Honey''s steps. It was just a momentary relaxation, the stray thoughts, and negativity took over her once again. Even if there were 0.001% chances for it to be true, everything she had gained will turn to ashes.


    She was tensed, helpless, desperate....wish someone could give answers.


    "Is something bothering you?" Suyin looked up and walked up to Wang Shi to tie the sling properly hanging loosely on his shoulder. "I can manage."


    "I''m doing it."


    "No need."


    Ignoring him, she stabilized him by the shoulder and tied the sling. Occasionally her stern eyes meeting his in a warning. Wang Shi looked away, the irresistible urge to talk to her taking over. But she herself asked for ''space'' yesterday. Didn''t she?

 Chapter 259 - Ill ask you directly

    "You are not taking proper care of it, the wound is not healing. Are you taking the medicines prescribed?" He was taking his injury casually. If this continues, he might face sequela. Wang Shi just nodded. "You are angry with me. Must you let it out on your injury?"


    "I don''t have a reason to be angry with you, do I? You are just behaving off for two days, asked for some space, then you went against your promise and skip dinner, and lastly, I picked you from a club in the middle of the night, drunk. Do I have a reason to be angry? I don''t think so." The sarcasm rendered Suyin speechless, her lips pursed. "A request Suyin~ can we keep this away from Honey and behave normally in front of him? He was bothered last night, and had thousands of questions when he saw you drunk, mumbling gibberish."


    "Did I say something? Took any name?" Jeez, How can she forget she speaks her heart when drunk. Did she take Zena''s name? Or said anything about her suspicion.


    "Were you supposed to?"


    "No... whose name are you expecting?" she spun, covering her nervousness, "I-It''s just I speak nonsense when I''m drunk. Hope I didn''t curse your mom."


    "You didn''t. I understood nothing from your gibberish." Watching her checking her phone, he added, "Wu Sean was calling and messaging you continuously. I put it on silent to not let him disturb your sleep. See what is he looking for, I will reheat breakfast for you."


    "Shishi," she followed him to the kitchen, "Don''t you have anything to ask about Sean?" he must have seen him with her last night.


    "We both meet hundreds of people daily, that doesn''t mean we have to explain each of them. I trust you." Wang Shi didn''t look at her, "There''s no place for jealousy, doubts, or questions in our relationship. If I ever have any doubt, instead of tormenting myself with negative thoughts, I''ll ask you directly." his words leaving Suyin battling with herself.


    Just then another message from Wu Sean popped up. She scowled and put it off, not willing to listen to his nonsense. She had something important to do.....


    "I-I will not let this repeat in front of Honey. I''m sorry. Just give me some time, I''ll sort it whatever I''m struggling with."


    Wang Shi put the food bowl in the microwave and turned to face her. He pulled her to him. "We need to talk. There''s something I want to tell you." now that Suyin had doubts, it''s time he doesn''t delay it anymore and talk to her before she comes to know from somewhere else.


    "Me too.... " she slides her hands around him and tiptoed to peck him on lips" But before that I have to fix one thing. Do you know where my handbag is? And has Daiyu arrived? I need his help."


    "On my desk. Yes, Daiyu has arrived already." He backed away, watching her fading away. He immediately called Daiyu on the intercom, "Suyin is about to come to you for help. Find a way to give her Zena''s address. Do it surreptitiously."


    It was a lie. Wang Shi understood every word of her gibberish last night. If Zena''s address could help her in some way, he''d give it to her happily. But what confused him most was Zena having the same locket?


    To clear his doubt, he went through the previous video when Zena had barged into the hospital during Honey''s incident. Indeed, she was wearing the same locket!


    Next, he called the hospital director Lin Han, "How are those two?"


    [Fine. Should I send them over?]


    "No need. Let Suyin have breakfast first, I will ask her to meet them later" It was Zeng and James.


    ********


    Last night Zeng and James went to Evan''s apartment for investigation and almost escaped death.


    It was a cool, clear night by the time they reached Evan''s apartment after a drive of four hours. The apartment was away from the hustle-bustle of the city, in a peaceful location facing the river. Evan''s idea was to get a place where no one can disturb him.


    James was registered on the family list of Evan, the security had seen him a few times, and let him pass with no problem.


    As James punched in the key combination of the penthouse on the twenty-third floor and pushed the door, the memories flooded in. It was a luxurious house, but everything screamed of their relationship in the house. Cozy.Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #''ll-ask-you-directly_51240468012385221 for visiting.


    Evan had the weird habit of collecting everything that belongs to their relationship and use it in interiors that not only acts as a memory but actually adds a quirk to the interiors.


    For instance the huge glass over the center table was actually the collage of their restaurant bills in their dating period. The painting of a n.a.k.e.d man on the wall that Evan used to call modern art was actually James''s first and only attempt at drawing. It took a lot of effort to convince Evan to pose for the painting. Later they both laughed at it.


    The more James sees this, the stronger his intuition gets. Evan was definitely not faking this relationship....


    Keeping aside the memories that flooded in, James forced himself to turn a blind eye to everything and concentrate on the task at hand.


    Instead of checking all the room, James'' only interest was to go through the room Evan had forbidden him from going in. He used to keep it locked.


    Zeng looked at the locked door, and then at James. "It can only be locked by thumbprint. We have to break it."


    "I will get the toolbox."


    Had James was not aware of Zeng''s profession, he''d have assumed Zeng to be a locksmith. "Looks like you are pro, how many houses have you break-in before?"


    "This is the first one. But car repairing comes handy."


    "So you are a mechanic, I thought you are a racer."


    "Someone is jealous of my multiple talents. Maybe you should step out of the kitchen and learn something else too. It comes handy in such situations... CLICK," The lock clicked, "I have loosened the lock, but still we have to push it. On the count of three--" James nodded, taking the position to push the door by the shoulder, "One, two, three.... BANG."


    "Again,"

 Chapter 260 - The one that can shred humans into pieces?

    "One, two three....BANG"


    "O...."


    "AH..."


    James, "Hey, watch your hand!"


    Zeng consciously raised his hand from James''s hairy chest, "It''s you who is lying above me, rascal. Get off."


    James looked down and scrambled on his toes. "Fish, you broke my buttons,"


    Zeng, "Oh yeah, I was desperate to see your n.a.k.e.d chest. I just can''t control my hormones...Show me, shop me, show me...." he hooked a finger at the V of the neck, and pulled the shirt. James slapped Zeng''s hand away.


    "SCRAM."


    "YOU TOO." Zeng parted the curtains and opened the window. "You check here. I''ll check other rooms."


    James looked around; the room only had a table and chair in the name of the furniture and a desktop. If the entire house speaks of their love, how can Evan leave this place untouched? The wall opposite the desktop was occupied with the mountaineering equipment. They both share a passion for water sports, mountaineering, hiking, tracking, and everything that gives them a rush. Genting Highlands was their next destination.


    With a heavy sigh, James pulled the chair, starting with the only thing that needs to be checked. Desktop.


    He had barely scanned around the files for ten minutes when Zeng''s scream broke his concentration.


    [STOP... HEY YOU... DON''T....]


    It seems they were not alone in the apartment.


    James bolted up to help Zeng, but before that Zeng came running and lock the door after him.


    James, "What happened?"


    "BOMB,"


    James stood there, transfixed, trying to understand the meaning of the word ''bomb''. What bomb was Zeng referring to? The one that had explosives in it, and can blast away everything in its way?


    James, "The one that can shred humans into pieces?"


    "What else do you think? Think something..... We have to get out from here." Zeng shivered, he glanced down from the balcony and hang his one leg down.


    "IDIOT. We are on the twenty-third floor. Jump, and you will become a cherry pie, only good enough for vultures." James pulled down the ropes from the wall hook. "HOLD ME TIGHT"


    Zeng didn''t get another second to ask when his body hit James'' so fast everything was only a blur. And the next moment they were falling from the balcony.


    In a terrible flash, the sound of the explosion shook the entire building. The glasses broke, breathing fire and debris.


    .....


    The mountaineering rope was a life savior for them. They made it to the ground safely. The bomb was of low intensity meant to destroy Evan''s house and not the entire building. Whoever did it, made a smart decision not to attract much attention. Had the entire building collapsed, it would have become a bigger issue.


    "Oh my God," Zeng''s heart was drumming against his chest. He had never been so scared in all his life. Never. Close call it was. He was always scared of heights. Maybe this was the reason he didn''t let go of James''s shirt and kept holding him. "Oh my God, Oh my God. James, you okay?"


    "Of course I''m fine," James sounded surprised watching Zeng shaking like a kid. Difficult to believe the famous racer feared heights. One should definitely not judge a person by his profession and tough looks. "Will you keep holding me?" Zeng glanced at his curled fist and then at James, "Please, I have other things to do instead of coaxing you. Go find someone else."


    Zeng shuffled away in embarrassment.


    The residents had come out of the building already and security personals were directing everyone away from the tall structure, suspecting another mishap. The sirens wailed, announcing the arrival of the emergency services.


    "Who was that person?" James asked.


    "Didn''t see his face, it was covered. Earlier we had left the door open. I saw him throwing a ball like thing with a ticking timer. Before I could catch him, he shut the door on my face."


    "He must be here to destroy evidence."


    "He''s injured as well. I threw a vase at him, that hit badly on the head." Surprised, he was not knocked out. "Anyway, you said evidence. Did you find any?"


    "Evan had been stalking Suyin even before I met her. I saw her old photographs on his desktop."


    "What?"


    "This only means Suyin had been part of all this from the beginning." James faced Zeng, "But why?" and that''s when he noticed Zeng''s attention wasn''t focused on his eyes but down. No, not on the crotch but on the hands.


    "You are bleeding, James," Zeng said.


    James covered his badly scr.a.p.ed palms. "Because I was the one holding the rope, bearing the weight of two. Can''t believe you are such a faint heart, muscles inflamed by air. Go drown yourself somewhere."


    "...."


    For the first time Zeng was out of words. He had expected James to be only good with handling knives in the kitchen, but the latter turns out to be more than that. No doubt Suyin had such drastic changes in her personality..... She found some good people in life.


    .....


    In the hospital...


    "Thanks for the story guys, you helped me a lot," Suyin stood up and pecked James''s cheek. "Take care of your hands. Don''t let water touch it. Got to go,"


    Zeng, "Hey, where''s my kiss?"


    "Get it from Jamie," Suyin''s voice echoed, making the two men comically turn their heads to each other.


    Both gagged.


    "WHAT? What are you staring at?" James asked, bothered by an irritating smirk on Zeng''s face.


    "Nothing. Just wondering how will you do your business with these bandaged hands?"


    "I have taken off for a few days. No need to worry about me."


    "I''m not talking about cooking..... but.....the personal business." Zeng grinned, "The one that''s supposed to be done every morning....Hey!" Zeng dodged the flying pillow, "Oops, you missed it."


    "GET LOST."


    ********


    Suyin was in a hurry to check the contents of the pen-drive ASAP. Daiyu managed to unlock it with minimum effort.


    She hailed a cab as her car was in the club which gave her another reason to be irritated. She''s late already. And here she was thinking to take the day early off and give a visit to Zena, whose address she found from Daiyu''s office from Zena''s file which coincidently was kept on his table.


    So many coincidences!


    And good luck!


    When she exited the elevator, the receptionist greeted her with a smile.


    "Good morning. Where is Assistant Long?" It''s unusual for Assistant Long not to come to receive Suyin and inform her day''s schedule.


    "Um, there''s a VIP visitor waiting for you in the office. Assistant Long and Minister Yuan are with him."


    The word VIP didn''t go well with Suyin. "Who?"


    "Minister Wu Sean." The pretty receptionists'' eyes sparkled with excitement. No need to guess why that happened. "Mam, do you need flowers?" Suyin''s raised brows silenced her. "Sorry," It''s true Suyin was lower in position, but that doesn''t mean she''d receive a minister with flowers.


    Suyin stomped her heels to her office, not forgetting to take deep breaths to control her temper. Whenever people had barged into her office without an appointment, things had turned bad. For them, obviously.


    ******


    *TO BE CONTINUED*

 Chapter 261 - Such relationsh.i.p.s are destined to break.

    "Good morning, everyone," Suyin walked in, greeting the two gentlemen sitting on the couch, while Assistant Long standing in a difficult position. He knows Suyin hates it when someone barges into her office uninvited. But it''s the two ministers! An assistant doesn''t have the power to stop them, can he? Suyin gave an assuring smile, taking off the burden from his shoulders. "A coffee, please."


    Assistant Long left.


    Deputy minister Yuan caught Suyin''s probing gaze, "Ah, Suyin, Minister Sean is here to discuss the new draft of the legal aid provided by the Ministry of Law and Justice. It''s a privilege for us that he''s willing to hear our opinions."


    "I appreciate it. But It''s the matter best discussed with higher-ups, and lawyers."


    Wu Sean, "But Miss. Zhao is the one working closely with people and understands their need. I would like to know your thoughts and discuss it with you."


    "I don''t have a problem with the current law. Beside Miss. Chen handles the remaining issues professionally, I insist you discuss it with her." Suyin avoided sharply.


    "In that case, it seems you don''t have a problem if we cut the grant of the legal aid to the woman and children in distress as the ministry is short of funds."Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #._51240503177430145 for visiting.


    "WHAT?" Suyin picked the doc.u.ment from the table. She ran her eyes through it. "Ministry is cutting our funds by twenty percent?"


    Wu Sean, "I think now you are willing to discuss it."


    The meeting lasted three hours, and the stubborn Wu Sean was not willing to budge. Suyin had a hunch he was doing it because of her. Thankfully, deputy minister Yuan got an urgent call, and he had to leave, leaving the two alone.


    Suyin slammed the doc.u.ment on the table, "What do you want?"


    "Don''t take it personally, the decision is professional. Ministry is really short of funds and is cutting grants for everyone." Wu Sean uncrossed his legs.


    "Not shockingly, you slapped this decision on my face when I rejected you for the fourth time. Not personal, huh?" she leaned, "I can smell that,"


    Wu Sean smirked, "Why not ask Wang Shi for help? He''s a president''s son, a super-rich man, I''m sure he can direct all the funds to your ministry. Or maybe become your personal investor." He stood up, and fixed the buttons, "But let me tell you, all this money he and his family had been earning is coming from the innocent people''s blood. You are just blind. Go ask him and his mother what''s happening behind the NGO run by their family. Where are all those people who vanished over the years and what they did to them? Isn''t it part of social services? Go, investigate it."


    "Minister Sean, that''s a serious accusation and can put you in trouble. Have you ever heard any complaints about the NGO over the years? No! Besides, if you are so sure, why don''t you take any action instead of yapping it to me? The Entire Ministry of Law and Justice is in your control."


    "You think I never tried? These people have power and money in their control." He shoved his hands into his pocket waiting for her to choose.


    Her hands folded across her chest. She knew Sean too well, he just started. "You may leave,"


    "Looks like I was expecting too much from you. Maybe you are also one of them, corrupt. Wang Shi had charmed you, isn''t it?" He spat and marched towards the door. "If you want changes in the grant, pillow talk with your man, I can''t help you. Leaving a file behind for you to look. In case you change your mind, feel free NOT to contact me."


    "You just successfully ruined my morning and pissed me off. Let me tell you one last time, stop whatever you are trying to do--" Words stuck in her mouth when the door closed. He was gone.


    Outside the door, Wu Sean smirked and messaged someone. [One step closer.]


    Stomping her foot in anger, Suyin locked the door immediately. Her gaze shifted to the blue file, and she let it stayed there.


    Without a second delay, she rounded to her desk and plugged the pen-drive to her desktop to check the content.


    *******


    In Wang Shi''s office,


    "You let Suyin have Zena''s address?"


    Wang Shi didn''t bother to look up and cradle his head in between his palms. The headache from stress was buzzing him. Jianyu moved away from the window and settle back on the office sofa.


    "She has doubts. Had I stopped her, it would only make her believe everything wrong. It''s best to let her go."


    "Aren''t you scared of what Zena might say to her?"


    This time Wang Shi looked up, "Frankly, I''m looking forward to Suyin''s reaction to whatever Zena was going to say. I want to know if she''s going to give me a chance to explain or just blindly believe in other people''s words. Trust is the foundation of any relationship. If it''s so easy to challenge her trust in me, then I believe I failed in the very foundation. Such relationsh.i.p.s are destined to break."


    Wang Shi''s desk phone beeped, and he headed to answer it. "Miss. Zhao has arrived."


    "Okay. Don''t forward me anymore calls." Earlier he had asked Daiyu to inform him of Suyin''s arrival. He needed some time to get ready before facing the storm.


    "I''ll take Honey with me," Jianyu stood up.


    "Where are you taking me?" Honey came holding hands with Yuyu and Lan. Xiu Mei closely following the kids, "I''m not going anywhere. I have made some plans to curry favour from Ducky. Starting with a foot massage. This is going to be fun!"


    Xiu Mei caught Wang Shi''s eyes, "Yuyu and Lan want to play with you. Are you going to disappoint your sisters?"


    "I''m sure they won''t mind. They know about my plans. Right?" Before the two little girls could nod at Xiu Mei''s cue, Honey''s question put them in a tough situation.


    "Can I please stay here tonight?" He blinked his long lashes pleadingly. "Dad please...."


    Yuyu, "I want to stay too,"


    Lan, "Me too. Please... I want to meet pretty sister."


    "Yuyu, "And get a foot massage,"


    Honey, "..."


    Wang Shi crouched down, "I have something important to talk to her."


    "I will wait in the other room with Yuyu and Lan. Promise. Won''t disturb you until you are done talking to her. Please...." These days Honey only wants to spend with Wang Shi and Suyin. Mostly Suyin. The quirkiness of Suyin''s character, and the mischievousness of Honey''s, compliment each other. They both fights yet stayed glued. Truly a Tom and Jerry pair.


    "Pwishhh, uncle Shishi,"


    "Pwishhh, let us stay. Mom, dad, pwishhh,"


    Who can say no to these innocent eyes?


    "Okay,"


    "Yayyyy!" The kids jumped at Wang Shi, failing to see the tension between the a.d.u.l.ts.


    ********

 Chapter 262 - Dont answer

    Standing by the couch, Wang Shi braced himself when he saw Suyin walking in through the door. He glanced at the watch. Eleven O''clock. Quite late. His restlessness only increased when neither she greet him nor she asks about his day, and just stared at him from a distance.Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #''t-answer_51330872225361556 for visiting.


    The silence was worse.


    His gaze moved down. She was holding the asylum pass where Zena was kept. Kicking his anxiety at another level.


    "Hey, I-"


    "Have you eaten dinner?"


    The question surprised Wang Shi, "Yes. And you?"


    "Yes,"


    Both lied.


    She walked to the couch. "Sit down. This is going to be a long talk. And difficul-est." He just can''t guess anything by her neutral tone. However, it was the first time she didn''t ask him to sit with her but pointed at the one across.


    Wang Shi poured her a glass of water and placed it on the table between them. His eyes looking into her, giving her every bit of his attention. He wanted to hear her first. Take her accusations. Take her anger. Take everything....


    "I will be direct to you, "Suyin took a deep breath, recalling everything she had discovered evidence of which lies in her purse. She takes out the locket picture and placed it in front.


    "For the last three days I''m battling with a thought why Zena had the same locket. No matter how much I tried I couldn''t convince myself that it''s a coincidence. It''s not. And when Xiu Mei told me about the purpose of the locket, my apprehensions worsened. I''m concluding Zena is related to the same organ traffickers group as Evan."


    "Zena is Honey''s birth mother, and Honey has a donor heart within him. I''m very happy my fairy got a new life, but--" she picked the glass of water, and nursed it within her palms as if needing to hold on to something. "Thinking about some possibilities, I went through past dates. Coincidentally, we lost our babies just a week apart. Does this mean Honey got the heart in the same month? Can you tell me what date it was when you did Honey''s surgery?"


    Wang Shi''s lips quivered.....


    "Don''t answer." Suyin stopped him, it''s cruel of her to ask a father such a question. "Getting a donor heart is very difficult. Almost impossible. Did Zena help you with it?" She looked up, and before Wang Shi could say a word, he heard her say, "Don''t answer."


    "S-Suyin--"


    "The only person from where I can get answers was Zena. But only you knew her whereabouts. Coincidently, this morning I got her address from Daiyu''s office. I know it''s not a coincidence, you did it. I must have spoken something last night, didn''t I?" Once more she didn''t let him speak, "Don''t answer."


    She takes out a pen-drive, "I got this from Gilbert''s body. Daiyu cracked the password for me. It has the medical details of some people. The people from whom he had harvested organs. The people who are no more alive. And the people from he was about to harvest organs. Among the piles of folders, and folders among them, I found--" she forwards a print of a picture, shocking Wang Shi to the core.


    It was him.


    Dressed under scrubs with a mask on, he was getting on the helicopter over Ace Hospital. He was pushing an OCS heart system, also called ''heart in a box'', used to transport a heart for transplants.


    "this--" Suyin said, a tear rolled down from her eyes. There was a tiny heart inside the transparent box. She knew from whom it was stolen. "OCS heart system is an extremely expensive system compared to the conventional cold storage. Five years back, it was only your hospital that was using this system. Right?"


    He looked into her eyes, tears streaming down in his own. Wish he could embrace her in his arms and give her favorite tight hugs.


    "Don''t answer." She said. "I can recognize you in the crowd of millions even by my eyes closed. This man-- though he''s wearing a mask, it''s you. Isn''t it?"


    Their eyes met, he was silent.


    The glass in Suyin''s hand cracked. "Suyin," he bolted up.


    She raised her bloody palm, "Don''t answer. In the morning you said you trust me and will ask me directly if you have any questions. Trust is two ways~ my belief, and trust in you dates ten years back when I was one of the selected students to learn under you at the age of eighteen. It was the blind trust in the young doctor who became my never-ending inspiration and crush. That trust is so rooted that despite all this evidence, my heart still wants to hear everything from you. Maybe that''s why my feet turned back before I could step into Zena''s ward."


    Ten years of inspiration and crush!


    Ten years!!!!


    How na?ve he was to think if she trusts him. His trust was just a drop of water in the ocean in front of hers. He realized in a flash what he was going to loose next.


    It''s not only the love of his life but the woman who literally loves him blindly for the last ten years.


    "I''m here to get the answers to my questions. I want you to answer them because I believe you. Tell me, does Honey have my baby''s heart? Are you the one I''m looking for? Are you the doctor who harvested it? Are you the rich and powerful buyer who paid a hundred million dollars? DID YOU KILLED MY BABY?" Her angry eyes are the pain untold. She was the storm tonight. "ANSWER ME."


    Wang Shi plopped down to his knees at her feet.


    "Y-Yes."


    SLAP


    It was the slap hard enough to whip his head to the right. Her palm stung with pain.


    "I-I--"


    SLAP


    "You are the most disgusting creature I have ever seen in my life. You don''t even deserve to be called a human. Just how shameless you are to kill my baby, and pretended to look for the killers. How dumb I was to believe you are selfless, caring, loving, and a good person. Right now, more than hating you I''m hating myself for being with the killer of my baby. You---" her nose wrinkled, "-- You are even worse than my ex. At least he was bad on my face, but you-- you are a living example of a backstabber. Lier. Betrayer. and....sigh, even the words aren''t enough."


    Infuriated, Heartbroken. She doesn''t want to breathe in the same air as the man responsible for her son''s death. She grabbed her handbag.


    "Suyin, Suyin, please listen to me once," He caught her by the arm before she could leave the office.


    SLAP


    ********

 Chapter 263 - This is not over

    "Chocolate for Yuyu, strawberry for Lan and Mango for me." holding the three ice-creams cones in his small hands, Honey jumped his way back to the waiting area where he had waiting until Wang Shi and Suyin finish their talking. "I better be careful, Ducky loves mango flavour, can''t let her steal it."


    He paused at the door behind, wondering, what''s taking the two so long. "Did they slept already? What about my foot massage?" As curiosity took over, his steps moved closer. An angel appeared out of nowhere on his shoulder. "No no no, little one. That''s a bad manner. Remember you promised not to disturb them?"


    "But it''s taking so long. I''m bored"


    "Let them be. You enjoy ice-cream with your sisters."


    "I think you should check what''s happening." The devil''s voice sounded from the other shoulder.


    Angel, "Don''t teach him bad. Honey dear, I''m sure Ducky won''t like it."


    Devil poked his trident towards Angel, "Your Ducky loves you unconditionally, she can never mind your presence."


    Honey''s steps moved closer.


    Angel whispered, "Be good. The ice-cream is melting, go back to your sisters."


    CLICK


    Honey stepped back at the sound of the door. He let the ice-cream melt on his hands, tingling his fingers. The happiness taking over him, finally he would be back to bickering with Ducky.


    "Suyin, please, listen to me once. Just once. I was not--"


    SLAP


    "DON''T TOUCH ME."


    Fuming in anger as she opened the door she walked straight into Honey. The cold ice-cream spoiling their clothes, Honey fell on his bum.


    "Oww.... What are you doing?" Honey pouted, shaking off the melting mess from his hands, "I''d have to bathe now. Poor ice-creams, such a waste."


    Suyin''s heavy eyelids too slow to blink, her iris frozen. As if something flashed inside her, she couldn''t take another step but stare at the little human sitting on the floor, clumsily trying to get the ice-cream off his clothes and hands. A little sticking at the corner of his lips announcing his naughtiness.


    "Do you know these were for Yuyu and Lan? I''m sure the parlour is closed by now. They will definitely make a fuss over it."


    Suyin''s stare was a mountain hiding pain within. The boy ahead was the reason her son''s heart was stolen yet he was the one keeping her son beating within him. Alive. She had sworn to yank the heart from the child''s body and let his parents feel the same pain she had been suffering. But can she really do that?


    "Don''t keep standing. Help me up. Dad, you gotta order them again. Yuyu and Lan won''t listen to any excuses. Ducky, you better be ready, I will make you pay double." Honey tried to stand up but slipped, laughing at himself. Adorable.


    This smile! Time trapped. Her heart skipped a beat. It''s the smile of her baby. He was laughing from within Honey. And the smile was as beautiful as the one when he smiled for the first time. Ignoring the cold puddle, she knelt down.


    "Hey, careful, you--" Before honey could say another word, he saw tears streaming down her eyes. "I was just joking. Promise I won''t do anything. Won''t even ask for a foot massage. Please don''t cry," tears were his weakness. It especially makes him uncomfortable if they were from Suyin.


    He wiped her tears, but they were endless. Unstoppable. Her chin trembled like a small child. Honey looked up at Wang Shi but found him standing silently. A careful look, a film of water had his father''s eyes glossy too. It confused Honey. It scared Honey. It worried Honey.


    Suyin''s shivering hands touched Honey''s heart, feeling the beat within. The world turned into a blur, and so was every sound. Her shoulders shook, so many tears burst forth like water from a dam, letting the emotional pain flew out of her every core.


    "F-Fai....." she bent her head to hear Honey''s heartbeat, "Mumma''s Fai, you are there. I love you, baby. Mumma misses you."


    Suyin hugged Honey with all her might, rocking the little human in her arms like a mother, kissing him all over. Her defences breaking over, "My baby-- Mumma''s Fai." and then came a cry so raw that even the eyes of strangers would wet. Maybe that''s why the two little girls came running when they hear someone crying. They ran to hug Wang Shi''s legs. "Uncle, why is pretty sister crying?"


    Wang Shi ruffled their heads. He had no answer to the question.


    "A-Aunty Suyin, what happen? Who is Fai? My name is Honey. And you are not my mom, but Aunty Suyin and Weirdo Duck--"


    "NO. You are my FAI. My baby, my Fai." She had been conscious of her emotions, and the presence around kids knowing it affects them. But today-- she just gave way to the enormity of her grief. It was her own child she was hugging after five years. It was her own heartbeat she finally heard again after five years. How can she be in control? Let tears flow unchecked.


    "Okay okay, call me whatever you want. But please don''t cry," A part of him was breaking too. He''s not liking a bit how she was crying and he was just-- helpless.


    While patting Suyin''s back, Honey''s eyes looked at Wang Shi for answers but saw him standing with head drooped low. "Tell me what happened? I promise to help you. Has dad scolded you? Did he fight with you? Though I love him the most in this world, I promise not to take a side. You can rely on me."


    Amidst her heartbreaking sobs, the disturbing reality wakes her up. Her sobs stifled as she looked up at Honey. Honey cupped her wet cheeks with his ice-cream stained hands. She could smell lovely flavours on him. Mango! It''s their favourite.


    Shivering, she pointed at Honey''s heart and then at herself. "Mine. "


    "Yes. I''m yours and dad''s both. How many times do I have to say it? Are you crying because of this? Has grandma said something?"


    She shook her head, "Y-you are mine. Only mine."


    "Only your and dad''s. Happy now?"


    "NO," her stifled sobs overcome by a wave of emotions again. She stood up and scooped Honey in her arms, "You are mine. I won''t let anyone else have you. You are only mine. MINE. Let''s go."


    Wang Shi moved, "S-Suyin,"


    "SHUT UP. STAY AWAY FROM US. HE''S MINE."


    Honey wiggled in her arms, punched her shoulder, "What are you saying? Look, how are you even talking to dad? Dad, what happened? Why is she talking like this?"


    "Because that''s the truth. You are my baby."


    "I''m not. You are my Aunty and he''s my dad. How can I be your son?" Honey reasoned, "Let me go."


    "I won''t. You are my baby. His son is dead."


    Wang Shi, "Suyin please don''t do this. He''s just a kid. He won''t understand any of this. I promise to--"


    "STAY OUT OF THIS. YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO SAY A WORD." her voice echoed, "I won''t let you have him. He''s mine..... He''s my Fai, AHH,"


    "Suyin, please control. Let us talk."


    Honey bit her shoulder and wriggled free from her clutches, running straight to Wang Shi. "Dad," as Honey opened his arms, Wang Shi took him in, patting his back he coaxed the scared little one. "Is she sick? Had she hurt herself somewhere? I''m not liking this Ducky. Can you fix her back to the old version?" he cried, showing the child underneath him.


    Suyin reached to touch Honey but Honey curled himself into a tight ball in Wang Shi''s arms. "NO NO NO.... I''m not leaving dad. I''m not your Fai. I''m not. No one can take me from dad." when Honey cried there was a rawness to it as if Suyin had opened his old wounds.


    Yuyu and Lan hit Suyin with their tiny fist.


    Yuyu, "Stay away from Honey bro and Uncle Shishi. You are not a pretty sister, but an evil sister."


    Lan, "We won''t let you take Honey bro anywhere. He''s ours."


    Aunty Suyin, wake up. Remember, we had visited Fai''s grave. He''s sleeping beside Angel. How can I be Fai? I''m not going anywhere. Dad please--" The red marks on Wang Shi''s face caught Honey''s attention. He gently touched them with his cold fingers, "Who did this?"


    "I scratched myself by mistake."


    Suyin''s grey orbs were like the dark shade of clouds gathering before the storm, freezing at the father-son duo. Wang Shi looked at her, wanting her to blink, come inside, sit down and talk to him. They really need to talk about this a lot. But she won''t. At least not right now.


    "She did this?" Honey snapped at Suyin, "You hit my dad? How dare you hurt him? I hate you. You are bad. BAD." a part of her soul was bound to that moment, to the realisation Honey won''t be hers unless Wang Shi was here. She has to do something to get rid of him.


    Her eyes narrowed down at the man, mouthing, "This is not over. He''s mine." Slowly her steps moved back, farther and farther until the distance took her away from their eyes.


    Behind her, Wang Shi hugged the three kids, ''Yes, this is not over. But first, you have to calm down and think with a clear mind.'' He takes out his phone to message someone, hoping that person will talk to her and stop her from doing anything reckless.


    She''s a raging fire right now. A fire that knows no difference between right and wrong and destroys everything comes in its way.


    *********

 Chapter 264 - Missing

    In the dark of the night, upon the dried leaves, Suyin sat near the tombstone of her son. Her hands swiped the dirt until the two tiny feet stamped in marble come to her vision. She lied down over it, embracing the one sleeping in the arms of mother nature.


    "I knew you would be here,"


    She heard a voice but didn''t bother to look up or sit down.


    "Lie. He sent you here."


    Dr. Colton sat down near her, "Yes. He messaged me. He was worried."


    "Are you sure he was worried about me and not the consequences he is about to face?" Her voice came cold, full of hatred.


    "You know the answer better than anyone. Do you think his concern and love for you--"


    "Love?" Suyin had to interrupt, "I will definitely go through the definition again. I''m pretty sure what he did was anything but love. Dr. Colton, you may go and tell him that to his utter disappointment I''m very much alive and sane."


    Her rudeness shocked Colton. It was the first time she had called him by name. Anger and rage really bring out the worst of a person. "Suyin, remember we talked about this topic before? I promised you to interrogate the buyer personally and trust me child~ in my finding Wang Shi''s biggest crime was paying the money to get the heart. But that''s it. He was not even aware it was stolen--"


    "You said you have interrogated him? Does this mean you were aware of it?" She cut him off.


    Colton froze, "Don''t misunderstand me. It was in your best interest that he tells you everything. So I--"


    "So you joined him and choose to make a fool out of me!" she shouted, standing.


    "Stop being unreasonable," he used the tone parents use when kids don''t listen to them. "Child, I was not in your bad. You both love each other--"


    "STOP CALLING THAT BULLSHIT LOVE." She took an aggressive step. "J-Just stop it. Please, Just stop it. You all are liars and I have no place for any of you in my life. Forget you ever had a student named Suyin, and I will forget I had a teacher like you." she walked away from him.


    Colton wanted to call her back, but everything blurred in front of his eyes. World spun and he fell down unconscious between the blanket of white smoke.


    Behind him, a man appeared out of woods and paused near Colton. He took off his hat and tucked it under the armpit, revealing the salt and pepper grey, and a mask on his face. "Let her sear Colton. The greater her rage, the more beneficial she is to us. Her anger is our biggest weapon."


    "For a second I get scared when she turned away outside Zena''s room and didn''t go in to meet her." another man added.


    "Alpha was right, sometimes she''s unpredictable. That''s why he asked you to bug her. Good job, Sean."


    "Thanks, Dad," Wu Sean flicked his wrist. At cue, the blanket of white smoke vanished. His gaze narrowed at the direction Suyin had gone. In the club, he had bugged Suyin''s handbag to keep track of her whereabouts and her dialogue with people around her.


    How satisfying it was to hear her and Wang Shi''s fight. An eerily satisfying smile lifted Sean''s lips upwards. It''s a thrill unexplainable. From the school to the university to the woman he likes, Wang Shi had always beaten him. Who enjoys being second every time?


    Things turn worse when Wang Shi became Wu Sean''s biggest competitor and a threat of taking over the position of the next President of the nation. Even though Wang Shi had shown no interest in politics, he had been people''s favorite and the next preferential candidate which didn''t go well with Wu Sean.


    ''Until you are people''s favorite, no one will ever take a look at me. You better be chucked out from way to success.'' Wu Sean looked down at Colton, "What to do with him?"


    "We can''t kill him. He is Lu Xion''s one of the most important men. Just let him be here. He could never come up it''s the white smoke that knocked him out." The effects will wear out in 24 hours. "You better follow her. She is vulnerable at the moment, the best time to lend her a shoulder. The effects of smoke won''t let her go far."


    "SHIT! How can I forget she inhaled it too? It''s unsafe--"


    "Sean!" Wu Sangui called, "Don''t forget she''s just a weapon for us to reach our goal. One doesn''t fall in love with a weapon, but uses it and dispose it for a better one. There is no place for emotions and love in your life. Focus."


    *********


    Two days passed.....


    "Do you remember anything else? Anything! Did you see someone following you? Or notice anything off?"


    "No, I didn''t! One second I was talking to her and another I lost my consciousness. What does the blood report say?" Since the time Colton had woken up his brain was like a flat battery, and the night in the cemetery a mystery. To his horror, he woke up in the hospital and Wang Shi popped at his face, announcing Suyin''s missing status.


    "Blood reports come clear, but we found traces of sedatives in your urine. Can you recall how that happened?"


    "STOP QUESTIONING ME." There''s a buzzing in Colton''s brain, his heart in chaos, and together they were running a marathon looking for a solution.


    "YOU THINK I''M ENJOYING THIS?" in one fell swoop the content on the table fell down. "Suyin is missing for the last two days. Neither she went home, nor she contacted any of her family or friends. A distance away from the cemetery we found her handbag, cellphone, a sandal, and some blood which matches with her. My, Xion, and Jianyu''s men are rummaging the entire city for her but have only returned empty-handed. So you see~ I''m not frying my brain with a grumpy old man because of a liking, but because I don''t have any other option. You are the last person to see her."


    Colton looked at the scattered photographs on the floor, recognizing the things that belong to Suyin. His gaze locked on the photograph on the floor with dark tire screeching marks. "CCTV?"


    Wang Shi let out an exhausting breath, "There are multiple roads that lead to the cemetery and not everyone is installed with the CCTV. And my major concern is the involvement of the sedatives which means she was being followed and might be in danger. These people are up to no good--" he paused to check the message received on phone and stood up to leave. Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #%!d(string=16552540406472305)/missing_%!d(string=51423358457267536) for visiting.


    Colton stood up too, "I''m going to the cemetery."


    "Do whatever you want. All I care is to get her back safely and talk to her once."


    *********

 Chapter 265 - Mummy

    Lan, "Honey bro, try this Sushi. It''s really yummy."


    Yuyu, "Last time you said it''s the best you ever had, so we got it made for you. Say Aaaa....."


    Honey pushed away the chopstick Yuyu was holding to his mouth and looked away. Sprawled ahead was the spread of dishes the two girls had specifically brought for their brother, knowing he had barely eaten anything since Suyin left. However, Honey didn''t look; neither at food nor at his precious sisters.


    Though he pretended not to be bothered by Suyin, his silence was worth a thousand words. His mood ricocheting lower and lower.


    To not let Wang Shi worried for him, he even forced himself to eat only to vomit it every time. The melancholy was like the forbidden cloak he can''t let fall to the floor, and though he holds it, the familiar warmth and love was missing, yet he clings to it. In silence.


    "I''m also hungry, bro. Can we please eat lunch together?" Lan cried. Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #%!d(string=16552540406472305)/mummy_%!d(string=51478156602829047) for visiting.


    "Honey bro, you are scaring us. Please talk to us." Little Yuyu sniffed, noticing Wang Shi walking in. "Uncle Shishi, Honey bro is bullying us."


    Wang Shi placed a gentle hand at Yuyu''s head and took her in his lap. Lan sat down beside Honey. "Pretty sister is very bad. Look what she did. I hate her."


    "No, she''s not bad." Wang Shi said. "Let me tell you a story....." Wang Shi''s gaze drifted to Honey only to see his stoic expression. From behind Dr. He Jeff patted Wang Shi''s shoulder as if hinting him something.


    Whatever progress Honey had made was already going down the drain. Turning worse. Honey was at the initial stage of cooping into his shell, closing his heart. It''s best to intervene on time and let him know the truth before things slip out of hand.


    "It''s the story of a king, his little prince, and an angel. Many many years ago, there lived a king who was loved and praised by his people. He had everything in his life, but love. He was the lonely king. One day God blessed him with a little prince and princess.


    The king was overjoyed with happiness, he was no more lonely after all. He had no other wish left in this world. But his happiness was short-lived when he found out his kids were born sick and needed two golden hearts to heal.


    Poor king searched the entire kingdom for the golden hearts but none had it. One night the little princess''s health turned worse, and she fell sick. She needed the golden heart urgently otherwise God would punish the King by taking back his princess.


    Panicked king asked his ministers and people to bring the golden heart, but everyone returned empty-handed. The king failed. As a result, the God snatched his princess because the king failed to take care of her. The king was rendered useless in God''s eyes."


    Lan, "Poor king,"


    Yuyu, "That''s not fair. God should have given him another chance. The king really tried searching for the golden heart. Uncle, what happened to the prince?"


    Lan touched Honey''s cheek to get his attention, "Honey bro, do you think the king managed to get a golden heart for the prince?"


    Honey''s silence was a disappointment for Lan. She bring her gaze back to Wang Shi who ran a comforting hand on her head, "Let''s continue....."


    "The king was desperate to get the golden heart for his prince and prevent the God from snatching him as well. It was then that the king announced in his kingdom that whoever brings him a golden heart will get half his kingdom. He tried to get the golden heart by taking advantage of people''s greed for his own gain.


    And that''s exactly what happened. The King''s announcement fell on the ears of an evil woodcutter living in the forest. He knew where the golden heart was and wanted to use it to gain the king''s wealth.


    An angel used to live near the river with her son. The golden heart was inside''s the angel''s son. So the woodcutter tricked the angel and cut off her son''s heart with her ax and brings it to the king.


    The little prince was saved and the woodcutter got himself the half kingdom as promised by the king. But then God punished the angel for losing the golden heart and snatched her son from her. The angel begged, cried, but God didn''t listen to her pleas....."


    "Uncle Shishi, what happened? Why are you crying?" it was not until Yuyu touched Wang Shi''s cheek he knew he was crying.


    "Stupid, he must be feeling bad for the angel. She got dragged for no reason." Lan added. Wang Shi noticed Honey was looking at him. Of course, his son would never ignore his tears.


    Yuyu, "But why are you telling us a story now? It''s not bedtime yet."


    "Do you think Angel was evil?" Yuyu and Lan both shook their heads. "Exactly. She was not evil but wronged by the king and the woodcutter both. The king used greed as a way to get the golden heart. The angel of this story is your Pretty sister and I''m the king."


    "Huh?"


    "Years after the incident, the king, little prince, and the angel met each other again." Instead of answering, Wang Shi continued, "Angel couldn''t resist loving the little prince as he was a part of her son, and so as the prince couldn''t stop falling for the angel to get her motherly love. The king realized he too loves the angel and wants her to be his family.


    Everything was going perfectly between them. But one day Angel came to know that her son''s golden heart was inside the prince. It was because of the king''s order the woodcutter stole the heart from her and bring it to the king to get his kingdom.


    In rage, she demanded the king to give her the little prince as the golden heart once given can''t be taken back. To her, the little prince was her son, her own flesh and blood.


    "Oh my God, "Yuyu jumped, "You said Angel is a pretty sister and you are the king. This means Honey bro has the golden heart."


    "That''s why pretty sister was asking for Honey?" Lan concluded, "Pretty sister is not bad, but woodcutter is bad. He must be punished, and the angel should live happily with the king and the prince."


    "I agree with you, Lan,"


    The two girls talked amongst each other, ignoring the silent communication between Wang Shi and Honey.


    Honey, "Yuyu, Lan, I''m hungry. But this food has turned cold. Can you go to the cafeteria with Daiyu and bring something to eat?" The two jumped in their shoes and flew like fairies before Honey could change his mind.


    "It''s the truth, " Understanding Honey''s mind, Wang Shi didn''t delay another second, "The heart inside you is of Suyin''s son Zhao Fai. After your sister''s death, I offered a huge price to whoever gets me a heart to save you. By doing so, I did manage to save my own son, but Suyin lost hers."


    He cupped Honey''s face, "She''s not the one who hurt us or cheated our love, but it''s ME... YOUR FATHER, who did everything bad to her. No one can love you as much as your Ducky does. It is her natural motherly instincts that comes for you," He places his hand at Honey''s heart, "For the one that''s still beating in here."


    The words washed away the inner clutter of Honey''s heart, giving him a clear view. He wept, hot tears glistened his cheeks, "T-That''s why she cried calling me Fai again and again and called me her baby? That''s why she was angry at you? That''s why I used to feel different for her? S-She is my mummy?" To his every question Wang Shi nodded.


    "Dad, she is my mummy?"


    Wang Shi nodded, "She is. You are our son."


    Fat tears dropped and Honey hugged Wang Shi, "She''s the mummy! She''s Honey''s real mummy! She''s my mummy!" holding his emotional state was impossible for Honey when he finally knew the ducky was not evil, but really an angel of his life. "Why didn''t you tell me this before? Ducky is my mummy, and she loves me the most. More than anyone in this world."


    Happiness comes for Honey upon a white horse, bringing the love in abundance. He was blessed with a new life. The life where he, Wang Shi, and Suyin would live happily with each other.


    He broke the hug, "Take me to her. Now. Take me, take me.... She must be very angry, I was so rude to her..... take me to her.... We will live as a happy family from now on."A beautiful smile bloomed on his withered face. It was a new hope. "Don''t sit. Let''s go."


    "Honey--"


    Hastily Honey jumped his way to the office and rummaged through the drawer where Wang Shi keeps his car keys. He was on cloud nine. He picked his father''s coat from the chair, "Don''t keep sitting. We have to bring Ducky back. C''mon. I will talk to her, she can''t stay angry with me for long. Leave this to me. Just take me--"


    "I-I don''t know where she is." Wang Shi blurted out, "Her whereabouts are unknown since she left the hospital. We are looking for her."


    *********

 Chapter 266 - Voice letter

    "Can you tell me what are you looking for?"


    "Phone. Where''s my phone?"


    "How would I know?"


    "Dad, if you can''t help then please get a side." Honey continued rummaging the entire office, looking for his dammed phone which probably grew legs and hid somewhere.


    "Her phone is switched off," No. it was part of the belongings he had found near the cemetery.


    "I don''t care."


    Wang Shi fished his own phone out of pocket to give a call at Honey''s number. Just now he had told Honey about Suyin, and instead of giving him an expression, the little one started running across the room in an emergency, throwing things, looking for.... Phone?


    "Great, your phone is switched off--"


    "Found it!" snugged inside the corner of the couch, "Duh, useless thing. Charger. Now I have to find a charger." Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #%!d(string=16552540406472305)/voice-letter_%!d(string=51541308191340843) for visiting.


    "Use mine. It''s at the table." Before honey starts rummaging the things again and destroy office, Wang Shi suggested. He followed Honey to the table, "Now will you tell me what''s happening?"


    In the meantime the phone was charging, Honey decided to have some serious talk. Man to man talk. Using the swivel chair as the step he first gets on the desk, dangling his legs down. On cue Wang Shi sat down on his chair. It''s their way of having a man to man conversation.


    "First, you have to work hard-- REALLY REALLY HARD-- to get ducky back."


    "I know."


    "Secondly, we have to support her to get the woodcutter punished. Who is he?"


    "We?"


    "Course I''m included. Do you think ducky will take another look at you without me?" Honey had that proud expression, rendering Wang Shi defenceless. He was right after all. "Again, who is he?"


    "We don''t know. Woodcutter is very smart and had been hiding from us to date." Wang Shi said, "Clues are destroyed, traces are erased, and acolytes are killed. But I''m working, have found something...."


    Honey shook his head, switching on the phone at 3% battery. "No matter what, we have to find him. Thirdly--" his voice choked, "--no way I''m making a choice between you and her. I want both. It''s my demand." His eyes flutter when Wang Shi ruffled his hair.


    "You don''t have any complaints about me?" Honey''s positive attitude was welcoming, but shocking as well.


    Honey shrugged, "You saved my life, why would I complain? And I know--- my dad can never do anything wrong. I know you used greed, but we all do that daily. Many times I have tempted ducky with kisses to get her favour. It''s a woodcutters fault. Only his."


    A child''s innocent heart doesn''t understand the complexities of the a.d.u.l.ts. Honey''s innocent mind was just concerned to get the woodcutter punished and bring the two together. Problem solved! But was it that easy?


    However, Wang Shi knew it was possible. With Honey by his side~ anything was possible.


    "What are you looking at the phone?"


    "You might not be able to contact her, but I have many ways to do that." Honey answered.


    Wang Shi held his silence, not disclosing they have found Suyin''s belongings and her blood near the cemetery least he scare Honey.


    "Ducky has three phones. One of them is exclusive to only three-- actually three people. I''ll contact her on that."


    That was news for Wang Shi. To his knowledge, Suyin had only two phones~ one work and the other for personal use. Where did the third one come from? Why he doesn''t have any information on that but Honey has. Moreover, he found only two phones in Suyin''s belongings earlier. Does this mean the third one is with her? "Which three people?"


    "She, me, and James."


    "Ok. Call her."


    "It doesn''t have a sim."


    "...."


    "Then how will you contact her?"


    Honey rolled his eyes, "We are in the era of the 21st century and can contact anyone without sim. Trust me, dad. I know this stuff." Wang Shi pursed his lips, "That was the same expression she gave me when I told her about it. Do you really think we only used to bicker with each other and do nothing?"


    Wang Shi nodded without a delay and Honey facepalmed. It was a light moment in this stressful time, but who''s complaining?


    "She taught me ''Go'', I''m already a master now and can defeat anyone. She taught me breathing exercises, gave me notes, and we used to discuss it over voice chat when we couldn''t meet each other. And in return, I taught her a secret language called morse code and taught her how to fully use ZZ''s portal with which she used to solve those tricky medical cases. Next, we had already planned to learn a sport- it''s just we were fighting over a choice between basketball and swimming."


    Suyin wanted Honey to learn to swim first, but he was more inclined to learning basketball to increase his height.


    Honey was successful in making Wang Shi believe how least he knew about his tom and jerry. These two! Wang Shi pinched Honey''s cheek, "Her suggestion was right. Swimming. Basketball would be a heavy sport for you. Though you can learn it after two-three years." Wang Shi successfully guessed who suggested what.


    "OMG, WHAT IS THIS?"


    "WHAT?"


    "She left me a message on ZZ''s portal."


    "You have access to her portal?"


    "Dad, that''s the securest way to communicate without letting anyone know. It''s like her own private world, entrance only at her mercy." Honey frowned, "B-But I was not a part of this before. She has let me in just two days back. I wonder why didn''t she left me a message on our private chat group but left it on her portal?"


    "Just see what''s the message."


    "It''s a voice letter." Honey said and played it.....


    Suyin''s broken and slow voice echoed....


    [Dear Little fairy,


    If you have opened this message this only means your dad had the little conscience left to let you know the truth why I behaved like that. I was sure you''d never be able to hate me after knowing the truth and would definitely try contacting me. See, I know my fairy so well. Didn''t I?


    Okay, I''m short of time and wanted to use a secure a way to give this message to you, so I chose this portal.


    I know you are too young to understand this, but I can''t let you be worried about me. Otherwise, you''d trouble yourself feeling guilty and might do something reckless to search for me. Don''t do that.


    Please stay in the protection of your father, and never leave his side. NEVER. Not even while going to school. Take a few days off and just stay in. If you have ever loved me and have even a pinch of respect for me, don''t bypass my order. Please.


    And believe me, whatever I''m and will do is only for your own good. You''d be disappointed and even want to question my actions, but just have faith, okay? I''d answer all your questions when the time comes. Always remember, I''d do nothing that could hurt my baby while others can just go to hell.


    I repeat sweetie, please stay in the protection of your father and never leave his side.


    I''m leaving the country to finish some important work. Your ducky won''t annoy you with kisses anymore. But don''t make it a habit, I''ll return to recover my debts and squish you in my arms. Don''t forget, you are MY baby. No one can keep you away from me.


    Practice breathing exercises regularly and take swimming lessons. No basketball.


    Your ducky loves you the most. Muahh.


    I love you.


    Bye.]


    The message deleted automatically....


    The portal crashed.....


    The screen turned blank....


    "NO NO NO..... I WANT TO TALK TO YOU," Honey''s scream told of the pain within, craving the comfort of the woman he lovingly calls ducky. Her scent, her hugs, her kisses, everything.... he needs everything.


    Wang Shi took him in his embrace.


    "Dad, why did she say she''s leaving the country? Don''t go.....Stop her...."


    ***********


    One day before,


    SLAP


    "How can you lose her?"


    "I don''t know. When I went out of the cemetery she was nowhere to be found. It was only some blood, and her belongings lying at a distance." The turn of the events confused Wu Sean. Everything was working according to their plan, but at the last moment, Suyin vanished. Just vanished.


    "You--" Wu Sangui paused, took his phone out of pocket. "Fuc* . It''s Alpha calling. What am I supposed to tell him? My son lost Suyin? Our years of hard work failed?"


    "Just lie to him that Suyin is with us." Wu Sean said.


    "Are you mad? He''d stop our funding. Then we can just dream of overthrowing Wang Huang from his position."


    "We don''t have a better idea? I''m pretty sure once Alpha knows Suyin is not with us, he''d get us killed first and find a replacement. We are the only one who knows who Alpha is and how he had prepared her to use against Wangs. Even with a 1% glitch in his plans, we are the first ones to be eliminated." Wu Sean ran a hand through his hair, "Just say it for now. I''ll look for her. Maybe she got into an accident and is recuperating somewhere."


    She was not with Wang Shi, that much he has checked. Course, knowing the truth, she''d never go back to him.


    Wu Sean answered the call, and put it on speaker, "Alpha,"


    [You haven''t given me an update?]


    The eerie voice scared Wu Siang. He cast a glance at his son who was urging him to lie. "She''s with us. But not in a position to talk."


    [Expected. She''s an emotional fool always. Let her sear in anger and cry for that boy. You may start with the next part of the plan now.]


    "Yes."


    [Let me see the rage of a mother when her child dies twice.]


    *******


    Somewhere on a ship in the middle of an ocean, Suyin''s hand curled on the railing, letting the coldness of the metal seeping into her. Her jaw rooted. Wrath consuming her like engulfing her sanity and turning her into a devil itself.


    "Yeah, dare touch a strand of hair of my boy and I will show you the real rage of a mother. Even God himself stays away from a raging mother. You are dead Alpha. I''m coming for you." she takes off the earpiece from her ear and threw it into the ocean.


    **********

 Chapter 267 - Is that your signal? Is that a yes?

    In the middle of the ocean, moonlight brought a comforting beauty to the night. It was beautiful, yet gloomy. Suyin slide down at the deck and hugged her knees as if comforting herself. She was alone.


    She takes out a photograph from the inner pocket of her coat; gently caressed it with her fingers. "My fairy. I love you. Miss you." The photograph was half folded backwards, she unfolded it, revealing the other half with Wang Shi in it. Her lips trembled....


    "I hate you.... I will forever hate you. Don''t think your sins any less just because you were helpless and desperate to save Honey. Nothing can justify your actions. Nothing." she folded the picture back to cover Wang Shi''s, only looking at Honey''s. She lied down on the cold deck, facing the sky, and did her favourite thing-- talking to the one above.


    "You saw everything. Didn''t you?" She asked, hugging Honey''s photo. "Do you think Wang Shi had told the truth, and Honey found my message? Does my fairy still loves me? Is he missing me?" a shooting star passed, she coaxed her head, "Is that your signal? Is that a yes?" Only the black sky stared back. She chuckled, "You enjoying doing this a lot, right? Toying with people''s life, playing with their emotions. Having fun doing that?"


    Her mind started playing the sequence of the events as she self talked looking at the moon....


    Things turned wrong the day Wu Sean came to visit Suyin in the office.


    On her walk to the office she bumped into Joseph Shu. The intern. He was walking with his eyes glued to the phone. It flipped the contents of her handbag, scattering it all over.


    "Sorry sorry. M really sorry. Very sorry, mam," Poor intern. He started collecting her things from every nook and corner. Even the flap of her car''s key had split. While fixing it, he noticed a tiny device hidden inside it.


    "It''s alright." Suyin was about to leave when he pointed at the keys. Before she could question him, he gestured with a finger on his lips. She frowned. He typed something on his phone and passed it to her.


    [Beware. There''s a bug in the car''s key.]


    It shocked Suyin. The key remains with her always. Since the day she had purchased the car she had never lent it to anyone. Not even James. So how could someone get its hands on it and manage to fix a bug inside it? She drives Audi; opening the fob to fix a bug requires an expert.


    It was then she recalled that a night before she went to the club and was drunk. A perfect opportunity to fix a bug.


    Wu Sean!


    Of course, it had to be him. His sudden appearance didn''t go down well with her.


    If Sean can fix the bug, so can Suyin. She did exactly that and asked the intern if he could do it for her. Since he had recognised the bug instantly, Suyin was sure he was not new to this stuff. He said yes.


    Suyin gave her whatever cash was in her wallet and went to meet the man sitting in her office. The meeting was horrible, and Sean again brought up the topic of Wang Shi. She hated him at that moment, wanting to hold him by the collar and shook his organs out. Bastard. Why did he put bug in her bag?


    She can''t.


    It''s best not to startle the snake if you have plans to roast and eat it.


    After the meeting she put everything on hold temporarily to see what was in the pen-drive. The details of victims slaughtered by Gilbert and a photograph hid between hundreds of folders.


    The photograph.


    Wang Shi''s photograph.


    Anger. It''s only the anger that could define her mental state. She wanted to do everything bad to the man in the picture. But....


    Joseph came to Suyin''s office knocking and showed her a message on his phone, [Done. The bug is working now. This device will help you hear his conversation, and I have attached it to a recorder to help you.]


    She didn''t ask how he managed to do it at such a short notice, these youngsters have many tricks up their sleeves. And surely over time her interns had understood their teacher was technologically challenged. A gratitude and an assurance that he won''t end up in trouble was enough for him. But she''d remember him forever.


    Suyin accepted the device of a size of an old cassette of 90s and pinned her handsfree to it while walking for the conference room. Her office was not safe. Their''s a bug in her handbag. Joseph explained Suyin the device''s working and soon after left to join other interns.


    Suyin concentrated on hearing what Sean was talking....


    Soon after Sean had left the social service headquarters when he received a call from his father, [It''s Alpha. I''m putting you on speaker.]


    Alpha? Never heard of this name before, neither the voice was familiar. Least Suyin knew her action of getting to know the reason behind Wu Sean''s action would lead her to something more deep and scary.


    Alpha, [She didn''t believe when you accused Wang Shi.] It was a statement rather a question.


    [But she did flinch. It''s working.]


    [I knew it. Unless she confirms something by herself she won''t believe anyone.] Alpha laughed, the sound of church bells and train whistle echoed in the background. Soon it was followed by a song in an unfamiliar language, the sound of drum rolling, and trumpet as if a parade was passing. The sound was muffled within a few seconds. [Follow her tonight. She has something on her that will lead her to the truth.]


    There was a momentary silence, [The entire truth?]


    [Just about the mysterious man who stole the heart. For the rest, I''m sure she won''t disappoint us.]


    [But Wang Shi--]


    [Aren''t you asking too many questions? Just do the work?]


    Beep beep beep*


    Sean, [Hello, hello? F*ck you Bastard. Who doe you think you are?]


    *to be continued


    ....


    Z

 Chapter 268 - Nothing can justify

    [Careful. I won''t save your ass if he hears you. It''s already surprising he answered your first question. Just follow his instruction, it''s our golden chance to get her to our side.]


    Sean, [But I doubt she will go extreme to destroy Wangs. She''s adores that little boy and will never do anything to hurt him.]


    [What option would she have when that boy who she adores will lose his life and the blame will fall on the first lady of our country? Suyin will go berserk and blame Wangs. And our dear President couple will blame Suyin. The two will stand against each other.]


    [WHAT? When it was plan--]


    Wu Sangui''s ugly laughter followed, [Why do you think I joined hands with Alpha? He had everything under his control. He had Suyin under his control.]


    The words left Suyin shocked, confused, and with countless questions. A shiver ran down her spine like a bolt of electricity. These people were talking about killing Honey? Honey!!! And they have some connection with the stolen heart? Why and how Wang Shi was involved in everything?


    Wait! Why did Alpha sounded as if he knows Suyin very well? What thing does she have that will lead her to the truth? No. The question should be what truth were they talking about?


    It seems everything depends on Suyin actions for their plans to succeed. She had to be careful, can''t let them take advantage of her.


    She replayed the conversation, the words ''she has something that will lead her to the truth'' strike her hard. The pen-drive! She had the pen-drive! And a moment before she had seen something disturbing in it. But the pen-drive was given to Suyin by her trusted people in the forensics. They can''t betray her. Can they?


    She checked the pen with the magnifying glass. It was relatively new and shiny, however, if it was found in Gilbert''d pocket why doesn''t it have any burn marks on it? The acid used to kill Gilbert was strong and it should have had damaged the pen''s body.


    To strike out a certain doubt she went through the video of the press conference again, only to see another shocking truth laid bare. The pen-drive in the form of a pen which was supposedly found in Gilbert''s clothes was not his. In fact he was not even carrying it during the conference. There were only two pens in his front pocket, none of them matches with the one in her hand. What were the odds that the pen was in his trousers? Very less.


    She checked the file left by Wu Sean on her table. It was the list of the people vanished from the NGO run by the Wang family. Two of the names coincidently matched with the names in the pen-drive.


    Coincidently? Naah! She doesn''t think that.


    It was planned. Everything was planned! Maybe even the photograph in the pen-drive. Maybe photograph was morphed to make her believe Wang Shi did it. Maybe Evan put the pen-drive in Gilbert''s pocket before fleeing from there. Maybe this Alpha was the real mastermind.


    Many maybes~ but nothing to confirm.


    But what gives these people the confidence that she''d stand against the Wangs and get to their side? Unless Wang Shi was really involved in the death of her baby. Unless the photograph was true and not morphed. Unless it''s Honey who really had her son''s heart and Wang Shi got it for him.


    What about the locket with Zena? Was it also planned?


    Zena!


    She had to meet Zena after work.


    Don''t know how Suyin managed to finish work amidst countless questions. Later she picked her car from the club and went to meet Zena first. She peeked inside her cell from the small glass window. Zena was sitting on the chair, talking to the doll in her hand.


    Standing outside the ward, she felt like a betrayer. She was hiding everything from the man who had taken a bullet for her and had saved her life? Should she really be here, questioning Zena? Does she really thinks Zena would tell the truth?


    Two hospital nurses came, "She''s violent. We will tie her to the chair so that she doesn''t harm you." one of them said. They opened the door, and Suyin looked as Zena struggled, yelled, kicked, while being tied to the chair.


    Her nose scrunched at the weird smell coming from the room. She noticed Zena was exceptionally energetic and strong that even the two sturdy nurses were having a tough time tying her to the chair.


    "YOU B-BITCH. YOU RETURNED? I WILL KILL YOU. IT''S BECAUSE OF YOU THAT I''M HERE."


    Bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, pale skin~ Zena was still taking drugs. She was getting her continuous supply even in the mental asylum. Suyin turned on her heels and left the place. Whatever Zena was going to tell her was planned, meant to instigate.


    No way.


    There''s no way Suyin was going to give that chance to Zena and let her instigate. She''d rather ask Wang Shi everything. Including the photograph and her doubts about Honey''s heart. Just hoped she''d be able to keep her calm.....


    Just remain calm and hear the man out...


    calm.....


    Calm. That just remained a hollow word when Wang Shi accepted his involvement in everything. He knew it from the beginning yet he toyed with her.


    Now what? He wants her to hear him out? But he already lost the chance. It''s because of the people like him the organ trafficking industry was worth billions of dollars. Yes, he was suffering; he was hopeless, desperate, but no explanation will work to a woman who lost her only child.


    "Yes, it''s true Tang Sui and Hui Chouming had already planned to kill my baby. But that does not justify your action to buy a heart. Even if my baby was bound to meet his death, it does not makes your wrong right."


    "What Shifu said is also true..... this pain can only be understood by the one suffering from it and the decision is subject to person to person. You might be feeling guilty that an innocent child lost his life, but you are definitely not sorry that the heart saved your own son."


    A tear rolled down from the corner of her eyes. The one who suffered the maximum loss was her. Not only she lost her baby but the man with whom she really wanted to spend her life with. And now, she wants to fight for the child that belongs to that man. Fight for her little fairy which she already know the result. Defeat.


    "Sometimes it''s good to cry.You gotta let that suffocation and resentment dissipate through the tears." Suyin woke up with a startle and found a woman standing at a distance. "Looks like I scared you, girl."


    Suyin frowned, "Girl? Are you talking to me?"


    "Can you see any other girl other than you?"


    *******

 Chapter 269 - El Sandrios

    Suyin looked at the blonde woman warily, her hands reached for the poisonous dagger inside her knee-length boots.


    Before coming here she had transformed herself completely. There''s no way someone could recognize her in this avatar.


    She had shaved her long hair, supporting a bald head. The spiked shoes, multiple piercings, and the hideous dragon tattoo peeking from the collar of her black shirt ending on her cheek made her look like the type of person parents advise their kids to stay away from.


    Her overcoat and trousers were baggy to hide her voluminous b.r.e.a.s.t and feminine figure. She had ditched her contacts, replacing them with the geekiest and widest glasses found on the shelf. Her lips chapped. Her natural complexion covered under dark shade of foundation, and her eyes baggy. Well.... the bags under were natural. Curtsey sleeplessness.


    When you are sneaking inside a country that belongs to your enemy and with no doc.u.ments, you get to change your looks.


    "I''m sure you don''t need that." The woman said pausing in her steps. "Whatever that thing is in your boots. You don''t have to use it on me. I''m harmless."


    Suyin curled her fingers around the dagger, not trusting the woman who had look through her facade.


    The woman smiled, "You have his eyes and features. How can I not recognize you? He had once shown me a picture of his kids."


    "Ma Roma?"


    "It is," Suyin withdrew her hand from the dagger, scooting uncomfortably as the woman joined her on the floor. "Sorry we couldn''t meet before. I was busy with the crew."


    The ship Suyin was using as a medium to cross the border belongs to this blonde woman and her four sons. It was her eldest son who had received Suyin while boarding it.


    Zhao Shu was somehow acquainted with Ma Roma and asked her to help Suyin cross the border. To him, the woman was trustworthy and can prove to be a great asset at the time of need. Though Suyin doesn''t know how this woman can help her?


    "We are about to reach. My son will help you in the city--"


    "No need. I''ll manage."


    "You can''t young lady. Trust me. Though I don''t know what reason you have to enter El Sandrios secretly, you must know the country is anything but safe. There''s a constant clash between militias for the power over the country."


    (El Sandrios is the name of the fictional country I created)


    As if Suyin doesn''t know. Since El Sandrios'' independence in 2005, the country is in chaos because of two militia groups headed by different leaders (who took part in the independence movement) seeking control over the nation.


    Instead of getting a bright future after overthrowing and killing its oppressive dictator, the country''s situation turned worse after independence in the absence of an organized military and government.


    But who cares? Suyin had no interest in this politics but only care about the man named Alpha running a secret organ trafficking racket from there. Let''s leave politics to the politicians.


    "No need to be concerned. You are not my mother."


    "I''m not. But had something happened to you in my presence, I won''t be able to face Shu."


    "Shu? I beg your pardon."


    "Shu." Ma Roma said, "And yes, I like your father. That''s why I agreed to help you."


    Suyin stared at the woman long and hard. She was wearing old military trousers, the one with holes in the knee. Matching it with a green shirt and boots. Coupled it with a black leather jacket and an army pouch at her waist, made her look like she''s prepared for emergency combat.


    "You have guts to admit it on my face. Beware, I won''t be a good stepdaughter if you have any long-term plans."


    That made Ma Roma smile, "Ah, I know how to fix brats. Besides, I always wanted a daughter. Sadly, your dad had long rejected me." It was Suyin''s turn to smile, "Ah, you smile. And it''s a beautiful one at that."


    Suyin thought to change the subject, "Is my disguise that bad you recognized me in a single glance?"


    "No. I recognized you the way you were looking at that picture. Your eyes, only a woman can carry this love." Ma Roma pointed at the picture, "Your son?"


    Suyin nodded.


    "Cute. I won''t ask why you left him behind and is now heading for a dangerous country, but for his sake, let my son accompany you. We are the people of El Sandrios, and know the country like the back of our hand. It will be helpful to you."


    Suyin squinted her eyes, "What''s the catch? Why are you so eager to jump in between an ongoing civil war and help me? Don''t tell me you are a saint, willing to sacrifice your son for a stranger. And it''s definitely not just because of my father. Come to the point." She had doubts from the beginning when Ma Roma didn''t take a second extra to help Suyin cross the border and that too without asking anything in return.


    Her doubts confirmed when Ma Roma pursed her lips, breaking the eye contact.


    "Just tell her." Suyin''s head snapped from where the voice came. A man was standing facing the ocean. His face wasn''t visible to her eyes because of the darkness. From how long he wasn''t standing there? She didn''t even notice.


    "T-They have my youngest son in captivity. We have inquired about you, you are a prominent figure in your country, have connections with United Nations Human Rights Council, and many other people in power across the world. This visit of your can''t be a simple one, otherwise, you won''t be going there secretly with no doc.u.ments."


    "Oh, so you people want to use me to find your son." Suyin again reached for the dagger, "What if I say no?"


    "With you or without you. I''m still going there." The man answered, gave a hand to his mother, "We have acc.u.mulated enough money to search for my brother again. If failed, we will again start from scratch, save money, and go for the seventeenth time. And trust me, it''s a win-win for us. Your avatar won''t be able to keep you alive in that chaos. You need help."


    Ma Roma glanced at Suyin. Suyin knew she wanted to say something, but decided against it.


    This would be their sixteenth attempt to search for her lost son!


    "There''s no guarantee I will be able to locate your son or be helpful in any way," Suyin said, "Besides, I''m a selfish person. I won''t stay there for another second after the completion of my mission."


    "We are ready." Ma Roma grabbed Suyin''s hand. "With your help, we can broaden our search. At this crucial time, any news of my son would be enough for me. Just any news."


    *********

 Chapter 270 - no one calls her ducky other than me and dad

    Back to Present,


    In Wang Shi''s office, the atmosphere was tense. Since the time they had got the news Suyin had left the country, the father-son duo was behaving as if sitting over hot pan. Wang Shi was pacing across the room, making several calls, while Honey was sitting beside Xiu Mei, eating her brain to fix Zz''s portal so that he could get more information.


    Daiyu on the other hand was working with his team, scanning all the exit points of the country, going through passenger details. It was already known Suyin had not used her passport but a fake identity or some other means to cross country.


    Wang Shi walked out to make an urgent call which he can''t do it in front of Honey. Jianyu followed sensing something off. Surprisingly, the call lasted barely a minute.


    "What happened?" Jianyu asked.


    "Got an earful from Suyin''s mom. They know about it."


    "She refused to tell you about Suyin''s whereabouts?"


    "No. She said I don''t have any right to question that and should stop asking for her daughter. Everything is over between us." Wang Shi looked towards his office, "I don''t want to back in. Every time Honey looks up at my face hoping for good news make me feel how much of a failure I am."


    "Hey, c''mon. don''t cry on me, okay? I''m terrible at consoling." Wang Shi smiled, "Keep that smile, big brother. Honey needs it. And trust my Wifey, no one can beat her in her game."


    "And no one can beat Suyin in her game. She''s a master of disguise. If she doesn''t want anyone to find her, she''ll make sure that happens."


    "In that case, we both got scary women as partners."


    "You got yours, my fate is--"


    "You will get her. I have full faith in Honey. Wanna bet, he''s ready with his plans already?" Jianyu extended his hand, Wang Shi slapped it away.


    "Not funny, Jianyu. We still don''t know where Suyin is. And why did she ask Honey to stay with me and not step out? She even stressed about it. Do you think she found something?"


    "It seems so. Judging by how she used a secured way to communicate with Honey and warned him repeatedly, I''m sure she found something. Don''t worry, I have added my security to yours. No one can breach that. What about that Wu Sean?" Jianyu asked.


    "My sources have confirmed, he''s searching for her as well. And coincidently he met her in the office the day everything happened. I''m telling you, that man is up to no good. That day in the club--" Wang Shi looked as Junjie and Chen Wenwei stepped out of the elevator and were walking towards them. They had someone accompanying them. The boy looked hell nervous. "Who is he?"


    "One of Sister Suyin''s intern." Prosecutor Chen Wenwei said, steering Joseph ahead, "Now you believe I was not asking about Suyin because of some ulterior motive but we really have something important. Do you want me to introduce them?"


    Joseph scooted away, feeling scrunched between these high-profile people who had the power to eliminate him and his family with a lift of a finger. "I don''t know what you are talking about. I''m just an intern." Though shivering, he spoke without stuttering. There''s no way he''d betray his teacher.


    Wang Shi looked questionably at Wenwei. "Junjie called me to ask if I have seen anything that day." Wenwei and Suyin had their offices side by side. "The last I saw this young man gesturing something to Suyin, and she gave him money. Initially, I ignored, but he behaved off and ran out of the office, ignoring the protocols." She turned to Joseph, "Look, we are not Suyin''s enemies, you can trust us. So please, if you know anything, tell us."


    "Madam had asked me to buy her a--" Joseph thought about it, "--a book. That''s it. She promised me a bonus point. Happy? Now can I go?"


    "Stay right here." Junjie steered him back.


    Wang Shi, "I appreciate you are being loyal to your teacher. But she''s missing and might be in a danger. So if you know something, please tell me." Wang Shi folded his hands. "It''s a request. Please tell me."


    Joseph stepped back. The man folding hands in front of him was no less than a king. His head dropped, "Don''t do this, sir. Nothing can make me betray my teacher. Not even the president''s son."


    "You are dead meat," Wenwei charged herself to break some teeth.


    Junjie, "Hey hey, what''s get into you?"


    "Don''t ask me. Ask that Wu Sean and his idiot VP father who are creating a problem for everyone. I got a file from Suyin''s room. They are cutting down on the funds of ministry. I''m pissed off. Suyin behaved weird after her meeting with Sean, and now this punk is not telling anything."


    "DAD, YOU GOTTA SEE THIS." Honey poked his head and ran back in, bringing everyone to follow him.


    Junjie threw Joseph on the couch, "Sit,"


    Honey, "Who''s he?"


    Junjie, "The one who knows something about your ducky, but not telling us."


    Honey folded his sleeves, "Firstly, no one calls her ducky other than me and dad. Secondly, I can fix this guy." Wang Shi pressed at his shoulder, glaring. "Hehe....maybe some other time."


    "Mei, what did you find?"


    "Before leaving the country, Suyin transferred a huge chunk of money from Zz''s account to another."


    "It was my idea," Honey added. He was all smile, "The most important thing to survive is money. So I suggested it. I had the details of Zz''s account as well and gave it to Ma-ma."


    Wang Shi, "You had her account details as well? Wait a minute-- you used her card to buy all those useless virtual currencies of video games? No doubt you jumped several levels ahead of me. Cheater."


    Everyone, "...."


    Joseph, "Who is Zz? Can I please leave?"


    Everyone in sync, "SHUT UP."


    "Mei, where is Suyin?" Jianyu looked at the computer screen, "I will make arrangements. We will go there together."


    "Um, for that she has to withdraw money from this new account. Only then I can locate her." Xiu Mei said, "And if you want to know it ASAP, maybe he could help by telling whatever he knows."


    Joseph held the cushion protectively as every head in the room turned towards him.


    ************

 Chapter 271 - Death of compassion

    "CAREFUL!"


    Before Suyin could react, Lou held her hand, dragging her aimlessly somewhere. She pulled, but his grip was firm. A second later he lunged at the ground, pulling her along, and threw himself above her. A series of explosions followed, shaking the ground like an earthquake.


    Suyin realized it was a grenade attack and Lou had saved her just now. She had barely traveled a few hundred kilometers into the city and faced her first attack already.


    As the dust settled, Luo get off from Suyin and dusted his clothes, "Keep your eyes open if you really wish to go back to your county?"


    Suyin looked up, feeling a shiver run down her spine at the brutal site of casualties. People lying in a pool of blood, dead. Many still alive, but struggling for the last breath as if still hoping for life.


    "HELP. SOMEONE, PLEASE HELP."


    Suyin''s eyes fell on a woman shouting in the grim silence. The woman had her hands at the chest of a teenage boy, trying to staunch the blood.


    "SOMEONE PLEASE SAVE MY SON. HELP..."


    "Don''t," Lou stood in Suyin''s way noticing she was about to go. "Now that you are here, you will see this often. Get used to it. Don''t put your own life in danger for someone else."


    "Can you see any other loving soul here? No. Either people are dead or ran away after hearing the explosion. Nothing will happen, I will just help with the first aid."


    Suyin was speechless. How can someone be this heartless to leave a woman and her son to die? But on another note, how can a country as dangerous as this exist? What can be said when its own citizens were the root cause?


    "By pressing at his chest, you are killing him faster." The woman looked up at Suyin disguised as a bald man with a tattoo on her face. "It''s probably a shrapnel which pierced his chest, by pressing the wound it''s getting deep inside." She positioned herself near the boy and checked, "Hm, I''m right."


    "A-are you a doctor?"


    Suyin didn''t answer, but placed her ear against the boy''s chest. "Diminished breath sound on left. I think his lung collapsed."


    The woman, "Om my God. W-will he be okay? Are you a doctor?"


    Ignoring the question again, Suyin pulled out an emergency first aid kit from her backpack. The woman gasped seeing Suyin made a cut on her son''s chest. "What are you doing? You--"


    "Saving him. Interfere, and he''ll die within a few minutes because of lack of oxygen. Try contacting emergency services or an ambulance to take him to the hospital. If there is any." Suyin said, "Lou, get me a long tube or straw or something like that. A pen will do."


    "T-There isn''t any hospital nearby. The nearest one is two hours away." The woman can''t see her son being used as a guinea pig and takes out a phone, "I-I''ll call my husband. He''ll do something. I''m the wife of the head of Sandrios brigade, keep my son alive, otherwise--" she hissed, and Suyin paused momentarily.


    Luo brought a pen, and crouched down, whispering, "I told you not to interfere. Sandrios brigade is one of the most dangerous militia groups here. If anything happen to this boy, you have no idea how brutally we''ll be tortured."


    ********


    Four hours. Suyin managed to keep the boy alive for four hours until his father came at the crime scene and rushed him to the hospital, taking Suyin along.


    Throughout the way she didn''t lose her calm. Not even when the boy''s father pointed a gun at her, threatening to do everything worse if she failed.


    Unreasonable.


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU CAN''T DO ANYTHING? JUST SAVE HIM OTHERWISE I WILL KILL YOU." The boy''s father snarled holding the doctor''s collar.


    Suyin frowned. The doctor didn''t even try. Wang Sh-- she closed her eyes, stopping herself to think of him. ''No. I hate him. I hate him.''


    "Let''s go," Suyin said to Lou.


    "I-I-- it''s this man''s fault. He messed up. I''m innocent."


    The father, "HEY YOU. STOP."


    Suyin paused in her steps. That evil son of dog; useless basta*d doctor was throwing her in front of the bus to save his ass. From the corner of her eyes, she noticed Luo reaching for the gun tucked at his waist. She gestured him not to, "We cannot win against them. They are too many in numbers."


    "But it can buy you a time to run from here. Don''t worry about me."


    Suyin brows rose, "Should I say I''m touched?"


    "Don''t." Lou said, "I''m not sacrificing myself. Just leave and meet me at the old building you saw on the way here." As he was about to move, Suyin held his hand.


    "Just trust me." She spun in her boots, taking fast strides at the doctor, "He got internal bleeding and carotid pulse. When I put my hands inside him, his rib had perforated the aorta but temporarily I clamped the bleeding using a zip tie to buy him time. The moment I brought him in, you gave him blood and put him on portable bypass, which is good as a basic but it put him at a risk of paralysis. Instead of rushing him to the surgery to put a graft around the aorta and repair it, you dilly-dallied the time and blamed me. I kept a perforated aorta patient alive for four hours despite a gun pointed at my head, can you? The moment you saw who his father is, you gave up without even trying. What a pus head."


    She looked sharply at the father, "Without me, he wouldn''t have been alive for more than twenty minutes. Ask your wife, she was the one asking for help, didn''t you?"


    Everyone in the room tensed. The doctor was the most affected.


    The doctor, "She-she--"


    Suyin pressed on his toe, whispering, "I have many ways to prove it''s you who doesn''t want to save this boy. Should I tell them there''s blood in his tube, and his stats are dropping?" the doctor begged with his eyes, "Good. Now keep your tongue-tied, and roll the boy to the theatre. I have seen your work just now, you are a capable surgeon. I will walk you through the safest process. You can do it."


    "WHAT ARE YOU TWO WHISPERING?"


    The doctor, "N-Nothing. I was discussing the case. Will take him to the surgery and try my best. This mister will walk-- I mean, explain what procedure he had done on him."


    "I will kill both of you--" the father snatched a gun from one of his men, "--don''t dare play games--"


    Suyin yanked it away, her grey orbs narrowing, "Keep it in your pants. You are in no position to threaten us. We are your only hope otherwise--"


    Just now Suyin realized something had changed in her. Though she can''t see a patient suffer in pain, also she no longer cares. Neither was she affected by the young age of the boy, nor by the mother''s tears, nor by the threats. She won''t even care if dies.


    The compassion that used to run in her soul, her emotions, warmth- the part of her very nature has died. She used to fear performing medical procedures but when she did it on this teenage boy; she did it fearlessly; as if he was not a human but a robot she was repairing.


    So this is what you call, death of compassion.


    She no longer cares.


    ********

 Chapter 272 - Human mine

    The six-hour long extensive surgery was successful, managing to save Suyin, Lou and the doctor from a torturous death. Suyin didn''t wait, neither she met her parents and left with Lou.


    "Let''s leave this place ASAP."


    "Not yet. I want to look around."


    Lou frowned, "What will you get at this place? This is a hospital! Did you forget you came here with a mission?"


    Suyin continued walking, taking in her surroundings, patients, doctors, and every living soul present. "Whether we leave or not, those two will come after me like bees anyway."


    "You mean the doctor and the leader of the El Sandrios because they know what you are capable of?"


    "Yes. I''m the master of medicine, much more capable than any doctor present in this country." Suyin halted in her steps at a distance away from the OPD, secretly studying them. "Clashes amongst people are common here. That leader of Sandrios brigade-- whatever it is-- will definitely want to recruit me for his own people. And I want exactly that. He can provide us security, a safe place to stay, and resources that can help us in our missions. As far as the doctor is concerned, I have some other use from him. I''m not here for charity to waste six hours and guide a stupid doctor in a complicated surgery." she didn''t add that at the nick of the time she took over because the doctor freaked out.


    Well--- she was freaked out as well. Five years! She touched the scalpel after five years. And she''s no longer fond of it. The feeling was horrible, and she puked her guts out after the surgery. Had it not been for Honey and her baby, she''d never have taken it over.


    Lou didn''t say a word. Now he understood why he saw a smirk at her face when he disclosed who Sandrios Brigade was in this country. Being associated with them was risky but nothing comes free.


    Suyin strolled around, making mental notes. By now she had got some significant information about Alpha. Thanks to Wu Sean. The most important was to get his location.


    The song she heard in the background when Wu Sean was talking to Alpha was the national anthem of El Sandrios in their local language. She knows this language very well. Her interest in this language started five years back when once she heard her therapist Gong Tuan talking it in once. Since she wanted to learn two new languages, she started with it.


    She was right, Alpha might be running his organ trafficking trade from El Sandrios, but the country''s doctors were only good enough to handle mid-level cases. Complicated surgeries like organ harvesting and transplants were beyond their capability. What else you expect from a nation with high illiteracy and crime rate, unemployment, poverty?


    That''s the reason Alpha had a capable doctor like Gilbert. She was sure he had many more in his team around the world. The country with millions of people displaced, looking for safe shelter, food, and money~ what a rich source of human mine!


    She had worked with the UN for a brief period of time and knows the situation in El Sandrios''s health care system had been in crisis since the death of their last leader.The country was heavily funded by the international organisations and NGOs.


    But at the same time hospitals were the perfect source of exploitation for brokers who lure helpless people in their traps by offering them help to cross the border without papers so that they could get help in other nations in refugee camps on the grounds of humanity.


    And to do this, Alpha successfully took advantage of the NGO run by the Wang family as they help refugees through their NGO as the country has strict laws for illegal migrants from other nationals.


    She had scanned the name of the people found in the pen-drive and the one in the file given by Wu Sean in the Cheyna** database. Not surprisingly, none of them belong to Cheyna.


    **This is the name of the country where Suyin and Wang Shi lives. I don''t want to use the actual name and hurt anyone''s sentiments~ so a fake name it is. Also, I will change the country''s name had I used it in previous chapters.


    She had a hunch these people were from El Sandrios, helped by the People''s NGO. If her speculation comes true, it will become an international issue and the mater will be raised in UN, making the situation worse for Wangs. Before she takes another step in her plan, she had to confirm this doubt. For which she needs to access El Sandrios''s database.


    "You see the one sitting in the corner," Lou whispered, "He''s one of the brokers and had over forty boats under him."


    "What does he charge?"


    "You guess, what do these poor people have in offer?"


    Suyin''s gaze shifted to the people sitting on the floor, waiting for the doctor to see them once. Many just die waiting; like the one sleeping in the corner. He''s dead, but people had turned a blind eye. "If a human donates every part of his body, and get a REAL value, he will be richer by 30 million."


    "Correct. Six months back a man traded his kidney so that his wife and three kids could cross the border safely to get their youngest son the much-needed brain surgery. He didn''t tell about it to his wife and lied to her." Suyin looked at Lou''s reflection through the glass, pain spreading on his stoic face. "The boat could only carry twenty people at a time, but it was stuffed with fifty. It sank in the ocean. Ten days later, two of his kids'' bodies were found at the shore of a neighboring nation. The youngest child of two years was still strapped to the body of the eldest. No news of the other kid, but we all know his fate."


    It''s human nature to extract maximum advantage when the person is in need. Sad but true.


    "Where did the father traded his organs? How do you know about it?" She followed him to the window and looked outside. A disheveled woman was standing outside the hospital amidst scorching heat, barefoot, as if waiting for someone. Just then a black car drove out, and she ran after it, yelling, throwing stones.


    "I don''t know where he traded his organs, it''s common here though. His wife survived and now asks everyone about her husband and kids. You were in the surgery for six hours, I went out for Marie Jeanne and overheard this broker mocking the poor woman." Luo turned away from the window, noticing a weird expression on her face, "What?"


    "Marrie Jeanee? Girlfriend? Wife?"


    "Marijuana. It''s a slang used in French."


    "...."


    Suyin shifted her attention to the broker, "Is there a hotel nearby?"


    "B-But just now you said you are waiting for the Sandrios Brigade leader to offer you to join him?"


    "I do. But do you expect me to wait here all day, make a puppy face, and show myself available? Let them find me and make an offer." She walked to the receptionist at the entrance, "Excuse me, can you guide me to a hotel to stay for a few days?"


    The secretary looked up, scanning Suyin''s baggy clothes and her scary face. "Ten dollars." Suyin instantly takes out a note from her pocket. "Hotel Hi-way. Across the road, two buildings away. Show my card and they will give you a discount."


    Suyin turned without a word of gratitude. Luo looked over the shoulder, noticing the receptionist calling someone soon after. "She''s calling the hotel for her commission. Smart move to leave a clue of your whereabouts."


    **********

 Chapter 273 - You asked for it. Now die.

    Motel. This was not a hotel but a motel. The sleazy person at reception tried to charge more than he should, but Luo handled him well. Not like Suyin cares how much they charge, but it''s always better to remain low-key and behave like the natives to not attract any unwanted attention.


    Though Suyin didn''t expect much from the room, to her surprise it was clean; bedding looked neat but had obvious yellow patches. Had just a chair and table in name of the furniture, a fan and a table lamp which she didn''t bother to check, and dark curtains covering the view outside. She parted it, satisfied at the clear view of the hospital.Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #.-now-die._51747042208302600 for visiting.


    The people walking on the road with rifles, and belts of ammunition was an unusual site for her but normal in this country. It''s a basic necessity for them. Just like food, water, and air.


    She knew this hotel was not a safe place to stay, but the clear view of the hospital was more than anything she wants.


    "Why didn''t you let me take two rooms?" The question was bothering him. He brushed his finger on his beard and sat down on the bed.


    "I''m disguised as a man. Have you seen two men walking in together but take different rooms? Especially when you argued the owner over price for like-- forty-five minutes?"


    Luo adjusted the set of his coat and rifle, "Won''t you--"


    "I''ve adjusted in worse in my undercover missions in social services. Sleeping in a dorm of twenty men who used to change clothes in front of me twice a day was one such." She takes off her long coat and threw it on the bed. "I''ll sleep here, you take the chair."


    He stood, "I''m going out to bring something to eat, do you want something else?"


    "Two pair of clothes that matches with the locals." Suyin opened the flap of her backpack to get some cash but Luo hesitated. "Take it. You even pay for the room."


    Luo accepted the cash. "Don''t forget to lock the door," He knocked at the table in a particular pattern. "Remember this. I will use this to announce it''s me and it''s safe to open." He again knocked at the table in a unique pattern "This means danger." before leaving he didn''t forget to give her his gun.


    After Luo left, she sat down at the window, her head resting at the iron bars, waiting for the broker. The mad woman who lost her family was rooted at her place, waiting for the same broker.


    ...


    DHUM DHUM DHUM


    SHOT SHOT SHOT


    Suyin woke up with a jerk, confused, the unfamiliar surrounding, and the bleak darkness was unwelcoming. She searched her pockets for the nano flashlight only to realize her coat was on the bed.


    DHUM DHUM DHUM


    Her head snapped at the door, someone banging it. Faintly she could hear people screaming, and the sound of gunshots. She ran to get the flashlight or just turn on the lights, but sadly she doesn''t know where the hell switchboard was.


    Just a minute ago she had closed her eyes, and now when she had opened it, it was pitch dark?


    How can she fall asleep while waiting for the broker to step out of the hospital? And where was Luo?


    DHUM DHUM DHUM


    "OPEN IT."


    This can''t be Luo. Definitely not.


    "BREAK IT. THEY ARE HERE."


    BANG BANG BANG


    Suyin switched on the flashed light and grabbed the gun with the other, pointing it at the door. Whoever these people were, they were up to no good. But it seems they outnumber her.


    Her eyes ran across. Immediately she dragged the table to the door to buy some time. Next, she rummaged for the lighter in her backpack and set the bedsheet on fire. Her calm demeanor not breaking the slightest.


    BANG BANG


    Just a push or two, the door would break open.


    She wore her coat and backpack and tucked the gun at her waist. She yanked the lamp from its socket and held the unburned part of the bedsheet with the other hand. The moment the door was pushed open, she threw the burning bedsheet over the people, and jumped kick one, taking them by surprise.


    "Basta*d," an armed man standing behind pointed his rifle at her. She dodged and hit his face with the lamp, kneed his crotch. He fell down on the ground, clutching his broken jewel, howling. She snatched his AK 47, shot at his head, and ran towards the stairs.


    "AHH," She had just turned at the stairs when a strong blow hit her face and she rolled down. Her vision turning hazy as she look up, a familiar sleazy man showing his yellow teeth.


    "Blaska bolts paid me ten times the money," He crouched down, poking a sharp dagger at her neck. "Poor you--"


    SHOOT SHOOT SHOOT


    The words remained stuck at the back of his throat. His eyes protruded out in shock, as if glaring at Suyin in disbelief. Blood oozing out from his chest. Suyin kicked him, a cold smile on her face as if the weapon took over her soul. "You asked for it. Now die."


    At the sound of the approaching footsteps, she forced herself up and ran only to find herself surrounded from both sides. She raised her AK 47 but stopped at the nick of the time when a familiar man stepped right below the hovering bulb.


    "DOWN!"


    She sprawled on the floor on her stomach, hearing an ear-piercing crossfire between the two parties. After what feels like an eternity, a strong grip on her arm pulled her from the floor.


    .....


    "Is he alright?" Sandrios leader''s wife Marina asked with concern. Luo supported Suyin by her shoulder as the doctor checked her wounds. He carefully buttoned her coat in case someone suspects she''s a woman and not a man.


    "He will be fine." The doctor who had operated on the teenage boy answered.


    "Hmmm....." Suyin flinched feeling the pain of the antiseptic against her wounds on the elbow.


    "Shh.... we are safe," Luo whispered, squeezing at her shoulder.


    "Make sure nothing happens to him otherwise you will be the first to be butchered," a gruff voice sounded. He was none other than the Sandrios brigade''s leader, Revon. He casts an eye at his son, sleeping on his wife''s lap, hooked to contraptions. "We need this man alive at any cost."


    "Boss," Revon turned as one of his men came to inform about the situation. "All dead. You were right, they were from Blaska Bolts. We have set the motel on fire to erase every clue."


    "Mobilize everyone, we are leaving." Revon shuts the door of the ambulance before taking control of the driver''s seat. This place was in control of Blaska bolts, the more he stays, the riskier it gets. Already he had wasted a lot of time searching for the man who had helped save his son''s life.


    Had it not been for one of his men who saw Luo buying something, it would have taken longer to find baldy. Maybe that would be too late by then. Thankfully not.


    ********

 Chapter 274 - Suyins friend

    "It''s been over four days and Susu''s whereabouts are unknown. How long are we going to sit doing nothing about it?"


    "James is right. I have spoken to assistant Long, even he doesn''t have any idea where Susu could be. According to him, the last time he saw her, she was not in a good mood and left early from the office."


    "Who else other than that basta*d Wang Shi could it be that her mood was off. Can''t believe he drooped so low to take a life of an innocent child to save his own son. And he had the guts to call us and ask for her. Even that little boy by his side is calling us daily. Jeez, it reminds me Susu''s baby is dead because of him. Don''t know how she is. If she is fine--"


    "She is fine. Don''t talk nonsense." Si Han interrupted, "I know my daughter more than anyone. She''s not a coward. I''m sure she''s taking some time to calm herself before she strikes at her enemies with full force. She has to avenge her son and gave the same pain to those Wangs. Just wait a little more, she will come back."


    "But I can''t wait any longer. I''m calling the cops."


    "No, you won''t," Zeng caught James'' arm as he reached for phone, "Who do you think Wangs are? They are no regular people but control this country. What if they get Suyin killed to save their name from coming out in public? Just wait."Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #''s-friend_51818403358364051 for visiting.


    "DAMN YOU," James hissed. "LET GO."


    "You are not understanding the severity of the situation, crazy stubborn man,"


    "SHUT UP. You are just a selfish pig who is now enjoying the attention of your parents and doesn''t care whether she''s alive or dead. No doubt Suyin and your relationship had always been strained."


    The thud sounded as Zeng threw a punch, tossing James on the couch, "Bastard, dare say that again."


    James threw Zeng off of him, and dodged another coming punch, throwing one of his own.


    "STOP IT BOTH OF YOU." Zhao Shu shouted and ran to pull the two men fighting like kids.


    "This is not over." James turned to leave.


    "Jamie, where are you going?" Si Han asked.


    "Wang Shi. If he has any hand in Suyin''s disappearance, I''ll kill him first and then tell about his dirty deeds to the media. Medical test on Honey will prove my claims are not false."


    "J--"


    Ignoring everyone, James picked his phone from the table and walked faster. He rushed out from the front door, into the elevator without looking back for a second.


    "Zeng--"


    "I DON''T WANT TO HEAR YOUR LECTURE. I KNOW YOU WILL TAKE HIS SIDE. " Zeng yanked Zhao Shu''s hand, taking him by surprise. "Just leave me alone. You think I can''t see even you and mom think I''m enjoying Suyin''s disappearance? It''s in your eyes. Don''t pretend in front of me." He wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and picked the car keys from the table, leaving the two alone. Dejected.


    .....


    "Excuse me," Suyin''s parents looked up hearing the voice. A stranger standing at the door. "I-I''m Wu Sean, Suyin''s friend."


    "Suyin is not at home," Zhao Shu answered.


    "I know. I heard everything. I''m sorry, I shouldn''t have, but---" sighs, "Mr and Mrs Zhao, I''m really sorry about what you are going through. I''m well aware of Wang family''s power, and their cruel methods to silence any voice that rise against them. That''s why I have warned Suyin against them."


    Si Han, "You warned her about it?"


    "I did. The last time we met, I gave her a file containing substantial evidence against the Wangs and the NGO they had been running. It was shocking for her. But as expected of brave Susu, she decided to expose Wangs." He lied, and deliberately called her Susu to show his closeness to her.


    Zhao Shu, "Evidence against Wangs? When? When did you last met her?"


    "Around four days back. In her office. Minister Yuan was their as well." Sean said, "Now that I recall, her mood does seem off that day. Though she didn''t tell me the reason, she was not by herself."


    Si Han, "That''s the day she disappeared. But she mentioned nothing about it in her last ca--" Zhao Shu pressed at her hand, hinting something. Wu Sean frowned.


    "Wait. Y-You are the minister of law and justice, Mr. Wu Sean?" Zhao Shu said, "Pardon me, I didn''t recognise you."


    "It''s fine. I came here not as a minister but as her good friend. This is our third project together, and--" he made a deliberate pause, "-- and the most dangerous. But rest assured, I will send my elite team to search for her ASAP. As far as the Wangs are concerned, I won''t let any harm touch her. But Mr. and Mrs. Zhao, you must help me as well. If you know anything that can help me find her, please tell me. Anything can be helpful. Anything. Wang Shi had been Susu''s boyfriend and knows her weakness very well. You get to help me."


    Si Han and Zhao Shu hesitated.


    "It''s fine. I can understand. Why would you put your trust in a stranger?" Sean stood, adjusted his coat, "I''ll take my leave. Will keep you informed." He spun towards the door, a smirk plastered at his face.


    "Wait." Si Han took two fast strides--


    ...


    .....


    In his arrogant triumph, the left side of Wu Sean''s lips tugged upwards. His visit to the Suyin''s house was fruitful. As expected of the wounded tigress. Instead of mourning in the corner over her dead cub, she had taken a few steps back only to launch with all her might and kill the enemy in a single attack.


    So Suyin had not disappeared, but she had hid herself, preparing evidence against the Wangs. And it''s only her parents who know about it. Not even her best friend and brother.


    "Oh, Suyin, you will never stop surprising me. That''s the reason I like you so much. You are so unpredictable." A ring on his phone caught his attention, his jubilant mood turning off. His father. "Situation is under control. Will tell you once I reach."


    ...


    ....


    ...


    "So, how was it?" Soon after Wu Sean left, James entered Suyin''s house. He fixed his hair in the reflection of a painting at the wall, "Do you think I can make a career in Hollywood?"


    "Flop career." Zeng tapped James'' head, and shut the door after him. "And please change the ketchup brand, this one''s sweet. I want something tangy."


    "That''s Susu''s favourite. No one''s changing it. Go get another for yourself."


    "No thanks for the advice." Zeng stick out his tongue at James, and rested his head on Si Han''s shoulder, "But mom, you definitely deserve an Oscar. My drama queen!"


    James, "I agree. Suyin definitely inherited everything from mom, other than her looks. Right, s.e.xy lady?" Zhao Shu growled at James for using that endearment for his wife.


    Si Han, "Don''t let your guards down. Suyin already knew that Wu Sean would come after us to inquire about her, that''s why she had warned us before. Be ready, he will come back once Suyin start with her plan."


    "Um, about that--" James ran a hand through his hair, his eyes averting in hesitation, "--I won''t be with you guys. I''m leaving for France two days from now."


    "You found a clue about Evan?" Zeng questioned. James nodded. "I''m coming with you. This could be helpful to Suyin."


    **********

 Chapter 275 - theyd obviously trade the one given to them by God

    Suyin woke up in an emergency as if her mind and body reminded her of a something dangerous. She pushed herself from the bed, her heart beating frantically , and her brain buzzed. The massacre at the hotel still afresh.


    She looked around. The room was dimly lit, with not even single furniture in sight other than a small stool with a teapot on it. The walls had red and white murals hand-painted all over which was unique to any traditional home in El Sandrios. Beautiful. But the bullet holes, and the missing chunks of plaster had their own story to narrate.


    A pleasant yet not overwhelming fragrance covered the entire room. Suyin looked for the source of the fragrance, but couldn''t find any. Just then her gaze fell on the IV in her hand. Reaching she was about to turn off the IV when she realised the room didn''t even had a bed but just a mattress on which she was sleeping.


    She pushed to her feet to check her surroundings further; a shooting pain in her body reminded her she fell down from the stairs earlier. Cautiously she parted the curtain and peeked only to find people strolling around. Some had guns, some not. It even had women and kids walking and playing around.


    Realising the place can''t be dangerous, she let herself walk out. Though the room was small, the place was anything but small. If she''s not wrong this must be a palace. An abandoned place that lost its glory and had fallen at the hands of its own people.


    "You woke up," Suyin turned her head to find Luo walking towards her. He had the same doctor walking along.


    "Explain."


    "Allow me," The doctor bypassed Luo and came to the front, a visible excitement on his face. "After you guys left, a series of blasts took place just a kilometre away from the hospital. Blaska bolts had come with a large force to claim the city under them. They had even attacked the hospital."


    Many people died in the hospital, and many were captured. Now the hospital and the city were under the control of Blaska Bolts. "Come with us." Suyin silently followed to the courtyard covered by a makeshift tent from top.


    Patients lying on the mattress, hooked to drips and contraptions and the nurses and volunteers taking care of them.


    The doctor, "Revon helped as many people as he could to shift them here. We lost a few patients on our way, while a few serious ones are in the rooms. And the most of them are the civilians who decided to come with us."


    Suyin, "Revon?"


    Lou, "Sandrios brigade leader. And he is Dr. Reis Ali. I was at the market when Blaska''s attacked and captured me. Had it not been for Revon''s men following me all this while, I would have been dead."


    Though it was expected for Revon''s men to come looking for Lou and Suyin, but not so fast. However, it was a news for Lou when they revealed that the hospital was under attack and they were taking as many people with them to the safe location. They were especially assigned to bring him and the bald man along at any cost.


    As expected, Suyin''s a potential asset for them.


    Luo was still not sure of Revon until he reach here. The leader of the one of the most dangerous militia groups in the country, but fighting for the safety of its people unlike others who were doing it for power. Sounds unrealistic? But true.


    Many small militia groups had joined hands with them to fight for the country, rather against it.


    Suyin blinked, the number of the people accommodated in this courtyard should be a few hundred. For a change, Revon doesn''t sound as dangerous as before to her. He had been helping his people and had even brought as many hospital staff as he could to save others.


    Not to forget, he saved her as well.


    A man with a rifle hanging on the shoulder came to them, "Rev had called for you all. Come with me."


    Suyin frowned.


    Lou came closer to Suyin and whispered, "Revon''s son. He''s still unconscious. Reis had already failed to give an answer."


    .....


    When Suyin entered the room possessing the uniqueness of the El Sandrios culture; this one had a bed, over which a teenage boy of 15-16 was lying unconscious. She glanced at the portable monitor briefly and shifted her attention to the other people.


    other than Revon and his wife, she didn''t recognise anyone.


    "You--" Revon used the same authoritative tone, "-- Reis told me everything. See what''s wrong with my son." Revon''s wife looked up at Suyin hopefully, but her tears got no reaction or move Suyin''s already stoned heart.


    Suyin didn''t move.


    "DID YOU NOT HEAR ME--"


    Revon''s wife stood up, interrupting her husband. She folded her hands to Suyin, "Please. I beg you. Dr. Reis had told us what you did in the surgery. Just check him once." Standing in the side, Revon gritted his teeth, scowling at Suyin.


    "other than boy''s parents, Reis and Lou, everyone out." Suyin said.


    "DID YOU NOT HEAR HIM? OUT." Marina yelled.


    "Lou, close the door." Suyin grabbed a fresh pair of gloves and went to check the boy. "Anesthesia should have worn out by now. He should be breathing by his own. Did you give him something?"


    The question was for Reis. "No. Nothing." He saw Suyin taking off the ventilator, and machine beeped.


    Marina, "What''s happening?"


    Suyin put the ventilator back, "Zero protective airway reflexes, no motor activity, and no consciousness."


    "SO. TREAT HIM." Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #''d-obviously-trade-the-one-given-to-them-by-god_51871283549357259 for visiting.


    "Why should I when all his father did was bark at me like a mad dog? Do I owe you a favour that I should tolerate you order me around?"


    Revon''s jaw tightened, "S-Say that again."


    "You want to get insulted again? I don''t mind. But I have many other things to do. So please ask your wife to handle your temper."


    Revon, "I saved your life and I can very much take it as well."


    Suyin smiled. The bald look made her look sinister as ever. "I saved your son''s life twice. And I dare you to burn the bridge that''s the only way to keep your son alive."


    "YOU--"


    Marina stood between them, she showed a stern eye to Revon, "Do you want to lose him as well?" Revon silenced, but Marina''s words meant many things. Suyin caught it, but she had no interest to probe more. "Please, treat him. I will give you anything in return. Anything."


    Suyin''s eyes lit up. That''s what she needed most. "Keep him at bay," She shifted her attention to Reis, "I need to do some tests. CT to rule out clots, hematoma and bleeding. But I suppose we don''t have that facility here?"


    "We don''t. But I have ran a CT already. Before we shifted him out of the hospital, I did it to make sure he doesn''t any of these." Reis rummaged through the reports scattered on the table and gave it Suyin. "No abnormalities. And I''m repeating reversal agents repetitively as per your instructions." Suyin and Reis fell in a deep silence. They know what does it mean.


    Suyin licked her lips, "In that case I''m afraid it''s anoxic brain injury. A complication that comes from anaesthesia. There''s no way to determine it beforehand. I''m sorry, your son is brain dead." That was a disappointment for her as well. Now she can''t ask for anything.


    THUD


    Revon threw a punch at Suyin which was blocked by Luo on time, tossing him over the chair, down on the floor.


    "GET OUT. BUNCH OF USELESS BASTARDS."


    Suyin was at a loss for words, and nor she a reason to say anything. The famous Zz, who had solved the trickiest of cases, and was proud of her knowledge, failed.


    ********


    "What is your name?"


    Reis came to stand beside Suyin as she watched the patients in the courtyard from a distance.


    "Z-- Zeke."


    "It was not your fault."


    "I know. But it was very important for me to save that boy." She could still faintly hear the boy''s mother crying. It reminded her of something. Something familiar.


    "Why?"


    Suyin turned, "Do you know there were brokers in your hospital, trying to lure people into their traps? Organ trafficking trap."


    "Isn''t it everywhere?" Reis asked, failing to understand why she said that, "Can you do something about them? No. Especially in this country where people have nothing to give, they''d obviously trade the one given to them by God."


    It was surprising to see a doctor talking about it so normally. "So you know about them?"


    "I do."

 Chapter 276 - Common Enemy

    It was surprising to see a doctor talking about it so normally. "So you know about them?"


    "Everyone here. Revon might seem to be cold, inhuman, but he had been fighting against this for over a decade. Do you have any idea how many ''traders of human life'' he had killed over the years?"


    "Then why is he still failing? Why are people still--"


    "He can ask people not to fall into this trap, but eventually the decision is theirs. Sadly, the circ.u.mstances and their need force them to choose the trap laced with gold wires." Suyin followed as Reis started walking, "Revon was barely twenty-five when he formed Sandrios Brigade, and became one of the first militia groups to stand against our then ruling President/ dictator Tamis Nieden. Tamis died, but the country never recovered from the aftermaths."


    "There has been a mysterious power uprising over the last few years that resulted to our current condition. I''m helping Revon by secretly passing information to him. Whoever is behind this, he is very smart and knows how to take advantage of the people in need. We are afraid he has some ulterior motives, and this is just one of his way to acc.u.mulate money and weaken us. He''s powerful and brutal while Revon has zero power, has a duty to protect his people. From him, and the other militia groups who meant harm."


    "So.... whoever behind this mysterious power is, he''s running the trafficking group?"


    "Certainly."


    "Can you lead me to one such broker?" Reis paused, his eyes looking into hers curiously, "Don''t look surprised. I have my own reasons."


    "Is it why you dressed as a woman and entered this country, risking your life?" Now it was Suyin''s turn to look at Reis curiously. She turned her head to Luo''s direction, standing far.


    "No. He didn''t. When I placed the stethoscope on your chest to hear your heartbeat, I found the truth," Suyin hugged the coat tightly, "Rest assured, I won''t tell anyone. But I''m definitely curious why a capable doctor like you has entered this chaos and is looking for that mysterious power?"


    "To--"


    She paused when Revon rushed out of the room and ordered his men to mobilise, "Take the best weapons. We will attack Blaska Bolts tonight."


    "Tsk.... he''s being consumed by rage again. The last time when that happened he lost many of his capable men," Reis talked to himself. "You know it''s really weird that both his kids died similarly."


    Her brain stuttered for a moment, "What do you mean?"


    "Around fifteen years back. It was my first time meeting Revon when he came to the hospital holding a bleeding kid of barely three. The kid had a bullet hole in his stomach. My senior doctor performed the surgery successfully, but the boy never woke up."


    "You mean to say he died of brain anoxic injury?"


    "That''s the most probable cause-- HEY." Before he could complete Suyin sprinted. She pushed Revon from the way, running past him.


    "STOP. NO ONE WILL TOUCH HIM." The nurses paused and stepped away from the ventilator. She put on a pair of gloves and made cotton ball between her fingers.


    Marina raised her head up, "What are you doing?"


    Suyin peeled open the boy''s eyes and gently rubbed the cotton ball on the cornea. The boy flinched and shut his eyes.


    Marina gasped. "T-This.... what does this mean?"


    "This means he''s not brain dead. He will be just fine." She prepared an injection and gave it to the boy, "It was a side-effect of the medicine. He will wake up by tomorrow morning." Marina was skeptical, "He will." Suyin stepped out of the room before Marina give her a hug and find her secret. Her eyes met with Revon''s shocked; ignoring him, she walked into the balcony, looking over the armed man in Revon''s command.


    Reis, "You treated the boy by giving him multivitamin injection? Enlighten me."


    "I gave him mivacurium as anaesthesia during surgery. The boy has Pseudocholinesterase deficiency which makes it impossible for his body to break down the substance. Technically the boy was still under anaesthesia and just needed time." Suyin said. "I used multivitamin to--"


    "--to prevent the parents from the guilt that their eldest son was very much alive and falsely declared brain dead when they pulled him off the ventilator?"


    Such an annoying pest! He was making her angry, "Lead me to the brokers but before that help me access the database. I need information about a few of your citizens. Since you are Revon''s informer since years, I''m sure you can do this easily." She changed the subject.


    "Guilt is perhaps the most painful companion. And you just prevented Revon and Marina from lifetime of guilt of killing their own son by mistake. A mistake done in ignorance is forever called a mistake. It should not define the very existence of someone. You took the right decision."


    Duh! One more, and she qould kick him right in the crotch. Her lips twitched, "Give me the names of the brokers killed by Revon as well. Did you guys confiscated anything from them? Phones, laptops--"


    That''s it! He''s dead.


    Reis took a step back sensing something.


    "Running from a conversation, ha, Perhaps it reminds you of something? I won''t bother you with it anymore, sorry." He didn''t say another word least the angry bird hit him. But his experience and her expression says he had somewhat hit the weak spot.


    *******


    Suyin and everyone stayed awake the entire night, waiting for Erin to wake up. Surprisingly, Revon had put the idea of attacking Blaska Bolts on hold. At least for the night. Marina was the first to notice Erin opening his eyes, bringing a needed relief to the distressed parents.


    "Thankyou, thankyou very much. I''m indebted to you," Marina said while squeezing her son in her arms. Suyin gave a faint smile, noticing Reis taking Revon to a corner. Whatever Reis was telling to Revon, it made him look at Suyin.


    After a moment, Revon ordered everyone to leave for their rooms and take rest. After everyone left, he left Erin in Marina''s care and took Suyin and Lou to his chamber. Reis following along.


    Without a word, he takes out his laptop from the locker and started doing something on it. Ten minutes later he turned the laptop to her, "This contains all the information I have gathered from the brokers so far. The next tab is the El Sandrios people''s data. Check if you want anything else."


    Suyin''s confusion turned into a shock. How was she supposed to comprehend the Hulk''s polite behaviour? Or does the man suffering from bipolar disorder.


    Maybe he caught the questions in her eyes. "Don''t be shocked. I don''t have any reason not to trust you. Whatever reasons you have to want this information, I owe you this much help. Besides Reis had told me you are after the trafficker boss. Looks like we share a common enemy."


    _____________

 Chapter 277 - Unconditional Support

    Unedited*


    "You suspect Blaska Bolts are funded by the trafficker boss?"


    "I do. Until a few years back no one even knew them. Suddenly they gained hi-tech weapons, man power and other resources. Besides brokers are the most active in the areas occupied by them and they are continuously expanding."


    "What about your military?"


    "Disorganised. Tamis was a military officer who ended the reign of our last king Ilias and took over the country''s power in his hand 40 years back. He feared army will do the same and might try to overthrow him. So he started depriving army of funds, resources and stopped training new officers, replacing it with committees , militias and his very famous shadow guards~ all commanded by his sons and members of family, Their main purpose- kill the revolts." Over time regular army withered away to the present state.


    "Tamis'' reign got over fifteen years back." she stated.


    "But he left the country handicapped." Reis spoke up, "Amidst this chaos, it''s difficult to maintain peace already. Not to forget we need a stable government and military both."


    "Aren''t their two parties already ready to form a government?"


    Revon scoffed, "And they both are busy fighting against each other. Who cares about the nation? Unless powerful nations and international organisations interfere, we don''t see a bright future. But that''s just a pipe dream. No nation wants to interfere."


    "You are a leader. Why don''t you stand for your people and form a government? I''m sure they will support you."


    Silence followed after Suyin''s sharp comment. Don''t know what the reason was, but she noticed Revon''s fist clenched up, his body tensed. Reis on the side pursed his lips.


    Suyin didn''t say anything after that. She plugged the pen-drive she had been carrying all this while. Everyone just watched as she looked for information about some individuals.


    Sigh. Her fear come true. Those people Wu Sean claim that disappeared from People''s NGO were really from El Sandrios. Including the ones in the pendrive she got from Gilbert. If the news broke out it would become an international issue and Wangs would end up in a big trouble. And so as Honey wold be affected.


    The only solution she can see was to get an evidence and drag this trafficker out of its bill.


    "I can help you achieve this pipe dream. You need help, I know how to get that." Her eyes shone. She''s smart, intelligent, and had contacts. Most importantly, she''s a fighter. But every fighter needs an army to fight along. She will fight for them, but they have to become her sword.


    Silence followed. Reis and Revon started at the bald man wearing geeky glasses, claiming to get the impossible for their country. Even Luo was skeptical. He knew her real identity of Zhao Suyin, but getting international help was not a child''s play.


    "What do you want in return?" To her surprise Revon spoke up. He was willing to change this chance as there was nothing to loose for him.


    "Support." She looked between Revon, Reis, and Luo, "Unconditional support." They stared at her, "But first, how about I get you resources, and weapons just like Blaska bolts?"


    Reis leaned forward, "At the east cost we have a trader who trades in hi-tech weapons from around the world. Anti guided missiles to destroy enemy vehicles, javelin ATGM''s, night vision glasses, armoured vehicles-- you say it, and they will arrange it for you. We can invade in Blaska Bolts camps and get more information."


    Luo squeezed her elbow, "It comes at a price."


    Suyin smiled, "Don''t worry about that." she had bring along all the money Zz has ever earned, combined with the wealth she got from her Zhao Feiyan, Song Xianxi, Qi Wren, Hui, and Tang family''s business.


    ********


    BEEP BEEP BEEP*


    Xiu Mei''s computer sounded. It was the sound everyone were waiting to hear for only God knows centuries.


    Everyone dropped whatever they were doing and gathered around Xiu Mei working on her laptop. Since the last few days Wang Shi''s office had become a primary home and office for everyone. None of them left Wang Shi''s side and continued making efforts to get any information about Suyin.


    Wang Shi, "Where is she?"


    "Tracking. Tracking." Xiu Mei''s fingers ran over the keyboard at a lightening speed. Everyone held their breath afraid it might break Xiu Mei''s concentration. "She-- she is in El San--drios. El Sandrios?" almost robotically every head turned towards Wang Shi.


    Honey failed to notice the shocked expressions and already celebrated, "Let''s go there and bring her back. Where is this El Sandrios? How many hours will it take?"


    Silence


    Honey shook Wang Shi''s hand, "Dad? Answer me. Can we leave now?"


    Wang Shi turned but too slow to be normal. When he spoke, his words unwilling to take flight, "We will leave soon. Can you see what Yuyu and Lan are doing. I have something important to talk to everyone."


    "Okay. But make arrangements for today itself. We will leave by tonight. I will call home and Butler to pack my clothes."


    ...


    Junjie immediately closed the door after Honey left. "Big brother, how can you go there? It''s a war torn zone. And you are no ordinary person; it will not only require Uncle Huang''s permission but of the officials of El Sandrios."


    Xiu Mei, "And there''s no way they will let Honey come with you. Even I don''t prefer that."


    Wang Shi shared a glance with Jianyu, "Make preparations. Ask X, we need him again. Permission, no permission, no one can stop me from going there." He picked his coat.


    "Where are you going?" Xiu Mei asked.


    "I know who can help us in this. But for that I have to make a deal with him."


    "...."


    Junjie scratched his head, "Who? And what deal is Brother Shishi talking about?"


    Jianyu, "There''s only one person in this world who even controls the President."


    "Y-you mean-- Patriarch Wang? This means Brother Shishi--"


    "Shishi is going to accept the old man''s offer of taking over as the next head of the family in exchange."


    "OMG. Brother Shishi as the next Patriarch!"


    *******

 Chapter 278 - Convincing family 1

    Wang Manor


    Patriarch Wang''s Study


    "Do you even know what you are saying? Not only it is unsafe but will attract eyes if a president''s son step on a land currently in a civil war." Patriarch Wang''s wrinkled face crumbled. His hand rubbing the jewel on the head of the walking stick, eyes narrowing down at Wang Shi, "Is she that important?"


    Wang Shi raised his chin in acknowledgement, "More than my life."


    "But you are the life of this family. Our future. Why should I risk everything?"


    "For the sake of your grandson and great grandson. She is not only my love, but Honey''s mom. Only she can complete my family. Isn''t this your long time wish?" Patriarch Wang frowned, but his frown was a sign of amus.e.m.e.nt as this was the first time this grandson of his was talking about a woman so passionately. And he was hell serious. "And if you don''t let me go there, I will use other methods. You know I can do that. AND If I do that~ the political impact would definitely be not so be favourable according to my understanding."


    "Hmpf," Patriarch Wang banged his walking stick against the floor, "Don''t teach me politics. Put something solid on the table if you really want me to give you the permission. You think I don''t know what happened between you and her?" Wang Shi looked outside the window, "LOOK AT ME, YOU PUNK,"


    "I-I--"


    "Look at yourself. You are stuttering. You know this wont be easy. She is a wounded tigress who lost her child. There''s nothing dangerous than a wounded mother," Patriarch Wang said, eyeing snapping with dislike, "Though I''m feeling bad for her, I''m not sorry. It saved our little one. Now that she''s aware of everything, she will definitely try to claim her right over Honey. So why should I let you save her?"


    "I wonder what Honey will think of you if he comes to know that you have bad intentions towards Suyin and don''t want to save her. Do you think he will love you the same?"


    "HOW DARE YOU--"


    "I don''t. Just asking you to give it a thought." Wang Shi said nonchalantly, rubbing his chin. "Recently he is making equal efforts to get his ducky back, not leaving a stone unturned. Um-- Ducky! It''s the endearment he use for her. Cute, isn''t it?"


    Patriarch Wang frowned.


    Of course he knows everything what''s happening in Wang Shi''s office.


    "C''mon grandpa, it''s already a good deal that I''m ready to take charge of the Wang family and business. Not to forget, Suyin has already done us a great favour by not talking about it in media, saving Wang family from falling into the people''s eyes and questioning us. Plus, there''s something more that you should know--"


    .....


    .....


    Patriarch Wang had to get the papers signed for Wang Shi''s departure from Wang Huang, but he was called in for an urgent meeting so they have to wait until the President couple arrive at the Wang manor.


    "What do you think you are upto. Shishi?" Wang Huang demanded as he walked into the study. Liu Jeilan following him. Servants closed the door behind cutting Wang Shi''s uncle from eves-dropping the conversation.


    "Good evening mom, good evening dad," Wang Shi looked up from the cup of tea, and crossed his feet at a fireplace. This will take time. Definitely do.


    "There''s nothing good about it." Liu Jeilan said, "Dad, I''m not letting him go to El Sandrios. The country is in chaos, and we have long withdrew our forces from their. Who will provide him the security? I don''t trust theirs."


    "Shishi, tell them what you told me just now." Patriarch Wang said, rubbing his forehead with his spotted hand. He was already exhausted by all the discussions he had with Wang Shi earlier. These young ones were giving him a hard time.


    The ensuing silence was a proof Wang Huang and Liu Jeilan was willing to hear Wang Shi.


    "Wu Sean and Wu Sangui have planned to take over the president''s position and annihilate our family from Cheyna. They have joined hands with a mysterious man and had planted undeniable evidences against us." He put forward the doc.u.ment that Chen Wenwei got from Suyin''s office and the same Suyin had spoken about.


    "I have investigated it. It''s true these people really vanished from our NGO. They came as the undoc.u.mented migrants, seeking medical help. Every one of them was treated in my hospital, but later disappeared. I admit it was a fault at our end that we never try searching for them."


    He placed forth another doc.u.ment, "Mei hacked Sean''s laptop and found that these people were from El Sandrios, sent here by sea route by brokers. According to the doc.u.ments, each of them were later used as organ donors for the so-called rich and the money was anonymously donated to our NGO."


    Panicked, Wang Huang picked the file. It''s a deadly trap. If the news broke out, not only he''d be answerable to the united nations but to his own people. What worse, the evidences points out its their fault. They did for greed, or maybe running a secret trafficking business. "DAMN!"


    Liu Jeilan bit her lips, "D-Does Suyin knows about it?"


    "Yes. Wu Sean even tried to instigate her against us, but she didn''t budge." Wang Shi could notice a glint of admiration in her mother''s eyes. This had to be the first time his mother had appreciated Suyin. Though only internally. "One of Suyin''s interns told us that she had a bug planted in her handbag which he discovered by mistake. Later, on Suyin''s order, he did the same to Wu Sean to let her keep an ear on Sean."


    He pulled the chair close to his mother and leaned forward.


    "No matter what differences we have, or what happened between us that night in my office. It''s already commendable that she held herself calmly and comes up with a smart way to trick Wu Sean to make him believe that she''s against me. Which you can see she''s not. Somewhere in the ruins of El Sandrios she''s battling against the odds to find the mastermind behind all this instead of fighting against me based on false evidence."


    *Continued in the next chapter*

 Chapter 279 - Convincing family 2 (Family convinced!)

    Wang Shi noticed the three elders in utter silence, their head drooped low. Over the past few days his parents, especially his mother had said all kinds of nonsense against Suyin upon knowing she wants Honey.


    Not to ignore, they even ignored Honey has Suyin''s son''s heart beating within. They might be sorry that her child died, but at the same time they were grateful Honey was alive.


    Selfish.


    "Whoever this mastermind is- he''s our enemy as well. Judging his actions, I can say he''s seeking revenge. Sabotaging Wang family''s name and helping Wu Sean and Wu Sangui up in power~ not only he has personal motives but political. Do I have to go in depths how much of a favour Suyin did and is still doing to us?" He looked at his grandfather who was rubbing the gem on his walking stick, "I know grandma gave you that gem, but can you please add some words here?"


    The old man looked up, "Do you have her photo?"


    "What?"


    "You hear me,"


    Wang Shi straightaway gave his phone. The screen lock, the wallpaper and his heart belongs to Suyin. He saw as  a smile broke on the old man''s face looking at the picture of the family of three.


    "She had the chance to use these evidences against us and get Honey. She could have even joined Wu Sean to destroy us. In any case, Honey would have been hers. But she analysed everything with a clear and rational mind. Smart. Virtuous. She''s doing everything for Honey by clearing obstacles that might target him later. Only a mother can make such sacrifices and risk her life." Patriarch Wang looked up at Wang Huang, his eyes conveying something.


    Wang Shi, "Yes. She had sent a secret message to Honey asking him to be careful and be in my protection. I''m afraid they have planned something against him."


    Liu Jeilan, "W-What do you mean?"


    Wang Shi, "Few months back an assassin was hired to sabotage the breaks of my car while I was with Suyin and Honey. Jianyu and I couldn''t find any clue as the assassin killed himself before we could interrogate. Now that I think, the target was not me, but Honey." They found about the mysterious assassin from Wu Sean''s laptop. The assassin was from El Sandrios.


    Silence ensued.


    Wang Huang, "Wu Sangui, that snake. This is bad--"


    "Dad?" Wang Shi''s brows rose.


    "Just now I had the emergency meeting with United Nations and United Nations Security and Human rights Council. Someone had called them to authorise military intervention in El Sandrios and help its people." Wang Huang said.


    "They showed us a video clip of the massacre happening there, killing unarmed civilians. It even highlights that a mysterious power is uprising, concerning crimes like trafficking, weapon proliferation, and slavery. Being a neighbouring nation, and an ex participant who helped eliminate Tamis''s reign; International Military intervention council has advised the members to intervene in El Sandrios on the grounds of humanity and maintain world peace."


    "That''s my Suyin," Every head in the room turned to Wang Shi. The little rise in the corner of his mouth and eyes shining proudly revealed the name of the person behind all this.


    Liu Jeilan gasped, "You mean--"


    "Only my Suyin can do this. She knows it very well when and how to use her powerful connections. No doubt, people fear her achievements." Mumbling, he smiled foolishly. The old man shared a look with his parents.


    Their son is a gone case.


    Crazy.


    "Ahem," Wang Huang fished his phone from pocket, "Before Sangui does something, I will issue the orders for military intervention and also-- arrange for your trip. "


    Wang Shi, "Did Sangui--"


    "Yes. He was in the meeting and strongly against the intervention. We even had an argument later as I was up for sending the military. It would not only raise our image internationally, but the oil sector will be able to recover their investment made years back in El Sandrios but had to close because of unfavourable conditions. I''m not a saint, Shishi, but a politician. We need their oil reserves."


    "If I were Sangui, I would have definitely played my next move by now." Patriarch Wang said, "And forbid you from sending military."


    Wang Huang, "I know. We are going to be in a big trouble from here on. Shishi, leave today itself. Military will join you a few days later."


    "But you?"


    "Don''t worry. I will manage everything. Only you and Suyin can save our family from this trap."


    "Jianyu had made preparations already.  Just need official permission for me and Honey."


    "Honey!" Liu Jeilan stood up. "Leave him to me. It''s not safe there."


    Wang Shi, "You won''t be able to handle his security when the chaos follows after Sangui''s move. Let him--"


    "Don''t worry about that. I''ll ask dad to send his best men." Her father was the retired military head while her brother heads the military currently.


    "That''s not for me to decide. I have always let Honey have a say when any matter concerns him." Wang Shi knew he won''t be able to squirm out of this. Honey can best handle it. Without delay he asked Junjie to bring Honey, noticing the old man was secretly trying to suppress his smile. And Wang Shi knows exactly why.


    The cold war between the old man and Liu Jeilan seems never ending.


    ...


    "Honey, sweetie. You will stay with grandma, isn''t it? Scoby gave birth to a litter of puppies--"


    The old man, "Oh yes. Scoby gave birth! Tell your grandma you don''t want to go with your dad to bring ducky back and instead want to play with a litter of puppies. Btw, ducky is Suyin. That''s the endearment he gave her." the information in the last was for Liu jeilan.


    "Dad, please, I know what you are doing." Liu Jeilan complained.


    "So Honey dear, who do you want? Ducky or Scoby?" The old man continued. Wang Shi and Huang sidelined themselves.


    "Don''t worry about ducky-- I mean-- Suyin. Don''t worry about Suyin. Shishi will bring her back safely. But if you go there, your responsibility will only hinder him." Honey looked at his father and saw him shrug.


    "Judging by the situation, I doubt ducky will even listen to Shishi; forget about coming with him."


    "She will. I have faith in Shishi."


    "I don''t. Even he isn''t sure he''d be able to do that. Just see--"


    Liu Jeilan looked at Wang Shi, incredulous, who felt squeezed between the two. Shrugged. Little Honey alternated his small head between the two elders fighting like Yuyu and Lan.


    "Huang, don''t keep standing. Say something to your father."


    Wang Huang looked at his father.


    The old man, "You dare."


    "...."


    "I don''t care. I''m not letting Honey--"


    S*Sob sob sob


    Every head in the room snapped at the little one who started water works. His puppy eyes fixed accusingly at Wang Shi. Standing amidst the elders, wearing a blue sweater with a pooh bear printed on front, cheeks and nose turning pink, he was pure cuteness overload..... and a big drama queen.


    "D-Ducky. Ducky. Sob sob sob..... I want ducky." Wails followed. Wang Shi picked him in his arms, patting his back he coaxed him. "Ducky asked me to stay with you. Bad. Everyone bad. I want ducky..."


    Wang Shi "..."


    Wang Shi c.o.c.ked his head near Honey''s ear, whispered, "Overacting. Control yourself."


    "DUCKY! I WANT DUCKY!"


    Wang Shi "..."


    "Take him," Liu Jeilan plopped on the couch, dejected, irritated, the old man was smiling.


    Honey looked from Wang Shi''s arms, "Really?"


    "Just go before I change my decision."


    "YAYYYYY!" Honey wiggled from Wang Shi''s arms, jumping straight into Jeilan''s. "Grandma is the best. I love her the most." He wiped his cheeks with the back of his hands, his eyes turning serious as he looked between Jeilan and the old man, "But this is the last time you called her ducky. Only I and dad can do that."


    "..."Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #!)_52003165872116297 for visiting.


    "..."


    .....


    "Good job, braty,"


    "Hmpf. You are unreliable. Don''t talk to me."


    "But I let you decide."


    "Hhahaha.... such a great help. Please, don''t help me again from here on."


    "Meanie. You are better off with mom."


    "Think again. Without me ducky will not spare a glance to you. You need me. Period."


    "I''m scared."


    "Don''t be. You have me. I have planned everything to keep you glued to us once we meet her."


    "Hope it works."


    "Hope it works,"


    HOPE


    ***********

 Chapter 280 - I want to live my life for once.

    "Are you ready?" Revon asked. Standing at the balcony of the ruined mansion that once belonged to Tamis, Revon''s eyes looked over as his man waited for him in the courtyard, all wielding new weapons they just got two days back. Tonight they were going to attack at Blaska Bolts'' den. He waited for two days to teach his men the functioning of the new weapons and how to use them.


    Suyin tucked a gun at her waist, and the rifle on her shoulder. It was pretty heavy for her. Thanks to her morning exercises she''d be able to bear it for a few hours. "I am." She walked to Revon, looking as her army looked up. Most of them were just civilians, and inexperienced. On the side their family was standing, some crying, some praying. "Why not ask them?"


    "FOR OUR FUTURE!" Revon raised his rifle in the air. Army followed the action, roaring in the raw emotion. "Fight until every Blaska is dead or surrender. This is our home, and we won''t let anyone taint it."


    Suyin''s shoved her hand in the pocket of her coat, her fingers curling at the photograph. With her cold eyes she scanned every man standing one level down. As she turned, Revon''s eyes met with hers. A secret message passed, and they just nodded at each other.


    ********


    In the camp,


    Somewhere in the hidden corner,


    A man walked away from the army wild with fighting spirit and answered his phone.


    [What? Don''t tell me mission took the dive?"]


    "Everything is going accordingly. Attack from west gate. Total men around 3k. Latest, weapons, and vehicles. Be prepared."


    [Hahaha.... It''s good. I have mobilised my entire army of 15k. This will be their end."


    "No No.... you listen. Kill anyone you want, but don''t touch Zeke. He''s a useful pawn. Alpha will love it. Keep your brainless away from him. Don''t forget we are about to get new weapons and vehicles because of him, and the death of Sandrios brigade is a bonus. Get it?"


    No reply came from the other side.


    "Hey? I am gonna to take that as a yes. Don''t mess with baldy. I want him alive." The man hung, revealing a crooked smile as he looked up at Zeke and Revon standing on the balcony.


    *********


    "I will take this wheel," Suyin took control of the armoured vehicle. She may not have any experience in fighting, or wielding guns or rifles, but she definitely had mastered driving. No one can beat her to that.


    "I will come with you," Luo hoped onto the shotgun seat. Suyin could smell Marijuana from him, her brows wrinkled. He caught her eyes on him, "It won''t affect my fighting skills."


    "But they definitely would have been better if you were sober."


    "I''m better off not sober. Feeling nothing is so much better...." He muttered in a voice so meek that Suyin was not sure it was meant for her to hear or not. Who cares? Luo had been weird from day one. Not like she''s not weird. But Luo had been exceptional. other than smoking marijuana, and following her, he did nothing. Not even once he took the opportunity to ask Revon about his lost brother. It''s as if he doesn''t want to.


    "I will join you guys as well,"


    "No, you can''t," Luo grumbled.


    Reis looked at Suyin, "Zeke?"


    "Either get in or don''t. I don''t have time for an argument between a druggie and a quack. You both seem to be nothing but just clingy and clueless for no reason."


    Suyin''s words didn''t affect Reis. They never do. But it rankled Luo. "I''m not clueless!"


    The jeep rumbled, smoke curled from the tailpipe, and the next moment it flew without a warning. Reis immediately held onto something for his dear life.


    "That--" Suyin said, "--I can''t see why not. It''s been over a week since we are here, have you inquired Revon or anyone else about your lost brother?" The wind whipped through the window, and Suyin seemed to ignore how Reis screamed whenever she took sharp turns at a high speed, catching up with Revon''s military jeep ahead.


    They drove on a narrow road through the dunes. Every time it rose and fall, Reis would let out a scream as if he was about to die. "Slow down,"


    Suyin, "Why not I pull over, and kick you out? Sounds best." Reis shut his mouth, clenching on to whatever he could for his dear life. Luo on the other hand had his eyes fixed ahead blankly. Suyin knew he wanted to say something but Reis'' presence was holding him.


    ******


    "We''ll get down from here. Let others follow," She heard Revon''s voice in the ear-mic, and turned off the engine. Reis immediately jumped down from the car and ran away from the jeep. Suyin looked he leaned forward, puking his guts out.


    There were no signs pointing in any direction, but since this was the only road, it''s probably the point from where they were to walk. They found themselves amidst the ominous place surrounded by damaged houses from both sides of the road. Eerily silent.


    This must be once bustling with people, chirps of kids, but now it narrates the brutal reality of the war the country had been going through and a perfect place for a hideout.


    "I know Revon doesn''t have any information about my brother, nor he can help me." Luo spoke up, bringing Suyin''s away from Reis. "It''s been twenty-two years we lost him. Do you think he''d be found in these camps or these militia leaders would have any clue of a boy kidnapped twenty-two years back? It''s not easy."


    "Twenty-two years? Just how old is your brother?" Though she never asked, judging Luo''s age which seems to be in early forties she had guessed his brother should be somewhere in thirties.


    "Lucian should be thirty years seven months and sixteen days old."Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #._52087006603304159 for visiting.


    Ah, her guess was right.


    Luo was lost in silence, his hands shaking as if he was taken into a memory.


    "What had happened?"


    That made Luo chuckle, "It''s the first time you asked about my brother. Feeling pity?"


    She shook her head, "Why should I when just like you I''m fighting a battle as well? If you don''t want to--"


    "We lost him because of me," Suyin swallowed rest of the words when Luo started talking. "You have no idea how desperate I'' am to find him and deliver him to his mother. Twenty-two years! I lost twenty-two f.u.c.k*ng precious years of my life because of that basta*d from France. I don''t know which swamp he is lying in, but even if he''s dead; I am going to dig his bones out and give it to his mother. I''m tired of being blamed. Tired of seeing with accusing eyes. I''m tired of everything. Just that one incident has destroyed my entire life. For God''s sake, I want to live my life for once."


    Luo was so lost in that moment of anger, and the torment in his brain was that Suyin could see the tension in his muscles. His fists stayed firmly to his side, clenched, hidden. His jaw clenched. "Don''t say I''m not trying. I dedicate my entire life in finding him. For the information, I have already secretly scanned the data Revon had given to you. As expected, couldn''t find any information."


    "Twenty-two years is a long time. Not to forget he is a grown up man. You don''t even know how he looks."


    "I know, but I have my way to find him." He shuffled close to her, leaning, "Though it''s my doubt, but if Lucian is alive, he should be somewhere working for a powerful man. A man like this trafficker."


    "Why?"


    "Because he has a rare--" Luo stopped abruptly.


    "Do you guys have water?" Reis opened the vehicle''s door, and asked. Suyin and Luo looked away. "Ah, never mind. I''m feeling better."


    Suyin glance as Luo stepped down to smoke Marijuana. His words left him confused, with many unanswered questions. Why did he say ''His mother''? Isn''t Ma Roma Luo''s mother as well? How did he lost Lucian? Why the hatred?


    *********

 Chapter 281 - Lets get you to her

    "Remember. No elders, women and kids should be hurt."


    The sky was profane black. Brooding. Men and women in Revon''s army curled their fingers around the rifles as they move closer to the Blaska bolts den. Wind mewled. Revon gave one last instruction, more a reminder, to his team.


    "But if they target you, don;t hesitate to use your weapons. Don''t show mercy who don''t value your life." Revon said. Suyin''s eyes shifted to Revon for a minute second. Appreciation evident. He looked at Suyin and nodded.


    Suyin stepped back. She knew her limitations and doesn''t want to be the burden to others. Instead of being with team A in the front, she had taken charge of team B, equipped with AT 4 anti-tank rocket launchers. Luo and Reis had team C and team D.


    They have surrounded the enemies from all sides. It''s their best chance to eliminate Blaska Bolts.


    "FIRE!" Suyin yelled. She was the angel of war tonight. She was all goodness and all evil.


    On cue, fifteen men came forward and kneeled, holding a rocket launcher over the shoulder. Their body jerked back. In a flash, an ear piercing sound shook the earth. Flames and dust rose.


    Rocket launchers were crude. Cruel. Made for destruction.


    The doors and the courtyard blew up into a jigsaw puzzle. Blown up bodies lying on the floor. Blood everywhere.


    The attack awakened the enemies. Screams echoed. Revon''s team charged in, screaming, fuelled with adrenaline, their guns pointing outwards.


    Suyin stayed with her team, ready with rocket launchers, fighting only when an enemy militia comes near her. They had already gotten a tip that enemies had similar rocket launchers. Far greater in quantity.


    "Zeke, I am moving towards the first floor." Suyin heard Revon''s voice in ear mic, immediately gesturing a team to give him a cover.


    What followed was a chaos. Rounds of gun fires.


    Screams.


    And blood.


    From the corner of her eyes she saw someone trying to sneak attack Luo. "Luo, 9''o''clock." Luo reacted at a lightening speed and fired at 9''o''clock.


    Suyin kept her eyes everywhere, making sure she gives her maximum.


    "HELP. HELP. PLEASE SAVE US."


    "HELP. HELP."


    Suyin''s ear perked. It was a faint yet audible sound coming from somewhere. Her brows furrowed. It was of women and kids screaming. But hadn''t they instructed their army not to target women and kids?


    "Zeke, did you hear that?" Reis came out of nowhere.


    "Where is it coming from? And why are they screaming?" it was a painful one at that.


    Reis fired at a man firing from behind the wall; the bullet hit him in the middle of the head,  "Maybe someone bypassed Revon''s instructions and went ahead for revenge. Blaska Bolts have killed many of our women and kids before. CAREFUL--"


    Suyin jumped and rolled on the floor.


    "BASTA*D!" Reis fired at the direction of the attack, killing two. The team circled Suyin, letting Reis Drag her to a nearest pillar.


    "You okay?"


    Suyin touched the side of her neck. Blood soaking her palm, dripping down. She looked at the place where she was standing a moment before. Three of her team member lying dead with knife stabbed in throat.


    "Impalement assassins. One of Blaska Bolts deadliest. Experts in sneak attacks like this." Reis leaned forward to see the cut. It was a close call. "You will need stitches--" Before he could complete Suyin takes out a white bandage from her pocket and sealed the cut on her neck. "It will hurt while peeling it off."Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #''s-get-you-to-her_52165199167290965 for visiting.


    "Not like I care." She stood. Three men immediately replaced the dead ones of her team and once again stood with her.


    "HELP.... HELP....." The voices continued.


    Suyin''s lips twitched. She glanced where Luo was fighting fiercely. Their army was doing very well, giving a hard time to the enemies. Though the situation seems under control, she can''t leave her place vacant. "Reis!" with a nod, Reis rushed to the direction of the voice, his team following him.


    She was connected to the team leaders through ear mic and can hear everyone. Despite the continuous noise of gun fires assaulting her ear, she made sure to sent help to every team leader.


    "AHHHHHHHH--- ZEKE!"


    "REIS!" She heard Reis'' painful scream, followed by dead silence. "REIS??? REIS! SHIT. Captain Jake, take charge, I''m going after Reis.  You, you, you, and you, come with me."


    Luo heard Suyin from the ear mic, "NO. DON''T GO ALONE. WAIT FOR ME."


    REVON, "WAIT FOR US. NOT ALONE."


    "HELLO??"


    "ZEKE??"


    "HELLO?"


    Luo, "Damn, she''s gone."


    Revon, "I''m stuck. There are way too many here. Can you?" Reis even failed to notice Luo had used ''She'' for Zeke.


    Luo, "Can''t. I''m surrounded from all sides. They have increased in number suddenly."


    Revon, "Sh*y. Same."


    ...


    .....


    .....


    "Reis? Reis, come in. Reis?" As her steps closed in, so as the darkness. Twigs snapped, dried leaves crushed under their foot. Don''t know what this place was, but seems like a part separated from the main den yet inside the den.


    As she moved closer, the sound got louder and louder. "Guys, stay close. Keep your eyes open." Sensing a pin drop silence, she looked over her shoulder, her eyes protruding out in shock. The men following her lying on the floor. Don''t know dead or just unconsciousness.


    "Luo, Revon," She called, but had lost the signal already as she moved deeper. Instead of moving alone, it''s best to get someone. With the thought, she turned, ready to sprint from what looks like a cave. Just than a metal bar dropped from the ceiling, shutting the only way out.


    Trap.


    "It''s hard to believe you will fall into my trap so easily," the dastardly laughter echoed. Suyin''s eyes searched around, stopping at the silhouette appearing from the dark. Suddenly the bright yellow lights turned on, illuminating the cave.


    "Reis!"


    Standing ahead was none other than Reis, but the smile on his face was a sneer. Cruel. Mocking. Another man appeared behind Reis, following another, and then another.....


    Suyin recognise one with the long hair as the leader of Blaska Bolts. Revon had shown his picture.


    "It''s nice to see you," The leader smirked.


    Reis c.o.c.ked his head, talking to the leader, "You wanted Revon. But see, I brought the entire army of Sandrios Brigade, tons of weapons, armoured vehicles, and the infamous baldy aka who spoiled our plan before."


    *********


    On the East Coast


    El Sandrios,


    "I told-- I told you everything about him. Now let me go. Don''t kill--kill me...." Captain Voodoo begged, on his knees.


    Being scared is normal response when facing danger. And the danger in front were as some powerful men who can get anyone killed with just a flick of a finger. The most dangerous amongst them was standing on the edge of the ship, watching the sea as if it''s the most amazing thing he had ever seen.


    Wang Shi didn''t move and waited for Xiu Mei as she ran her fingers on the laptop. "Where is Suyin? I can''t see her." she mumbled. Wang Shi walked over to check.


    "Play the recording again," Wang Shi said. The video started, four men were seen negotiating with Captain Voodoo. "There-- that''s my Suyin."


    Xiu Mei gasped, "This?" zoomed in, "She-- she--" her eyes darted at Jianyu and then at Wang Shi looking at a bald man, longingly.


    "Track her. We are going now." Wang Shi''s cold eyes dropped at Captain Voodoo, "He''s yours X."


    "NO! You promised to let me go if--"


    "I''m letting you free." Wang Shi wiped his hand clean. He had punched this man before, "But I don''t have control over the action of others."


    "YOU LIED... THIS IS WRONG. I--I---" Words stuck. A dark shadow swooped closer.


    Xion pushed his hat up, revealing his deep blue eyes.


    Captain Voodoo, "I gave you all the money I took from those men. Take my ship, men, and everything. But spare my life. I--"


    "You broke underworld''s rules." Xion turned sharply, "Burn down everything-- including him." What followed were screams, and everything engulfed in fire.


    ...


    "Dad!" Honey pushed open the car''s door seeing Wang Shi coming and ran. His expectant eyes searched Wang Shi''s.


    Wang Shi crouched down, "Let''s get you to her."


    ********

 Chapter 282 - Over confidence sinks the ship.

    "Can''t believe it''d be so easy to fool you." He snatched Suyin''s backpack and turned it upside down, "Let''s see what you carry in there. I was always curious about it--Ahh," His eyes shone at the sight of her card, "--this! Now my entire army can get more weapons."


    "Traitor. You work for them," Suyin said. Her eyes scanning the number of people surrounding her. Twenty. One of them raised a recorder over head and winked at her. So the voices from earlier were coming from it.


    "Work?" Reis laughed, and the other joined him as if Suyin had cracked a joke. "You--you think I work for them? Hahaha.... Alex, she thinks I''m one of your underlings and you are the leader. WHICH I AM NOT," Suyin staggered back when Reis leaned to her face suddenly. His eyes protruding out. "I AM BLASKA. THEIR LEADER. THIS IS MY ARMY."


    Reis waved his hand. A man came and tied Suyin''s hand behind her. "The attack on Revon''s family and at me in the hotel--"


    "Yes, all planned by me. I did everything." Reis didn''t let her complete, " Do you have any idea how many efforts I had put to lurk Marina and her son out of the safety of their camps? But before my men could get them, don''t know from where you and that rascal Luo popped up. To worse, you even saved the child." he poked the pointed end of rifle at Suyin''s shoulder knowing she had an old injury there.


    She grunted. Cold sweat trickled down her forehead.


    "I felt the same fear when Revon threatened me. Bastard." Reis spat, "It was the perfect plan to bring Revon to his knees, and get control of Sandrios Brigade and the capital city under him. A step closer to the master''s dream--"


    "Master? You mean the one who is pulling the string from behind, and puppets like you are dancing at his beat. AHH--" her face whipped to the left, cheek stinging. She spat a mouthful of blood.


    "No one says anything about him."


    "Why not? You master is killing thousands of people for his selfish gain. What for? For power? Money? He might get everything in the end, but minions like you will be dead. And soon I will kill that bastard as well."


    Reis laughed, "You will kill master? Silly woman, have you ever seen him? Forgot about seen, do you even know his name--"


    "A.L.P.H.A." Suyin enunciated word by word, amused seeing shock register on Reis'' face. She threw that name to him just to check, but his expression gave way.


    He grabbed her neck, squeezing, "How?"


    She choked, "I-- I know everything. More than you know."


    "Impossible. No one can ever get to him,"


    "But you can. And you will take me to him." it was just a momentary pause for Reis to understand the meaning behind her words, her smile, and the confidence she''s emitting.


    He let out a loud snort of laughter that looks like a forced one. "Confidence, huh? Standing in front of death yet your attitude didn''t change. Don''t you want to know what I am about to do with you?"


    "You will not kill me. That I''m sure." she said, "And you have no idea what will become of you if your---master-- came to know of that. Anyhow, Other than my money you are only interested in the power and influence in my hands. Am I right, or am I right? You want to know how I am going to bring the international help, and use it negatively to achieve personal goals."


    With every word, Reis smug vanished.  Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #._52212897715112034 for visiting.


    "Well, let me enlighten you than- money I don''t have left anymore. And the power, I already exercised."


    Her words were more like a puzzle to Reis. He had been following her all this while, but it looks like she had done many things behind him. And she definitely knows Alpha more than him. A feeling to premonition started to grow within him.


    "But before that, why not worry about the danger already at your door--"


    "BOSS, BOSS," Someone yelled.


    "Bring her along," Reis ordered, and the men dragged her roughly. Suyin realised their was a surveillance room here, showing everything happening outside the cave.


    The tables have turned. A new army of over twenty thousand people have joined Revon''s army, killing Reis''s like ants. "If this was the trap for me, I set one for the traitor as well." She had discussed the possibility of a traitor with Revon, and he had the same thoughts.


    During the attack at Revon''s wife and son, someone had lured them out of the safety of the camp in the name of Revon being in danger. Marina left in a haste with some men to the dockyard to save her husband who had left for some emergency work. Alone.


    Shockingly even his phone was tampered, and Marina couldn''t contact him. Suyin was there when Marina tried in vain to contact her husband but failed.


    It was Revon who got to know about Marina leaving for the dockyard in search of him. He understood it was a trap.


    "I bought all the slaves from Captain Voodoo. Revon promised them freedom if they help us in our mission." She smiled, irking Reis, "Over confidence sinks the ship. We had kept them at bay to use only when the traitor plays his move. Which you did and revealed yourself." with her eyes she pointed at the small button on her collar, "Everyone saw you, Reis--"


    THUD


    Something hit Suyin, and she fell down.


    ********


    "FASTER, THEY ARE FOLLOWING US,"


    "SHIT, WE ESCAPED FROM THE SECRET EXIT. HOW ARE THEY KEEPING WITH US SO PRECISELY?"


    Reis glanced at unconsciousness Suyin, teeth grounding in anger. His entire army was erased, and many surrendered to Sandrios Brigade. His years of hard work disappeared over night. Just like that.


    To worse, he can''t even go to Alpha, for sure he''d be killed. Nor could he fall into Revon''s hands. God knows how he''d be tortured by him.

 Chapter 283 - The owner of the voice

    Now the only bargaining chip in hand was the bald woman. According to Suyin Alpha has some use from her, maybe he gets another chance. But before that he had to get rid of the pests following him.


    "Strip her. This bitch must be hiding a tracker in her body."


    A man grabbed the collar and yanked her coat open, forcing it out of her body. Despite the danger approaching, excitement evident. Three others joined him to help.


    But before they could shrug her out of it, two of them fell unconsciousness, confusing the remaining two. Before they could think of something, Suyin charged at a lightening speed, and stabbed them on chest with a syringe.


    *******


    "They are driving towards the forest, don''t let them escape," Revon commanded. He pushed his rifle out the window and aimed at rear vehicle of Reis'' convoy. There were five.


    However, it was an armoured vehicle. A bullet or two won''t do any harm to the tyres. Luo aimed the rocket launcher and fired at the one in which he was sure Suyin was not.


    The vehicle lost balance and smashed into a tree. "Team A, get them. We need as many we can to interrogate." Luo said.


    Revon, "This is insane,"


    Luo, "All of this would be in vain if we don''t catch them alive."


    "But Zeke--"


    "We are there for that. His life monitor is still showing he''s alive. So make sure not to kill Reis. He''s the one we need most."


    Revon grunted, but he agrees with Luo''s words.


    Soon they noticed another convoy of armoured vehicles joining them. And this one seems more organised, containing uncountable vehicles.


    "Who are--" Luo paused. The sound of helicopters whirling over head suppressed every noise. Every one of them following the SUV in which Suyin was.


    *******


    "Mei," Wang Shi asked over the walkie talkie. He was driving one of the armoured vehicle, chasing the one in which Suyin was. Sitting beside him, Jianyu was leading the team on ground while Xion was leading the one in the air.


    Xiu Mei was at one of the helicopters, Honey sitting with her, looking down from the window. Love manifests worry, and he was never this worried in his entire life. He placed a hand at his heart and gently coaxed it. "She will be fine. She will be fine."


    "You are very close to her. She''s in the vehicle ahead. Hurry, her vital stats on the tracker is fluctuating," Xiu Mei said. Thanks to captain Voodoo, they got to know Suyin had bought a tracker from him. It was just a cake walk for Xiu Mei to hack Suyin''s tracker.


    Wang Shi pressed the accelerator maximum. It overjoyed him as well as worried. Finally, they have found her.


    "Why is it swaying so much?" Jianyu asked, frowning at the vehicle in front.


    "Mei said Suyin''s vital stats are fluctuating. If I am not wrong, she''s fighting in there." Wang Shi said, "Ca''t take any risk. Hold tight, I am going to slam." a second later he crashed into Suyin''s SUV.


    *******


    "Bitch," While balancing the car with one hand, Reis hit her with the back of the rifle. Suyin had done something to his men that they were lying unresponsive. Don''t know if dead or alive. She had a long syringe in her hand.


    Suyin''s breathed from mouth. Her body was already giving up, only she knows how she was keeping herself conscious. By injecting herself with adrenaline.


    But there''s a limit to it as well.


    Blood dripped from her nose, she wiped it with her sleeves. Her eyes searching for the last benzodiazepine injection. Finding it stabbed in the leather seat just a few inches away from Reis. She missed the target.


    She collected herself and shrugged out of her coat. Though there were weapons in the car, she wanted Reis alive. And threatening him was a vain when he already knew she won''t kill him.


    Just than a car crashed in to theirs, giving the perfect opportunity to her.


    With all her remaining strength, she charged again. Reis was trying to control the car, believing he had knocked out Suyin. The very next second everything turned dark in front of his eyes.


    Suyin pressed her coat at his face, pressing maximum at nose with her palm, targeting the weak point. Reis struggled, scratched her. She grabbed the sleeves from the other side with her right hand, and pulled another sleeve with her mouth, pulling it until it reached within right hand''s grip. And then she pulled it with all her might.


    The whole thing was freaky as if a pillow smothering you.


    The car lost control and swayed towards the marsh.


    Suyin was unprepared for this. Just than something crashed into her vehicle. The impact was so strong that rattled her teeth. Tires screeched. It was either a dead end or her team was helping her. She wished for the later.


    The car slammed into a tree and came to a halt.


    Her heart became heavy like it wants a break, she snapped herself out of it. Reis had freed himself and had opened the door to get out. Suyin didn''t budge. She can hear the voice of people approaching, cars screeching to a halt, and just than someone nabbed Reis.


    "Suyin!" The door to the side opened from outside and she heard a familiar voice. Her dropping eyelids tried to remain open to see the owner of this voice. A voice that feels so warm that despite her brain telling to go away, her heart and body opposed. "Thank God, I found you, my love." the touch! it was everything she ever wished for, yet something was stopping her.


    "Reis--" Before she could say, her unconsciousness took over.


    "DUCKY!"


    "SUYIN!"


    All she heard was two voices screaming for her and something soft embracing her.


    *********


    Author''s note--


    Finally they are together! Time to celebrate. And I''m looking forward to write their scenes together. Yayyy!


    The separation is over but not the sad part :(

 Chapter 284 - He was not needed.

    Don''t know what time of the day it was, or how many days had passed, Suyin blinked her eyes open. Subtle golden glow filtered through the window, and she could taste salt in the air. Salt? That''s unusual.


    However, to her surprise she smelled something unusual too. A pleasantly soothing fragrance of baby products. Not just any baby products but the one Honey smelled of. How can she not recognise this yummy fragrance?


    Subconsciously she hugged the pillow, taking in more of the fragrance. It felt like a beautiful dream.


    The noise that came out of her wasn''t surprising as the horror reality hit when the pillow moved and hugged her back. The supposed pillow said in a cute and cheerful voice. "So finally you wake up, ducky. Good morning!"


    Suyin''s screams echoed as she jumped away from the bed and fell on the floor. Her nails screeching the floor, her eyes blindly focused on the ''speaking pillow''.


    Where are her glasses?


    Honey sniffed, "Bad ducky. I won''t talk to you. First you left me alone, and now you jumped away from me after seeing me. Don''t you love me anymore? Did you find another fairy for yourself?" he get down from the bed, and cupped her face in his small hands. Possessive much.


    Confused Suyin struggled to grasp the situation, battling if it''s a dream or reality. "You''re...you--" just than Honey slide her glasses on her nose.Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #._52465610638022773 for visiting.


    "You you what? Who else were you expecting? Who else dare to sleep with you? I''m warning you, you are not allowed to get another fairy."


    Suyin stared at the fairy like face owlishly. Had she died and her soul was in heaven? Only heaven can be this beautiful and peaceful. With shivery hands she reached to touch Honey''s face, down to his body, his hands. Tears rolling down...


    "You-- you--"


    "Did you hit your head somewhere? Don''t you recognise me anymore?" Honey ran his hands on her bald head looking for any signs of injury. "I''m your little fairy," and then he did the unexpected. Peppering Suyin''s face with his sweet kisses. "Remember, you used to trouble me for kisses? We even had a deal of hundred kisses. Now do you remember me--"


    Suyin pulled him in her embrace, squeezing in arms. Her hug was stronger than she had ever hugged Honey as if just hugging him wasn''t enough. And Honey did the same. The little human put all his strength in the hug silently letting her know his feelings, and how much he had missed her.


    It was the yearning of a butterfly for the cocoon''s warmth and to be safe within its walls. Protected.


    And in that moment Honey lost his composure and broke down in Suyin''s embrace. It was the hug he had ever wanted. "I hate-- I hate you.... you are bad, you left me alone....." In his crying he shed away any pretence or cold demeanour, and let her see the real six-year-old child.


    "Yes, I''m bad. I''m sorry... I''m sorry...."


    "NO. You are very, very, very bad. You are a lier as well. You don''t love me."


    "I love you. I love my fairy the most."


    "Lie,"


    "I love my fairy more than my life. Trust me."


    "Then why did you leave me? I hate you,"


    "I left you because you said the same three words."


    She felt him hitting her back with his fist. Don''t know if he was coaxing, or hitting in complaint, but they were gentlest of punches. "But wasn''t it you who said one should not take child''s words to heart? How can you? Do you know how much worried I was? You are terrible. I hate you. I hate you."


    "Okay, okay, sorry, stop crying now. Should I hold my ear and kowtow?"


    "No. Promise me you would never leave me again,"


    "You also promise you will live with me and never say the hate word again,"


    Honey broke the hug and looked at her, stirring her heart. Looking adorable with wet red face, and lips jutted out. "Promise. I love you, ducky."


    "Aww.... and I love you, my fairy. I love you--" Suyin spread her arms like a starfish, "--this much." Honey spread his arms like a spoilt kid, and Suyin again embraced him, peppering kisses wherever she could.


    Standing inconspicuously at the door, Wang Shi let the tears flow. The two persons were his life, his strength and weakness. His emotions stir like ocean currents. Wish he could enter inside the room and join them, hug them, cry with them.


    But no. He was left out.


    He was not needed.


    But he successfully managed to capture the beautiful union of mother-son. Now he can watch it on loop and live the moment with them again. Just differently.


    "One day you will be part of it," Jianyu pressed on Wang Shi''s shoulder.


    "One day," Wang Shi said, "When will that day would come?"


    Jianyu didn''t have the answer to that, he held his silence, and just stood by Wang Shi''s side.


    "Is Zeke awake? Let me see him,"


    "You can''t keep us from meeting him. Not anymore."


    Wang Shi frowned. Luo and Revon had been such a pain all this while. Not only these two, but an army of over God knows how many people who had forcefully campaigned alongside Wang Shi, Xion, and Jianyu''s temporary camp.


    "How did you two--" Jianyu stopped. He already got the answer how did the two know Suyin woke up.


    "I told them! I told them! Zeke woke up! ZEKE. ZEKE. ZEKE." A disheveled woman jumped on her toes, clapping like kids. She had smudges of dried mud on her face, clothes and hair. She was wearing trousers and a tank top larger her size. She scratched her frizzy hair with nails and peeked inside the tent. "ZEKE! AMARA IS HERE! Bad uncles and little devil tried to stop me, but I was peeking from the window."


    Suyin''s head snapped at the door, "Amara, Luo, Revon, come inside."


    Honey placed himself between Suyin and others. "Prepare for your end if you dare come near her. She''s mine and dad''s. You cannot take her."

 Chapter 285 - Title is a spoiler

    Amara sneered, "Little devil, give Zeke to us. ZEKE, AMARA MISSED YOU. Did you find out about my kids and husband? Where are they?" Amara looked underneath the bed, "Are they hiding there?"


    Amara was the same woman who lost her kids and husband, resulting in her current mental condition. They were dead, but the woman refused to believe on it.


    "Baby, where are you? Mumma is here," Amara pouted, "Zeke, they are not here. I will look outside. Looks like they are playing hide and seek with me." Amara paused at the door, and slowly turned back, "Little devil--" she called Honey and stick out her tongue to him.


    Luo, "Zeke, you alright?"


    Revon, "We need to talk. There--" Luo shook his head, stopping Revon.


    All this while Suyin''s attention was at only one man. Neither she nor Wang Shi looked away from each other.


    Honey placed his hand on Suyin''s cheek to get her attention, "These people are weird. They created so much problem for dad during your treatment. Even now they refused to go from here and have camped outside. Just what do they want from you?" thought of Suyin leaving with them scares Honey. Insecurities rooting inside him. "Tell them, you won''t go with them. You are ours and will come with us to Cheyna."


    Revon, "Zeke--"


    Honey, "SHE''S NOT ZEKE. Stop pestering her. She won''t come with you. Why are you--"


    "Honey," Suyin called as gently as ever, taking Luo and Revon by surprise. "I''m not going anywhere, sweetie. Let me talk to them."


    Though Honey nodded, he firmly grabbed Suyin''s trouser in her fist and remained by her side. Suyin stood up, she can see questions in Luo and Revon''s eyes, but they don''t have to know about her personal life or the surrounding people. "How is everyone?"


    Revon, "We lost a few people, but overall the situation is under control. With the fall of Blaska Bolts small militia groups are trying to recruit their members, and grab resources, but our members are taking care of them. But--" he looked at Wang Shi and Jianyu.


    "Reis is with them. They haven''t let us see him." Luo closed in, and leaned to Suyin, "I know they saved your life, but are they trustworthy? They are carrying deadly weapons and have the support of the ex-government officials." that''s why Wang Shi managed to get helicopters so easily. "And the one in the brown suit called you his wife."


    Suyin''s jaw tightened. She cast a stern gaze at Wang Shi, but couldn''t rebuke him because of a certain human clinging to her leg. "I will take care of them. Take the cities under Blaska bolts under control, and don''t let any other power rise. I''m sure Alpha must be aware of everything and will try to salvage his sinking boat."


    Luo, "Alpha?"


    "The mastermind. Reis confirmed it. He''s the same man for which I have come here. It''s time we get him--"


    Honey pulled Suyin''s trouser, "Ducky, are you going back on your promise? Will you leave me again?"


    Suyin ruffled Honey''s hair, gesturing Luo and Revon with her hand to leave her alone. She crouched down, "I have some important work to finish here. Only then I will go back to Cheyna."


    "I''m with you until then. Have to search for the bad man who hurt my brother, and ducky."


    "Brother?"


    Honey patted his heart, "My brother in arms. Have to get justice for him." Suyin kissed his hair.


    As if recalled something important, Suyin snapped at Wang Shi. "Fairy, can you excuse us for sometime? You too, Mr. Feng."


    "Will you fight with dad?" Honey looked between her and Wang Shi.


    "Honey," Suyin''s voice dropped a few octaves. "Be good."


    Light faded from Honey''s eyes. He touched the tip of his fingers, "I don''t want to see you two fighting. You both are my favourite, and I love you both."


    "We will talk. Only talk. Now can you please give us alone time?" Wang Shi tried to sound cheerful, though he doubts it helped. Honey was still reluctant. He knew what will follow once he steps out.


    "Only if I get a kiss from both," Honey demanded. Wang Shi bent down to kiss, "Simultaneously." Honey finished the sentence, dropping the bomb.


    Suyin narrowed her eyes at Wang Shi, who shook his head in response. Mouthing, ''I didn''t ask for that."


    Suyin, "Honey. Stop being a brat--"


    "No no no." Honey sat down on the bed, crossing hands over chest, "I will leave only if I get a kiss on both cheeks. Otherwise you can talk in my presence, just pretend I''m invisible."


    Jianyu suppressed a smile, praising Honey in heart. This little firecracker played the best move. Too good. This must be the result of the brainstorming of the three naughty ones in their house. God knows what else Honey had come prepared with.


    Suyin, "Then I won''t--"


    Honey grabbed her trousers again, almost pulling it down in the process. Suyin instantly grabbed it before somethig bad happen. He made that cute crying face Suyin can never resist, "D-Ducky--"


    Suyin "..."


    Wang Shi "...."


    "Fine!" Suyin leaned down to give a kiss on Honey''s left cheek, and Wang Shi happily brought his lips forward to the right cheek.


    Just when they were about to kiss, Honey moved back.


    Suyin''s lips met with Wang Shi''s.


    "Yayyyy!" Honey clapped.


    Horrified, she pulled back, glowering at Honey.


    "My work is done here. I will wait outside," Honey pushed to his feet, "Don''t fight. I am waiting right outside,"


    Wang Shi had the most difficult time controlling his laughter. On one side his son was throwing punches, while on the other Suyin''s expression was priceless.


    "Ducky, "Honey stopped at the doorstep, c.o.c.ked his head, "Honey loves you, mummy. Muahh," flying kiss.


    Beneath Suyin''s feet the floor felt soft. Her heart thumped.


    Her eyes glued to the little devil''s departing back who just threw a nuclear bomb at her as if it''s a firecracker and was walking away.


    Slowly her heartbeat returned, bringing a smile along.


    Mummy.


    Mummy.


    When was the last time someone called her that? Never.


    "Mummy," she mumbled. "Honey''s mummy."


    "Yeah. Mummy. Honey''s mummy," Suyin heard Wang Shi say. He took two steps to help her sit down on the bed, but she slapped his hand away.


    "ST-- " she lowered her voice recalling Honey had been waiting outside, "stop it."


    "Stop, what?"


    "Using Honey. Aren''t you ashamed?"


    Title- Honey loves you, mommy."


    *********

 Chapter 286 - For Honeys sake

    "Using Honey. Aren''t you ashamed?"


    What the hell was Wang Shi trying to do? Honey had become her weakness, it''s not a secret anymore. Suyin was beginning to think she would get difficult time if Wang Shi decide to use Honey to get back to her.


    "You understand Honey as much as I do. Do you really think I even had to play such tricks?" His mischievous smile gave her goosebumps, "My son-- oops-- OUR SON-- understands the complexity of the situation and can take necessary steps without any outside influence."


    Suyin''s jaw ticked, bubbling in anger. "You could have stopped him. You should."


    "Why should I?" Another mischievous smile, irking her. "I want you in my life as much he does. Did you forget already, with Honey comes a complimentary Wang Shi? No return. No exchange. Mandatory love required."


    "That will not be possible. It''s over between us. Forever and ever."


    "The hell," he scoffed, "A relationship is built by two people. We started this relationship together. Who are you to end it alone? Who gave you the right to decide for both of us? Who are you to separate yourself from me? Is this all a game for you? Three lives are at stake, dammit. Who are you to sentence me punishment based on a single incident?"


    "That was not just an incident, but a part of my soul." her arms tightened around her waist.


    "So as me." his face was hard with frustration, "I had lost my daughter and my son was on the verge of death. Do you think I took the decision happily? No. It was my last resort to keep my dying child alive."


    She clapped, "So the Richie rich doctor Wang Shi is justifying his actions."


    There was a long pause as he started at her. His lips quivered, "Nothing can justify my actions. Nothing. I know you won''t believe me, I''m already a criminal in your eyes, but had I aware that you didn''t sign up for heart donation, I wouldn''t have taken the heart. Never."


    She stared at him, shocked by his fierceness of not giving up. "How does that matter now? It''s all over. Don''t you pretend as if this breakup is a big deal and a few months of relationship matters to you--"


    "SUYIN," His tone took the hard edge as he took a step closer. Suyin took a step back. "You might be angry, but don''t make fun of my love. Our feelings were genuine to each other. It still is. It''s just unfortunate that we have to face all this."


    "Love. Genuine feelings. How can you even use these heavy words without even stuttering in front of me? LOOK AT ME," her face was hard with frustration, "Standing in front of you is a woman whose son''s heart you stole at the price of a hundred million. I''m the same woman whom you toyed with and hid this secret. Now tell me where is the love in all this? Where are the genuine feelings?"


    "Stop saying I stole the heart and toyed with you. And I never intended to keep this as a secret,"


    "But you did exactly that."


    "STOP IT. FOR GODS SAKE, STOP IT, AND JUST LET ME SPEAK ONCE--"


    "I heard someone yelling. Are you two fighting?" Honey opened the door uninvited and poked his little head. His abrupt intervention stopped Wang Shi from yelling.


    Suyin walked to him and caressed his head, "No. We were just talking."


    "Promise? I don''t want you two to fight."


    "No fighting," Suyin said, "Can you please give us some more time?"


    "Okay. But I''m still at the door." Honey gently closed the door, "Can''t trust you two." Suyin heard the little one mumble.


    Suyin turned to face Wang Shi and saw him drinking water from her glass. She frowned. "Keep your voice low. I don''t want Honey to hear any of this."


    That made him laugh, "He already knows about the tension between us. That''s why he''s not willing to leave us alone."


    "And whose fault is that? You not only brought him here in this war zone country, but letting him know the tension between us."


    "Kids are sensitive to emotions of their parents and can sense the tension between them. Whose words were these? Besides, who asked Honey to stay under the protection of his father and never leave his side?"


    Suyin didn''t have an answer to that. She averted her gaze and sat down on the only furniture in the room. Portable bed.


    Just then Wang Shi crouched down in front of her and held her hand, startling her. She opened her mouth to say, but he placed his finger on her mouth, "Don''t say a word. Remember we promised to let each other speak if any problem comes between us? Remember we promised to hear each other out before taking any decision? Please, let''s honour those promises."


    Suyin''s silence was a positive sign, letting him start. He sucked in a deep, shaky breath.


    "I admit I have messed up. I should have inquired more about the heart, and should have insisted on talking to you personally. But being a parent, no one in this world can understand my situation better than you." Suyin looked into his eyes, understanding where this was going.


    "You are again justifying your actions," she said softly.


    "I''m not. Trust me. I am in a weird position where one side I am thankful that my son is alive, the heart purchased from the black market saved him, but on the other I''m sorry that your son became victim of this black trade." He squeezed her hands, "I know it was wrong of me to approach black market and put the price. I know it doesn''t matter to you if I was oblivious to everything or not. But I can''t change what happened."


    "Wish I can turn the clock and not take the heart from your son. You wouldn''t be this mad at me, don''t you?" It was a question that even Suyin questioned herself. Will she do the same if Wang Shi had taken the heart from some another child and not her son? "Tell me, will you do the same had it was not your son''s heart inside Honey?"


    He placed her palm over his heart, letting her feeling the rhythm. He was anxious of loosing her, and passionately in love with her. "You wouldn''t. This much I know you. The woman whose crush didn''t change in ten years, who kept loving me in secret, and had never forgotten to sent me gifts on my birthdays, festivals and on my every achievement-- she must have seen something special in me for loving me like this."


    He pinched her chin between his finger and thumb, "Am I right, my love? Isn''t this one of the reason that you said yes to my proposal and were willing to give this relationship a chance? Because you already knew what kind of human I am."


    Silent tears rolled down her eyes. "D-Don''t expect anything from me, Wang Shi. These emotional talks won''t work. Not now at least."


    "I know. I know. I know you need time." He stood and sat down on the bed beside her, not leaving her hand even once. "Take as much time you want. I won''t complaint. But please don''t push me away from you. You can have Honey, Honey is all yours, I will never claim my right on him, but don''t make him choose between you and me. You know he won''t be able to take this blow."


    Wang Shi had seen the enthusiasm in Honey thinking about getting both mummy and daddy. He knew Honey had come prepared with plans to keep Suyin with him. But would it be fair to Suyin? Though Wang Shi indulge his son, and he knew that with Honey''s help Suyin wouldn''t be able to leave him, but he won''t get Suyin''s love by doing this.


    Wang Shi had thought long and hard, and had decided to let Suyin have her own space, but simultaneously stay by her side. Maybe one day she''d have a change of heart, and accept him as well.Find authorized novels in , faster updates, better experience, Please click #''s-sake_52490577282916541 for visiting.


    "I am getting bored now. Are you two done?" Once again Honey poked his head through the slightly opened door. Anxiousness visible on his face. He saw them sitting face to face, "Are you two fighting--"


    "No, we are not." Suyin interrupted and walked to pick him in arms. She kissed his cheek. "Stop thinking about fighting again and again. We are elders, not kids who will fight."


    Honey asked from Suyin''s arms, "Really dad? Then what were you doing?"


    Wang Shi tapped Honey''s nose, "Elders talk. It''s boring, and serious."


    Honey, "Then I don''t want to know. I just want to be with my ducky, and daddy forever." feeling excited, he kissed the side of Suyin''s bald head, feeling sad the very next moment.


    Suyin, "It''s okay. They will grow back. Unless you don''t like bald ducky--" he slammed his little hand on her lips.


    "My ducky is forever beautiful. But promise me this is the last time you got this haircut." It made her laugh. She hooked her pinky finger to Honey''s, promising him. "I love you both," Honey hugged the two.


    Unknown to Honey, the two shared a secret glance as if communicating something.


    Unknown to Suyin, Honey winked at his father as if saying, ''I am here. She will be ours.'' Then he looked above the sky, ''You better not have second thoughts about them. I want to see them together, don''t you meddle with my plans.''


    God''s lips twitched, but he was still very happy. It''s been a while since these two have talked to him. Though the crazy woman was still not in a mood, at least the little one spoke one.


    **********

 Chapter 287 - James and Zeng

    Pellian, France.


    Perched on a cliff about 18km North of Nice on French Riviera, exists a pedestrian only town that lacks souvenir stands, fancy restaurants, old bakeries, and shops as that of the main cities in France. Until today James and Zeng were not even aware there exists such a place in France despite they have been to the country hundreds of times.


    Steep stairs, low passageways, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered building, it carries a medieval charm. The beauty and the views were just specular and worth taking a look on every step. But the two men had turned a blind eye to the untouched beauty and were scouring the streets in search of someone.


    Something James had picked from Evan''s computer table turned up as an importance evidence that was now helping them find the missing pieces of the puzzle.


    An old photograph it was. If Evan had kept it under the keyboard, it must be important to him, and judging by the crumbled edges and yellow tint, he must have touched it a lot.


    In the black-and-white photograph Evan was barely three or four years old, gently embraced in the arms of a woman standing near Eiffel tower. In old times when digital cameras were not a thing, the photographs were taken by film cameras which had brown reels.


    And one can find many cameramen snapping photographs near Eiffel Tower. James knew he was calling a blind shot, but to try his luck he used his resources in France to check if the photograph was snapped by one such photographer as getting a personal camera was expensive at that time. He used the address mentioned at the back of the photograph.


    Voila. The photograph really came from one such men. Since developing photographs from films was not an instant process, the photographs were normally sent to the address through post. To James luck, he got the address on which the photograph was sent.


    However, upon reaching he found it was an old apartment in Paris, now occupied by someone else. And to his shock, Evan had come there before inquiring about the same. But why? Why was Evan trying to inquire about himself? Does he too not know something himself?


    Just when James thought he won''t get anything here, Zeng came to the rescue. Zeng had used his contacts in the racing circle to inquire about the Ricci family and the woman in the photograph.


    Since Evan had brutally murdered the entire Ricci family, there must be some connection between the two. It turned out the woman in the pic was Evan''s mother, youngest daughter of the Ricci family.


    Evan''s mother had fallen in love with a man much lower in standards to the Ricci family status when she was barely seventeen. As the family opposed the union, she eloped with her lover. The family patriarch disowned his daughter for bringing disgrace to the family.


    However, things didn''t stop here. Legally she was still a Ricci, entitled to get an equal share in property as that of her two elder siblings. Giving a share to the one who brought disgrace to the family was not acceptable to other siblings, and they got their sister''s house burned down with her family locked in.


    "How did you know all this?" James asked Zeng. His mind was in chaos hearing the story, already there were questions and now many more popped up. He glanced at the beautiful scenery and sighed.


    Zeng passed folder with newspaper clippings to James, "It was in news at that time. All five members were charred to death, alive. Everyone knew who did that, but Ricci family bought evidences, and suppressed the case. A month later the case was closed in the name of fire caused by short circuit."


    "But that didn''t answer my question,"


    "Before coming here I hired a private detective. Besides why do you think I didn''t come to the hotel for two days?" Zeng glanced at his phone, the google maps pointed at left. He gestured the same to James.


    "I thought you went for a hook--"


    "Shut up, you dirty mind. Who do you take me for?'''' Zeng scowled, "I and my friends went for drag racing with the so-called rich brats of the city. I later grabbed the opportunity and inquired about Ricci''s over drinks. Men, I tell you--" he turned to James, "--they are better gossipers than women."


    "Ha, no one can beat me and Susu in gossips. We can gossip about dogs even." James slapped his hand in the air. "Anyway, are you sure we can get any information from this one? Because Evan definitely survived that fire. But how? Was there any other survivor?"


    "Let''s ask her. Hope she will answer our questions. At least some. She was a servant to Evan''s family when they died in fire. Since Ricci family is not around anymore, she doesn''t have anyone to fear..... Go down that way,"


    They stopped at the doors of an old house. The address Zeng got from a private detective was this. James knocked twice and waited.


    A man opened a small opening build in the door and questioned.


    Before Zeng could say, James stepped on his toe to silence him. "Hi, we are tourists and lost our way. Can you please help us to the nearest bus stand or a place to spend the night? I will appreciate a glass of water."


    "Ask next door." The man answered rudely.


    "I told you," Zeng interrupted, taking James by surprise, "I told you people of France are rude and they never help anyone. You see that? I shouldn''t have listened to you and have come here. We are stuck in this God-damn place now. Damn, I will do anything to get me out of here. I have a race tomorrow and millions of dollars are at stake. " Zeng raised his wrist, revealing the expensive watch and gold bracelet.


    The man shut the door on their face.


    "..."


    "..."


    James burst into a peel of laughter. "Do you think you can entice these villagers with money? Hahaha.... silly man,"


    "Do you have a better idea?"

 Chapter 288 - James and Zeng- end

    JUMP


    THUMP


    CRASH


    "WHO? WHO IS THERE?" The man ran to grab his rifle hung on the wall, and pointed at the two intruders who had jumped into the house through the window, and had landed straight over the potted cactus.


    Oww...


    o..


    My bum...


    "Get over me bastard, you are sitting on me." Zeng yelled, his face scrunched awkwardly.


    James smirked, "You deserve this. I wonder how will you do the morning work now?" Karma surely exists. Zeng had embarrassed him with the same question when James''s palm was scrapped by ropes.


    "Shut up, you idiot. Think about the hunter standing ahead, ready to punch holes~ don''t know in what parts."


    James'' head snapped to the man who looked in late fifties and had French beard. "Sir, sir sir, please don''t shoot at us. We are not here with any malicious intentions but looking for Mrs. Claire Fraise. We are from Cheyna, and here to inquire about the Ricci family''s daughter Romana and her child." He carefully raised Evan''s photograph towards the man. "This-- this.... this child and the woman."


    The man''s eyes never blinked, his body perfectly still, frown a sign of irritation rather than concentration. He raised the rifle up, "Get out before I kill you. There''s no one named Claire."


    Zeng tried to stand, but the cactus was stuck in his bum. He grunted in pain, looking around for something to hold on and try standing then. Just then his gaze fell on the photo frame on the table, "You--You are Mrs. Claire''s husband?" Zeng stated.


    "Honey, who''s there?" An elderly woman''s voice came from the stairs. Soon she clattered down to check and found her husband pointing a rifle at the two young men.


    "Darling, why did you come. These two rascals are from Ricci family. I will handle them and will dispose their bodies in our farm. Let me see how well it will fertilise our land--"


    "James?" The woman called, taking everyone by surprise.


    James raised his hand up, "It''s me. I am James. Please, I would be a terrible option to fertilise your land. But this man beside me is good for that. You can use him, I will help you in chopping him into pieces."


    Zeng "...."


    "James!" The woman called again, "You are James, my Lucy''s boyfriend? Oh my, you look so handsome in person!"


    James "..."


    Zeng, "How many boyfriends you have? Do you have STD? I better get checked,"


    James cast a look at Zeng still stuck over a cactus plant, "You are saying as if I have slept with you. Moron."


    "Whatever,"


    "Mrs. Fraise," James took slow steps towards the woman, simultaneously keeping an eye on her husband. "You mistook me for someone. I am James, but my boyfriend''s name is Evan, and we are here to ask a few questions about the fire in Valentino apartments and Mrs. Romana Ricci." he showed the photograph, "This woman and her child,"


    Claire Fraise smiled. She pointed at the same little boy aka Evan in the picture, "This is my Lucy. I mean.... Lucian. Romana''s son. Your Evan."


    ...


    .....


    James narrated the entire story about Evan and how they found him as beta working some secret organisation


    .....


    .....


    In the fire at Valentino apartments twenty-six years back, Evan''s father and grandparents were burned alive. But Romana escaped with little Evan.


    "But according to the police report, they found five bodies. Which includes a body of a toddler of the same age as of Evan.... I mean Lucian." James said.


    Claire shook her head, "Lucy and Romana were not among the dead ones. It was Romana''s friend and her son''s body. They were at her house that day to celebrate New Year, and couldn''t past run the fire," the woman pulled the sleeves up to show the burned skin, "I was at the house, and saw everything." Claire''s eye watered, her voice choked. The trauma still visible in her eyes.


    James pressed on her hand.


    Claire''s eyes swept over James''s face. "Lucy had told me about you. It shocked me first, two men in love~ I don''t understand all this. But he promised to bring you here to meet me once and show me why he chose you in life." a smile broke on the corner of James'' lips. He was right, Evan loves him. There''s a reason behind Evan''s harsh words.


    "Tell me more. Tell me everything. Where is Romana? When and how Evan met you? Everything. This is very important to me."


    "Soon after Romana left the country with Lucy to keep her child safe. She knew she was not in a position to get back to the powerful Ricci family, and it''s best she grab the only opportunity in hand that is to leave the country under the identity of her dead friend."


    "OWWWW...." Zeng howled, "Uncle, please be gentle."


    Claire dragged her eyes away from James''s flawless features and went to fetch a medicine from the drawer. She gave it to her husband who was nursing Zeng''s butt.


    "I helped Romana to escape. When cops questioned me, I lied everyone died in the fire. Later I also accepted the bribe from Ricci family and gave a false statement that fire started because of the short circuit. I had to do that to stay alive, as otherwise they would have got me killed."


    "How did Evan.... Lucy, found you?"


    "From the police records, Evan is looking for his past." Claire suddenly turned to James, and squeezed his shoulder, "Tell me how did you find me? Lucy specially chose this place for me and no one knows I live here." Her eyes protrude out in horror, "Lucy is in some kind of danger. I don''t know what, but I have seen the fear in his eyes when he came looking for me. Someone don''t want him to know about his past."


    "Oh oh," Zeng spoke up from the couch, "The private detective I hired--"


    James fast walked and parted the curtains slightly. Shocked someone was keeping eye on the house. "Aunty, we have to leave. Someone is keeping an eye on the house."


    The man stood up, grabbed his gun, "Don''t worry about us. I know what I have to do. You both leave from the back door. Go straight and take left to the blue lane towards the church road. Then right, and again right. Around two minutes of walk, and you will hear the sound of boats and seagulls." He threw a key towards James, "White boat, yellow strips. CF initials. That''s mine. GO!"


    Claire, "Jamie, Romana left for El Sandrios. If you want more information, that''s the place you should go. Be careful child." She takes out a diary from the drawer, and threw it at James, "This has information about Romana''s dead friend, the identity she used to escape."


    James tug the diary on waist and gave Zeng a shoulder to help him out. After getting out, James turned to take a look at the house, hoping safety for the couple. To his relief, a few people from the village were fast walking to the old couple''s house. Everyone had hockey sticks, knives, guns in hand.


    Surely the people in villages stand for each other in need.


    James, "RUN!"


    Zeng, "RUN!"


    **********

 Chapter 289 - Your death is coming

    "Where is Reis?"


    "We have made a temporary cell for him in one of the shipping containers."


    "Did he say anything?"


    "Not yet. We were waiting for you to wake up and go according to your plan." Wang Shi walked beside Suyin, taking her where Reis was kept. In the middle Honey was holding their hands, trying to match their steps with great difficulty. He was supposed to take a nap, but the clingy human refused to let go of Suyin even for a single second. The presence of Luo and Revon walking behind added to his insecurities.


    "He is Alpha''s important underling and had been trapping people for him to get their organs," Suyin nose flared by thinking how many people had lost their lives. Including her own child. "Above that, he''s Alpha''s informer who keeps him updated about militia groups activities."


    On the way men gave a salute to Wang Shi, and he nodded at them. One of them apologetically interrupted them and showed something to Wang Shi on iPad by maintaining the secrecy. Suyin frowned, but didn''t ask.


    "That''s great. Inform me when they are here," Wang Shi turned to Suyin, "You approached to UN, didn''t you? Cheyna has decided to help El Sandrios control the violence. Jin will be here in two days with his team."


    "Jin?"


    "My bad," Wang Shi hit his head, "I never told you about my third brother. Feng Jin. The youngest of us. He''s in military. They will stay here until the situation is in control here. And because of the voice you rose for the people, the United Nations had formed a joint committee to protect civilians against the attack."


    It surprised Suyin. She didn''t expect such an instant action and Cheyna to step up within a few days. Surely someone had pulled strings from behind. No need to guess who did that. "Can I borrow the iPad?"


    "Sure--"


    "Sir, but--" The man tried to stop, but was silenced when Wang Shi raised his palm. His stern eyes made the soldier leave them alone.


    Suyin logged into her email account to check any mail from UN. It was there. "The United Nations have issued an emergency mandate authorising international military actions. International Criminal Court and human rights commission have asked for the through report from the government asking for explanation. Oh, wait--" she looked up stunned, "The acquaintance in UN to whom I had send the evidences of the massacre in El Sandrios has asked me to make a thorough report which will be presented in seven nations meeting, and will also act as substantial evidence in ICC to punish the offenders."


    It was shocking as she doesn''t work for United Nations but for Cheyna. It seems her experience, and all the social work she had done over the years had called for so much trust from UN. She was indirectly honoured by them.


    And this was just the beginning. She had sent more evidences just now after the fire exchange with Blaska Bolts and her fight with Reis. Alpha''s name was mentioned in it. If given more evidences, Alpha will be perceived as an international terrorist, and will be charged under many sections, thereby creating pressure on the government to cut his funding (which Suyin believe they were providing. No man could raise this much in power without the help from the political parties) and cooperate in apprehending him.


    Wang Shi had a proud smile, "Of course. They have already guessed you are following the issue in El Sandrios, and only you can give them an unbiased report. No doubt the government officials here have put aside their personal motives and have commanded the whatever military personal they have to join forces with us. It''s the pressure from UN. My Suyin is the best, right bratty?"


    "Not yours, but ours. Yes, mummy is best-est! I love her the most." Honey gave a high-five to Wang Shi.


    Wang Shi, "Yeah. Me too."


    Cough. Suyin looked between the two. She was fine with Honey, but what''s wrong with Wang Shi? She stomped on his shoes, mouthing. ''Behave.''


    Wang Shi shrugged.


    Honey, "Are you scolding daddy? Are you two fight--" Suyin slapped her hand at his mouth. She''s fed up answering this question.


    "See, I told you. Zeke is trustworthy. It was wrong of you to behave like a jerk in the beginning." Luo mused as Revon had heard everything.


    "You can''t blame me for that. This situation in this country is such one can''t trust even its own shadow." Revon muttered, "Reis is one such example. I trusted him so much yet he turns out to be a backstabber. On the second note, Zeke also hid her identity. It''s still unbelievable the bald man is actually a woman in disguise. Do you have any idea what is she here exactly? What animosity does she have against Alpha?"


    "She''s right in front of you---why not ask her. I am just concerned to find my lost brother, and---"  Luo stopped,


    "And?"


    Luo glanced at him, "Live my life for once. Twenty-five years is not a small time. I am tired now."


    "How did your brother-- you know what? I don''t want to know. Everyone is dealing with their own problems. Wish you all the best."


    "Same to you."


    ....


    ....


    ...


    As Wang Shi took Suyin further inside the camp, she realised how big it was, and how much Wang Shi had come prepared. Was this all for her? She stole a glance at the man walking with her, only to be caught red handed by him. She averted her gaze instantly. "Cough,"


    She could swear she had seen a smile on his face.


    Embarrassing.


    Security tightened, more armed guards were seen when they were finally outside the container where Reis was kept. The place was buzzing with conversation, everyone communicating with walkie-talkie. Everything was heavily monitored.


    In the cold night Honey tried to borrow Suyin''s body heat by gluing closer to her. His eyelids drooping heavily. She picked him in arms and covered him in the warmth of her coat. He snuggled and hugged her neck.


    Wang Shi tried to take Honey, but Suyin let him be, least it disturbs his sleep.


    She heard muffled screams and looked at Wang Shi. "Looks like Dr. Colton and X are working. I suggest that you stay--"


    "No, I won''t," She said. "Just get me ear-muffs for Honey." After ensuring Honey was comfortable in her arms, she stepped inside the old container.


    Stench of blood assaulted her nose. Consciously she looked down, Honey was sleeping peacefully. Breathing in Suyin''s soothing fragrance.


    "Anything helpful?" Wang Shi picked a chair from the corner and place it for Suyin.


    Suyin saw two cells there. One occupied by Evan, scrunched in the corner. His disheveled hair and beard covering his face. "You brought Evan?" Luo and Revon glanced at the cell briefly.


    Dr. Colton, "It was of no use of keeping him in Cheyna. You never know if he really proves to be important, and we might need him. If not, before leaving the country we will dispose him off."


    "You will do no such thing," Suyin didn''t like the idea of it. "I have promised Jamie to keep him alive. Besides, he''s my enemy, so I will decide everything, not you."


    Colton snorted, "I can see I have lost respect in your eyes. Anyway, not like it matters, people are quick to judge when the mistake is of someone else''. Mistake? Is it even the correct word?" No one answers that, least it adds to the tension. "Ah, don''t mind this old man''s blabbering."


    "Let''s come to your question, Wang Shi," Colton said, "He''s a stubborn fellow, ready to die but wouldn''t say a word about Alpha."


    Reis opened his heavy eyes, darting at straight at Suyin. His lips curling up, "Ah, you are here. I was waiting for you."


    "Tell us about Alpha," Suyin said, "Answer me, and I will ask them not to make things difficult for you." She looked as Xion flicked his hand to his man. The man walked to a table where a leather bag was kept and looks for something inside it. Whatever it was, it can''t be good.


    "Don''t be so desperate for your death, baldy. Alpha must have got the news about you by now." Reis grinned, "Be prepared. Your death is coming..... slowly, slowly... can you hear that?"


    *********

 Chapter 290 - Just how is she related to Alpha?

    "AHHHHHHHHHH!"


    A blood-curdling scream echoed in the air, going far beyond the metal walls of the shipping container. "STOP IT! STOP IT! STOP IT!"


    Suyin remained seated on the wooden chair, embracing Honey in her arms as she lulled him to sleep by giving soft and gentle pats on back. Her expression remained soft as she marvelled Honey''s fairy like features, occasionally kissing his soft cheeks.


    It was a scary scene to watch. On one side a man was being brutally tortured to death~ sound of bones crushing was heard, blood and watery liquid oozed out from the wounds rubbed with salt; while on the other the woman had not even flinched or raised her eyes up as if she had turned deaf to the heart-wrenching screams. All she did was keep her eyes on the little boy in arms.


    She was the living epitome of two different sides of a woman. Love and destruction. She can be both~ a mother, and a destroyer.


    It even made Wang Shi uncomfortable. He had seen Xion and Colton torture their victims, but for Suyin it was surely the first time. Yet she was numb to everything. It was the moment Wang Shi realised how much damaged Suyin''s emotional state was.


    No doubt everyone in the camp maintained distance from her, and only speak to Luo or Revon to inquire about her. They all know what Suyin was doing for them and they were grateful for that, yet none of them dare to approach her.


    Her true self, her very part of the nature- her compassion was dead! And he was to blame for that. It was only because of Honey that her motherly love was still there.


    But her true healing would take time, patience and lots of love. There''s no magic pill to heal her pain overnight. Wang Shi promised himself to not give up until his last breath. He won''t let Suyin be in this state forever.


    "Please... please... stop it. Ask them to stop it, Zeke," Reis puked a mouthful of blood, his haughty expression a moment before no more existent.


    "I had told you before, but you didn''t listen to me." Finally Suyin looked up, her grey eyes resembling of a devil''s. "The conditions are same. I won''t repeat."


    Revon looked at the man with a birds''s nest hair bringing a strange looking weapon which was burning red hot.


    Colton noticed Revon''s curious eyes, "Want to know what it is? It''s a medieval item found in an excavation in Europe, called as lead sprinkler. As the name suggests, you can guess what the sprinkler is filled with."


    Revon looked at Reis, "Molten Lead?"


    "No. That would be boring. It''s something deadlier. My own invention."


    Reis screamed at the top of his voice, struggled in chains, "Tamis.... Alpha is Tamis." Colton stopped.


    "Duh, HAAHH..... AHHHH..... Duh, duh, duh," Evan struggled in his cage as soon as Reis revealed Tamis'' name. He shook the iron bars, making a futile attempt to break free from them. His blood-shot eyes glaring at Reis as if eager to rip him apart.


    "Ha, meet your fellow brother," Colton said, "Mr. Beta, I''m sure you must have heard about him before?"


    Reis brain stuttered, "B-Beta? Alpha''s right hand and the most dangerous,"


    "Not anymore." Colton leaned against Evan''s cage lazily, "He''s just our petty prisoner living at our mercy." Reis eyes searched something on Evan, blinking several times as if trying to understand if this was the pain in his body playing tricks with him.


    Colton, "Naah, we didn''t torture him much as none of this matters. He has a special condition that makes him immune to any pain. That''s why he had chewed his tongue off so that we cannot ask him anything about Alpha. But why am I telling you all this? You were saying something about Tamis-- continue."


    Standing on the side, Luo''s eyes suddenly widened when he heard about Evan''s special condition. Suddenly he lost interest in everything, and just stared at the man behind bars. He c.o.c.ked his head left-right, trying to imagine his face without long hair and beard. A futile attempt it was.


    His steps moved closer to the prison subconsciously, but stopped when Colton gave him a look.


    Wang Shi frowned, "Tamis died years back in the attack planned by Cheyna."


    Reis shook his head, "That''s what everyone thinks."


    Suyin looked up to notice Wang Shi lost in thoughts. She had read about the history of Tamis and his conflict with Cheyna, the attack and his death. But her knowledge was limited to books. Since Wang Shi''s father was the ruling president, he must know something more which others don''t.


    "What do you know about Tamis?"


    Wang Shi shrugged out of his thoughts, and looked at Suyin, "I will tell you everything later. But before that--" He picked a stick and forced Reis''s chin up, "--tell me his location."


    "It''s of no use. He already knows about her--" Reis''s eyes squinted at Suyin. "One of my babies must have passed the information by now. I told you, he''s coming for you."


    As if something clicked in Wang Shi, the next moment he jammed the pen in his pocket in Reis shoulder with all his force, shocking everyone. "I don''t like it when someone threatens my woman."


    The scream that comes from the lungs filled the air.


    "Continue the torture. I want to know everything." and with that Wang Shi moved away from Reis, leaving the pen in his shoulder. He looked at his palm stained with blood, and then at Suyin.


    Without a word he stood up and walked out.


    *********


    When Feng Jianyu came to know about it he went to look for Wang Shi. He knew he would find him in the bathroom. Jianyu waited outside the bathroom until Wang Shi was done bathing.


    Wang Shi caught Jianyu''s eyes as soon as he came out. His mouth twitched. "Don''t you lecture me now. You know I won''t go near them with someone''s blood on me."


    "I didn''t say anything," Jianyu shrugged, "But you are a doctor. You always have someone''s blood on you."


    "That''s not same. They are my patients. And he was--" Wang Shi''s jaw ticked, "--he was--" sighs, "-- why am I explaining to you? Just drop it already."


    "Okay okay." Jianyu dropped the topic. "I heard about Tamis. Things are making sense now. He''s back to get revenge, that''s why the entire Wang family is on his target."


    "As if I will let that happen." Jianyu saw Wang Shi''s fist clenched in anger. "This time I will make sure he''s send to the depths of hell,"


    "Shishi--"


    "BASTARD. To get back to us, he tried to use Suyin." Wang Shi''s growled like a tiger, "He took advantage of my situation, and tricked me to kill an innocent child just to get his revenge? These hands--" Wang Shi looked at his hands, hating them for committing an unforgivable sin. "You should have seen her when Reis was tortured. She''s not the same. My-My Suyin is lost somewhere."


    "Hey," Jianyu hugged Wang Shi.


    "She''s not the same anymore, Jianyu."


    Jianyu didn''t have any words to console Wang Shi. Anything spoken would be meaningless, he knew how complicated things were between them.


    After a minute or so, Wang Shi composed himself. "Suyin is waiting for me in the room. I have to talk to her,"


    "Yeah,"


    Just when Wang Shi was about to leave, he stopped, "I didn''t see Mei since morning."


    "Um, she''s sleeping. Do you have something to say to her?"


    Yes, he has. Once Reis reveals Alpha''s location, Xiu Mei''s help would be needed to try hacking into Alpha''s den and prepare a map. "That''s not important. Is she fine?" Wang Shi walked towards Jianyu''s tent, but was stopped by him.


    "She''s fine. Just exhaustion."


    "Jianyu!"


    "She''s fine! I''m here with her. You just concentrate on Suyin." Jianyu assured with a smile, and it was a genuine one, letting Wang Shi be at rest.


    "Fine. Let me know if you need me."


    ********


    Meanwhile, Suyin had put Honey to sleep, and had been reading articles on Wang Shi''s tab to refresh her memory of history between Cheyna and El Sandrios. By now she understood why Alpha once said ''She''s just a pawn of my game'' while talking to Wu Sean.


    She understood whatever this was happening was only because of a feud between Wang family and Alpha, and she has nothing to do with it. She''s just like all those people who had suffered at the hands of Alpha. Someone like Amara.


    But what she failed to understand was why Alpha sounded as if he knows her? Why Alpha choose her as a pawn to fight against the Wang family? Just how is she related to Alpha?


    She took a deep breath and moved on to reading...

 Chapter 291 - Tamis part 1

    Suyin took a deep breath and moved on to reading...


    Years back, things started when Patriarch Wang was the president of Cheyna. Once he had sent military help to a small country called Owhana, which was fighting against Tamis''s militant groups over a uranium rich piece of border.


    Through intelligence, President Wang got to know Tamis had planned to make nuclear weapons and supply it to the terrorist organisations not only for monetary purposes but to destabilise the countries fighting against terrorism.


    President Wang brought the issue in limelight internationally and supported Owahana.


    Tamis declined Cheyna''s claims when being confronted, and cited the conflict with Owhana as a matter between the two nations over undecided territory, and no third country should intervene. Later, he secretly funded a terrorist group and get them to attack Cheyna to distract them from supporting Owhana.


    In 1992, the bomb attacks in West Cheyna killed over 600 civilians and 100 cops. After an investigation, the intelligence cited evidence against the involvement of a terrorist group training near Tan Valley in El Sandrios as the chief suspects.


    Cheyna issued a declaration demanding El Sandrios to hand over the three prime suspects of the terrorist group. When Tamis refused, citing lack of substantial evidence, and absence of any terrorist group in Tan Valley, Cheyna issued a ban on trade despite billions of dollars invested by companies in El Sandrios and called its citizens and diplomats back.


    After making sure all its citizens were back in the country, President Wang sent fighter planes to strike Tamis''s militant training facilities (which were also used in terrorist training) hidden in the Tan valley.


    It destroyed hundreds of camps, killed thousands and some civilians as well. Above that, Cheyna presented an irrefutable evidence about the existence of training facilities. As a result, United Nations imposed economic sanction against El Sandrios which had deep repercussions over the country''s economy.


    Cheyna''s strong retaliation and international pressure resulted in a gradual diminution of Tamis''s support for terrorism and anti-Cheynian statements. He stayed low for a few years, maintaining that he knew nothing about who perpetrated the bombing, and El Sandrios had nothing to do with it.


    By 2000, El Sandrios was already in ruins because of the ill-conceived policies, falling oil prices, and the sanctions imposed by UN and other nations. The mask of Tamis'' family fell away. They enriched themselves at the expense of the country, dragging the nation to the point where the masses got into a fight over a day''s meal.


    Frustrated by the continuing decline of his economy, increasing debt, non-payment of loan to IMF, failed cooperative or bilateral aid agreements with other nations, and rebellion from masses forced him to think over to save his power.


    He needed to reintegrate with the global leaders and bring his falling economy on track by getting outside investment. And for that, he had to amend his relations with Cheyna first.


    Then at the turn of events when Wang Huang took over as the President''s position in 2003, Tamis and his eldest son initiated peace talks. He even surrendered the members of the terrorist organisation involved in the bombing of 1992 clearing his stance on terrorism.


    Why not? He was also facing the insurgency from the same terrorist organisations whom he funded. As a solution, he pretended to be deeply affected by terrorism and positioned himself as a potential partner against it.


    But....


    Though every country wants peace with other nations. Wang Huang didn''t give a face to Tamis. He was clear on his stance of not resuming any relations with El Sandrios. Not until Tamis was in power. It would have been an affront to the families of the victims who died in the bomb attack. No matter what, El Sandrios was culpable of a mass murder of innocent people.


    Cheyna''s attitude didn''t go down well with Tamis. A group of five terrorists hijacked a Cheyna airlines plane from Owahana to Cheyna, consisting of 194 Cheyna citizens and 26 foreigners. They demanded to return the three terrorists handed over by Tamis and a ransom of one billion dollars for the lives of the passengers.


    Meanwhile, Wang Huang was discussing the possibilities with his ministers and crisis management team, the flight captain made a smart move and raised concern of fuel to the terrorist leader and made an emergency landing in a small city in Cheyna.


    He hoped the SQUAT and dragon team of the military will raid the aircraft. However, the hijackers got suspicious of the time it was taking to refuel, and killed a passenger, threatening flight captain to kill one every minute if he didn''t take off. With a gun to his head, the pilot took the helpless decision and took off.


    The hijackers forced him to take the aircraft to El Sandrios. But.... The aircraft was turned away by El Sandrios air space at the orders of Tamis citing its Cheyna''s crisis and he can''t allow a hijacked plane to land in his country, risking his own citizens.  Rubbish! Cheyna had rejected Tamis'' peace proposal a year back, and he was getting back at them.


    The pilot was forced to keep the aircraft in air near El Sandrios, hoping government to negotiate and give them the permission to land somewhere.


    Wang Huang found himself in the firing line from the relatives of the hostages and the many other nations to save 26 foreigners. Out of option, Wang Huang phone called Tamis, and promised to have peace talk to improve the relations of the two nations if he lets the aircraft to land.


    Tamis in an attempt to improve his reputation agreed to co-operate. He even assumed the role of mediator between Cheyna government and hijackers. Not so miraculously, he got the hijackers to bring down their demand for money to three hundred million dollars and release all the women and children while Wang Huang''s government was bringing the three terrorists to them.


    Wang Huang was a defeated man at that time. He agreed. Lives of 220 passengers values more than the lives of three terrorists.


    The hijackers released only 29 women and 12 children instead of all the women and children they had agreed.


    .....

 Chapter 292 - Bundle of naughtiness

    Planning this hijack turned out to be Tamis'' biggest mistake. He trusted the ones he shouldn''t. Once the hijackers''s demand was fulfilled, they flee away, leaving a bomb behind.


    ...


    "He was really something. So many people died because of him," Suyin muttered, and she turned to her side, reaching to pat Honey who stirred in sleep.


    "Much worse," a cool breath tingled her skin near the ear.


    Suyin screamed and turned to her side. In her fear she miscalculated the momentum, and rolled down the bed, landing in someone''s strong arms.


    Her eyes shut, face scrunched. Surely the fall will reopen her wounds.


    When the pain didn''t come, she peeked open her one eye.


    "A... You could have told me you were dying to come in my arms. Me too. I love you, my ducky." and the man hugged her close to his heart, making sure not to put pressure lest her wounds reopen.


    Suyin "..."


    Her body electrocuted when she felt the touch of his lips on her neck. He kissed her. A long kiss. A tingling kiss. A familiar kiss that used to share. Suyin tried to pull herself away from Wang Shi''s arms when she heard a soft voice.


    "Are you two wrestling?" Honey rubbed his eyes. Suyin''s scream had woken him from his slumber. Suyin froze.


    "No. I''m hugging your mummy. She was again careless and was about to fall from the bed. You know she got stitches don''t you?"


    "WHAT?" Honey stood on the bed, "Ducky, how can you? Now you will sleep between me and daddy. Sometimes I don''t understand who is the baby in this family." Wang Shi grinned, putting Suyin in the middle of the small bed.


    Wang Shi squeezing himself in, "Don''t worry. We two will take care of her..... forever,"


    "But what if she declines to be taken care of?"


    "She won''t," Honey looked into Suyin''s eyes, "You won''t, right?" Suyin opened her mouth and Honey kissed her cheek, "See, she said no. That''s like my good mummy!"


    Suyin "..."


    "But would it be alright? Your mummy like being independent,"


    "But we are the men of the house, and she''s our ducky. We have to have to take care of her." Honey threw his arm around Suyin''s neck and kissed her bald head. What''s with all the kissing? He was getting so good at coaxing.


    "Bratty, don''t say like that. Our ducky is no less than us. Didn''t you see how bravely she fought?"


    "I did. But mummy--" Honey forced Suyin to look at him, "--I don''t like it when you are hurt. Can you please make sure one of is with you so that we can punch the bad guys? Can you promise me that?"


    Wang Shi squeezed Honey''s non existent biceps, "Are you sure about the punching?"


    Honey grunted, covering himself instantly with the bedsheet. "Just you wait, they will be better than yours," Suyin alternated her head between the two. Did they even realise they were talking about her, in front of her, yet acting as if she''s invisible?


    Suyin, "Do you two realise--"


    Honey placed his little finger on Suyin''s lips, coaxing her with a kiss again, "Shh... Dad provoked me just now. Let me take care of this." He looked at Wang Shi, "On a second thought, I am glad you have better biceps."


    Wang Shi smirked, "Thankyou, bratty. It''s good to accept the truth--"


    "If the bad guy starts chasing after ducky, you''ll face them first. I''m little, and will take the opportunity to run away with mummy. And if by chance you end up beaten up, we will take that as a warning, and won''t go near the bad guy again. Your sacrifice will be appreciated, daddy. I promise, we won''t miss you."


    "Honey!" Wang Shi sneered.


    Honey dived into Suyin''s embrace to save his ass.


    Suyin smiled and hugged the bundle of naughtiness. She patted his bum. "Since when did you become a chatterbox, fairy?"


    "Since I found my ducky is my mummy," Honey looked up from Suyin''s chest, smiling through his eyes. He placed his fingers at the corner of Suyin''s lips, "Since when did you stop smiling? I prefer the old smile over this one. It doesn''t have douch-- dough--duche--"


    "Duchenne Marker,"


    "Duchenne marker,"


    Suyin and Wang Shi glance at each other.


    Honey exclaimed, resting his head on Suyin''s chest, "Yes, that''s the word! Duch marker. I like it when your cheeks lift up, and eyes wrinkle at the corners. That''s the smile--" He yawned, voice starting to doze off. Suyin''s continuous pats and warmth was doing magic. "--a smile with duch duch--"


    Wang Shi pulled the bedsheet to cover Honey. Barely a silence of a few minutes and the little one was back into dreamland. Suyin remained motionless.


    "Move back," she ordered.


    "I can''t." Wang Shi pointed at his clothes for Suyin to look down. Honey had them in his little fist, clenched tightly.


    Suyin tried to open Honey''s fist gently. It stirred him in sleep, m.o.a.ning. "Dad, mum.... stay," Suyin sighed, making space for Wang Shi. The bed was not the king-size, like the one Wang Shi had in his lounge. It was just enough for two people to sleep, but they were three. To worse, Suyin wanted to maintain a distance from the man.


    Wang Shi lie down beside her. He looked at the ceiling, an inadvertent smile on his lips. They were so close that Suyin''s shoulder was touching his. He could smell her soothing fragrance. Her breathing.


    "Now that we won''t be able to sleep, tell me about Tamis." She broke the silence.


    "You should take rest,"


    "I will rest once this is over and we go our separate ways. So, you were saying something about Tamis--"


    Wang Shi turned to the side, and supported his head on palm, making her uneasy, "You can go your separate way, I won''t stop. But my way is only where you are going. Can''t help, I am a stubborn man. Deal with it..... For your entire life--" Suyin snapped at him only to see the same mischievous smile that once used to make her heart skip a beat. Not anymore. Yes, surely not anymore. "So, Tamis....."

 Chapter 293 - Their destiny had brought them together much before that.

    Cheyna conducted a thorough investigation about the hijack, and took help from international agencies, including CIA. After the investigation that lasted six months, the links were traced back two of Tamis'' sons. Their secret exchange of coded mails busted them. It resulted in the breakdown of every relations internationally. It again proved Tamis to be the torchbearer of terrorism worldwide.


    That was the last nail in his coffin. The countries whose citizens died in hijack, broke its ties with El Sandrios, and called for the other nation to follow. It prohibited any kind of trade or help to El Sandrios. The nations declared the country as a no-fly zone.


    El Sandrios'' people rebelled against their own leader and demanded a change in power. Tamis commanded his militants to hunt down the rebels.


    The militants opened fire on protests in the capital city, killing thousands. He had become the mad tyrant who was going every length to stay in power. Shocked by Tamis response, many senior political readers resigned and joined the rebels, forming a council to represent them. They named it as Sandrio''s transitional council. STC.


    In the conflict, Tamis side looked victorious with its militia power. Committing human rights abuses, torture, arrests, extrajudicial executions, and open fires had become common.


    On April 2005, a joined power of thirty-five nations, lead by Cheyna, recognised STC as the legitimate representative of El Sandrios. The very same month, NATO airstrike Tami''s residence to protect the unarmed citizens.


    Scratch that.


    Everyone knew it was Cheyna''s appeal to NATO to intervene and put an end on this. They wanted justice for the people who died in hijack.


    Aided by NATO''s air cover, STC moved inwards, defeating Tamis''s loyal militants and securing control over the capital and several key areas.


    Tamis panicked. He announced his willingness to negotiate with STC which was blatantly declined. Surrounding himself with bodyguards, he moved residences to save himself. Three days later, NATO located his convey and attacked. Tamis and a few of his family members fled to his nearby villa which was bombed the next minute.


    The same night, Wang Huang announced Tamis death to Cheyna media. A short video of his death was broadcasted extensively across the media. A day later, STC announced that his charred body was buried into the ocean.


    "I know all this already," Suyin snapped as she turned her head to Wang Shi. "This is all over internet. Tell me the part which no one knows. The one that happens inside the four walls, taken by political leaders and kept away from public. The one that never comes out."


    Why Alpha aka Tamis was targeting Wangs was already clear. But there''s something more. This deep hatred that Tamis not only wants to pull Wangs away from power but destroy their goodwill in the eyes of people.


    "I was coming to that part," Wang Shi kept his voice even and sat down. "Apparently Tamis thinks dad betrayed him and didn''t pay back to his favour."


    "Favour?"


    "Favour of saving my life."


    Suyin frowned.


    "I was on that plane."


    Suyin was flummoxed. President''s son on a plane that''s hijacked? It''s not a joke! This should have had become the breaking news. The highlight of the case! However, it''s nowhere mentioned till date.


    No. Wait. There''s another important question~ How did he come out alive? The hijackers had only released a handful of passengers that only include women and children. And.....


    "I didn''t see you on plane." Suyin said.


    It was Wang Shi''s turn to get shocked. "You--"


    "That''s not important. I was with my maternal grandmother on my way home to Cheyna." It was year 2004. Suyin was barely 11 years old. A kid accompanying her grandmother. "The passengers~ with whom I stayed in that aircraft for six days~ I''d never forget those terrified faces. You were not among them."


    Wang Shi''s looked at her a little longer, his hands itching to caress her cheeks. How na?ve he was to believe he saw her for the first time in the graveyard. Their destiny had brought them together much before that.


    "I was travelling business class."


    Suyin pursed her lips. She was in the economy.


    "It was not a coincidence that they hijacked the very same plane I was traveling from. Though it''s still a mystery how Tamis got hold of the information as I only used to travel under a fake identity--"


    "Let me guess the rest-- Your parents took a selfish decision and secretly negotiated with Tamis to save their precious son. Some things are definitely passed from parents to kids," she scoffed.


    "I wish I had made the same decision as my parents," Wang Shi blinked against the burn in his eyes, a bitter smile taking on his face, "When dad got to know about it, he didn''t hesitate a second and did what a president of a nation should have done. For him every life holds the same importance. Even if it''s his own son, he won''t  choose one over the other."


    "And mom..... she was already aware of my presence on the plane. I had spoken to her about my return before boarding the flight. On one side dad was keeping the news from her, while on the other, she pretended oblivious and just stood by dad, lest it influence his decision. Though my parents don''t have a good impression on you, I can assure you, they have always been loyal to their position. No matter what comes."


    Suyin never expected that. She wanted to challenge his words, but eyes--- they were the mirror.


    He gently caressed Honey, sleeping soundly over Suyin. "You must be thinking why this disgusting man is still alive then, right?"


    Suyin averted her eyes.


    "Well.... It''s because of a passenger on the plane. It was a stupid girl who had recklessly gotten into a feud with one of hijackers when someone accompanying her got a health issue. Since our bags were taken away, she was demanding her bag that contained medicine."


    Suyin clenched her fist to keep them from shaking. Her memory taking her back in time....


    When the girl tried to run into the business class where the bags were kept, a hijacker opened fire. But before the bullet could touch her, she was embraced by someone protectively.


    Chaos followed.


    She heard people screaming.


    And.... blood.


    She smelled blood in the air. Her hands clenched around her saviour in fear. She felt something wet on her palms... And just then the man embracing her dropped his weight on her.


    Before she could see his face, someone had pulled her away by the hair. She fell backwards, and then her grandmother hugged her, begging the hijackers to let her go.


    "Tamis understood the severity of the situation. Three days later, I opened my eyes in a hospital in Cheyna. They told me that the passengers were rescued successfully." It was only later when Wang Shi came to know the reality. After that incident, the plane remained in the captivity of hijackers for five more days until it met its fate.


    "The truth is dad never agreed onto anything related to me. He only promised for a peace talk between the two nations. But Tamis rescued me coz he was aware of the consequences." Wang Shi said quietly, "Now you understand why Tamis-- Alpha or whatever his name is-- why is he targeting my family? It''s all political and old grudges--" He paused, glancing at Suyin.


    She was gnawing her lips, her eyes closed.


    Wang Shi waited for Suyin to say something, but only met with her silence. He wanted to tell her she was going to hurt herself if she continue to bite her lips, but silently lied down beside her. Maybe she was not interested to talk to anymore. Maybe it was best if he let her understand all this first.


    "Good night, my love," He didn''t dare to ask her to let him share the bed sheet, lest he was deprived of the privilege of sharing the bed. Beggars are not choosers.


    A while later Suyin opened her eyes and glanced at Wang Shi. He had his forearm on his eyes, breathing calm and equal.


    A tear rolled down from the corner of her eyes. Don''t know why her fate keeps bringing her to this man on and on. And every time it left an everlasting mark on either of them.

 Chapter 294 - Storm ahead

    You don''t meet people by accident. There''s always a reason. A lesson or a blessing. Somehow your fate always manages to bring you to the place you are supposed to be. Even if you try to avoid it, it will drag you.


    She looked at the ceiling, stream of tears flowing non stop, ''Enjoying, huh? Yes, it''s true. He''s the one I have wished for. He''s the one I want to be with so desperately that I willingly gave myself another chance. He''s the one who I let my heart and soul to touch. He''s the one I started dreaming my future with. He''s the one and only one.''


    ''But if he was really my destiny that you keep bringing us together-- why did you do all this? Why? Are you bored that much that you started playing with our lives? Or the power of being a creator has gotten into your head? Or do you enjoy seeing helpless humans and they begging you for help that you desperately do this to boost your ego? Tell me, just tell me what it is?''


    The cracks and the falling patches of paints started back in silence.


    She scoffed, ''Coward. You don''t even have the courage to reply. But let me tell you, I''d never fold my hands to you and give you the satisfaction you are looking for. Just rot in hell. Rot in hell forever.''


    She closed her eyes, slowly letting her calm down.


    Wang Shi removed his arm from his eyes and turned to Suyin. She was drenched in sweat, her eyes closed.


    He carefully pulled Honey to the space between them and freed his shirt from Honey''s fist. Then he propped his body to an awkward angle and pulled her collar to check the cut on neck. Without delay, he stood to get his medical kit and walked to the other side of the bed to change her bandage.


    His actions as gentle as ever as he cleaned the cut and replaced the bandage with a fresh one, finishing by dabbing a dry cloth over beads of sweat. To his satisfaction she was sleeping soundly all this while.


    He sat by her bed, tracing her soft cheek where once a temporary dragon tattoo was. Though a temporary one, it had caused a severe reaction on her skin. Bald head, dark circle under eyes, chapped lips and bruises all over~ the more he looks, the more it hurts.


    "I am sorry, Suyin. I really am. Don''t punish our future for the mistake of my past."


    He leaned over and kissed her forehead, letting his lips linger a little longer. He laid his eyes on her sleeping face one last time before going back to his place.


    The moment the bed creaked when he lied, Suyin''s eyes opened. She was awake all this while. This time the God above answered, the voice echoed in her brain, ''Don''t always remember the wrong. And don''t forget the things they did right. Make your own choice.''


    Wang Shi''s lips curled up into a smile. He was aware she was awake all this while and was only pretending. But he continued to see if she''d push him. She didn''t. This only means there''s still a space in her heart where he still exists.


    Slowly and steadily, he''d win her back. With a satisfied heart, he closed his eyes, lest he knew a storm was waiting for them, ready to challenge.


    *********


    Meanwhile, the situation in Cheyna turned worse. Wu Sean and Wu Sangui had stripped off their facade and had come out openly against the Wang family. Many other ministers joined them as well.


    Wang family had been ruling in politics for generations. During this time, they had made more enemies than friends. It was the perfect opportunity for many to dream of achieving personal motives if not the president''s seat.


    Had it not been for the power of Feng family, it could have become difficult for Wang Huang to manage the situation alone. Along with the Wang family''s personal security, Feng Junjie had added his own security to keep the family members safe. While his elder brothers were in El Sandrios, he was managing the situation in Cheyna along with Daiyu.


    The media companies that come under Feng empire had been continuously trying to damage control, trying to keep Wang family''s positive image.


    However, the organ trafficking scandal had blown out of proportion. Wu Sean had released all the information he had gathered about the People''s NGO to the media. To worse, he had used Suyin''s name blatantly.


    Suyin was the known name in the Cheyna, known for her honesty, and uprightness. She had gained a reputation where people had blind faith in her work. Since the article was released under Suyin''s name, it contains added weight.


    To worse, the article even contained her signature to confirm its authenticity.


    Public heavily condemned Wang family. People gathered outside the NGO, demanding resignation from the president couple and investigation against the Wang family.


    ...


    ...


    "IDIOTS. BLOODY IDIOTS."


    Wu Sean gritted his teeth as Alpha yelled over them over the phone.


    "Alpha, we--"


    "SHUT UP," Alpha snarled, "How dare you lied Suyin is with you. She is in El Sandrios, and Wang Shi is with her. Do you have any idea what you have done? Not only you failed to kill that child, but because of your negligence our years of hard work are about to destroy. Useless, you even failed to convince Huang from sending his military."


    Wu Sangui, "Suyin pretended as if she''s against Wang Shi, and was planning against him in secret. We even got everything confirmed through her family--"


    "But they made a fool out of you, idiots. I had warned you before not to take Suyin lightly and keep me updated. But you lied to me." Noise of Alpha''s huffing, and several things breaking was loud and clear. "She''s the weapon I created. No one knows her potency better than me. She''s the two-sided sword. Argh, tell me what is the situation there?"


    Sangui was about to say something, but Sean stepped up, "I have a plan. Just hear me once--"


    "YOU HEAR ME." Alpha snarled. "After the release of the article under Suyin''s name, everyone is hoping for her to give a statement. Now leak the information of her child''s death and Wang Shi''s involvement in it, followed by a fake news of her being missing. Just complete this task. No mistake." People will assume it''s the Wang family''s handiwork and will pressurize more. And since she is in his territory, he knows how to make sure she doesn''t clear this confusion.


    Once Wang Huang resigns, the control will fall into Sangui''s hand. Following Alpha''s order, Sangui will issue the immediate orders for the military to return.


    Wu Sean frowned. He knows Alpha''s cruel nature and his madness to achieve his motive. Doesn''t this mean he''d get Suyin killed so that she could never clear Wang Shi''s name?


    "But Suyin--"


    Alpha hung up


    Wu Sangui squeezed his son''s shoulder, "Forget her. There are many other women in this world dying to climb your bed. Why look for a used product? She''s not good for this family."


    ********

 Chapter 295 - Monkey

    "Wake up. Wake Up. WAKE UPPPPPPP!!!!!"


    Suyin and Wang Shi bolted up in panic when they heard Honey shouting. She subconsciously grabbed the knife hidden under her pillow and swing it in the air. Wang Shi took an attacking stance, ready to throw a power pact punch.


    Honey grinned up at the two over a fake moustache. It was far too large for his cute face. "Wake up, sleepy heads. It''s my birthday! It''s Honey''s birthday! Birthday. Birthday. Birthday. Birthday. I am seven years old man now. Yayyyy!" He spread his palms to Suyin, "Ducky, gift. You owe me eight." then he moved to Wang Shi, "Don''t be stingy this time. Last year''s gift was so boring that I bothered looking at it again. Give me something exciting this time."


    Suyin and Wang Shi gaped at him. Confused.


    Before Suyin or Wang Shi could utter a single word, Honey jumped from the bed and posed grandly in front of the mirror. His hands at his moustache. "Dad, any idea by how many centimetres my height increased? When will I reach yours? And my muscles? They definitely look good, isn''t it?"


    While the little one was checking his muscles and abs, Suyin''s head slowly turned at Wang Shi, "If my memory serves me right, isn''t his birthday tomorrow?"


    "Your memory serves just right, but a certain brat is looking for a knock on head," Wang Shi grumbled, running a hand on his face. Who likes being waken up like this early in the morning? Such an annoying alarm clock. "His calendar is running a little fast. Courtesy, not going to school. Now I understood the use of writing date at the corner of the notebook."


    "Seven year old man! hahahaha...." Honey twisted the corners of the moustache.


    "Six year old," Suyin grumbled, "What''s wrong with him telling incorrect age every time?"


    Wang Shi chuckled, "Who can understand this better than you?" The entire time he babbled about being a six year old man. Now she will get to hear seven. "By the way, where did he get this moustache from?"


    Suyin pursed her lips. And just then Honey spoke up on her behalf, "From ducky''s hoard. See...." he opened Suyin''s backpack containing many stuff. "It''s like dragon''s treasure with many interesting things. My favourite being this pendrive-- do you know how it works--"


    Wang Shi''s tried to stop when Honey brought it forward near his waist. But he was late by a second, "AHHH! OWW! OWW! HONEY!" The next second the mighty Dr. Wang Shi was see bitting bedsheet, groaning, rubbing the side of his waist. "BRAT,"


    Without delaying a second Honey jumped towards Suyin for protection, his fake moustache falling behind. Honey blinked his eyes innocently, "I always wanted to try that. So that''s how a taser gun works. I like it!"


    "So? Am I your guinea pig?" Wang Shi hissed, "What else you have planned to try on me?" Honey''s gaze slipped down, stopping at Wang Shi''s crotch. "Hey!" he covered it instantly.


    Honey shook his head, "Nothing. Nothing. I didn''t say a word. I won''t do anything. My gift, please."


    Suyin covered her mouth, smothering a laugh.


    Wang Shi sighed. He barely had time to wonder what Honey had on his mind. Suyin''s smile had his heart.


    "My gift!"


    "It''s not your birthday." Wang Shi said.


    Honey rolled his eyes, "I knew you were going to say that. You must have prepared a gift like last time and is now sacred to show it in front of ducky, don''t you?" He pouted at Suyin; the adorable face she can never resist. Wang Shi was surprised how fast his son change expressions. "Last time he gave me-- gave me-- atapatament in york."


    Suyin "..."


    Wang Shi, "Apartment in New York. And you forgot I took you, Yuyu and Lan to the amus.e.m.e.nt park."


    "But you didn''t let me to any ride. And neither the haunted house." Honey complained. "This time I will choose my own gifts. And they will be combined." He touched Suyin''s chin, "You owe me eight. Seven for birthdays, and plus one as a good-luck for next year, and one from dad. That makes it nine. Oh my, I can ask for a big one!"


    "But munchkin, it''s really not your birthday today. See--" She showed him the date on tab," And I haven''t prepared any gift for you. How would I? I was not aware my fairy will come looking for me here." Honey''s face fell. Suyin patted the top of his head. "But I have ordered a gift for you months'' advance." It was supposed to reach Wang Shi''s office a week before Honey''s birthday. "I will give you that, and seven more once we go back, is it okay?"


    "But I have your gift with me." Wang Shi said. Suyin failed to catch the excitement in his voice.


    "I don''t care about yours." Honey said. His pink lips still curved into an adorable pout as he played with Suyin''s fingers. Wang Shi rose his brows at Suyin.


    Suyin, "Fine. You said you want to choose your own gifts. Ask me anything. But remember, only reasonable demands and it should be in my capability." For a reason Suyin had a feeling of premonition that Honey''s demand won''t come easy to her.


    A smile blossomed on Honey''s face as he looked at the two. "I--I--"


    The heavy knock on the door interrupted them. Whoever it was, the heavy bang on the door was a sign the messenger had not brought any good news for them.


    "ZEKE! ZEKE! LITTLE DEVIL!" Amara''s voice came.


    Wang Shi got down from bed. "I will check,"


    Honey snorted, "Argh, she disturbed us. Mad woma--"


    "HONEY!" Honey startled at Suyin''s voice, "Next time don''t let me hear such things from your mouth."


    "But--"


    "There''s always a reason behind things." Suyin was definitely not warm anymore, "People call me baldy here, and I know you hate them for it. You call them mean. Why? Aren''t you doing the same now?"


    Wang Shi looked at them as Suyin reprimanded Honey yet teaching him a lesson. He opened the door.


    "Zeke Zeke! Look what is there outside. A monkey! Monkey brought a message for you. Monkey brought a message for Zeke. Little devil--" Amara stick her tongue out at Honey, "--have you ever seen a monkey? One of them looks like you. Little little monkey. Cute cute monkey. Monkey with a tail. Long tail. Furry tail."


    Luo came after her. His serious expression didn''t go down well with Suyin.


    .....


    ....


    When Amara mentioned there''s a monkey waiting for her, Suyin thought she''s just saying like that. But to her surprise there really was a monkey waiting for her. Golden eyes, brown fur. The monkey sat on the floor in what seems like contemplating as he watched the humans.


    Revon and his men surrounded it. They had sticks pointed to make sure it doesn''t harm anyone. Especially the kids and women. Suyin skimmed her way through, stunned the monkey was barely bones, skin sagging. Had marks all over.


    It was so frail that it couldn''t even stand properly. It had a collar with lights blinking, and a baby clinging to its stomach. The baby had the similar fitted collar, lights flashing from it. Suyin could guess it was a mama monkey.


    She took a step. Wang Shi held her wrist. "Don''t go. It can be a trap. See the thing tied to its back.


    From where Suyin was standing she couldn''t notice the cloth envelope tied to the animal''s back. When Wang Shi mentioned, she c.o.c.ked her head.


    The bold letter on the envelope reads, ''SUYIN''


    "It''s for me."


    "I''ll get it," Wang Shi took a slow step. Honey caught his trouser.


    "Don''t go. What if it bites you?"


    Wang Shi patted Honey''s head, "I''ll be careful. Promise."


    "I am looking forward to your gift. Don''t let it bite you." Honey let go of his trouser and reached up to take Suyin''s hand. "Call for me if you need help. I am here." Though scared, his bravery was unmatched as he dared to take a few steps, dragging Suyin along to make sure Wang Shi is within reach. His other hand extended outwards to pull his father in worst case.


    Surprisingly, the monkey mother didn''t show any attribute linked to its species. It just sat and let Wang Shi take the envelope.


    Suyin thought the mama would run away after what seems like delivering the package. It stayed. Honey instantly hugged Wang Shi''s leg when he came back safe.


    Amidst the curious eyes watching her, Suyin opened the envelop and dropped it. Staggering back. Wang Shi caught her.


    The first thing that came out of it was James and Zeng''s photograph. Badly beaten up. Tied at an unknown location.


    ********

 Chapter 296 - Is he dead?

    The bag had a phone which coincidently rang at the same time. Since Wang Shi was holding Suyin, Honey took it out from the cloth bag. His nose scrunched, "A L P H A. Alpha? Weird name,"


    Suyin looked down and took it from him, and then pressed the answer button. The familiar voice sounded, "Did you like the surprise?"


    "Bloody bas*ard,"


    "Beware! Your little dogs are with me. And I am itching to put a collar around their neck. Want to know what it does?" Suyin remained silent. Alpha''s eerie chuckled echoed, "Looks like my little pawn is not interested. It''s okay. Will let you know later. Before that, I have some serious business to talk."


    Suyin looked at Wang Shi. His brows furrowed. He questioned her with his eyes, to which she pointed at the photograph and mouthed, ''Mei. Track.'' He looked into the crowd for any signs of Xiu Mei, or Jianyu. Upon not finding them, he let Honey down, and dialled Xiu Mei''s number.


    Alpha continued threatening Suyin.


    "Ah, Suyin, such a disappointment you turned out. You were supposed to execute my plan, not destroy it. Why? Why did you choose that man''s side who killed your son brutally? Who took.... oops.... STOLE.... stole the heart of your son to save his. How painful it must be for that little human to struggle for oxygen, isn''t it? How sad it must be to strip him of the right to live a happy life with his mother? His soul must be wandering on Earth, crying, cursing~ you failed as a mother. Such a black spot you are. You did nothing to avenge your son."


    Suyin''s eyes burned red. Her jaw clenched. She took a deep breath, "Who shit in your breakfast, Alpha?"


    "What?"


    "I asked, who shit in your breakfast? I can smell it all the way here." She repeated, her voice louder, "In order to provoke me, I must first value your shit opinion. Nice try though. Don''t try again; I am allergic to idiots and break out in sarcasm."


    "Careful Suyin," Alpha warned, "Don''t forget I have your best friend and brother with me."


    "But you won''t do anything to them. I know it. You haven''t put up a show just to talk nonsense, right? Come to the point, Alpha. Don''t bother about me, my son, and my revenge."


    From the corner of her eyes she saw Jianyu, carrying a laptop. Following him was Xiu Mei holding a robot like toy in her arms. She had seen it in a newspaper once. That''s Orange. The most advanced droid and Xiu Mei''s one of the best inventions.


    "The same poisonous tongue! Wish you had used it smartly. Your best friend and brother wouldn''t be in this situation." Alpha said, "Anyway, now that you have failed me. You might as well fix a few things for me."


    She saw Wang Shi reaching up, pretending to caress her cheek, but did something to the phone. He then held her hand.


    Suyin didn''t understand. But then she saw an ear bud in his left ear.


    "There is a key in the packet which will open a monkey''s collar," Suyin turned the cloth bag upside down, and a key fell down. "Tie it around that Wang puppy''s neck and bring him to me. That''s it. See, isn''t it simple? I''m letting you an opportunity to save them."


    Suyin looked down at Honey. "What do you mean?"


    "I don''t enjoy repeating. You have already done enough by coming here. Foolish woman, you really thought you could come to my land and I wouldn''t know about it?"


    "Reis. He told you."


    "I have my eyes everywhere. Though I admit I was fooled by you for some time. Anyway, it''s time I correct that mistake. Bring Wang Shi''s son to me. You will get further instructions through phone. Just make him wear the collar, "Alpha hissed, "Don''t do anything against my wish. Otherwise....."


    "I don''t know what makes you so stupid, but it''s definitely working. He''s someone else''s son, why would--"


    "I know Wang Shi and his son loves you. They''d do anything for you. Blind love, you see!" Alpha interrupted, "And don''t you worry, I have prepared something for Wang Shi as well. He''d love my surprise. Now before I hang up, there''s a small surprise-- remember I told you I''d let you know what does the collar do?"


    Just then the monkeys started screeching. Their bodies convulsed. She didn''t understand what was happening to them. It looked as if the mumma monkey was trying to kill her baby.


    Reflexively, she pushed Honey''s face into her, pressing the back of his head to make sure he doesn''t peek.


    Her gaze lifted to the collar. Mumma monkey''s collar seems unchanged, but the baby''s was blinking red, making a noise.


    It was only when the collar around the baby''s neck started closing in, blood gushing out of eyes, nose, and ears; Suyin realised the mumma monkey was trying to save her child by making a futile attempt to get him rid of the collar.


    Slowly... slowly.... the collar kept on closing, squeezing the life out of the animal. The mother monkey left struggling even after the death.


    Suyin bit her lips.


    She had seen nothing like this.


    She knew what does it mean.


    She knew what Alpha was trying to do.


    "Oh, it seems it''s over." She heard Alpha''s voice, "Must be a wonderful show. But trust me, humans do it better. Got to go, I have many things to prepare. Mind it, you have only three hours to decide before I-----"


    His laughter echoed in Suyin''s ear even after he hung up.


    Silence followed.


    "Ah, baby monkey...." Amara broke the silence as she crouched down a meter away. She extended her hand and dipped a finger in the puddle of blood, raising it to everyone, "Blood. Red blood. Is he dead? Why is his face red in blood? Is he dead? Why is he not moving? Is he dead? I want to learn tree climbing from him and pluck yummy pine nuts. BABYYYYY, WAKE UP. Are you sleeping? Are you dead?"

 Chapter 297 - A doctor or a murderer?

    Honey broke from Suyin''s arms and ran where Amara was. Though he pretended he was not looking at the dead animal, Suyin knew he was. He touched Amara''s cheek, "Amara, I will teach you climbing. Let that baby sleep."


    "Ah, little devil, you know how to climb?" Honey nodded, lying. Amara clapped her hands, taking Honey in arms, and spinning. She sniffed his hair, "Little devil, you smell so good. Just like my--" and then suddenly she started crying. Honey reached to wipe her tears, "Just like my Caleb. My cute cute Caleb."


    "Where is he?"


    Amara jutted her lips out, "Hiding. Hiding. He''s hiding from me. Caleb, where are you? Come to momma, see, Little Devil wants to meet you."


    Wang Shi squeezed Suyin''s sweaty palm, making her turn towards him. Just then one of his men came looking for them. His panicked expression was the sign it couldn''t be any good news. Not like he had expected.


    Suyin followed Wang Shi. She had a hunch this was Alpha''s doing. Revon ordered his men to clean the mess and put monkey in a cage.


    "Make sure not to hurt mother, show Merci." This was the first time Luo commanded Revon''s men and went after Suyin. Revon in tow.


    *********


    [Secretary General Zhao Suyin missing. Prime suspects Wang Huang and Liu Jeilan.]


    [Another evidence released. Dr. Wang Shi behind the death of Zhao Suyin''s son.]


    [The case of stolen heart and hundred million dollars]


    [Dr. Wang Shi killed two months old child to save his own son]


    [A doctor or a murderer?]


    [Patriarch Wang tried to commit suicide by overdosing on sleeping pills. Condition serious. The letter found beside him reads he was disappointed and ashamed.]


    [Protests turned aggressive. President Wang''s car attacked by angry people on his way to parliament.]


    #JusticeforSuyin #PunishWangShi #BringbackSuyin #GoawayWangs #WesupportSuyin


    The entire country was roaring against Wang family. Junjie had been trying his best to keep the situation under control, but how could he fight against the entire nation? Fire and swords are slow engines of destruction, compared to one rumour.


    Suyin looked at Wang Shi. He was staring at the article headlines over internet. His fingers clenched around the phone. Jaw ticking.


    Though she herself blamed Wang Shi for being a hand in killing her child, she hated every bit of it how others were calling him a murderer. She shouldn''t, but she did.


    "Doctors are trying their best to curb the effects of pills. They have asked us to wait forty-eight hour--"


    "Forty-eight?" Wang Shi growled, "He is already eighty-three. Have diabetes, and high blood pressure. Survived a major stroke four years back. Do you think his body is strong enough to hold it by that time? DAMMIT! WHAT THOSE IDIOT DOCTORS ARE DOING?" He slammed his hand on the table. The sound was sharp and echoed.


    Startled, Xiu Mei looked up briefly in a worry, and resumed working on the laptop with one end attached to her droid, Orange. Though she wanted to walk up to Wang Shi and support him, her hands were already full at the moment. She can''t afford to let a single second go waste. She had to locate Alpha''s location at any cost.


    Jianyu reached up and squeezed Wang Shi''s shoulder. He took the phone from Wang Shi''s hand, "Junjie, this is not a suicide attempt. Did you find something?"


    "Nothing." Junjie''s voice sounded, "Aunty Sima got suspicious when grandpa didn''t come out of his room the entire day and neither he replied when she knocked. The servants break the door open and found him lying on floor. An empty bottle beside him and a letter in pocket."


    "Rubbish. I had never prescribed sleeping pills to him. Their very existence is questionable." Every medicine that reached Patriarch Wang used to come from Wang Shi with his signed prescription.


    "There''s something more--" Junjie said, "My team had been thrown out from Wang pvt ltd''s headquarter. Uncle Chuzhi (Wang Shi''s cousin) has taken over the command. He wanted nothing to do with what he saw as your crisis. After grandpa, he had proclaimed himself as the legal owner. He even had papers."


    It made Wang Shi frown. The last time he had accepted taking over the family and business on the condition of letting Honey come here. Though not on paper, he''s the owner and current patriarch.


    Junjie, "The situation is getting out of hand. Sean and Sangui are pressuring uncle to resign from his president''s position. We need sister Suyin to clear all this." Lest he knew what Alpha had done something to make sure Suyin keeps her mouth shut.


    Wang Shi shared a glance at Suyin, noticing her looking down at phone. He took it from her. Alpha had sent her a video. Two masked men were torturing James and Zeng.


    It reminded him of something, "Junjie, what about Suyin''s parents? Are they safe? Wu Sean--"


    "Don''t worry, brother. As per your orders earlier, I have a team guarding them in secret. Sean made an effort to get them out, but our commando killed his men. Sister Suyin''s assistant, and her interns are also safe."


    Suyin bit her lips, averting her gaze from Wang Shi''s face. It met with Xiu Mei''s as she gave a meaningful look consisting of many unspoken words.


    "I-I--"


    "It''s settled," Interrupting her, Lu Xion came walking.  "Colton is leaving within an hour. He will take over Elder Wang''s case." The news came as a relief. For everyone.


    As if it was what Wang Shi needed most. He took a deep breath, "Junjie, leave the company. Don''t worry about it. Just concentrate on this matter and ask dad to delay his resignation." He looked over shoulder at Jianyu, "When is military coming?"


    "By evening."


    "Make it sooner. Since Alpha loves surprises, we will give him the biggest of his life." Wang Shi said, "Mei, how much time?"


    "Located. But need another three hours to make a blueprint. Damn,  wish we had someone who could lead us to the secret entrances and exit. These places always have one."


    That clicked something in Suyin. "We have someone. And I am sure he won''t disappoint us."


    "You are talking about Evan?"

 Chapter 298 - He must be the same bad man

    "You are talking about Evan?"


    "I do." Suyin turned to Luo and Revon who had been listening to them all this while. "I know our situation doesn''t look favourable, but this is the only option. If you don''t want too--"


    Revon raised his palm, "You have no idea how much I waited for this day. I have full faith in you---" he looked at the marvellous people standing with her, especially a particular man holding his calm even in this situation. "--and the people beside you. I will ask everyone to prepare." He turned, "Let''s go Luo,"


    Luo opened his mouth to say, but decided against. He wanted to go after Suyin to Evan, but what reason could he give? Hopefully Evan agrees to help and come out of the protective custody where he was kept. This way he''d get the opportunity to know more about the man who he doubts to be his lost brother.


    "Mei, I will be back in fifteen minutes. Have to contact Jin regarding military." Jianyu said, watching her nod without removing gaze from the screen.


    "Suyin," she stopped in her steps hearing Wang Shi. He came near her. It was always known that her love for Honey had been unparalleled, but today she had willingly put two members of her family at risk and didn''t consider the fact that Alpha had offered to exchange them for Honey. Never for once it crossed her mind that honey wasn''t her real son, or that he was the son of the man who killed her son. "Honey--"


    "There''s no way I am giving him my son. Keep him out. That bastard wants me to put that deadly collar on my baby. HE COULD JUST SHOVE IT UP HIS ASS AND DIE." he gripped her by shoulder, rubbing the pad of his thumb. Her eyes cleared.


    "No. We are not giving your son. He will be with you forever. Safe. And so as your family. We will bring them back."


    Suyin shook her head, "You and I, we are in the same situation. Both our families are suffering somewhere. Their lives are at stake. And if Alpha thinks he can put a leash on me by kidnapping Jamie and Zeng, he must be on high. I, Zhao Suyin, is going to bring them back, and clear your family''s name--"


    "Its not needed--"


    "It is. It is so that no one could point a finger at my son in the future. I don''t want him to hear anything bad about his father or family." Suyin said, "So I am going to fight as if it''s my last battle and so as you. This will be difficult, but other than winning we don''t have any other option. Let''s do this together,"


    "Together,"


    "Together,"


    They left her working on the laptop. Xiu Mei smiled, keeping her eyes on screen. The little droid spoke up in his robotic voice "According to my analysis these two are in love. 98% love chemistry detected"


    "Calculation wrong. It''s 100%. Only these two don''t know that."


    "How is that possible?"


    "You won''t understand. Humans are complicated."


    "Humans are complicated. Love is Complicated. ''Orange'' is easy to understand. Make more of me.''


    Unknown to her, a little human was hiding under the table she was sitting at. He had heard everything.


    Taking advantage of his size, he sneaked out of the room, something hidden in his pocket. He ran to where the baby monkey had died and overheard Revon''s men talking about it. "I had put it in the container and latched it from outside. It is screeching nonstop. I''m irritated."


    "Well, her baby died in front of her eyes. Let her mourn."


    "C''mon, it''s just an animal. They give birth in bunches. Minimum two or three. If she''s so traumatised, I will gladly free her from pain. It''s been a while I had roasted meat."


    "Hahahaha..... me too. But that''s not for us to decide. Let''s concentrate on our work."


    Honey went straight where they had caged momma monkey. His hands tremble as he slowly pulled the latch.


    "Little devil!"


    Honey jumped. Hands at heart. "Amara! You shouldn''t scare someone like this."


    "What are you doing here? Came to see the mamma monkey just like me? See--" she takes out something from her clothes, "I brought a banana for her. Let me call others as well. HEY--" Honey pulled her inside and closed the door.


    "Shhh.... Don''t call anyone, they won''t let us here."


    "Ohh! No shouting. Finger on lips," She did just that. But then asked, "It''s so dark here. At least open the door," Honey takes out his phone from pocket and switched on the flashlight, slowly moving towards the traumatised animal.


    If the mamma monkey was calm when she had arrived, she was the exact opposite right now. She was banging her head against the metal bars, screeching, scratching her nails to get out. Seeing Honey and Amara, it growled, baring teeth.


    Amara hid behind Honey. "I don''t like her anymore,"


    Honey''s heart was thundering in his chest. His courage was small, but not the animal''s fangs. He clenched the key in his pocket, running fingers around the edges.


    His steps stopped at a foot from cage. The animal getting wilder. He placed a finger on his lips, "I-I''m not here to hurt you. Please be quiet, others will find us. Please...." as if the animal could understand. He snatched the banana from Amara and crouched down, "Take this... I will bring you more. Let me take your collar. I want to help ducky."


    The animal keeps growling, struggling.


    "I have to give myself to that bad man to save Jamie and Zeng. Only then ducky could help daddy solve his problem. Everything is happening because of me.... I''m the reason. Bad man wants me, that''s why he''s hurting ducky and daddy. Zena must have sent him here. I know. He must be the same bad man who had locked me with spiders,"


    ...


    ...


    "Little devil, what are you saying? Who is Zena? Who is the bad man? Where are spiders?"


    Honey looked up, "Do you want chocolates?"


    "CHOCOLATES!"


    "Shh.... I will give you a big box of it. But you have to do as I say."


    *********


    "That''s probably the last time you are seeing him," Suyin said, noticing changes in Evan''s expression as his grip tightened around the phone. She saw tears rolling down his eyes as he called for Jamie. Despite his inability to speak, anybody can make out he was calling for James. "I am afraid--"


    Evan made a grunting sound from throat, looking sharply at her. His eyes warning her. Suyin curled her fingers around the metal bar, "I know you love him. Definitely more than anyone in this world. Though I don''t know what reason you have to hold your silence, but continue holding it any longer and Alpha will send Jamie''s mutilated body to us." Her voice turned heavy, "And if that happens, I swear I won''t let you see him last time, and will cage you for forever so that you die every moment remembering Jamie."


    She stepped back.


    Evan graced the tip of his fingers at the screen and slowly nodded without removing his gaze.


    Suyin breathed a sigh of relief. So as Wang Shi. It was their first victory.


    "Do you have a plan?" Wang Shi came to stand beside her.


    "I do. And for that we need that collar."


    "I was thinking same." She looked for the key in pocket but it was not there. "Look another pocket," he said.


    "I have kept it here only." She emptied all. Confused. Suddenly something snapped in her, eyes protruding out in fear, "Where is Honey?"


    ********

 Chapter 299 - Honeys past 1

    Worry doesn''t quite cover it and scared would be an understatement to describe what Suyin and Wang Shi had been feeling at the moment. A chill creeps over them as they shoved everyone that comes in their way. Their steps screeching where the baby monkey died. Finding it empty.


    "Where is he?" Suyin asked.


    "Where is the other monkey?" Wang Shi questioned Luo who had come out to smoke marijuana. He caught the worry on their faces and shoved the rolled paper strip in pocket.


    "I don''t know. What happened?"


    "EVERYBODY, PAY ATTENTION," Wang Shi screamed at the top of his voice, "WHERE IS THE OTHER MONKEY? ANSWER ME NOW,"


    "Caged in the empty blue container near docks."


    The two sprinted as if it''s the world ending. Suyin was the first.


    The door to the blue container was closed without a latch. She pushed it, darting in. The door clanged against the wall.


    Honey looked up, startled. He was standing near the cage, blood dripping down from hands and the deadly collar just inches away from his neck.


    "HONEY!" She screamed, taking a step, "STOP."


    "Don''t come!" Honey took a step back. His eyes looking behind Suyin at Wang Shi. Tears rolled down.


    "Bratty, it''s not a gaming console. Give it to me," Wang Shi took a step closer, his hand stretched outward.


    "Don''t come near," Tears rolled down. "I won''t give it. You both are leaving me here and going after the bad man to save James and Zeng. I heard it." His cheeks stained red as he wiped them with the back of his hands. Suyin tried to look where he was hurt. "Mum, dad, this is happening because of me."


    Suyin, "No... No, my sweetie,"


    "It is. Bad man wants Honey." Honey said, "He had tried this before but dad saved me that night. Now he is doing it again. Let him take me, and save Jamie and Zeng, and help dad save grandpa, grandma, and GG."


    "I don''t know what you are saying, but we will talk about it later. Before that let me tell you a fact-- bad people don''t keep their promises. Why would they? They are bad for a reason. And they believe whatever they are doing is correct."


    Suyin stopped Wang Shi from moving closer and took a baby step while talking to him as softly as always. "Trust me, even after fulfilling his conditions, he won''t let go of them. He''s cruel and takes pleasure in killing people. When he didn''t shy away from killing thousands, why would he bother about two more lives?" Her voice choked, "We don''t even know for sure if they are still alive. Please, don''t do this-- It will only make us helpless. Do you want to see your parents helpless?"


    Honey looked at the two. Slowly shook his head.


    "Right. My baby loves us the most, don''t you?" She took two more steps, careful not to startle him and cause him to lock the collar mistakenly.


    "Mum, he''s very powerful. He is not even scared of snakes and carries a big one around neck. I saw it. It was veryyyyyy big, and had sharp teeth. He''d hurt you. Don''t go after him. He had locked me in a spider box once." He sniffed.


    Honey''s words were not making any sense for Suyin. Don''t know if it was a dream, hallucination, or if he was making things. But the fear in his eyes says he had been through all this.


    "Well, your mum is equally powerful. Though I am scared of lizards, I can surely take care of snakes and spiders. And I think its high time we put your dad''s muscles to test. What if they are rusted?" Suyin licked her dry lips, judging the distance between her and Honey. Can she jump? May be a step more. "And sweetie, I think you don''t love me."


    "I do," Honey opposed instantly.


    "Then why are talking about leaving me? I thought you were seeking an enormous gift for your ''seventh'' birthday from me? You didn''t tell me what is the gift?"


    "I want a family holiday with you and daddy every six months. Forever and ever. No hiccups. No questions. No work. No reasons accepted. A forever deal between us."


    "SPIDER!" Suyin yelped as if electrified.


    Honey screamed, jumping.


    Suyin grab the opportunity and slapped the collar in his hand. It slide and stop after crashing into a wall.


    She caught him by the shoulder, and pulled him in a tight embrace, "Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. I hate you." Honey buried his face in her neck, sobbing. His little body shaking uncontrollably. "I hate you,"


    Wang Shi heaved a sigh of relief.


    "But I love you," Honey cried, "I love both you and dad. Please don''t go. It''s dangerous there. Bad man will lock you in the spider box and won''t take out. I am not powerful like dad who can save you from him. I''m just six-year-old."


    "But you are my six-year-old man. A brave man." Suyin rubbed his back, "Just you wait. We will punish the bad man and lock him in his own box of spiders. We have a plan." it was lie.


    "Really?" Honey sniffled, looking at the two. His cute face was blotchy and streaked with tears. Wang Shi grabbed his hands to check the bleeding. Honey pointed his finger at the cage, "She bit me. It was Amara who hit her with a shoe to free me." Suyin and Wang Shi finally took notice of a woman crouched in a dark corner, hugging knees. The monkey knocked unconscious.


    "Don''t worry. I will take care of it." Wang Shi coaxed him by touching his cheek. He volunteered to pick him, and Suyin let him.


    She stopped by the door, darting her grey orbs accusingly.


    "''I''m sorry. I should have paid attention to her," He said, understanding she was Honey''s accomplice. Though she had also helped the boy to free his hand from the animal''s jaw, he can''t use it as an excuse to hide he failed his duty. Amara had been his responsibility, and he had promised Suyin to see that she stays within his sight.


    Suyin left without a word.

 Chapter 300 - Honeys past 2

    Luo bent down in front of the woman curled in the corner. Raising his head to caress her head, but retrieved at her flinch. He sat down, eyes fixed at the woman looking warily at him, scratching her skin repetitively.


    [Wish I had not turned away from you. Wish I had listened to my heart once. Wish I had dropped the thought of finding Lucy years back. Wish I had.....]


    He sighed. Her eyes shone when he takes out a candy from her pocket. She snatched it. A grin replacing the frown on her face. "Be good. I think I have found Lucy. Once I bring him safely to Ma Roma, I''ll be free from this guilt. I''ll be free forever. Free to live my life with you. Somewhere far from this cursed place. I promise to give you a good life. Just a little more. Will you?"


    Amara licked the candy, enjoying the flavours at the tip of her tongue. She pushed Luo on chest, and ran from there, "Stupid Luo. Stupid Luo. I won''t share my candy. This is for my babies. Baby? Where are you? Mummy brought a candy!"


    **********


    Honey winced as Suyin cleaned his wound. She blew cool air with every wipe of antiseptic. Wang Shi held him on lap, stopping him from wiggling.


    "Fairy, can you tell us how you know bad man?" Suyin asked carefully. She saw him pulling lower lips in and gently pinched his chin. " Don''t do this. If you don''t want to tell us, it''s fine. I was asking because it could be a big help to us." Honey looked at Wang Shi who blinked.


    "You saw him on ship, don''t you?" Considering how bothered Honey was, Wang Shi concluded. It must be when Zena kidnapped him and tried to leave the country through sea route. That was the incident Honey never spoke about. Not even after countless attempts by his therapist.


    "Yes." Honey hesitated, but finally revealed something after years.  Suyin and Wang Shi waited patiently. Encouraging him with back rubs. "When Zena took me to the ship, he was already there. Had a long yellow snake at his feet, and one on his shoulder. They were scary."


    Honey frowned as if recalling, "''I brought him, you can do whatever you want. Get your revenge.'' Zena said, and he threw a bag at her. I don''t know what it was, but she smiled after seeing it and kicked me in bum toward him. I fell at the yellow snake." Suyin squeezed his hand, Wang Shi hugged him tight.


    "Mum, when I tried to run, snake--- round round around my legs," he forgot the correct word, and tried to use whatever came in mind to describe. "I cried. Everyone laughed at me. Zena, too. Dad, snakes are dangerous. You should stay away from them."


    "Not snakes, sweetie, it were the humans. Not all humans are bad, but some are. And your daddy failed to protect you from the bad ones." Wang Shi said. Honey shook his head.


    "You came on time to save me. Otherwise those spiders would have eaten me up," he said, "I don''t know what I had done, but bad man was furious at me. I was not even being naughty, yet they took off all my clothes and put me in a glass box and let spiders all over me. I peed in the box." He tried to show the size of spiders with his hands, but Suyin was applying medicine.


    As he continued, Suyin and Wang Shi could finally join the dots about the reasons behind Honey''s behaviour. His hatred for women. He being scared of being touched. His dislike against creepy crawlies. Him being trembling at night, and jerk awake. Him wetting his bed for very long. Him not talking about the incident. Him being reserved and not trusting anyone.


    Though Honey being a child couldn''t tell everything in detail, not even could describe his feeling properly. His parents could feel everything. Just the thought of how he must have struggled in a box with spiders, send shivers down their spine.


    Wang Shi even got to know they had left the ship abruptly midway. This only means someone had leaked the news of his attack much earlier. That''s why when he attacked Zena''s ship, he found Honey curled in a corner on the deck, shivering, only a tattered rug thrown over his n.a.k.e.d body. There were no signs of any third party other than Zena''s family.


    "Mum," every time he calls her that, she feels a pang in heart. She encouraged him to speak with a soft touch on cheeks. "I even apologised, but the bad man said, he will do everything with me that had happened to his son. He said, he''s making me pay the price."


    Wang Shi frowned, "Anything else you could recall?"


    "One thing more," Honey looked up, "He said, none of this had happened had your daddy died in the plane hijack. What plane hijack he was talking about?" Suyin and Wang Shi looked at each other, shocked.


    Suyin, "Sweetie, can you tell us what does he looks like?" She took a second and grabbed the tab lying on bed. Scrolling through Tamis old picture. "Was it him?"


    Honey shook his head instantly, "No. I would never forget his face. He was old, like GG (Great grandfather) and was walking with a stick. If I ever see him, I will let you know." Suyin finished the bandage with a kiss on both cheeks. A little one gave a cute smile and reached to snuggle in her embrace.


    "Take some rest. I will ask someone to get you food, and after that daddy will give you injection, you know about it, right?"


    "I know. Monkey bite equals to dog bite." Honey pouted, "Will you still be here?" Suyin didn''t have any answer. Time was ticking. She had only three hours, out of which one had passed. Honey caught the hesitation and insisted on being fed by her.


    ...


    He was awkwardly quiet, sneaking glances at Suyin and Wang Shi now and then as they took a moment to talk and discuss course of action with others. Though drowsy because of the effects of the injection, he sat down silently on the uncomfortable wooden chair, dangling his legs, listening to the elders as they discussed something. Half of which was tangent to his head.


    Only one thing dreads him~ Wang Shi had agreed to let Suyin go alone while he''d come by a different route, following Evan''s directions. But to coax his little heart, Xiu Mei let him have a laptop through which he could follow Suyin''s movements on a map. They could even talk to each other.


    *******

 Chapter 301 - End of arc-1

    [Use Revon''s old jeep and reach high towers.]


    Alpha''s first message that Suyin received came at a cost. Since taking Honey was out of question she herself wore the Neck-crushing collar to trick him to believe that someone indeed was wearing it. But somewhere she had a hunch he already knows about it.


    Xiu Mei had checked its design and confirmed not only he could remotely control the collar, but it had a tracking device and sensors.


    Following Alpha''s instructions, she hoped on to the old jeep and steered towards the high towers in the west. She drove through the burned farmlands. Smoke emitting from the houses and buildings engulfed in flames. Dead bodies lying on the road. Being under the control of militia, this particular area of the country was most devastated.


    She turns the steering to the right to avoid crushing any dead under wheels.


    "AHHH," A jolt of electric shock passed through her nervous system, strong enough to numb her senses, leaving her in unbearable pain.


    The collar!


    "Mummy!" She heard Honey''s voice from the tiny pea size earphone Wang Shi had fixed inside her ear canal. Another of Xiu Mei''s inventions. And no need to tell, it''s super irritating to get something so close to your eardrum.


    "I''m fine." She bit back the pain, "A desert fox passed by." She heard Honey sniff and mutter a tiny hmm. She knew he caught her lying but not exposing her. "My baby is bravest. I love you." Another hmm, no words. He was crying. For sure.


    It was a bad idea to let Honey hear them. But was there a choice? The little one refused to let them go without it.


    [Every time you deviate from route, you will get a small surprise.]


    Another message.


    ...


    Wang Shi heard Suyin''s pained voice too, leaving him gritting his teeth.


    [Mei, cut it off] With a heavy heart he took the decision and messaged Xiu Mei. He had already left with Luo and Evan. Evan taking them from a secret route to Alpha''s hideout. While Revon was leading his men from behind in military trucks.


    Xiu Mei''s lips pursed into a thin line as she paused her work and looked up at the little one curled at the window seat. His watery eyes set on the laptop, watching his parents'' position on the map. They were in a military grade SUV inconspicuously moving towards Alpha''s base through a different route with Xion''s convoy ahead. Jianyu protecting them in the car.


    Xiu Mei showed the message to Jianyu. He looked at Honey and slowly nodded.


    She did exactly that.


    Honey frowned. He couldn''t hear the muffled sound of Suyin''s breathing anymore, "Hello? Hello? Ducky?" his eyes snapped at Xiu Mei. She immediately retrieved her gaze, expecting to hear him whine, complain, or request. But the little one did worse.


    He did nothing.


    Wish he had.


    It was heart wrenching to see him look at Xiu Mei knowingly, accusingly. The look of betrayal. Fat tear stained his cheeks as he return his gaze to the screen.


    It took everything in Xiu Mei to hold herself.


    ....


    Wang Shi followed Evan''s directions, passing through narrow lanes and bumpy road.  Had it not been for Suyin giving a chance to Evan, he wouldn''t have trusted him. He was still unsure if the said route would really take him to Alpha or somewhere else.


    "Are you sure?" He asked skeptically.


    Evan nodded and scribbled something on the notepad on his lap. A few seconds later he showed it to Wang Shi.


    [No one knows about the secret tunnel I had built. It will take us to Alpha.]


    Then he retrieved the notepad, turn the page and scribbled something more....


    [You don''t have any reason to trust me, but I have every reason to reach there. Jamie is my only family. With every passing second, I''m loosing him more and more.]


    Wang Shi shifted his attention back to driving. Ignoring him.


    "I trust him," Luo spoke up. Evan''s head snapped to the man sitting on the back seat, staring at him for God knows how long. As their eyes met, Luo kept an expressionless face. And then, "You remind me of someone. His name was Lucian. We used to call him, Lucy. He was as passionate as you for the people he loves, and can go to any extent for them. Even killing."


    Evan studies Luo, a slight frown marring his face. The corners of his lips tighten as he pins a stare at Luo. Luo returned the gesture.


    Now that Evan had shaved, his features clearly visible, faintly resembling to the childhood photograph Luo had been carrying with him all this while. The features that resembles with Ma Roma''s first husband.


    The veil of uncertainty had finally lifted. Evan and Lucian were the same person. He was Luo''s step brother.


    Evan blinks away from Luo, confused, left with countless questions. Something comes upon his mind, but he pushed the matter aside, and choose to concentrate on the matter in hand. Guess he needs to talk to someone later.


    ********


    The night hung heavy and silent. High towers looms ahead of her, the half damaged structure narrating it own story. Once used as a way to execute criminals by throwing them heads down from the open balcony on top.


    Suyin''s gaze fell on a group of men standing below, wearing Khakhi trousers and shirt. They had cloth wrapped around head and mouth. A rifle tucked at shoulder, and a machete at waist. One of them had a row of grenade wrapped around waist.


    For some reason, her anger against Alpha morphed into dread.


    If she didn''t make it out alive, what would happen to Honey? Will he ever be able to cope up her death? What if something goes wrong? She bit her lips and remembered her purpose and the life she''d get after that.


    Everyone pointing their rifles at her as she gets down.


    Her heart hammers in chest, sensing the sliding of three metal spiders down her trousers, crawling towards men and sticking to theirs. She breathed in relief. Another of Xiu Mei''s inventions. They were spy spiders with camera, controlled remotely by Orange the droid.


    With their help, Wang Shi and Xiu Mei could see everything.

 Chapter 302 - End of arc-2

    "Alone?" One of them asked. "Where is the boy?"


    "It''s either me or nothing. No one is getting the boy." She kept still, her attention on their rifles.


    "You were suppose to bring the boy. The collar should be on him, not you."


    "Should I go back now?" her sarcastic tongue came out again. "Can''t help. My hands slipped, reached out for the collar, and did this to me. If you have a good doctor in your camp, maybe I will consider asking him the reason."


    The four looked at each other. Their gaze flickered.


    "Suyin, please! Control your tongue," She heard Wang Shi''s voice. "Once we rescue James and Zeng, and brings you out safely, you can use it as much as you want." She bit her tongue. He was correct. Fool and impulsive that she had been, it was a mistake.


    She saw the men with grenade belt walking away and calling someone over the phone. His back facing her. A minute later he turned.


    "Hand over the weapons on you." He must be the leader of the pack. "And everything that you shouldn''t carry,"


    Without taking her gaze off of them, she bend to reach for her boots. The three men tensed, almost shoving the nozzle into her.


    She pulls out a dagger and a Swiss knife and threw at their feet.


    "What else?"


    She shoved her hands in pocket and pulled the inside of cloth to show its empty. "Nothing."


    The leader lifts an eyebrow. She could make out he was smiling beneath that covered face. "Wish you were not this ugly, I would have gladly taken out the one hidden between your boo*s,"


    "But I don''t mind," One of them extended his dirty hand. She slapped it away. Hissing.


    Fighting against the impulse to kick between his legs, she takes out the last remaining knife. She was sure Alpha must have told him that. But how? How on earth that man knows such minute details about her? Even the location of her emergency weapon?


    They tied her hands behind her and shoved her towards their own vehicle.


    **********


    Alpha''s base doesn''t look like anything she had expected. Being a technologically challenged person she mistook his small tech stunts as rocket science. It was not.  Xiu Mei was right when she judged Alpha as a cautious person who either doesn''t know much about technology or he''s wary and understands the cons.


    Now she understood what Xiu Mei meant when she said her talent was directly proportional to the enemy''s use of computer science and internet. That''s why she could not get much information about Alpha and even had to use the satellite to get this location. Calling it a secret militia training camp would be apt. Hidden from prying eyes built in the mountain range.


    Tents, houses made of roughly cut limestones, barbed wires, and training equipments. That''s it! No surveillance cameras but only men monitoring and patrolling, communicating with walkie-talkie.


    Though a nighttime, she saw thousands of militias running around with weapons, following the instructions of their leader, forming a group. This only means they were preparing for something. And they definitely outnumber them. She passed through the deadly stares and hurling insults. They knew it was her doing that Reis and many of their comrades were either dead or in jail.


    As the jeep passed by, her eyes squinted at a particular area where monkeys were squeezed inside a cage much smaller than their number. Everyone had a collar around their neck.


    The wheels came to a halt after a drive of over two kilometres. The place was vast.


    She looked at the single floor structure built with limestone, occupying the area she couldn''t see properly because of the night limiting her vision.


    [Single floor sprawled across an area of 5 hectares. It''s a maze of corridors and doors from inside. Unless you are aware of the design, you will definitely keep roaming in circles and would eventually end up in the hands of armed guards. Has deadly traps all the way to prison, and where Alpha lives. And can withstand heavy attacks. For the information it has an underground bunker.] That''s what Evan had told her about it before coming here. He had explained her emergency exits in case she need any.


    The word traps didn''t go down well with her. James and Zeng were in prison.


    Her vision darkened when someone tied a cloth around her eyes, taking her by surprise. "What are you doing?"


    "Silent." Another one inside her mouth. Two of them grabbed her by the elbow. She had no choice but to follow them. She calmly counted the number of steps and number of turns. It might come handy later.


    She felt a rough hand around her wrist as someone undid the ropes. A push on her back and she fell down on the cold floor, hearing a clang of the door closing behind. She yanked the blindfold and undid the gag. Her pupils spreading maximum, but it was eerily dark. She rubbed her eyes, giving them time to adjust but lest she knew it was not her eyes but the room itself was dark.


    "Hello, Suyin. Finally we met," A voice boomed and a light, much brighter, flicked over her head. She squinted at the sharpness. Another series of lights began to shine at her feet, illuminating a pathway, ending at a glass wall. She tried to look behind it, but it was eerily dark inside.


    "You didn''t bring the boy. Looks like you don''t love your brother and best friend."


    "I''m not stupid to sacrifice another life when two are already in danger." she scoffed, "I know you''d never let go of them even if I had fulfilled your conditions."


    "And who is to blame for that? You came in my way," he snarled, "It was the perfect plan. My years of hard work. Who gave you the right to trample on it? I would have gladly let you and your family go after accomplishing my goal--"

 Chapter 303 - End of arc-3

    "Goal?" Suyin stood up, "For your bloody goal you killed my son, bastard! The moment you laid hands on my son, you invited this upon you."


    An eerie laughter echoed. Suyin felt a chill, but she pulled her shoulder back.


    "Dumb woman. Your son was bound to die. If not me, then by your Aunt. Or maybe your ex. Or Gilbert. I was not even aware of it until Gilbert told me just a few months back that he was asked to kill your son."


    "LIE."


    "I know you''d say that. Here-- take a seat and let me tell you a short story. Oops, you don''t have a chair. Just sit down on the floor." She did buzz. "SIT," The next moment she felt a jolt of similar electric current, and dropped to her knees.


    "The sooner you obey me, the less painful it would be," he said, "So, where were we? Ahh! Story!" She sat in silence, willing herself to hear more. Hear everything. Her entire being screamed to know the entire story. "But first answer me, do you know how did I come to know of Wang Shi''s biggest secret?"


    The only two people aware of it were Wang Shi and Zena. "Zena," She said.


    "That was easy! Yes, years back Zena had approached my organisation for two organs. Through her I came to know of his two sick kids. A Golden opportunity to get back to those cunning Wangs!"


    Zena was desperate to get into Wang Shi''s life. And she knew the only way was through kids. "We arranged two hearts in a record time. But the block head man refused to entertain Zena when she tried to talk through him about it. Idiot. He was just waiting for donors to come up. My golden opportunity was slipping from my hands. Do you know what I did next?"


    She looked away from the wall. It was nothing to look at silhouette. He was just sitting like a mannequin. Haven''t moved even an inch.


    "I killed his daughter."


    Her head snapped back to the glass wall. Vision hazed. Everything became fuzzy.


    "Shocked, isn''t it? He doesn''t know about it. No one knows."


    Her lips quivered, "H-h-h-how?" Maniac. Psycho. No words were enough to describe Alpha.


    "A tiny air bubble injected into the child''s IV was all it took. Painless and neat death."


    For a second, Suyin can''t breathe. Her attention shifted to hear something from earphone. Anything. Something. She opened her mouth to say a word to Wang Shi, but closed.


    "It pushed him to the edge," Alpha continued, "He became desperate to save his only surviving child. My golden opportunity came back to me. At my orders, Gilbert contacted him and dangled the bone on front of the dog."


    Suyin fight to remain calm, but rage worked its way through her body, shaking uncontrollably.


    [FAST. HURRY!] She finally heard a voice from Wang Shi, followed by an echo of heavy steps. They were in the tunnel. About to reach into the prison.


    "You must be thinking, how did you get involved in this mess, don''t you?"


    No. She thinking why he was talking to her so comfortably? Why he revealed this secret to her? A realisation struck. He''s desperately doing it to stir Wang Shi''s emotions. Alpha knows Wang Shi was coming! Does he also know about the secret tunnel? Was there a trap set for him? Was Evan betraying them again?


    "I never intended to use you. But Zena''s continuous failed attempts were a disappointment. I had to get someone else as a backup. And who else could be better than a mother whose son died at the hands if a selfish rich man? Just never expected you''d be charmed by him, and would reach to warm his bed instead of getting justice for your son. You don''t deserve to be a mother. A black spot."


    "SHUT UP, SHUT UP, SHUT UP. MONSTER." She stood up, ran to hit at the glass wall, "Why? Why did you kill our kids? Dammit, they were babies. WHY? WHAT UNREASONABLE HATRED IS THIS?"


    "Unreasonable? My wife, my only son, his two kids, everyone died because of these selfish Wangs. What right do they have to play with a life of a citizen? Just because we don''t have money and power like them, they treated us like insects and left my family to die!" he yelled, matching the same hatred and pain as that of hers. Voice coming broken, quivering. "They are reaping what they have sowed."


    Suyin''s hands pressed at the wall, "You are not Tamis. He was not an ordinary citizen. You are someone whose family was in the plane crash." her voice came firm and unbroken, "You know Wang Shi was on it too, and he was saved. You are not only fighting against Wangs but also destroying this country to avenge the death of your family. You had many opportunities to kill Honey, but you created a sense of fear in Honey and Wang Shi''s mind and let them bond with each other, so that when you kill Honey later, it brings unbearable pain. You---"


    She took a step back, then another, her hands reaching into her pocket, "I can see you are a psycho old man who wants Mr. and Mrs. Wang to feel you and spend their rest of the life in loneliness, crying for their dead kids."


    "Always so smart. But sad, you realised it late. I have hit the last nail in the coffin. By the time your ever so late military arrives, every one of you will become dust. And in Cheyna, Wang family will become history, and forever be despised by their people. I will leave the surviving three oldies to mourn, reflecting at their sins."


    She clutched the grenade in her hand she had swiped off the belt of the men who had brought her here. A flurry of thought hitched her breath. She and Wang Shi were here, trapped. Honey was with Xiu Mei, alone.

 Chapter 304 - End of arc-4

    This is not any chapter but a request from me. These past days my entire family is fighting against corona. And the situation in India is such it can''t be put in words.


    Since last two days I have called all the multi specialty hospitals in Gurgaon and Delhi for ICU ventilator bed for my father. Either my calls went unanswered, or they put me on the waiting list of 1k+


    I request if anyone can help me get a bed in DELHI OR GURGAON. PLEASE. I BEG OF YOU.


    If you can''t then please pray for my father. Include him in your prayers and pray for his well-being. I have a readers base of thousands. And thousands of prayers have lots of power. Please. ???? Ask your family and friends to pray for him as well.


    Please....


    Please....


    .....


    .....


    .....


    .....


    .....


    ...


    Every inch of her blazed. "SHISHI, THEIRS A TRAP IN THE TUNNRL . RUN!" Suyin pulls the safety pin and threw the grenade at the glass wall. Instantly ducking in the corner, curling in a fetus position, hands at head.


    The explosion rent the air. Shattering and ripping everything with it. Black smoke filled the room.


    Suyin coughed, lungs itched with hot smoke and dust as she raised her head up. Her vision hazy, watery. She covered her ears, "Wang Shi? Wang Shi are you okay? Hello? Someone there?" None replied.


    She was sure the tech spiders were just a lump of metal by now. Don''t know in which corner they were lying dead.


    Suyin patted her hands at the door, feeling it. As expected, it was locked. Slowly she made her way where the glass wall was, hearing pieces crush under her feet. Smoke bothered her, contact lenses hurting her eyes more. But without them, she''s useless.


    Feeling the sharp edges of the wall that once hold the glass wall, she felt around it and stepped in. Since it''s the room where the man was sitting, there should be an exit door too. She knocked on the wall. To her luck, she found the wooden door. Feeling it with her hands, she turned the doorknob and let the air cleaned.


    It came as a relief.


    Her head snapped to where the chair was lying on the floor. A man strapped to it. No! It was a wheelchair. She crouched to inspect the man''s face.


    Tamis.


    Dead.


    A breathing tube hooked to his throat. Limbs reduced to bone. Monitor lying broken beside him.


    She stood up, taking a look at the things sprawled at the table. A dead monkey with a collar, wires, and a few things that look straight out of physics lab. She picked the half burned paper that looks like blueprints.


    Her eyes widened.....


    She ran at a lightening speed, calling for Wang Shi. A futile try.


    She had barely stepped out when the ground trembled beneath her feet. It felt like an earthquake. She bend her knees to keep balance, and made her way towards the prison, recalling Evan''s instructions.


    Guards ran towards the exit, frantically yelling to vacant the building. It was about to explode any minute. Suyin scrambled out of their way, running in the opposite direction from where the prison was, unafraid of the falling building. She has her people in the prison. Her best friend. Brother. Honey''s father.


    Stones stared to fall from above, crushing anyone that comes in its way. Stench of blood occupied the air. Screams echoed. People were unable to get out. The doors were locked by someone.


    She heard something blast in the building but kept making her way towards the prison.


    **********


    In the prison,


    Wang Shi wrapped a cloth around his mouth to facilitate breathing amidst the heavy dust. "Get Evan and James out. I will go find Suyin. Hurry, this place is crumbling."


    Because of his doubt on Evan, Wang Shi remained vigilant, and double checked everything before blindly following him. According to Evan, he had built the tunnel over years and no one knew about it. But he noticed footprints at the mouth of the tunnel.


    His suspicion peeked upon hearing Alpha and Suyin''s interactions.


    To double check, he let one of the remote controlled spiders into the tunnel. Half way through, a series of blasts happened, and the entire tunnel came down. Had they gone inside, they wouldn''t had made out alive. If not landmines, they''d crushed under the debris or died because of lack of oxygen.


    The only way left was to force their way inside. A do or die situation.


    It was then he received a message that Feng Jin had reached with the military.


    A breather it was.


    Revon and Jin took charge with their armies, covering North and East sides. What followed was the collision between the two sides. A slaughter against a humankind. A choreographed dance of destruction.....


    Making way through Alpha''s militias would have taken time and efforts. And time was something they were running against. Wang Shi hoped on to his vehicle, and launched it like a maniac, forgetting it was equipped with a thing called brakes.


    The prison was in the North-West corridor, made of steel walls. "Jin, air cover from the West." He ordered. Following the coordinates of his position, a fighter plane came flying above him.


    It was no looking back from there.


    Under the firing of rocket launchers by Luo, and Evan from the car, and the plane covering them from above, people scurried out of way like ants running away from fire.


    "Stop." Evan hsaid. He pointed at the wall. "Prison is built with three layers of walls. This should be the first."


    ''Should?'' Wang Shi had scowled at the use of that word but anyway pulled the car away and ordered the fighter pilot to blow it up. It exploded with a loud roar. Dust settling in the air.


    They got down, weapons pointed ahead. To their shock, people came running out from the blown up wall. Kicking. Pushing. They were Alpha''s men. Instead of fighting, they were running away from them. Ignoring. As if none saw them.


    A portion of the building blew up just then. Clouds of black smoke filled the air.


    Realisation struck. Suyin was still inside and the building was crumbling. He could either save James-Zeng or the love of his life.


    The love wins. He''s selfish and won''t leave her to die. Not alone, at least.


    He looked at the two.


    It was then when he passed the responsibility to them. It''s a war, and they''ll save their own people first.


    He knew they''d do it. Evan would do it for his love.


    ....


    "Suyin? Suyin, come in?" none replied. Wang Shi pressed his ear to concentrate, but not even a tiny voice came from her.


    Suddenly a guard attacked from his left. He dodged, and shoot him on head. "Save your lives, idiots."

 Chapter 305 - End of arc-5

    Before I give you the chapter, firstly I want to thank everyone of you who were with me in these bad times. Though I didn''t reply to any of your messages, I read all of them and was truly blessed to see how supportive, helpful and caring you were.


    Daily I''m receiving messages from many of you asking how am I and my father. Thankyou. Thankyou. Thankyou so much. I don''t have words to express gratitude.


    Guys.... with the blessings of your prayers, he got discharged last Sunday and is now recovering.


    Though recovery for covid patient is very challenging, especially when his lungs are severely damaged (CT score 19/25), we are trying our best to give him best care. My mom is also recovering at home (CT score 14/25).


    As far as I''m concerned, other then weakness I don''t have any post covid symptoms. Doctors have advised me to continue taking vitamins and eat healthy diet. Other members of my family are on the path of recovery. It''s just my aunt who is still in the hospital as she was the first one to contract and her CT score is 22/25. Just today I received news from my uncle that she''d be discharged in a day or two.


    Happy me!


    Happy we all!


    But it taught us a harsh lesson. Don''t take this virus lightly. We did it, and learned it the hard way.


    Please, please, wear that mask, use sanitizer, and try not to go out of home. I have seen people dying in front of my eyes and families crying. Nothing is more heart wrenching then seeing this.


    Please take care of yourself.


    Take precautions.


    Get vaccinated.


    *Important update. I''m taking care of both my parents at home which is taking my most of the time. I will try to write whenever I get time and give you updates.


    Love


    dream


    *Before you curse me, you won''t be charged for this long message. And I will be updating a dummy chapter as non priviledge readers are looking forwards to hear from me. I had to inform them about my father and thank them for all the precious. prayers.


    **************


    *******


    He snuck in a deep breath and ran further in. Amidst the collapsing building, his eyes searching for her desperately. The more it was taking time, the lesser their chances of survival. As he ran passed a corridor, right side made of glass wall, a series blew it off. He crouched against the wall, hands on head. The glass shards flew everywhere, many piercing his skin.


    Someone lets out a bloodcurdling scream. Men engulfed in flame, running blindly, screaming. Many lying on floor, glass shards, shrapnels and metal bars pinning them. Whatever the thing Alpha had used to set the place off was lethal.


    Thanks to his bulletproof jacket, he had only received minor injuries. But what about Suyin? She doesn''t have any.


    His composure breaking down. Fear taking over.


    "SUYIN" He yelled, once again running towards the danger. She was taken to Alpha''s room, she should be there. The last he heard from her was warning him about the danger in the tunnel. It followed by a blast.


    He shook the bad thoughts away. She had been in many dangerous situations before and had always come out with her sheer determination and presence of mind. She''d do it again.


    She has to do it again.


    For Honey.


    For Honey''s birthday gift.


    "SUYIN!" He kept on calling her.


    His eyes squinted at a man with a grenade belt around waist. "You," his hands curled around his neck, squeezing life from him. "Where is she?"


    The man struggled.


    "I''m in no mood to waste another breath on you." He snarled, lifting him a foot above the ground, "Where is my woman?"


    "SHISHI!" Suyin called. A relief evident in her voice.


    Wang Shi let go of the man. A swift kick on neck deciding his fate.


    She limped, dragging herself towards him. He did same. He holds her by the shoulder, checking her from top to bottom. Clothes half burned, skin heavily bruised, first and second-degree burns, eyes watery, and God knows from where else she was bleeding other than a shrapnel lodged in her calf.


    "Jamie and Zeng, they are safe." He had received Evan''s message when he was questioning the ''grenade'' man.


    She blinked, taking heavy breaths. Recalling Alpha''s cruel words about Wang Shi''s daughter. "Honey. Honey is in danger. His last target is him." She turned to look behind. Next second pushing on Wang Shi''s shoulder, "RUN. It''s about to blast. RUN!"


    Without a second delay, he supported her, and ran for the exit.


    A series of blasts happening behind.


    Flames racing towards them like a tsunami, turning everything to ash with it.


    They could feel the heat on their back.


    They ran for their life. They ran for their son, desperately waiting for them.


    They ran.


    They ran.


    Unstoppable.


    The exit came into line of sight.


    He wrapped his hand around her waist and took a leap, screaming lungs out.


    They crashed to the ground. Building collapsing over them.


    ....


    Evan ran to lift the debris off of them. James and Zeng used last of their strength to get the two out. Luo joined, fighting against the bleeding chest.


    Suyin pushed her palm out through the small opening when a stone was lifted. She was crushed. Not only under the debris, but under Wang Shi''s weight. He had used his body to protect her. "Shishi,"


    "I''m fine," he groaned.


    They crawled out of debris and dropped on the floor. Panting, greedily taking air. Wang Shi sat with her, patting her back. She wiped her dirty hands on her clothes, and first takes off her contacts. Her eyes were literally on fire.


    "H-Honey,"


    "We will. But first let me take this out--" he crouched down and lifted her leg. The cut had grown wider as the metal piece went further in.


    She shook her head, "I tried. It--AHHHH--" He threw the piece away. "You should have warned me."


    "Nope. It was better this way." He undid the belt and made a tourniquet with it.


    She looked up at the four men, looking at them. Especially the two. Jamie and Zeng. "Are you two okay?" They lunged to hug her.


    "Stupid, you shouldn''t have risked your life."


    "Zeng is right. It was unnecessary."


    Suyin looked at Evan, "It was him." Her gaze snags at a distance. It was Alpha''s militants standing with their weapons, their gaze set on the collapsed building. On further notice, she saw Revon standing facing them over debris, making it his dais. Like a leader. He was saying something, don''t know what. But since they were not fighting, it''s good.


    She stiffens, retrieving her gaze, "Honey!"


    "Let''s go." Wang Shi extended his hand. Her wide spectacles on his palm. Glass over the right eye was cracked, spider web like lines taking over.


    "How did you?"


    "Evan was holding it for me. Though he failed to keep it safe." He set it on her nose, and extended his hand again, "For our son,"


    She took his hand, "For our son."


    "Brother Shishi," A man dressed in military uniform called from a military vehicle. They hoped on it.


    .....


    .....


    .....


    "Mei, are guys okay?" Wang Shi asked. Everything happened so quickly, he didn''t paid any attention to messages from Xiu Mei. He could faintly recall some sounds when he was buried under the debris.


    "Shishi," Jianyu answered, panting. "We are ambushed. Ambushed by freaking animals who had IEDs tied around their back. F*ck. How are you people?" Wang Shi heard screeching of tires, sounds of explosion.


    "Fine. Where is Mei?"


    "Just now a bull collided with our car and exploded. She''s lying unconscious on the back seat. Honey is with Mei, trying to wake her up. Dammit, how to stop them? Entire wildlife of El Sandrios is after us."


    "They are controlled by collar. He wants to kill Honey and won''t stop until it''s achieved. We need Mei to disable the collar."


    "But Mei¡ª ARGH," Tires screeched. Followed by a sound of collision against the metal. Suyin felt a pang in heart when she heard Honey''s tiny voice from behind. "Xion, I need help," they heard Jianyu say. A second later sound of gunfire rent the air.

 Chapter 306 - End of arc-6

    "We can get the animals killed by airstrike," Feng Jin suggested.


    "It''s riskier. We can''t hurt our people." Suyin said, she poked her head out. Only the gloomy sky met her eyes. Xiu Mei was her last hope. According to the blueprints, these collars were connected to each other, remotely operated by Alpha. If Xiu Mei could hack one collar, she could control all.


    Suyin tipped her head at the mountain. A thought came. "Alpha must be operating it from somewhere he could see them. Look, his base is already destroyed, yet he''s controlling those animals, following Jianyu''s car like hungry wolves."


    "But what if he''s doing it through surveillance--"


    "No." Wang Shi said, "There isn''t any surveillance in this area. Mei had checked it earlier."


    "Above that, he''s a technologically challenged person just like me. Worse than me. He was getting everything done through experts. Now that no one is left to help him, he must have prepared an easy way in advance so that he could do it all by himself." Suyin said, poking her half body through the window to look outside. Wang Shi instantly grabbed her clothes from back.


    It did not surprise him she already knows who real Alpha was. He knows it too. Suspecting something, he had asked Junjie to go into the family details of the passengers died in the plane crash and see if any of them is related to Suyin. They found one.


    She gets into the car and takes out the blueprint she had tucked at the edge of her panty. Wang Shi joined in, studying them.


    She put aside the ones that explain design and working of collar, taking a look at one particular blueprint that explains the range within which the remote works. They compared it with another that looks like a map of the place.


    "He must be on this mountain." Wang Shi pointed a finger. Suyin nodded. "Jin, drive straight..... HURRY UP!" He called Jianyu again, "Drive towards South."


    ********


    Somewhere at the top of a mountain,


    Alpha cackled, running his fingers over the console. Binoculars attached to his glasses to give an unobstructed view. It was more like a video game for him. A game he half won by killing Wang Shi, and the remaining half he will win by killing Honey. Suyin came as a bonus.


    He was there, sitting at the top of a mountain. An old jeep parked near.


    "It''s over, Master Gong Tuan,"


    Alpha spooked as a gruff voice came from behind. Before he could press another button on the console, or turn to look behind, a heavy kick landed on his right side. His old bones crackled. The console fell down.


    Wang Shi slides it with his foot towards Suyin.


    She instantly picked it up and walked to the edge of the mountain. Below, a herd of animals had surrounded tens of military SUV''s. Bull and monkey in most numbers. But she saw elephants as well.


    "You-- You both are alive?"


    Wang Shi threw another kick, "Of course. To send you to hell!" Jin pinned him down, knee at his spine.


    "Suyin!" Wang Shi tossed her the binoculars Alpha was wearing, and she catch it with strap, putting it around her head. The vision became clearer. She easily found the one in which Honey was. Gosh, it was badly damaged.


    She looked down at the console. It was not a regular video game console that she and Honey used to play with. Designed differently, it had many buttons and was so much wide that it wasn''t even fitting in her hands.


    She can''t take the risk of pressing any wrong button.


    "Hhahaha.... it''s of no use." Alpha spit a mouth full of blood, "This is a real life. You can''t do a trial run to understand it''s working." Wang Shi walked to her to see the console. "By the time you will understand it, he''d die. He''d die the same way my family died. Blown into pieces. I didn''t even get to see them last time. You won''t either. Your bastard son will die."


    They ignored her. He was just stirring their emotions. Diverting them.


    Her shaky finger moved towards a button, but stopped. Dammit. It doesn''t even have signs written on it. Calling it a keyboard would be much better.


    Wang Shi pointed at a big black button in the middle. She bit her lips. It looked dangerous. Black means dangerous.


    Alpha realised the grip on him was loose. He c.o.c.ked his head to find the military officer commanding someone over phone. He curled his fingers into a fist, filling them with soil. Just as Jin turned, he threw it. Targeting his eyes.


    Jin staggered. Hands at eyes, rubbing.


    Alpha reached for a gun hidden in his trousers. He saw the two  standing on edge, back facing him, eyes at the herd.


    They pressed a button or two of the keyboard, making efforts to understand how the damn thing function. It did something that the heard of Elephants started going left.


    "AND HE''D DIE TOO--" A blur rushes--


    BANG***


    "WATCH OUT!" Suyin yells, taking a step to cover Wang Shi. But he pushed her out of the way. She fell down, her palm mistakenly pressing a few buttons. Explosions followed.


    When she turned, it''s in time to see Wang Shi fell to his knees, his hands at chest. Blood seeping through between his fingers.


    Her chest burns as she let out a yell, "Shishi!" He was about to fall. She stretched her body and held his hand, yanking him towards her. His eyes unblinking, worry laced his features. He cast one look below where Honey was, and then another at Suyin.


    "Still not dead? One more," Alpha raised his gun. This time Jin threw a kick at his wrist and landed another on neck. His face whipped left, spurting a mouth full of blood as his body went limp.


    Jin pressed his face under his heavy leather shoes. Alpha very much conscious, eyes at Wang Shi as if waiting to see his enemy''s death before he closes his eyes.


    Wang Shi struggled for air, face turning red, veins popping around neck. He was wheezing. Squeaky and worrisome. Suyin understood the bullet had hit his left lung.


    Time slows. Sweat drips from her head. She''s loosing everything.... Everything was slipping from her hands.


    Her son.


    Her man.


    The two most important people of her life.


    She can''t tear her gaze away from Wang Shi''s as he mouthed, ''I love you. Take care of Honey.'' and fell down.


    She looks down at the keyboard. The black button. The most dangerous one. She reached to press it. No matter the consequences.


    "NOOOO! It will kill everyone with the collar." Alpha interrupted. Suyin looked down, there''s a collar around her neck too.


    A beautiful smile came to her lips. She pressed the button without a second thought. The keyboard dropped from her hands.


    She cast one last gaze from the mountain.


    The animals had stopped.


    Her fairy was safe.


    He was safe.


    One step, and she dropped to her knees beside the man. Her hands reaching to hug him. Hug him one last time....


    One last time.....


    ********

 Chapter 307 - You owe him a gift.

    A second passed


    Two seconds passed


    Suyin opened her eyes when someone nudged at her arm. She looked up, confused. Disoriented. The pain from closing of collar crushing her neck- the one she had witnessed on the baby monkey--- It never came. Or did it?


    "Hey, don''t space out. Help me." The man''s tone rose. She looked down at his hands where he was pressing on Wang Shi''s chest. "He''s bleeding,"


    His lips quivered.


    "Pick the phone and call the first dialled number. Ask them to get medics ASAP," her eyes stayed glued to Wang Shi. At his rising chest, to be precise. "ARE YOU EVEN LISTENING TO ME, DUMB WOMAN?"


    She jumped, shifting her eyes to him and then at Wang Shi. She placed her hands on the sides of his chest.


    "His chest is moving paradoxically." she bent down to hear his heart and lungs. Lifting a second later. "I don''t hear much on left side, his left lung is in distress," Her eyes searched around for something-- anything-- to help the man breathe. She patted Wang Shi''s pockets. Maybe something useful come up.


    A pen.


    God knows why he was carrying a pen even in this situation, but it was the one thing she needed most.


    "Do you have a Swiss knife?"


    "What?"


    "You people always carry a Swiss knife, don''t you? Give it to me." She snatched it as Jin takes it out from his waist belt. She has nothing to sterilise it, but that''s least of her concern. She dismantled the pen, keeping the part open from both ends.


    A swift one inch cut two ribs down, and as she pushed the hollow part in, Wang Shi sucked in a deep breath. His chest rose to maximum. She closed the open end of pen with her finger; lifting it and closing it, following his breathing pattern.


    "I will take from here," She pushed Jin and took his position. "Call help. FAST," She noticed Wang Shi''s eyelids flutter, and reached to touch his cheek; her face hovering over his. "Hey, stay with me. Nothing will happen. I won''t let anything happen to you. Honey is waiting for us."


    A drop of tear fell on his face. He opened his eyes. A pained smile. How helpless he was, can''t even wipe her tears. Treacherous hands refused to cooperate.


    "For honey, Shishi. Please. For our son. Remember, it''s his birthday today? You owe him a gift." It''s already past twelve. A new day. A new beginning. Their son had turned six.


    He blinked. Wishing to the heavens if he could say some words to her. Tell her not to cry. Tell her he trusts her. Tell her he''s not scared. Tell her he''s not giving up. Tell her, how much she means to her. And everything.....


    The sound of giant metal birds filled the air, bringing the much needed aid.


    ...


    .....


    The helicopter had a military doctor and a nurse. She saw as the doctor hang IV, hooked him to monitor and started giving first aid. Unsatisfied she was. He had big pneumothorax. They better first remove the pen she had inserted and replace it with one-way valve.


    "Mam, can you please sit properly? You are bleeding. Let me--"


    She pushed the nurse, "Touch me again, and first I will throw you out of the chopper, and then this doctor." She snapped at the doctor, "Use Heimlich valve."


    The doctor looked at Jin, hoping for help, but the latter frowned at him, "We-We only have chest tubes at the moment."


    "Then use the tubes, and IV bottle, and make one for yourself," She unbuckled the straps on her, and crouched near Wang Shi. "Gloves, scalpel, tubes, tape and an IV bottle. YOU--" She tossed the bottle at Jin, "Make an opening big enough to insert two tubes. Ask the pilot not to take us to camp but to the hospital in central City. Call your brother to get the location. He needs CT scan, Chest X-Ray, and an emergency surgery. The hospital has necessary machines."


    She was referring to Reis'' hospital. It had all the machines they needed. After eliminating Blaska bolts, the hospital was under Revon''s control, now used to provide medical facilities to civilians, and in emergency.


    ********


    In the hospital,


    When any member of a royal family falls ill, the best medical facilities were rushed for them. The best doctors. The best hospitals. Wang Shi was no less than a royal. Born with a silver spoon, he had always received best.


    But today, when he direly needed those best facilities, he was deprived. Opposite to his world class multi-speciality hospital, equipped with latest machines and best brains working hard for their patients, he was brought here to this half damaged hospital with machines as old as time.


    Wang Shi''s face looked pale. Lying on the bed was just a frail man, as if lost his vitality she knew him for.


    "Give him a femoral line," She said, standing a little away from him.


    She looked as the doctors stood on edge, helping him in the best of their capabilities. No matter how much she tried not to judge them, she knew none of them had that capability.


    "Don''t touch the bullet. He could have a massive haemorrhage. Give him seven more blood and plasma, eight platelets typed and crossed,"


    Forget about expecting an excellent treatment from them, she wouldn''t even trust the ones Wang Shi had brought along with him. Wish Dr. Colton was here to help.


    "He needs CT scan. I have a doubt his bronchial artery is involved. Do the ECHO too." all this while, her fingers never stopped dancing in the air as if she was making some drawings, or doing calculations.


    "Sister," Jin called. At his gesture, she walked a little away but stopped at the threshold of the door, keeping Wang Shi in her line of sight.


    Jin showed her the blood stained bullet proof jacket that was cut off from Wang Shi a minute ago. He lifts her hand to place it on the sharp bumps over it. She frowned.


    "It was a .357 caliber bullet shot from close range that passed through and through this jacket. The bullet is specially designed to split into five the moment it hit target."


    Shock registered. She counted the number of bumps. Three.


    "Two fragments are still inside." He folded his hands. The military officer who commands the most dangerous squad, the youngest General the country had ever seen, one of the Feng brothers--one who carries his pride on his uniform and never bows in front of anyone-- was folding hands in front of her. Begging.


    "I know theirs a disagreement between you and brother Shishi over Honey, and you don''t like him. But please---please help him for now." Wang Shi was one of the world''s best doctor, and has saved thousands of lives no matter enemy or friends, "Just like him you are a capable doctor. Let him have a fair chance at life. Please...."


    He waited.... waited....


    She turned without a word, her fingers resumed dancing in the air, making patterns, lips mumbling gibberish. It shattered all his hopes.


    "CAN''T BELIEVE YOU''LL BE THIS SELFISH."

 Chapter 308 - OPPORTUNISTIC WOMAN

    "CAN''T BELIEVE YOU''LL BE THIS SELFISH." his bitter voice echoed in the corridor, grabbing everyone''s attention, "You are doing it for Honey, don''t you? Once brother Shishi is dead, you can have Honey all by yourself. Disgusting. Selfish. Cunning."


    She continued walking in a transfixed state, the staff cast a look at her, "Just pray nothing happens to my brother, or I will make sure you live under the four walls of prion, and would die a painful death hoping to see the boy that you claim to be yours. HE IS NOT. You don''t deserve him. Neither you deserve my brother. OPPORTUNISTIC WOMAN!"


    She didn''t turn. Jin whirled at the military doctor.


    The doctor looked at the C.h.e.s.t X-Ray, lips pursing into a thin line, "Had it been a normal bullet injury, I''d have done it. But this one looks serious. We need a cardiothoracic surgeon."


    "Make sure nothing happens. Keep him stable." Jin fished out his phone from pocket, "I will arrange something," If not her, he would call the team of doctors Wang Shi had bring from People''s Hospital. Or fly back to Cheyna to bring the best doctors.


    He''d do everything but won''t let his brother die. Never.


    ....


    ....


    Jianyu came carrying Honey in arms, Xiu Mei on the stretcher behind him. A doctor rushed to check on her. Jianyu let him, "She hit her head at car''s window."


    "Brother!" Jin sprinted, "What happen to Sister Meimei?"


    "Hold him," Jianyu passed Honey to him, "Careful, his knees and elbows are bruised." Without bothering to answer Jin''s question, he turned to the doctor and said something in a low voice. From behind, Xion came. He was on phone with someone.


    "I have asked for more medical staff, and supplies. The local government will make it available within two hours, and more will come from Cheyna by morning."


    "Dad, where is he? Howz he? Where is mum? Take me to them," No matter how much he tried to hold back his tears, his choked voice was the mirror of his emotional state.


    "Jin," Jianyu chided in a heavy tone. "Brother Shishi is fine. He''s in good hands. X, can you take from here? I need to check on something else."


    "Sure," Before leaving, Xion and Jianyu exchanged a meaningful glance as they looked at Xiu Mei. Jianyu kissed his wife''s forehead before she was rolled away from him.


    "I know they are here. Why are you not taking me to them?" Honey wiggled in Jin''s arms, kicking at his stomach. But they were just pokes to him. An adamant tear finally broke loose, rolling down his dirt stained cheeks, "Did something happen?"


    Jianyu took Honey back, "Nothing happened. Your dad acted like a superman and got himself hurt." Honey''s expression changed to shock, "Don''t worry. Your ducky is here with him. Isn''t she the famous ZZ who is as good a doctor as Shishi?"


    Honey nodded between tears, "Ducky is best. I never told dad, but I think ducky is better than him,"


    Jin snorted. Jianyu gave him a stern look.


    "Right! So my cute Honey bunny, why fear when your ducky is here? Just wait a little more til Suyin is treating Shishi, can you?" He checked time at his wristwatch, "And I can see it''s your birthday today. How about you go with the nurse and get your wounds bandaged? Suyin and Shishi won''t like to see their birthday boy like this."


    A nurse who was standing at a distance extended her hands, but Honey looked pleadingly at Jianyu, "Can I see them once. Please?"


    "Kids are not allowed near patients," Jianyu prevented using the word operation theatre, lest he scare Honey. "While Suyin is treating Shishi, get your wounds bandaged,"


    ...


    ...


    After Honey left, Jin whirled at Jianyu, "Brother--"


    "Shut up." Jianyu snapped, "Don''t let out your frustration of failing to protect Wang Shi at Suyin." It left him speechless. Was his anger really the frustration of failing in his duty? But Suyin refused to treat Wang Shi.


    "She refused to treat him,"


    "Is that?" Jianyu''s tone didn''t go unnoticed, "Come with me. Let me enlighten you who Suyin is," Jin silently followed Jianyu. His mind occupied with hundreds of questions. The first one, how Jianyu knows of his conversation with Suyin?


    Jianyu parted the curtain of the room in which Wang Shi was finding the bed empty, a nurse cleaning it. His expression remained indifferent, as if aware where Wang Shi was. "Take me to the patient," Jin saw Jianyu picking something from the tray holding patient''s belongings and throw it at him.


    Wang Shi''s earphone. Still on. That answered most of his questions.


    "Now," The nurse didn''t dare to refuse. The man was in no mood to take no for an answer.


    "They are inside," The nurse said, pointing at a closed door.


    "Who else?" Jianyu asked,


    "Patient, a military doctor and nurse, and the woman."


    "And?"


    Nurse gulped. She understood what was happening as she happened to be there when the mister in the military uniform yelled at the bald woman, "I don''t know what was wrong with her, but she said she saw a slight reduction in the electrical flow of the ECG that''s restricting cardiac output and didn''t let us take the patient for CT. Acting against the doctor''s wish, she took him to the OT instead." The nurse looked nervously between the two. "If you have anything to say, please talk to her. We have nothing to do with it."


    She had been working as a nurse for some time and had seen what people in military uniforms do to them when they fail to save their people. The two standing in front looks like from one of the militia groups.


    "You may go." The nurse sprinted from there. Jianyu turned to Jin, "Before you assume, learn the facts. Before you judge, understand why. Before you hurt someone, feel. Before you speak. Think."


    *******


    "Mum!" Her eyes shook open when Honey jumped for her embrace, wrapping his arms around her neck.


    She bit back a painful groan, willing to give a smile to the worrywart, "He''s fine. Your daddy is fine, fairy,"


    "I know. Why fear when my ducky is here. You are the best." A soft kiss on cheek was the much needed warmth for her. His little hands reached to brush Suyin''s non existent hair, "Why are you looking so pale? Did bad man bullied you?" Suyin struggled to keep her eyes open as darkness hinders her vision.


    "Hung--hungry," she managed to say before her hands slipped down. Jianyu ran by her side and supported her.


    Jianyu, "Honey, go get something to eat. Fast." Honey innocently ran without a second''s delay, asking a nurse where he could find something to eat. Jianyu gestured his men to follow him and don''t let him come here.


    "Suyin," Suyin let out a painful groan, clutching her bleeding leg. Jianyu propped her knees up, finding her surgical trousers soaked in blood from behind. He picked her up, "Call the doctor,"


    That''s the problem with being a strong one. Everyone expects, but no one offers a hand. That''s the problem with being a strong one. You learn to ignore your pain. That''s the problem with being a strong one. You keep fighting. You keep smiling. You can''t give up.


    You can''t give up.


    You can''t give up.

 Chapter 309 - Let him die (content changed)

    Before I give you the chapter, firstly I want to thank everyone of you who were with me in these bad times. Though I didn''t reply to any of your messages, I read all of them and was truly blessed to see how supportive, helpful and caring you were.


    Daily I''m receiving messages from many of you asking how am I and my father. Thankyou. Thankyou. Thankyou so much. I don''t have words to express gratitude.


    Guys.... with the blessings of your prayers, he got discharged last Sunday and is now recovering.


    Though recovery for covid patient is very challenging, especially when his lungs are severely damaged (CT score 19/25), we are trying our best to give him best care. My mom is also recovering at home (CT score 14/25).


    As far as I''m concerned, other then weakness I don''t have any post covid symptoms. Doctors have advised me to continue taking vitamins and eat healthy diet. Other members of my family are on the path of recovery. It''s just my aunt who is still in the hospital as she was the first one to contract and her CT score is 22/25. Just today I received news from my uncle that she''d be discharged in a day or two.


    Happy me!


    Happy we all!


    But it taught us a harsh lesson. Don''t take this virus lightly. We did it, and learned it the hard way.


    Please, please, wear that mask, use sanitizer, and try not to go out of home. I have seen people dying in front of my eyes and families crying. Nothing is more heart wrenching then seeing this.


    Please take care of yourself.


    Take precautions.


    Get vaccinated.


    *Important update. I''m taking care of both my parents at home which is taking my most of the time. I will try to write whenever I get time and give you updates.


    Love


    dream


    **************


    Someone pinched Suyin''s nose to wake her up from her sleep. She g.r.o.a.n.e.d and shook away from the pinch, turning her face to the side.


    "Dare go back to sleep and next I will press at your broken leg."


    She cracked open her eyes. A man with hair like a bird''s nest stares back. Wrinkled face. Lips raised in to an arrogant smirk. Signature white coat. Stethoscope around neck.


    "Though you had made full preparations to live the rest of your life with one leg, too bad I spoiled your plan." Dr. Colton whispered. Suyin followed his vision all the way to her leg, understanding what he was referring to.


    A faint smile came to her lips. She tried to sit up and Colton helped her. Then he places a pillow behind her. "Thank you, Shifu,"


    Colton raised his brows, "Pardon me?"


    "Sorry," he stared back in silence, and she held her ear lobs with both hands, "Sorry. I shouldn''t have been rude to you."


    That''s it. It was enough for Colton''s heart to melt. Why not? The girl sitting in front was her one and only student. His favourite. The one whom he considers as a daughter but never told her.


    Her heart warms up but the faint smile didn''t reach her eyes.


    It must have shown on her face that Colton cupped her right cheek. A gesture he did only once when she cried at a patient''s death during her mentoring days under him. It was the first death she ever saw as a doctor.


    Her pulse raced. It reminded her of old memories. She wanted to ask about Wang Shi , about the surgery she did, about his wellbeing, but was terrified of the results. What if--?? The words refused to come out, and she looked at him with pursed lips, waiting for him to say something.


    Colton must have read the question in her eyes. "His condition is serious." his voice came low and serious, laced with everything bad, "The clot in his heart--"


    "No. No. Nothing can happen to him." Colton stopped seeing Suyin mumble, "He has to live for us. For his parents. For his brothers. For Honey. For me--" she corrected herself, "--for everyone. He has no right to leave us alone in this world. I won''t let him."


    She pulled the blanket off of her but Colton stopped her before she could hurt herself. "Shishi, let me see him. How can there be a clot? I kept all the points in mind and took precautions. How--"


    "Complications are integral part of medicine." Colton reminded her, "No matter how good you are, you are not a God,"


    "BUT YOU ARE. AREN''T YOU THE GOD OF MEDICINE? WHY ARE YOU NOT DOING ANYTHING?" Tears rolled down her cheeks. A sob from heart and soul melted through her eyes, without letting her know she was crying for the man she claimed to hate most. She held Colton''s hands, "Save him, Shifu. Please save him."


    "Why? Why these tears when you hate him to the core? Wouldn''t his death be good for you? Honey will be yours forever. Let him die."


    "No. No. This can''t happen. Honey--" she looked up and saw Colton smiling at her. She understood. "You lied."


    "I," He said, wiping her fat tears, "Can''t help. Was curious to see your reaction---ah--" she slapped his hand.


    "I take back my words. You are cruel."


    "That I am. Being around king of underworld has a deep impact on me--"


    "AHEM, AHEM,"


    "COUGH, COUGH,"


    Suyin''s head snapped at the door. Her eyes watered seeing James and Zeng smiling at her. By their restlessness she could clearly tell how desperate they were to squeeze her in their arms. She too.


    "AHEM, AHEM,"


    "COUGH, COUGH,"


    The two nodded like pecking chicken.


    Colton, "By the way, just now she cried for Wang Shi. Don''t forget to give her an update." saying he left, shutting the door behind. "Hard to understand. Impossible to explain," they heard him say from the closed door.


    James scratched his head, "Huh? What is he saying?"


    Zeng scrunched his nose, "What is hard? What is impossible?"


    Suyin, "Go ask. Don''t eat my brain,"


    "..."


    "...."


    James took a step back, not daring to hug the ball of hotness. Angry Suyin was unpredictable. He had experienced it many times. But Zeng was unaware of it and reached to embrace his sister. "Aiyooo, my cute Susu-- AH!" Suyin slapped him away.


    James suppressed his laughter.


    "Don''t talk about a.s.s. Don''t forget your a.s.s is still swollen and I just have to-- PAK" Without warning, James spanked Zeng.


    "OWWWWWWW....."


    Suyin couldn''t control her laughter at Zeng''s howling and him rubbing his a.s.s furiously. The two winked at each other and didn''t delay another second to hug her. She hugged back, nudging her head once in James''s c.h.e.s.t and once in Zeng''s.


    Janes, "Thank God you are okay."


    Zeng, "We were so scared when we heard you might lose a leg. Thanks to Dr. Colton, who boarded the emergency flight when he came to know about you and Wang Shi,"


    Suyin looked up from their c.h.e.s.t, "Howz he?"


    Zeng pouted, "How mean. Never for once you asked if I''m okay."


    James, "Me too,"


    Suyin, "My eyes are very much working. Now are you two telling me or should I--"


    "He''s fine. Recovering. The surgery was successful, and he woke up twenty hours later with no serious complications." James didn''t delay another second.


    "No matter how much you decline, you are one of the best doctors." Zeng squeezed her in arms.


    "Take me to see him?"


    James and Zeng sighs but they stood up and assisted her out of bed. They knew it was futile to talk her out of this.


    While James supported her, Zeng helped her put on a robe and sandals and made her sit on a wheelchair before taking her down the hallway at the room very hand where Wang Shi was.


    On the way she saw Evan standing outside a room looking lost. As they passed, Evan''s gaze fell at James hopefully. Suyin glanced at James who was behaving as if noticed nothing and ignored Evan''s eyes at him.


    Suyin, "Jamie--"


    Jamie pressed at her shoulder, "Don''t pay attention."


    They stopped at the very end, where bodyguards stand watch.


    Zeng was about to push the door open when Suyin stopped him. "Help me stand once. I just want to see him once, and not talk."


    "But--"


    She raised her palm, "Don''t make me do anything that I don''t want to."


    The two sighs and nodded. James stepped forward, "Whatever you want," The two supported her by shoulders, and helped her to the glass opening at the door.


    Wang Shi was half sitting on the bed, Honey sitting beside him. The two busy in a game of Go. Correction needed. Honey seemed teaching Wang Shi how it''s played and the former''s facial expression showed he was forced into this.


    Poor Wang Shi.


    Savage Honey.


    Unknowingly Suyin chuckled.


    Call it a God''s set up or intuition, the two ''men'' inside the room looked at the door simultaneously. Because of her injury Suyin couldn''t dodge in time.


    "DUCKY! DAD, DUCKY WOKE UP!" Honey bolted up in excitement, dashing straight at Suyin. Before she could realise, the little one had hugged her t.h.i.g.h, careful not to go anywhere near her injury. "You are bad. You scared me." she heard his choked up voice.


    *********

 Chapter 310 - Situational (updated)

    "Ah!" Honey pulled away from Suyin, lips jutting out in feign anger. Adorable. Suyin couldn''t resist reaching to pinch those apple cheeks but Honey slapped her hand away.  "M angry,"


    "Okay. But let me kiss them please."


    "NO!" Honey shoved both his hands in trouser pockets, copying one of Wang Shi''s actions. "I don''t entertain liars. You lied to me you are fine."


    "Yes, well," Suyin sat down in the wheelchair, noticing Honey''s worried gaze on her injured leg, which he was trying to cover but failing. "You were already worried for Shishi, couldn''t add onto it."


    "Dad, did you hear that?" he turned to Wang Shi, "She lied because she didn''t want to add on to my worries. And here I thought she''s my mommy and we can share everything from hereon. I thought we will be like Uncle Jianyu and mama''s family. But she--"


    He stopped.


    Suyin tried to see what happened, but his back was facing her.


    Wang Shi mouthed, ''crying''.


    Suyin gestured James who was holding her wheelchair to take her to her little fairy. A second later, she hugged him, squeezing him in her arms. Honey resisted, threw soft punches on her shoulder, wiggled from her embrace..... but gave up in front of his resisting heart, screaming to hug her back.


    He buried his face in her neck, tears wetting her throat. "I will not talk to you ever," he sobbed. "This is the last time I''m letting you hug me, just so you know."


    "Yeah. I know." Suyin said, rubbing a hand on his back. "I had expected this from my fairy. Can I get a chance to apologise?"


    "No. I have decided already. If I keep on being lenient to you, you''d repeat it." though he pretended to move away from her, Suyin knew he was just acting spoiled and a demand was on its way.


    "Pretty please.... I love you the most. Don''t be so brutal,"


    "No."


    Suyin batted her eyelashes. "I''m your ducky na?"


    Honey sniffled, "Not working. Perhaps you should try compensating me. If I don''t like your compensation, you will stop kissing me without arguing. End of the discussion."


    She could help but laugh at this ball of cuteness, and how well she knows his antics. Honey stomped his feet. "You are laughing. Bad ducky."


    Seeing the two busy bickering just as before, a smile came on Wang Shi''s lips. It''s a bliss watching these two fighting like this. Surely he''d never get bored in life with this 24*7 live entertainment.


    "Ah, stop being this cute. I will eat you one day," she said. "Fine. I will compensate you right way--" she extended her hands towards James and Zeng. "Give me a phone, anyone."


    Suyin did something in it, and just then Honey''s phone is his pocket beeped.


    A message.


    An email id, and its password.


    Honey looked up in question, but she just winked and pulled him closer. A gently kiss on his forehead. No answers.


    Honey didn''t ask either. He knew answers were in the email which he has to open with the password. "But if I don''t like what it is, double the compensation without arguing."


    Suyin laughed, "Deal."


    ....


    James saw Evan peeking in from the glass and silently stepped out, failing to notice Zeng and Suyin had noticed him. She squeezed Zeng''s hand, gesturing him to go after James. "I need some alone time here. Go."


    Zeng rolled her wheelchair near Wang Shi and left the three alone. Actually two. Honey was now sitting on the couch, staring at phone screen with utmost attention, arousing his father''s curiosity in the process.


    "What did you give him?" Wang Shi asked his own question.


    "I asked first."


    "But I''m curious."


    "Things that people ask out of curiosity can have a revolutionary effect on health."


    "Is that a warning,"


    "You can take that as,"


    "Than I''m looking forward to those revolutionary effects. You better be creative. You can start from anywhere, the man and his body are yours." There was a wicked gleam in his eyes. "Braty, won''t you share it with me? We are buddies, right?"


    Honey didn''t look up from the screen and waved his hand dismissively, silently saying, ''SHOO SHOO,''


    Wang Shi "..."


    "My bad. I''m always excluded out."


    Suyin looked up. Goosebumps swept across her skin. She doesn''t have any answer to it. Maybe she does, but she just didn''t want to disappoint him more.


    "But it''s okay. Soon I will be your husband, and we will share everything with each other. Even these little secrets." He winked, leaving her shocked. Mouth wide agape.


    "I should have cracked open your brain instead of c.h.e.s.t to fix you." she exhaled harshly, "Its still not late. Perhaps I should ask Dr. Colton and express my concerns."


    He smiled, "Perhaps you should recall how you behaved when I was dying," Gah, his mischievous, dashing smile, was making her uncomfortable. She mentally rolled her eyes at God. Cursing the almighty in heart.


    That--" She cleared her throat, "--that was situational. Don''t believe any of that."


    "Really?" Suyin averted her eyes from his piercing his gaze. "I won''t let anything happen to you.... For Honey, Shishi, for our son. He''s waiting for us. Please....Whose words were these? Who was the woman crying seeing me in pain? Who prioritised my surgery instead of taking care of her own wounds? Who cried for me a moment ago? Who came here to see me the moment she woke up?"


    His last words shocked her. How did he know? And just then she noticed the monitor kept on the side table. He was watching her all this while. So that''s why Dr. Colton provoked her to get a reaction, to make Shishi see her reaction. Cunning old turtle.


    Her fists clenched. "Don''t assume things. I stress-- everything was situational. If my action has given you some hope, please put an end to it." she whispered the last part keeping Honey''s presence in mind, "I would have done this for anyone--"


    "SHISHI!" Suyin panicked when he clutched his c.h.e.s.t and g.r.o.a.n.e.d. Once again she ignored her injury and stood up to examine him. Her hands at his c.h.e.s.t.


    He kissed her palm. "Is it still situational? Or is it the lines of worry I see on your forehead?" From the couch, Honey giggled, catching their attention.


    Honey waved his hand, "Nothing nothing. I was laughing at something else. You guys continue. I''m not watching."


    "..."


    "..."


    ********

 Chapter 311 - Dashing man

    "DUH, shameless man. It was a mistake to come here." Suyin yanked her hand from his grip and sat down on the wheelchair. Mumbling gibberish, probably cursing-- don''t know if the target was Wang Shi or the one sitting above.


    Wang Shi laughed. She looks adorable with that flushed face and pout. Honey has given her apt name, Ducky! But angry Suyin resembles an angry Donald duck who flutters in the air and makes sounds when angry.


    "Won''t you ask where is Master Gong Tuan?" He asked.


    "In your captivity. Probably tortured or even worse," She wasn''t a fool; she knew what Wang Shi, Feng Jianyu, and Lu Xion were capable of. Especially when Wang Shi had sworn to punish the culprit personally. She still doesn''t know what he has done to her ex. It''s as if Qi Wren vanished overnight and none dared to ask about him. Not even his relatives.


    And while she too wants to punish the culprit, but before that Gong Tuan has to answer her questions. The most important- why her?


    "In my captivity, yes. But none of us has touched a single strand of his hair," He said, "I know you want to talk to him once."


    Suyin pulled her lips in, looking everywhere but at him. A sign of hesitation. "I--"


    Wang Shi held her hand, "Rest assured, I have revealed nothing about Gong Tuan to Cheyna media or to my parents." He''s not na?ve to reveal such crucial information which has direct implications on Suyin.


    Earlier she had accepted being Gong Tuan''s student on Fei Hong''s radio show. Wang Shi had inquired, it was Master Gong Tuan who had helped her get her first job in social services when she was continuously rejected on the basis of her cheating record.


    If the news broke out that it was Gong Tuan''s handiwork, even Suyin wouldn''t be able to escape the heat. The matter involves two countries and a reputable political family, it''s certain she would be called out by people. Even the ministry will terminate her from service and initiate an investigation against her.


    This was the golden chance for him to clear his and his family''s name. Above that, it would automatically nullify all the claims made by Wu Sean and his father, and the ones circulating on the internet about Honey''s heart as people would take her as one of Gong Tuan''s person who was sent to frame Wang family.


    She knew how people''s mindset work. They''d call her a spy. They''d even call her baby''s death a ploy. They would take her as a woman who was groomed by a criminal and sent into social services with ill intentions.


    "I gave something to Fei--"


    "Ah, about that video clip--" Wang Shi interrupted, "Do you really think Hong would upload such a thing without my knowledge? I had stopped that." It was a self-recorded video of Suyin-- an attempt to clear Wang family''s name before leaving for Gong Tuan''s place. It was as if she was preparing for the worse.


    The worse means her death.


    In a five minute recording, Suyin took Tamis''s name as the mastermind and his animosity against the Wang family; obviously not disclosing Wang Shi was on the hijacked plane. She had even added a brief clip where Wang Shi and his personals were helping the people of El Sandrios-- it was to shut down the rumors that claimed he had fled from the country.


    However, she didn''t say a word about her son and Wang Shi''s involvement in his death. Her selfish self stopped her. Had she done that, wouldn''t that mean she was clearing his name and thereby lose every chance to get Honey?


    Suyin moved her gaze to Honey, his innocent smile as he read her letters, warming her heart. Then a frown tugged the corner of her lips downward.


    Children are not your possession. You don''t decide what they can have and what not. As a parent, you should only be concerned with your child''s happiness instead of petty insecurities.


    Her eyelids fluttered, lips twitched. "Correction needed. The dashing man I always dream of is sitting on the couch, six feet away from me."


    "Your definition of dashing needs correction. Or maybe it''s because you forgot to wear glasses today."


    "Looks like you are overdosing on medicines. It''s been only a day and you already have enough energy to annoy me. Wait, let me check--"


    "It''s been five days," He said. Her hands paused midway before she could pick his file. "You took Dr. Colton''s words lightly when he said you were about to lose a limb, didn''t you?"


    "Five? Before doing your surgery, I gave myself temporary treatment so that I''d be able to stand. It shouldn''t be that serious."


    "Deep vein thrombosis. Dr. Colton removed the clot in time."


    "And when did you wake up?"


    "Two days after my surgery,"


    "B-Birthday," Slowly her head shifted to the little one sitting on the couch, silently crying. "Honey, love," his birthday. He had so many expectations, but both she and Wang Shi were not available for him. "Come to me, sweetie,"


    Confused, she made him look at her, "But your birthday--"


    "Tsk, it will come again next year. Leave it." It seems Honey was never bothered about it. But why was he crying then? He rose the phone, showing the screen, "Birthday gift?"


    Her eyes stung. "Yes. I was planning for it for months. But then you said you will choose your own birthday gift and probably combine them all for a bigger one. So I used this as your compensation," she tapped his little nose, "Like it?"

 Chapter 312 - Dad! Ducky proposed you! Say yes!

    "LOVE IT! THIS WAS THE BEST-EST!" It was the collection of photographs and videos of the three. Just a family of three having their happy moments. Though Honey still doesn''t know most of them were stolen photographs from Wang Shi''s phone.  As if he cares. His favorite was Suyin''s handwritten letters where she had penned down her feelings for him.


    His favorite being the ''mom'' letter that made him cry....


    [Little Fairy,


    I''m really not sure where to begin or how to express my feelings for you. Today is the day when I hear that precious word from you, ''mummy''.


    Doesn''t that sound like music? To me it does. This is not just a word, but my world.


    The way you tilted your head. The way you smiled or the way your eyes crinkled. Today you made me whole again. You healed my broken spirit.


    I would always be there to love you. Only you.  And I will always be there to support you. You can always count on your momma ducky, my little fairy. I love you to the moon and back.


    Love, mom.


    *Important demands (And you better fulfill them otherwise I will forever kiss your chubby cheeks; even in front of your friends, teachers, relatives, wife, and kids.)


    Promise me, you will always make me laugh with your silly bantering.


    You will never stop calling me ducky.


    Last but not the least, you have to love me a little more than your father. The more the better.]


    Leaning towards her, Honey touched his forehead with hers, and then kissed her there, "I love you too,"


    Suyin hugged him, "Love you 2,3,4..."


    .....


    "Actually I ordered a ring as well. It was supposed to be delivered to your dad''s office a week before your birthday. Don''t know if they had," Suyin brushed Honey''s hair from his forehead.


    Honey frowned, "Ring?"


    "A ring with the letters S H S engraved on the inner side."


    Looks like she has to contact the designer and make some changes to express the bond she and Honey share.


    Wang Shi "..." ''God, why did you gave me this traitor son? See, how shamelessly he''s digging my grave.''


    God choked on his saliva. ''Since when did this man started talking to me?''


    Suyin grabbed Honey''s thumb, "Yes! But how did--" the short pause was scary enough that both the men shuffled away from her, "WANG SHI. HOW DARE YOU--"


    "But dad said it''s a father-son ring, and he got one similar for himself," Honey jumped in, saving his father from getting butchered, "If you ordered it for me, doesn''t that mean you ordered it for dad as well?"


    Suyin swallowed hard. She did order it for both, but things were different at that time.


    "Oh my! Proposal ring for dad!" Honey squished his cheeks between palms, "Dad! Ducky proposed you! Say yes!"


    Suyin  "..."


    Wang Shi, "Yes! YES! YESSSSS!"


    Suyin, "NO!"


    Honey, "Do it. And give me two sisters just like Yuyu and Lan."


    Suyin, "...."


    "Deal. I promise to work hard on it,"


    Suyin watched him teasing her by kissing a ring. God knows where he had hidden it all this while.


    Honey bumped his fist, "That''s like my dad. I''m proud of you."


    Suyin, "...."


    "What are you proud of?" Jianyu asked, walking in with Xiu Mei, saving Suyin from the situation but receiving a glare from Honey and Wang Shi in return. He sensed the tensed atmosphere. "Did something happen?"


    "You happened." Wang Shi''s voice was dark and dangerous. ''God, why did you send me this useless brother? See, he spoiled my family planning.''


    God held his head in pain, ''Oh my God! What on earth is happening? Why is he talking to me? Please, not another.''


    "I should be the one asking you." Xiu Mei said, "But to answer your question, I''m feeling much better. Just some bruises and a little bump on head can''t do much damage."


    However, the way Jianyu was holding her, it seems it was more than bruises and head bump. Suyin pushed the thought away and held Xiu Mei''s hand, "Thank you,"


    "I--"


    "I know it was you why the collar around my neck didn''t squeeze the life out of me."


    "Actually it was not me, but--" Xiu Mei looked at Jianyu, surprising Suyin. "Brother Shishi never told you, but my husband is as good as me when it comes to hacking."


    Jianyu shook his head, "Not as good, just 1/10. It was my incompetence that you and brother Shishi have to suffer all this."


    "Please don''t say that. I have no complaints." Suyin knew damn well how difficult it must have been for him to take care of injured Honey and his wife, and simultaneously deactivate the collar. "However, I need your help with something."


    Jianyu nodded.


    Suyin, "I want to speak to Cheyna media. There are few things which have to be addressed without any further delay."


    It was five o''clock in the evening, and she was having a relaxing time with Honey; of course, Wang Shi watching her like a love-struck teenager, a stupid smile tucked at his lips. An unexpected surprise came knocking at the door.


    Suyin beamed, "Assistant Long!" she spread her arms, and he bent to give her a hug.


    "You scared everyone. Thank God nothing happened to you. I''d have taken VRS instead of serving under another General Secretary."


    Hmpf, "As if. It''s not easy to get rid of me. Don''t forget you still have eleven years of service left."


    "Eleven years and beyond. I''m a clingy assistant."


    She chuckled, "How are you? Howz my interns? Did you face any problem in my absence?"


    "I''m good. None of us face any problem as we were provided security," Suyin already knew who did that. Assistant Long bowed to Wang Shi in greeting.


    "You didn''t answer how my interns are?" she asked.

 Chapter 313 - Thank God you are not my teacher.

    "You didn''t answer how my interns are?"


    Assistant Long went behind the wheelchair. "For that, you have to come with me."


    "Me too, me too," Honey joined, walking by her side.


    They stopped in the hospital''s porch from where she could see rows of tents covering the hospital compound, leaving just enough to let pass emergency vehicles.


    But the biggest surprise that awaited her was her interns. Some sitting behind the desk, doing desk work; some running around with walkie-talkies, and most of them serving the ones wounded. She saw Revon and recognized people from his army helping her interns as well.


    "Assistant Long--"


    He sighs. "They ate half my brain by continuously asking about your whereabouts. So I made a request to Miss. Fei Hong if she could help me connect to Mr. Feng and get an update about you."


    "And I did," Fei Hong joined out of nowhere. "When they came to know you got injured, and a plane was about to fly from Cheyna with doctors on board, they plead to let them join."


    "And you did?" Suyin glared at the two. "Their internship is over; they were supposed to be in college. Do you know how risky it is? What will I answer to their parents if something happened to them? They are my interns, how dare you make decision without my permission?"


    Assistant Long secretly pinged the interns on their WhatsApp group before a certain angry momma butcher him. "But mam--"


    "Shut up. Send them back to Cheyna. NOW--"


    In no time, the group of youngsters gathered around her, everyone looking at her fondly. Assistant Long exhaled in relief.


    "How are you feeling, mam?" someone asked.


    She put on her usual cold expression, "Fools. Idiots. Reckless kids. Why did you all come here?"


    The group leader, Yu Mixi, stepped forward. "Social services is the art of listening and science of hope. We learned it from you, mam,"


    "Be someone''s light when they are hopeless."


    "There is no bigger religion than servicing the needy. There lies the biggest happiness,"


    "People from social services do not necessarily have to have time, but they necessarily have to have the heart."


    "Your internship is over. You should be attending lectures in college." She narrowed her eyes at the group. This was the first time they were standing with their heads facing up instead of looking at their shoes. And she could tell every one of them was beaming with inner happiness one gets in this job. Proud momma she was. "Send them back,"


    A panic rose. "NOOOOO!" Everyone sang in sync.


    Yu Mixi pointed at the people undergoing treatment. "No class will teach us this. And, we are here to help our teacher. We know you would have done the same."


    "Yes, mam,"


    "Please, mam,"


    "Please, mam,"


    And Assistant Long, of course. He ran to stand in front of the group and joined in pleading. A strange expression covering Suyin''s face. She could feel her cold demeanor melting. These kids were her best interns ever. Truly.


    "Revon," she called. Revon looked at her. "Can you make sure of their safety? And see none of them exhaust themselves." he gave a thumbs-up.


    "YAYYYYYY!"


    "Minus twenty points." Everyone stepped away from her. "Assistant Long, send a letter to their universities and inform them they are with me on a project." it was to mark their attendance in university. "Everyone dismiss. Go back to your jobs."


    They hurried away, smiling from ear to ear, celebrating.


    Honey threw his around Suyin''s shoulder. "You are strict. Thank God you are not my teacher."


    Suyin c.o.c.ked her head, "Too bad, I''m your mother, which makes me your everything. Just you wait...."


    Honey "...."


    ...


    ...


    "Interview? But I asked for direct media interaction." Suyin didn''t even bother to look at the interview questions prepared by Fei Hong. The entire idea of a live interview didn''t go down well with her.


    "Media will attack you with questions like a pack of hungry wolves. And the most asked question will be about your son''s death and Wang Shi''s connection with it." Fei Hong reasoned, "I know your motive to hold a press conference is to clear Brother Shi and his family''s name, an interview with me will do just that. You don''t have to answer unnecessary questions."


    "You guys are worried about me," Suyin smiled. "I know what I''m doing. This has to end now." she glanced at Honey who was serving water to everyone. "For both my sons. I don''t want to leave an open end that will poke us like a thorn in the future. Just do it."


    Fei Hong followed Suyin''s line of sight, and then she looked at a certain someone hiding behind the pillar.


    Suyin, "Come out."


    Zeng came out, rubbing the back of his neck. "I was not eavesdropping."


    "Yeah. You were boiling eggs." Suyin turned to Fei Hong. "So that''s what brings you here?"


    "Yes. I got worried when he and James vanished." unaware to anyone, Zeng kept Fei Hong updated about their investigation and whereabouts in France. The last he called was when they were chased by goons, but sadly the call was interrupted halfway. However, it was enough for Hong to understand they were in danger.


    After that, she had tried getting help, and the first person who crossed her mind was Junjie. But to her disappointment, that man child was still holding on to that stupid proposal and ignored her calls and messages.


    For God''s sake, she was in need. Hadn''t he said he''d be there in need? And this concerns the women whom his cousin happens to be dating.


    Even Xiu Mei''s phone was switched off. She then called Feng Jianyu who not only gave her an update on Suyin but instantly send his man to France in search of Zeng and James.


    That was the last update she received. Considering Jianyu was helping Wang Shi and Suyin in El Sandrios, she didn''t dare to make a call or drop a message, least she disturbs them.


    Those days were most torturous. She was helpless. Useless.


    No! Not useless. She has the power of millions of people who follow her on Social media and YouTube. If she cannot help Zeng, then she''d help Suyin and Wang Shi to take care of the false rumors spreading on the internet. Only by helping Suyin, she could help Zeng.


    And the most valid questions she asked on her channel was, ''Why Suyin was releasing shreds of evidences on the internet instead of coming out herself? Are you even sure it''s her doing all that?''


    ''Why nobody from Suyin''s family has come out against Wang family?''


    ''Why Suyin''s assistant had not passed a comment on the matter?''


    ''Dr. Wang Shi flea from the country, and left his parents behind? With powers like Feng Jianyu, Feng Junjie, the entire military, Xiu Mei, and many other influential people available at his beck and call, do you think Wang Shi even had to do that?''


    ''If Wang Shi is really behind Suyin''s baby''s death, I''d say he is a fool to keep her alive till date.''


    ''Are you sure someone else is not playing a game to kill two birds with a stone?''


    .....


    It worked! The task which had become a nightmare for Junjie, keeping an entire team of over four hundred people awake for nights, was easily taken care of by Fei Hong.


    People actually started asking questions away from the rumors on the Internet.


    ...

 Chapter 314 - fry in hot oil

    "Are you two...????" Suyin pointed between Hong and Zeng,


    Zeng, "NO NO NO.... "


    Fei Hong, "NO NO NO...."


    They both looked at each other awkwardly. Faces flushed.


    "But weren''t you two fighting?"


    "He apologized," Hong said, "Anyway everything happened under the effects of hypnotism, not his fault." Zeng nodded like a pecking chicken.


    "A.... so shweetttt." Suyin teased, "Why are you the first person who my brother contacted the moment we rescued him?" Suyin glared at Zeng. "Don''t tell me you called mom and dad. I already spoke to them."


    Hong sneaked a glance at Zeng who was looking everywhere but at his sister, "B-because I''m his friend and was helping him since day one."


    Suyin, "AWWW... Soooo sweeeettttt! Friend helping from day one! A friend who made every effort to find her lost soulmate--- cough---friend mate! A friend who crossed a continent the moment another friend was rescued! A friend who came to talk to the stubborn sister just like a sister-in-law---cough-- a friend! Just a friend! A friend!"


    Zeng, ????


    Hong, ????


    Zeng kneeled down at Suyin''s wheelchair and pressed her knees. "Susu, please. Have some mercy. Spare me."


    She giggled, scaring Zeng. He knew the worse was about to come. "Are you sure about him?" Zeng dropped his face on Suyin''s l.a.p. "Please double-check. Though I love my brother, he''s one hell of an irritating creature. Getting him in life is like herding a cat or pushing a rope uphill. Come to me some other time, I''ll list out his habits. One of them is sleeping with dirty socks under the pillow--"


    Zeng closed Suyin''s mouth. "Enough. Spare me some dignity."


    Suyin raised her finger, but Zeng pressed his palm firmly, forbidding her from revealing any more embarrassing stuff.


    From the corner of her eyes, Suyin noticed a military vehicle stop and a military officer in a white uniform embarked from it. Feng Jin.


    Their gaze met, and she averted hers. Her mood dropped. She nudged at Zeng''s arms, asking him to let her go.


    "Take me to the room. I''m tired."


    *******


    *******


    At dinner, Honey insisted to eat with both and arranged a setup where the three can share a meal in Wang Shi''s room. Suyin thought she''d be free to go back to her room after dinner, but once again the little one made a demand.


    "Please..." Honey batted his eyes innocently. "I want to sleep just how we used to sleep in the lounge." He was getting bolder in demands. Sometimes headache.


    "Be good. The bed is not spacious enough to accommodate the three of us. And with your dad''s injury, we can''t afford to sleep anywhere near him considering---" she rubbed her nose, "--considering your bad sleeping habit." More than Honey, she feared her own sleeping habits. Kicking being most common.


    "I AM NOT SLEEPING--"


    "Ah, come come come--" Honey steered to the door. Suyin looked behind, freezing at the sight of a hospital bed being rolled inside by two nurses. "Make sure the two join properly. I asked for a pillow and a king-size blanket as well. Yes, that one. Keep ducky--cough--mom''s meds on the table. Thank you. You may go." Honey turned to Suyin, beaming like a bulb. "Problem solved!"


    Wang Shi, "Problem solved!"


    Suyin rolled her eyes up. ''God--''


    God, "Problem solved!"


    ...


    Honey jumped to Wang Shi''s right side and adjusted the pillow. He winked, mouthing. ''I''m the best.'' then he sprawled flat near his father, careful not to touch him. "Ducky, what are you waiting for? Christmas!"


    Suyin hit her fist on the armrest. Helpless. "Waiting for God," she murmured.


    "He won''t come." Honey offered his hands to help Suyin get on the bed, smiling, ''I have my setting with him.''


    "Huh?"


    "Nothing." Suyin made herself comfortable and pulled on the blanket, still murmuring, "Just pray I don''t die soon, you''re going to be the first person whom I''ll fry in hot oil the moment I land at your place."


    God closed the door to his room. ''Not allowed''


    Honey propped his body up , "Are you talking to me?"


    "SLEEP."


    "Ah, I forgot to give goodnight kiss. It''s a must." He leaned to kiss Suyin and then Wang Shi; instantly wiping his lips, sticking out a tongue. "Porcupine, you have become,"


    Wang Shi "..."


    "ARE YOU TWO SLEEPING OR NOT?"


    Wang Shi and Honey instantly pulled the blanket above head. Body as stiff as a log.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Pillow. Trying to get into a comfortable position." He let out few more groans, trying to adjust his sleeping position. Suyin propped her upper body across from Honey, crushing the little one in the process.


    "Let me do it,"


    Dived inside the blanket, Honey let out a breath, his eyes protruding out comically. ''Ducky, did you forget I''m sleeping between you two? Argh, so heavy.... my poor body.... my bones.... Dad, I hate you!''


    Her fragrance, her face up so close, Wang Shi couldn''t help but be lost. He licked his lips; Suyin''s were just an inch away. She was close yet so far. As if realizing, she rose her eyes up.


    His eyes radiating longing, love, d.e.s.i.r.e, need, passion, and pain. A series of images flashed through her mind, reminding her of their beautiful moments and ones that happened at the cliff. She had almost lost him. Something aches inside her.


    Right at that moment, she felt his hand sliding from her cheek to the back of her head. Unable to fight against the will to move away, she closed her eyes. Feeling a soft touch on her forehead another moment.


    "Thank you, Suyin. Thank you for yesterday, today, and tomorrow." and then he let her go, leaving her puzzled.


    Yesterday, today, tomorrow?


    *******

 Chapter 315 - bad-ass in high heels

    After many days Suyin wore a dress today. Her signature black dress and a white coat! With just a touch of lip balm and her badass confidence reflecting through her posture, she was good to address the entire flock of Cheyna media.


    Questions! Bring it on. She''s ready.


    Satisfied by her work, Fei Hong stepped back, watching as Suyin smiled back from the mirror. "Press conference will start thirty minutes from now. Do you need something?"


    Suyin looked down at her black sneakers. "Stilettos. I''m missing them."


    Hong laughed, "It''s an online conference. Even if you address wearing an u.n.d.e.r.g.a.r.m.e.n.t, they won''t be able to see it."


    "I''m more bad-ass in high heels."


    "Then I''d say it''s a lucky day for the reporters. They''d be spared from your lethal sarcasm."


    Suyin narrowed her eyes in the mirror, a dangerous smirk coming after. "It comes naturally at the sight of assholes. Wu Sean, Wu Sangui, be prepared. Zhao Suyin is closing your chapter today."


    ******


    Fei Hong and Zeng took Suyin to the room from where she''d address the media. In the room Xiu Mei and Jianyu were already seated, ready to watch everything unfold and be Suyin''s support.


    Dr. Colton gave a thumbs up, flashing his crooked grin. Suyin looked unimpressed. She had requested him to stay with Wang Shi, but the old man never listens to anyone. Thankfully, she made Honey sit with Wang Shi, promising to follow his orders for a day in return. Sighs.... a terrible deal, but was there other option?


    Her eyes roved around. "Where is Jamie?" that''s the only one missing.


    Zeng picked Suyin from the wheelchair. "Busy. He said he might come after some time."


    That didn''t go down well with Suyin. It''s impossible for Jamie not to be with her. Not to forget he didn''t even prepare bento for her. The last she saw him when she woke up from coma. Was this related to Evan?


    "Where''s Evan?" She asked. Her suspicion grew when Zeng and Hong looked at each other. "Tell both of them to come to meet me." She huffed. It was time to address the media and she can''t delay it.


    *******


    Cheyna,


    They made the arrangement for the press conference at Feng Jianyu''s company. Invited reporters were made to sit facing a giant screen from where not only they''d be able to see Suyin live but can ask questions. The intention was crystal clear, to let the entire country know Feng brothers and Wang Shi were inseparable and still standing in support.


    "Hello, Cheyna." She deliberately addressed the entire nation as the conference was telecasted live.


    Yeah. Her ''baldy'' makeover!


    She ran a hand on her bald head. "Balding is s.e.xy. If you love my hairstyle that much, go bald. Shave it off. Own it. Love it."


    One of the reporters couldn''t hold back his curiosity and asked, "Miss. Zhao, how did this happen?" she looked like a malnourished woman who was kept in captivity for weeks, if not months.


    "I did it to myself." the answer was simple and straight.


    "Why?"


    "I don''t understand why ask when it''s a known fact that I disguise myself while investigating cases. C''mon, it''s just a shave. Stop it now."


    The reporter coughed. "So you did this for a case?"


    "Yes,"


    "Which case?"


    "Isn''t it true?"


    Suyin adjusted her broad glasses on her nose, "By your attitude I can tell you have reached the conclusion already. Are you a judge?"


    The reporter turned red and sat back in his chair. He knew very well how Suyin handles media and their questions. One needs to be careful while talking to her.


    "Miss. Zhao, careful" A fierce reporter raised her voice, squinting at the giant screen, "We don''t like your tone. My friend from--" She c.o.c.ked her head to check the other previous reporter''s badge, "--X news channel has barely asked a question. Aren''t you the one who had provided evidence against the Wang family and Wang Shi, accusing them? Then why this attitude? We are just doing our job."


    "Exactly," another added, "Don''t forget its you who called us."


    "We are from media. No one dare talk us in that tone."


    "It''s hard to believe you will stop us from doing our job,"


    "Job?" Suyin didn''t bit back her retort even a bit, her attitude turning fiercer, "Spreading rumors, not investigating the source of evidence, adding your own assumptions and selling it to the masses for TRP, directing people''s views in the wrong direction, tarnishing someone''s reputation, and creating a chaos in the entire nation-- If you call it a job, then every one of you should resign right away."


    "How--"


    An eerie silence followed between the reporters.


    "Instead of taking a rest, I have f.u.c.k.i.n.g forced myself to come here, as you guys have not stopped making chaos in the name of your f.u.c.k.i.n.g job. That''s why I have called you all to stuff the reality before your f.u.c.k.i.n.g intrusive fingering cause any more harm. Now, now, now, if you don''t want to hear another F word, nobody interrupts me. Otherwise, once I return, I will find you and deliver your pending punches."


    "Pfft," Dr. Colton squished his lips, shaking his head when Suyin glared. This student of his has changed so much! From cat to tigress!


    ....


    Sitting in the room next to the media hall, watching the live telecast, the president couple looked at each other. Behind them Junjie and Chen Wenwei had a precious comical expression, eyes protruding out, but hearts laughing.


    ....


    Judging by the silence and the faces, Suyin could tell none of the reporters will dare to say a word. Satisfied, she continued...


    "Good." She plugged a pen-drive, and a part of the screen showed the doc.u.ments one by one. A copy of which was currently being distributed to the media personals. "I started my investigation about four months back when I received a call from Dr.Gong Li after his death, telling me there''s an organ trafficking racket running in Ace."


    She twisted the facts. For this matter to end smoothly, she has to bend the facts to her need.


    "Carrying on with the investigation, I stumbled upon many shreds of evidence, each of them pointing at Wang family, headed by Liu Jeilan and Dr. Wang Shi." Suyin noticed Jianyu whispering something to Dr. Colton after which both left the room. Their action worries her.


    She looked at Xiu Mei, who assured her mouthing, ''he''s fine.''


    That settled Suyin''s heart, steering her to continue the show.

 Chapter 316 - Are you denying that?

    "The same evidence which you have seen circulating over the internet. Any guesses who gave it to me?" the door to the media hall opened, and three men dressed in blue dragged Wu Sean, handcuffed, causing a frenzy between reporters. "Hi, Sean. Can you see me? Suyin here!"


    Wu Sean yanked free his cuffed hands. Nose flaring in anger. "I have done nothing wrong. What''s the meaning of this?" Behind him Wu Sangui came barging in, thundering in anger. A team of cops following him. His eyes flickered on the giant screen.


    "Breaking into a minister''s office, breaching the security, kidnapping, and defaming him is a non-bailable offense. My friends from the media have all witnessed this woman''s action. She didn''t even hesitate to break the laws and hire goons for personal motives. I, Wu Sangui, the Vice President of the nation, ask the law enforcement to investigate this woman and take her in custody--"


    [ IDIOTS. BLOODY IDIOTS,]


    The remaining words stuck inside Wu Sangui''s throat when he heard Alpha''s voice echoing in the room. His eyes scanning the hall in search of the dreaded one.


    [Alpha we--]


    [SHUT UP. How dare you to lie that Suyin is with you? She is in El Sandrios, and Wang Shi is with her. Do you have any idea what you have done? Not only you failed you killed that child, but because of your negligence, our years of hard work are about to destroy. Useless, you even failed to convince Huang not to send his military.]


    Sean and Sangui were thunderstruck. Wasn''t it the conversation they had with Alpha? How did Suyin have the recording? His eyes collided with Suyin, and at that moment he understood she had played the same trick as him. The bug!


    [Suyin pretended as if she''s against Wang Shi, and was planning against him in secret] Wu Sangui''s voice''s echoed in the hall, [We even got everything confirmed from her family--]


    [But they made a fool of you, idiots. I had warned you before not to take Suyin lightly and keep me updated. But you lied.] The noise of Alpha''s huffing and breaking of glass was ear piercing and felt real. [Arg, tell me what is the situation there?]


    [I have a plan. Just hear me--]


    [YOU HEAR ME.] Alpha said, [After the release of the article under Suyin''s name, everyone is hoping for her to give a statement. Now leak the information of her child''s death and Wang Shi''s involvement in it, followed by fake news of her being missing. Just complete this. No mistake.]


    Wu Sean and Sangui frowned. She had edited the recording and omitted the lines where Alpha had called her a weapon created by him.


    ...


    "FAKE. SHE HAD MADE UP THIS." Sangui snatched a mike from a reporter, "TELL ME HOW MUCH YOU GOT TO DEFAME US PUBLICALLY?"


    "How much you''d have given me?" Suyin asked.


    She shrugged, "When people ask me stupid questions, it''s my legal obligation to give a sarcastic remark as kicking in the groin on national television won''t look decent."


    "BLOODY BITCH--"


    "DAD, PLEASE!" Sean came in front of his berserk father. His posture says he had given up already. "Stop it now. It''s of no use. If she has this recording, she''ll have many more."


    "You are right," Suyin''s voice came from behind, "But above that I have doc.u.ments which I got from Tamis''s laptop, proving you and your father were working with him to overthrow President Huang for personal gains." she showed the doc.u.ments of the deal between Wu Sangui and Tamis aka Alpha.


    The name ''Tamis'' whispered around.


    A reporter raise his hand.


    Suyin, "You want to know who Tamis is? Don''t you?" all the people in the room nodded. "Google him. His history with Cheyna, and President Huang is written on Wikipedia. I will not narrate all that." She let them have ten minutes to read.


    "Hope you all understood what happened?" She continued. This time her voice came soft. No need to be aggressive anymore, she had done the hard part already. "The Alpha in the voice recording is none other than Tamis.He did everything to avenge himself and get back in power." Once more, she lied. The secret of Master Gong Tuan being the actual mastermind would never make it out. She has her own plans.


    "Minister Wu Sean and VP Wu Sangui became Tami''s ally to overthrow President Wang. It was Wu Sean who released all the fake evidence under my name. Their action not only put many lives at stake but risked our country as well.... cough.... excuse me,"


    "I express my gratitude towards the Cheyna military lead by Officer Feng Jin who fought against Tamis''s army. Together we killed Tamis and end the ongoing proliferation of weapons, organ trafficking, sectarian violence, and lawlessness, with spillovers affecting neighboring countries. Thank you. Now you may ask questions."


    Suyin answered their questions patiently.


    Wu Sean''s handcuffs rattled, getting everyone''s attention. "What about the part where Wang Shi paid a hundred million dollars to get your son''s heart to save his own? Are you denying that? Are you siding with your baby''s killer just because he''s warming your bed?"


    Heads turned back to Suyin.


    Sean, "I may have done wrong, but the evidence against Wang Shi was true. Though I know none will believe at me now." he scoffed, "But as a mother, can you swear in the name of your dead son and say Wang Shi is innocent and didn''t kill your son?"


    There was no way for Suyin to stop feeling emotional. She was asked to swear on her dead son. Neither can she lie, nor can she say the truth as it will only make things difficult for Honey. They will label him as a boy with a stolen heart. He will be called upon for living a stolen life. A life that his father bought him at the price of a hundred million dollars.


    "What''s taking you so long. Suyin? I wonder where is your fierce attitude now? Where is your sarcasm? C''mon, answer us."


    Tears blurred her vision, closing her throat.


    "MOM!"


    Her eyes trailed to his right; Wang Shi was in the wheelchair. His eyes spreading the same warmth, telling her not to worry. He and his little me were there to stand with their very own weirdo ducky.


    Jianyu pushed the wheelchair. In no time, Honey and Wang Shi filled the seats beside her. Scratch that. Only Wang Shi had filled the empty seat. Honey had dragged his chair to Suyin''s and started nudging against her. Kissing her twice on cheek, and repeating the word, ''Mom''.


    On the national television.


    Live.


    Wang Shi rolled his eyes. ''Open PDA. This brat!''

 Chapter 317 - Making up a story

    Suyin blinked, trying to process how, why, and what the two were doing. And worse, a certain Koala bear''s etiquettes had made her the center of attraction.


    She pinched Honey. Hard.


    "OWW!" He jumped away instantly, rubbing his waist, glaring daggers. But the expression shifted to that of a bullied child, lips jutting out. "It was dad''s idea!"


    Before Suyin could kill Wang Shi with her eyes, he wrapped her hand under the table, the hold possessive and tender at once. His face impassive, giving nothing away, but his eyes... they were intense.


    "They seem to have upset you, so I''ll--" Honey coughed. Wang Shi corrected the sentence, "--WE''LL be talking to them now."


    "It''s alright," she whispered, "I can take care of this."


    His gaze narrowed. "No, it''s not. I''m not going to allow other people in the world to question you over past. And why should you when I''m the one responsible for everything?"


    Wang Shi pulled the mic towards him. Suyin squeezed his hand, "Please... Shishi," her voice barely audible.


    He grazed her hand with the pad of his thumb, coaxing her. She felt Honey mimicking Wang Shi''s action under the table and gave an innocent smile when she looked at him.


    "Mom, I''m a big boy now. Don''t worry."


    It was heartwarming yet painful to see how much strength this little one was giving her, oblivious of the consequences. Though he might not understand the complexity, gradually he''ll. Will this innocent smile be still there on his face? No.


    "Media representatives," that came out as a warning from Wang Shi''s mouth. "Consider this as the last that you have Suyin twisted up by your ugly questions." his voice came controlled and firm- and that makes it scarier. A warning from one of the most powerful men of the country can''t be taken lightly. "Since I''m one of the concerned party, you''ll be facing me now. Ask away."


    Wu Sean''s slow claps echoed. "Quite a player you are! You should be in politics! A perfect plan it was to make use of your son and woo the woman before she becomes your doom." he snatched a mic from a reporter, "Alright then since the prince is here to save the damsel in distress, let''s start with a basic question first.... Does your son have a donor heart?"


    Fu#k! Suyin looked at Wang Shi, cold sweat dripped from her forehead, heartbeat raced.


    "Did you pay a hundred million dollars for it?"


    "Yes,"


    Sean''s eyes shone evilly, "Does the heart came from Suyin''s son?"


    Suyin scratched at Wang Shi''s hand to make him shut, but the man didn''t budge from his position. He was firm and controlled. Honey did the same and squeezed her hand. These two had this in common: both incredibly protective of her.


    Wang Shi''s gaze dropped, "Yes."


    Sean smirked. The righteous and mighty Wang Shi was digging his own grave. "Did you get her concern?.... or did you approach the organ mafias to get it arranged?" if he says no, that will become the last nail in his coffin. But if he says yes, Suyin''s would fall in everyone''s eyes. A black spot in the name of a mother.


    Course, he''d say, No. Wu Sean was sure.


    "YES."  Suyin''s voice filled the air, surprising everyone. She yanked her hand from Honey''s grip and snatched the mic. "I gave my concern."


    Sean, "LIE!"


    "YOU--"


    "Many times you asked why did I choose Wang Shi over you. Well, now can you see the difference?" by revealing about her and Wu Sean she had given a reason to everyone to understand why the man was full of hatred towards her and Wang Shi. "You were nothing but a disgusting creature who stalked me, constantly putting me off with your l.u.s.ty gaze. I used to feel prickly in your presence, but because of our common projects I kept things professional and kill you by ignorance."


    "IDIOT. A queen never settles for a eunuch but only a king. He treated me like a queen and became my king. You treated me like a game, so I played you." her gaze going back to the media, "I will send you his sleezy love letters and messages later. I''m sure Mrs. Feng will help me retrieve the deleted data from my phone and computer."


    Xiu Mei gave a thumbs up.


    "Coming back.... I swear on my son that Wang Shi is innocent and didn''t kill my son." Suyin''s words came loud and clear.


    Sean, "You are lying--"


    "Years back, a woman was to shift her two-month-old baby from Ace to People''s hospital." Suyin looked at Xiu Mei sitting in the front row, "Can you please go through the registration data of People''s hospital dated 23/04/200* and check the name Zhao Fai and show it to everyone?"


    Everyone remained silent as Suyin began to pace.


    "However, the same day she had to leave for another city to sit for a medical VIVA that was to decide her and her son''s future. As the baby was stable, she decided to change hospital after her return and let her mother guard the baby overnight."


    "The woman was on her way back when she received the devastating news..... H- H-Her son was brain dead." her voice trembled. She felt two hands rubbing her back. A big and a small. "I--- s-she-- she was another eight hours away from reaching the city when she received a call. A call from a distressed man, a father." Wang Shi looked up at her face, complex thoughts and feelings shrouding his heart. She was making up a story.

 Chapter 318 - Honey in trouble

    "He was desperately looking for a heart to save his child. After losing his daughter to the same disease, he had called that woman for help. He knew his actions would hurt the mother who had lost her son a moment before, but he also knew that was his only chance. He begged. He cried. He prayed to her. He offered his entire wealth. He offered his life...."


    "And... the woman said no. NO. She cursed him. She yelled at him. That insolent bastard was asking for her son''s heart. She won''t. Never. And she hung up on him."


    Silence continued..... None respond. It was only Suyin''s voice echoing around....


    "Two hours passed, but the man never stopped calling her. Never stopped dropping messages. One such message was his son''s photograph. Sick. Hooked to a ventilator. Weak pulse displaying on the monitor." She had indeed seen Honey''s pictures when he was sick, though it was when she came into a relationship.


    "They were sharing the same pain that day. She had lost her son, and he was about to. Time was running against him. At the four-hour mark, heart''s cells function began to fail and the likelihood that it will malfunction in its recipient rises dramatically. It''s the most feared complication." She ran a hand over Honey''s head, "For me it was a tragedy, but for that father, my one action could become a beautiful light and can give life to someone. A chance for my son''s heart to beat again. I did what I feel correct at that time. I changed the ending of someone''s story."


    She smiled, "Least I knew, it will change my life as well and would give my son back to me."


    Honey hugged her. "Yes. I''m mom''s."


    She looked at Wang Shi, "And least I knew the father begging to me was president''s son and the owner of People''s group."


    "And what about the hundred million dollars?" someone asked.


    "When I met him, I asked him to make a donation to an orphanage. You guys can crosscheck that." Though later it was transferred to a private account, she was sure Xiu Mei would easily tamper with the data and present it as a piece of evidence.


    "LIE---" Wu Sean''s voice lost as he was dragged out from the venue, along with his father. Nobody was interested in him anymore.


    "But right after you left the country. How did you two--" the reporter stopped, scared of Suyin. "Miss. Zhao, a question please?"


    "We became friends," Suyin answered, "Honey was the driving factor."


    Wang Shi''s face dropped, his grip on Suyin''s hand loosened. The rush of delight he felt a moment ago lost.


    Just friends?


    Even Honey didn''t like the word. He looked between Wang Shi and Suyin. Not liking even a bit how everything was turning. Suyin''s actions hurt and confused him.


    His eyes watered, feeling horribly vulnerable. He averted his gaze and wiped his eyes with the back of his hand, not noticing that Wang Shi noticed his action.


    Fine! He will see who among them was more stubborn. Honey gritted his teeth and stood on his knees on the chair, and leaned towards Suyin to reach the mic. "And, and, soon mom and dad will become couples just like uncle and aunty!" He rose his hand. "See, see, we are engaged! Dad, show them yours."


    Wang Shi "..."


    Suyin, "..."


    Before Wang Shi could react, Honey stepped on the table and crawled to his side, and raised his hand to let everyone see the ring. "Mom proposed us! We are a forever family!"


    Honey was unstoppable. He wanted to grab the opportunity and announce Suyin to the entire world. It was a child''s way of seeking a sense of security that his mother will stay by his side and never leave him.


    He was the naughty child who always misbehaves in front of guests, knowing parents could just give death glares and do nothing. But later....


    "Ahh, I remember something from Fei Hong''s radio show. Wasn''t that the first time when Dr. Wang had stepped in Miss. Zhao''s support in public?"


    "Exactly! Their chemistry was audible! We should have understood it before."


    "And didn''t Miss. Zhao had said that he has someone in heart? She literally announced, but none of us caught the hint."


    "And many time they were spotted together like a couple."


    Suyin was rendered speechless, caught in an impossible position. Neither she could say no, nor she wanted to see them making assumptions about them.


    "Exactly," Honey once again chimed. Suyin''s heart dropped to the bottom of her stomach. What else would he say now? Duh, how desperately she wanted to stitch this cheeky monkey''s mouth or maybe smack him hard.


    "Do you think this handsome man would let someone else be his mom? It can only be my mom. My sweetest. My best-est. World''s best! Most beautiful! The one who steals my kisses, and plays video games with me!" he reached to kiss her cheeks, gulping at the sight of her angry face. "Please, don''t beat me in front of everyone. It will be shameful. You are my good ducky na? After this, I will let you have as many kisses as you want. No limits, okay?" he whispered.


    Suyin continued glaring daggers, scaring the little one. She didn''t even budge when he pecked her lips voluntarily.


    "Thank you for the interview, mam, sir. Any last words?"


    Suyin c.o.c.ked her head to answer, ignoring Honey clinging to her. "Don''t think of organ donation as giving up part of yourself to keep a total stranger alive. It''s really a total stranger giving up almost all of themselves to keep a part of you alive. Pass the gift of life. Trust me, these organ trafficking mafia''s business is booming because of us. Only we can stop it."


    "And sir, would you like to say something for Miss. Zhao?" the reporter asked. However, Wang Shi was looking at Suyin and Honey''s faces. "Sir? SIR?"


    Wang Shi''s attention broke. "Yeah.... um, I''m forever grateful, forever humbled, and forever blessed to get you in life. To the real hero. Thank you for yesterday, today, and tomorrow."


    As soon as the screen was turned blank, Suyin pushed away from the desk and called for Zeng to help her to the wheelchair. Her face pulled in anger. Honey clutched her dress in his fist before she could go away from him.


    "Mom--"


    *********

 Chapter 319 - And you are the reason why God created middle finger

    Important....


    I''m shocked why none of you complained that I have jumbled up the chapters. Did you guys not caught the mistake?


    Anyways, I''m correcting it now.


    The chapters will be--


    319 And you are the reason why God created middle finger.


    320- Slowly but surely


    321- He was dying


    322- Ma Roma


    323- Murderer


    324- They just love kissing me, just like you.


    Please refresh if you see anything different.


    ******


    ******


    "Ge, please take me to my room." Suyin swallowed past the lump in her throat. Honey''s teary face was stirring her emotions, it has become her weakness- and that''s what he was taking advantage of.


    Honey s.u.c.k.e.d in a sharp breath and sprinted to stand in front of her wheelchair. Stream of hot tears rolled down his cheeks. Abruptly, he crossed his hand at ears. "Sorry if you are hurt. But not sorry that I called you mom in front of everyone. That''s you are. Honey''s mom."


    "I''m not mad because you called me mom, you know that, don''t you?" For the first time she didn''t reach to wipe his tears or say soothing words. "You gave wonderful breaking news to the reporters and the entire nation. It was the highlight of the day. Thank you for it. Ge, can we?"


    Before Honey could say a word, his gaze caught Wang Shi''s, shaking his head. A soundless ''mom'' came as he looked Suyin taken away by Zeng, his grip on her dress slipping away.


    And then she was gone.


    "Will she ever talk to me again? Will she leave us? I just wanted to make sure she stays with us forever."


    His sobs echoed in the hallway, and Wang Shi pulled him in his embrace. The pain seared under his bandages as his stitches pulled. Honey pulled away realizing. "Sorry, does that hurt?"


    "I''m fine. Don''t worry." Wang Shi ruffled Honey''s head, noticing his gaze was down, scratching the tip of his shoes against the floor. "Come, we need a man-to-man talk."


    Honey''s eyes lifted. "Man to man?"


    "Will you push the wheelchair to the room? It''s been a while since we had a good man to man."


    "B-But, mom-- She''s furious this time,"


    "Then I''ll say you don''t understand your ducky very well. Can she stay angry with her little fairy longer?" Honey instantly wiped his cheeks and ran to push the wheelchair.


    Xiu Mei watched the two leaving. "I don''t think Suyin is wrong?"


    "So as Honey," Jianyu said, "He''s just a kid who had been through a lot in life. Suyin''s distance from Wang Shi is making him insecure. He''s looking for an assurance that she''d stay with them. Forever."


    "You should take a rest. The entire day you were working for this conference. It''s best we leave this country earliest, only then you''ll take a rest." When Xiu Mei opened her eyes again, Feng Jin was standing in front of them. "Arrangements?"


    "Done. Anytime you can leave. I have arranged an air ambulance for Big brother and Suyin." Jin said, taking off his military hat and ducking it under the armpit. "I have orders to stay here until the situation is completely under control. Probably six to eight months."


    Jianyu studied his face. "Did you talk to her?"


    Jin sighed, rubbing his hand on his face. "I''m ashamed of my behavior that night. I don''t know how-- how to face her?" the worse Suyin had put pleasant words about him at the press conference, the burden of which was sinking him in. Not to ignore, she hadn''t complained a word about it to Wang Shi. Respect.


    "You don''t really have a choice. Eventually, I''m going to tell Brother Shi about it. So, it''s best you fix this ASAP, and talk to your would be sister-in-law."


    "Better not call her that, she''s dangerous." Xiu Mei warned and then patted his shoulder, "Jokes apart. She is a gem of a person, just a little angry bird. Go talk to her, once."


    ********


    "What happened? Why did you come here suddenly?"


    As Zeng was about to take Suyin to her room, she heard a woman''s voice, weaving its way through the open door of the room near hers.


    "So,"


    "Marina, she''s leaving too? Can''t you understand?"


    "But this isn''t her country. We can''t ask her to stay forever. She needs to go back to her home, to her people."


    Zeng hesitated before the door, calculating whether he should continue eavesdropping on their conversation or just walk away. Suyin''s perked ears gave him the answer.


    "The country is at a crucial stage," Revon continued, "We need guidance, and someone influential to keep the interim government in check. Once their plane takes off from our country, another tyrant will rise to power. Human greed has no limits.... and El Sandrios is the biggest source of oil. We''ll become the target of hungry nations and greedy politicians."


    Suyin c.o.c.ked her head to peek inside the room from the little opening. Revon was sitting on the stool near his son, while Marina was standing close, rubbing his back.


    "Why not talk to her about it? I''m sure she''ll understand us."


    That didn''t go down well with Zeng. They want Suyin to stay and help them put jumbled pieces of their country back to its place. Who they take Suyin for? A walking, talking charity? Their private property? For God''s sake, she has her own problems.


    He realized he didn''t want to hear them anymore. Neither he should let Suyin hear this. She''s too soft for all this and might decide to jump into their matters.


    "STOP." Abruptly Suyin pressed her palm on the wheels, bringing a halt to their walk.


    Zeng''s eyes narrowed. "You better not be thinking about that. Even if I have to take you home by force, I won''t blink an eye. Don''t forget I''m the elder one."


    Suyin rolled her eyes. "Joke of the century."


    "Stop rolling your eyes. You won''t find your brain back up there. God forgot to put one."


    Suyin gave a side look, "And you are the reason God created the middle finger."


    Zeng, "..."


    Zeng stared at her. She stared back. His jaw twitched. "I''m not in a mood, Suyin. You''ve pissed me off. Why can''t you just think about yourself once? Dare stay here, and I''ll tell Honey you are thinking about leaving him."


    .....


    ...

 Chapter 321 - He was dying

    The correct chapter sequence is--


    319 And you are the reason why God created middle finger.


    320- Slowly but surely


    321- He was dying


    322- Ma Roma


    323- Murderer


    324- They just love kissing me, just like you.


    Please refresh if you are seeing anything different.


    ******


    ******


    The night found Suyin sitting on the bed, her one hand lulling Honey to sleep and the other playing with the lamp switch. On-off. On-off. Wang Shi sighed, understanding what''s keeping her awake. She''s waiting for James. But not like he could say a word. He should not. It''s the matter between two friends, let them be. Wish they solve it sooner for their peace of mind.


    A shadow at the door caught his attention as James gingerly opened the door and peered inside, catching Suyin''s immediate attention.


    James hesitated, his one hand on the door before he walked with quiet steps and stood facing her. He was wearing loose fitted shorts and a V-neck t-shirt with holes around the collar, hair messy, several days worth of scruff, and shoelaces dragging on the floor at every step.


    They stared at each other for a long before Suyin opened her arms wide and James sprinted towards her so hard that the bed shook.


    He sniffed, head ducked to the crook of her neck and Suyin rubbed his back. "Stupid, with whom were you hiding? Your Susu?"


    He hugged her tighter. "I''m sorry. I didn''t wanted to add to your worries."


    She forced his face up and gave a light slap, to which Jamie brought his other cheek forward. She shoved him away, upset.


    Jamie looked between sleeping Honey and Wang Shi and then picked Suyin in his arms to the wheelchair, taking her out of the room.


    Behind them Wang Shi propped his head to check, a knowing smile curling his lips. Now that''s what these two besties needed most. He pulled the blanket and returned to sleep. Surely, tonight, he and Honey would have to sleep without her.


    They went to the terrace and Suyin insisted to ditch the wheelchair and sit with him on the floor, legs dangling from the space between the iron railings. She inhaled the fresh air. "No matter whoever comes to my life, we are not changing, Jamie. Even when we''ll be in the nineties, walking with sticks, I''ll be the same Susu and you, my Jamie."


    "I know." James faced her. "Trust me, that''s not the reason I was running from you. I just...." he sighs and grabbed her hand. He was too serious. "Evan and I- we are no more together."


    Suyin felt the blood drain from her face. She had expected some problems between them, but breakup was definitely not on her list. "Are you kidding me?"


    "I wish." He pulled his hand away from her, and moved his gaze at the never ending streak of lights ahead of him, "I did everything in my power to save this relationship, but he doesn''t want it anymore. I thought once this ends, we''ll talk and sort things between us, but.... fu*k.... Nothing."


    "Damn, I had warned that bastard, yet he dares. I''m going to drag him back to the underworld cell and get his pen*s chopped."


    James looked up. "What''s with you and pen*s? Why do you target that particular organ--"


    "Shut up," she bit out. "I''m serious. How can he ask for a breakup? What did he say?"


    "That''s the problem. He said nothing." His eyes stung. "Forget about saying a word, he didn''t even bother to pay a look when we met again after months. Thinking he was feeling guilty, I went to talk but all he did was to avoid me and turn away."


    "How can that be? Evan joined hands with us and led us to Alpha''s base when I told him that you were kidnapped." she reasoned. "Just think, why would he risk his life if it''s not his love for you?"


    "Then why is he not talking? Fine, I know he''s vocally impaired and can''t speak, but there are other ways too. But no! Instead of taking out a minute for me, he''s busy with that man."


    That caught her attention. "What man?"


    "The one in the ICU, from Revon''s army," he replied dismissively. "He is guarding him day and night, without moving an inch outside his room." James rolled the hem on T-shirt and then unrolling it, repeating the procedure absentmindedly. "I know he''s from El Sandrios. That man must be his old lover or something that''s why I''m no more wanted."


    She straightened. Something''s a miss. She shook his shoulder and made him look at her, "How do you know Evan is from El Sandrios? Why did you and Zeng went to France? What is it that I don''t know? Tell me everything."


    He blinked a tear from his reddened eyes, "Evan''s real name is Lucian..... His mother Romana was the daughter of the Ricci family who fell in love with someone her family doesn''t approve of....." slowly James narrated everything, "..... in the fire it was Romana''s friend and son that got burned while she managed to escape to El Sandrios safely... Evan killed the entire Ricci family to avenge his father''s death...."


    Suyin''s brain ran at a lightning speed, putting together the jumbled pieces. The word Lucian echoing. ''Romana- Ma Roma, Lucian- Evan- Luo''s lost brother....''


    "What is the name of the man in ICU?" Her heartbeat raced.


    "L-Luo?"


    Her shoulders sagged. The next moment she pushed herself up from the floor, grunting at the pain traveled to her spine.


    "What are you doing?"


    "Take me there."


    "Where?"


    "ICU!"


    "But..."


    "JUST DO IT!"


    *********


    Evan was sitting on the floor outside ICU, in and out of sleep, head swaying. James''s lips pursed into a thin line, but Suyin pointed at the door, unmoving.


    "You have no right to stop me. I know it''s Luo inside." Suyin eyed Evan.


    Evan folded his hands and mouthed, ''Sleeping. Please.''


    A thin silence fell between them and for the first time she saw an emotion on Evan''s face for someone else other than James. "Let me see him once. Promise I won''t disturb his sleep." Evan moved aside and opened the door for her.


    A gasp escaping Suyin''s mouth. She couldn''t hold back the tear that slides down her cheek.


    It was not the bandages on Luo''s body that pulled the earth beneath her wheels, but the scary numbers on the monitor and the number of machines hooked to his body.


    He was dying.


    "What have you done to him?" unstoppable tears rolled down, confusing James as he looked between Evan and Suyin.


    Evan closed the door, kneeled down at Suyin''s feet. His hands folded, tears came as if acc.u.mulated pain flowing through guilt, eroding him. He pointed at the closed door and then to him, made a gun with hand and then pointed at his heart and then at the closed door...


    his head dropping low in shame.


    "H-he took the bullet in heart to save you." Evan sobbed, but no sound came from his lips at her sharply accusing voice. He understood, she knows. "Bastard! You were never kidnapped, didn''t you?"


    Evan''s eyes pinched. He shook his head.


    *SL.A.P

 Chapter 322 - Ma Roma

    The correct chapter sequence is-


    319 And you are the reason why God created middle finger.


    320- Slowly but surely


    321- He was dying


    322- Ma Roma


    323- Murderer


    324- They just love kissing me, just like you.


    Please refresh if you see anything different.


    ...


    .....


    ...


    "Susu!" James rushed to Evan''s side, wincing at the sight of four imprinted fingers, and takes out his handkerchief from his pocket, holding it against his cheek. "Must you hit him?"


    Evan shook his head at James.


    Suyin, "He had spent his entire life searching for you. And what does he get in return? Death? Do you have any idea what you have done? Twenty-two years! Twenty-two f.u.c.k*ng years, damit! How could you! Wish it was you at Luo''s place, lying on that bed, breathing your last."


    "Suyin, stop it!" James''s voice rose.


    "Now I''m glad you and Jamie both aren''t together anymore. As selfish, disgusting, and cruel as you are, who knows if Jamie would have become your next target."


    "Jesus Christ. Instead of tossing me like a ball between your conversation, will you fill me in, Suyin?" Addressing her by name feels foreign. James ran a hand through his messy hair and sat down. "I''m not moving an inch, and neither letting any of you. Explain." He slides his phone to Evan, "Use this. Let''s start with the man inside the room and how is he related to you? Who is going to answer that?"


    Suyin sighs, her grey eyes dark and serious. "Luo is Evan''s elder brother. He and his mother had been searching for him for the last twenty-two years. As per them, Evan was kidnapped when he was of Honey''s age. Which clearly was misleading.


    "If I add up the information you gave me to the one I got from Luo, I''m certain Luo and Evan are stepbrothers, as Romana had only one son when she fled from France. She must have married someone from here to get the citizenship." Evan looked up at James, his eyes swimming in tears as he nodded, confirming Suyin''s words. "What remains unanswered is how Evan landed up with Alpha and why he never contacted his family in El Sandrios, making them believe he was kidnapped."


    "I''ll answer to that."


    They turned to see a woman standing at a distance, holding a white packet and a bottle of water. Suyin squinted her eyes, though she wasn''t wearing her glasses, the woman''s heavy voice and golden braid swinging down her shoulder like a snake were enough to tell she was Ma Roma. Luo''s stepmother.


    Ma Roma cast a glance at the closed door of Luo''s room and then at Evan, questioning him with a jerk of her chin, to which he joined his palm and bring it against his ear. Sleeping.


    There were a lot of looks going back and forth between everyone as Ma Roma joined them on the floor. She takes out a lunch box from the white packet but Evan pushed it away.


    "You have eaten nothing since yesterday. Why are you doing this to yourself?"


    "He''s not your brother. Better get over this." Ma Roma said sharply, instigating Evan. He picked the lunch and raised it over head.


    "Ah ah ah, don''t disrespect food." Jamie snatched the lunch box from Evan. "Don''t forget food plays a pivotal role in your story." He opened it. Rice, curry, chicken, pickle, and sweet. He scooped some on spoon.


    Evan looked up to see James, remembering the blissful time they had shared. His body acted on its own, and he leaned forward to take the bite.


    "What did you say just now? Repeat it for me." Suyin''s jaw ticked.


    "You heard it." Ma Roma''s attention zeroed on Suyin. "I was young, beautiful, penniless, and a woman with a child entered a foreign country illegally.


    "One of my acquaintances introduced me to a man with three kids who had lost his wife to cancer three months back and was looking for someone to take care of his kids and him. He was rich, a widower, working under Tamis at a high post, a perfect ticket to let me and my son start a new in El Sandrios."


    A bitter smile came to her lips. "How foolish I was to think that. A step relationship works. None of those boys liked me or my son, nor do we. The feelings were mutual."


    Suyin couldn''t help but think of her and Honey''s relationship. Their relationship doesn''t have the word ''step''. It''s just a mother-son relationship. A step relationship works, but the first step has to be taken by the mother to let the child understand her, and feel safe with her.


    "My new husband was head over heels for me and loved my son as much as he loved his. Or that''s what he made me believe. One day the kids broke into a fierce fight over Christmas gifts as Lucy got the most d.e.s.i.r.ed one," A remote-controlled car it was. "As a punishment, my husband locked up the kids in the outhouse. When I protested, he reasoned to let kids be together alone once. I knew it was a terrible decision. My son was the only one alone among them." Her shoulders hunched. "The next day none of the kids were found."


    James''s hand stopped midway. He couldn''t help but look at Ma Roma, "What happened to them?"


    "Kidnapped. Told you, my husband was rich and an influential man working for Tamis." Ma Roma''s mouth curved bitterly, "Within a week they found all the three boys but my son. The boys said none of them remember a thing. A week turned into months, but Lucy was untraceable."


    "It was your husband," Suyin said. "Evan''s underlying condition....."


    Ma Roma nodded. "A child like Lucy who is immune to pain is rare, attracts attention. My basta*d husband traded my son for a better position under Tamis'' court. He killed two birds- not only he got rid of my son but raised his status.


    "Four years passed but I couldn''t find my son, and my jerk husband continued pretending as if he was looking for Lucy. But somewhere I knew, he was lying, something was off... "


    *Continue in the next chapte

 Chapter 323 - Murderer

    "One day that bastar* yanked me by my hair when I refused to give in to his physical demands, and dragged me to his bedroom. Angry, drunken, proud, he gloated about his deed to my face." She leaned her back against the wall, her green eyes filled with pain and anger. "I barely remember pushing him against the drawer and climb on top. But I do remember squeezing the life out of him with my b.a.r.e hands. I do remember his horrified eyes on me as his body convulsed. I do remember shoving his body inside a trunk and asking servants to help me get it into the car.


    "I do remember giving an excuse that I found a lead on Lucy and to inform the same to boys when they wake up. I do remember driving into a forest, digging a grave, and dumping the trunk inside. I do remember driving to Tamis''s house only to find it vacant. The war had started and Tamis had taken a cover already. I could never find him.... Nor my Lucy..."


    It left with many unanswered questions. Suyin''s brows wrinkled. "But Tamis was assumed dead. Even now when I saw him, he was hooked to a wheelchair, paralyzed. Master Gong was just using him. How did you end with Master Gong?" the question was for Evan, who instantly typed something on James'' phone and hold it to Suyin.


    [Tamis had thrown me into a gruesome assassin training and had wiped my memory using drugs. In the attack, our assassin center was bombed, but someone saved me. When I opened my eyes, it was an unknown location and Tamis was in a wheelchair. He had started his operation again under a new name, Alpha. I never knew that it was master Gong at his place. Never]


    Now things made sense. Gong Tuan had somehow rescued Tamis and some of his men, including Evan. Until now, Gong Tuan was ordering everyone under the disguise of Tamis, like a puppeteer behind the curtains. That''s why Evan never mentioned a thing about Gong Tuan. He himself was unaware of it.


    "Then what happened?" Suyin asked Ma Roma.


    "I spread the news that my husband was with Tamis when the attacks happened and died with him. Naturally, the property, money, and the kids'' custody fell into my hands--"


    "And you let loose your anger on kids?"


    "At least I didn''t do what their father did to my son," Ma Roma snapped. "Luo was the eldest, while the other two boys were still minors. My conditions were simple to him, I''ll take care of his brothers, will give them a share in the property and not leave them to die on the street, and in return, he''ll have to find my boy."


    "Why were you so sure that Evan was alive?"


    "Does that matter? I just never wanted to stop searching for him. He is my son, my only son."


    "Or maybe you never wanted to free Luo." Suyin said sharply, "Is he aware?"


    "About his father? Yes. I told him what his father did to my son. I reminded him daily. But he doesn''t know I killed him, maybe he does, I don''t care. My son is with me, he can just die."


    Suyin''s eyes closed. That''s why she sensed hatred for Ma Roma in Luo''s words whenever they talked. Ma Roma had no feelings for his stepson, she was just using him.


    But why did Luo stick to her side even after so many years? Surely after some years, his brothers were old enough to earn. Speaking of which, he never mentioned them in any of their conversations. What made him keep returning to El Sandrios?


    The best who can answer was Luo, but he was in sleep currently. She couldn''t possibly bother a sick person.


    "Why have you said you never loved me?" James asked, bringing another spoon to Evan''s mouth.


    Evan softly pushed his hand away and picked the phone.


    [Alpha had to stop giving me drugs when it started affecting my organs. As the effect subsided, I started getting visions of my past life, faces of unknown people, and unheard names. Keeping it a secret, I began investigating based on my dreams. But somehow Alpha found out and threatened me to kill you and everyone close to me if I continued any further.]


    Before James could find a word to say, he saw Evan snatching the phone and writing something again and raise it to him in an unusual bit of clumsiness. [Had an agreement with Alpha. If I was ever caught, I wouldn''t say a word about him or his organization. In return, he would do no harm to you.]


    James let the lunch box slide from his hand. The odd rush of warmth spread. It was love! Evan had always loved him! His heartbeat raced, but also calmed him down, his unnecessary worries.


    A faint sound barely reached the door, startling everyone.


    Before Suyin could think twice about it, she pushed the door every so lightly and peered inside to check.


    Amara was helping Luo to have water. Why didn''t she notice her before? Where was she?


    Suyin''s action must have caught Luo''s attention that he nodded at her. She self thrust the wheels to step in.


    Just when others followed, Luo raised his palm. His voice came slow and heavy as if in pain. "You got your son, this is where we end everything. The ship belongs to me. Get out."


    Ma Roma didn''t bother to stay another second and turned.


    Evan tried to stay something, but, "GET OUT!" Luo yelled, collecting every ounce of energy. The lack of air drove him to gasp as he pressed at his c.h.e.s.t. Numbers jumped on the monitor.


    Amara turned to the door, "Bad people, bad people, out out. You are disturbing LuLu. Only Zeke will stay with us."


    Suyin didn''t bother paying attention to anything else, but thrust the wheels to come near Luo''s bed and picked his chart. She faintly registered Amara closing the door while preparing an injection and waited until the medicine kicks in, heaving a relieved breath when the numbers return to normal. "Don''t do that again."


    "Keep them away, and it won''t happen. Murderer."


    Suyin''s brows rose. "You already know about Ma Roma''s deeds?"


    "I''m living by her side for over two decades. I''m not a fool."

 Chapter 324 - They just love kissing me, just like you.

    "Then why? Even if you did it for your brothers, why not leave her when they grew old? Why didn''t you take any legal action? Was it guilt?"


    "Guilt? Never." Luo said. Suyin saw his one hand clutched into Amara''s as she c.a.r.e.s.sed his head lovingly. "Initially, it was for my brothers.... then it was for myself."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Zeke, Zeke, LuLu said he will take me to see mountains! Rivers! Beaches! And we will take a ride on the giant iron bird that flies in the sky! Zooooom! Aeroplane, aeroplane, it is called. But first, we will go to the zoo. I want to see an elephant. Lulu can we take little devil also? He''s cute!"


    Luo smiled, and for the first time, it reached his eyes. But the way he looked at Amara was something else, something much more. It''s the same how Wang Shi looks at her. With love.


    "You two--" She stopped, feeling a squeeze on her hand.


    "I need a favor. Actually two. Please."


    "What?"


    "I know I won''t survive long. But before that, I want to fulfill my promise to her. Only you can help me do that."


    .....


    ....


    By the time Suyin came out of the room, Evan and James were waiting for her outside. Her gaze moved around the empty corridor but seems like Ma Roma had left already. No, wait. There she was, sitting on the balcony, eating the leftover food.


    Evan waved his hand in asking.


    "Not good," Suyin answered. " Cardiac tamponade, fluid is surrounding his heart. The worst, the bullet had embedded through the endocardium into the deep myocardium--" she stopped seeing their confused expression, "I mean-- the bullet is at an unreachable place inside the heart and would require extensive cardiac dissection. There''s no way getting it out."


    Evan pointed at Suyin.


    "Me? No ways. Even Shifu won''t be able to that. We are not Gods," she said and turned to James, beckoning him to bend towards her. "Truth is out. Whatever decision is yours, see me standing with you. But-- I definitely dislike ''her''. Tell Evan to keep her out of my sight, I bet Shishi will save me if I murder someone."


    She looked over her shoulder and saw James lifting Evan''s chin.


    "Do you love me?"


    Evan nodded without a second''s delay.


    "Do you want to be with me?"


    Nod.


    "Will you ever think of leaving me again?"


    Evan shook his head.


    "Will you let me top you?"


    Shook


    "Evan!"


    Shook


    "Then go to hell. I''ll find someone else." Just when James turns, Evan shoved a hand in James''s hair and pulled him to him. His lips catching James''.


    Suyin got her answer. Maybe she knew it already.


    "Damn you, Evan!" She heard James''s voice as he wiped his lips with the back of his hand, a smile coming to her own. "You better go through your last answer again. I won''t let you top me forever." and with that he ran to Suyin''s side, blushing furiously.


    She felt a kiss on her bald head, and him whispering, "You know you are best, don''t you?"


    "Of course I know."


    "Huh, narcissistic."


    "How can I be if I truly know I''m better than everyone else?"


    "Whatever,"


    "Whatever,"


    Don''t know whose fault it was. Who lost and who won.  Neither she cares. All she knows was James and Evan love each other and want to be together. Above that, all that matters to her was Jamie''s happiness. If that''s what he wants, she will support him unconditionally. Just how he does.


    As far as Luo, she''ll get him what he had asked from her. Everything....


    Even her revenge...


    ********


    The next day Honey had arranged for breakfast for everyone without letting anyone know. Though Suyin doubts this was Wang Shi''s idea and Honey was just covering for him. How to tell this was unnecessary? She doesn''t mind eating meals together. Now that they will be raising Honey together, these things will become common.


    She took careful note of not putting pressure on her right leg now that Colton had advised her to walk, though using a walking stick to prevent a fall. She had expected Honey had arranged for breakfast in a canteen, but this was a ward where beds were removed to accommodate a dining table and six chairs around it.


    Her mouth twitched. Now that''s what you call exploitation.


    "Ducky?" Honey poked his head from under the table. "Why are you here?"


    "Um, breakfast. Remember, you left me a message?"


    "But aren''t you early? It''s still fifteen minutes to go."


    "But I thought to help you." She placed a hand on his head, extending a hand to him. "Now will you come out or should I send a mattress and a pillow?"


    "One minute. Just making some-- some last-minute arrangements," saying he vanished under the table.


    "Oh, ok. Do you need any help?"


    "Just step away from the table. And if please cover your ears. Your eyes as well."


    Suyin "..."


    "What exactly are you-- AHH!" Her foot snapped straight in the chair, hand at heart, as Honey jumped out without a warning. "You scared me!"


    Honey showed a row of white teeth; a smile that only comes when you have done something naughty or hiding something. "Sorry." he tugged the corner of the table cover until it touched the floor, "Daddy will be here any minute. Einstein took him to examine--Ow ow, ow--"


    She pinched his ear. "That''s Dr. Colton or Grandpa Colton for you."


    "Ok fine, now let me go. Hurting!"  He scooted away as soon as she let him go. Walking, he holds out a chair for her.


    "Aww... my little gentleman--"


    Just when she was about to sit, "NO. DON''T SIT HERE!"


    She jumped, "Why?"


    Honey shuffles on his foot, kicking something under the table, muttering something that she couldn''t understand. "That one is better." he pointed at the chair across, but didn''t move from his place. "It''s near the window, you will get to see a beautiful view and complimentary fresh air. Go sit."


    Suyin "..."


    "Why do I feel something is fishy?" Her gaze narrowed.


    "Fish? Of course, I will ask them to cook for you. Which one would you like to---oww--"


    "What happen?"


    He scratched his foot, "Mosquitoes. They just love kissing me, just like you."


    Suyin "..."


    Suyin watched him sitting on the chair which he had pulled for her, his fingers fidgeting, eyes set on her. They spend another five minutes in silence, watching each other, but curiosity gets the best of her. Abruptly, she pulled the tablecloth up. "What are you hiding there?"


    "NO!" Honey let out a shrill, squeezing his chubby cheeks between palms.

 Chapter 325 - The breakfast-1

    "Hello there." Suyin bent under the table and came out stroking a white puppy, curled up in her palm like a fluff ball. The puppy took few sniffs before l.i.c.k.i.n.g her hand. A tempting invitation to stroke its fur. "So you were keeping this cutie from me? How mean!"


    She looked at Honey. "How can I get angry over this ball of cuteness? Of course, you can keep it." It''s a positive sign in Honey''s mental growth considering he used to keep his distance from animals because of experience. "But first we''ll get him checked and vaccinate. Aww.... we are having an addition to the family!"


    Honey swallowed.


    "What breed it is, any idea?" it was tiny, round like a bear, eyes as dark as night, and a very long furry tail. It was so furry that she could dust the house with it. "Do you think it''s a Siberian husky? But aren''t their eyes supposed to be blue? Or is it a mixed breed? This one seems very different. Where did you get it from?"


    Honey fidgeted with his fingers nervously, shrugging at her every question. Silently pondering if he should tell her the reality it''s not a puppy but an Arctic fox.


    "Honey!" she called. "I asked you something. Where did you get it from?"


    "So you are introducing Cleopatra to your mum, huh?"


    "Dad!" It was a sigh of relief and the one that saved his a.s.s. He waved his hand at Xiu Mei and Jianyu standing behind Wang Shi. "Thank god you are here. Ducky was asking about you."


    "Really?" Wang Shi''s brows rose in suspicion. Anything that comes out of Honey''s mouth can''t be trusted. He watched in silence, looking forward to more entertainment as Jianyu helped him to the table beside Suyin.


    Xiu Mei and Jianyu settled opposite Wang Shi and Suyin, leaving the two chairs at the opposite heads empty.


    Suyin paused brushing its fur. "When? No wait--what did you just call it?"


    "Kelio-pitra." Honey strolled to Suyin and took the ''puppy'' from her. "That''s her name."


    Suyin stared long and hard between Honey and the fluff ball. "That''s a joke, right?"


    "That''s a name. Kelio-pitra."


    "Pfft." she tipped back her head and roared with laughter. Honey looked with puffed cheeks.


    "Kelio-pitra," she repeated, breaking into laughter again, wondering if the very name was comical or the way Honey pronounced Cleopatra. Too cute! Her eyes teared, stomach hurt, but she couldn''t control her laughter. It''s been a while since she had laughed to heart.


    Honey pouted at Wang Shi in complain, "She''s making fun of me."


    Wang Shi, "Look again. You''ve done something magical." Her laughter was the soundtrack, and he wants to melt in its melody. Her laughter was free and pure, like a child''s. Gosh, how much he was missing it. Funny how her laughter can rumble his soul. Wish he could kiss her forehead right now and tell her how beautiful and free she looks. Just stay like this.


    Suyin noticed Wang Shi''s gaze on her, lost, mesmerized, amused, and love-struck. She straightens herself, wiped the corner of her eyes. "Ahem, Kelio-pitra, that''s a cute--" she suppressed her laughter. "--ahem-- a cute name. Who suggested it? Don''t you think it''s a little too much for a puppy?"


    "PUPPY!" the two other people exclaimed in sync. Their heads snapping at Honey. Wang Shi reacted a little slowly. He was still awed by Suyin.


    Honey stepped back, his hold on the baby fox tightened. "Puppy. A cute white puppy. Isn''t it? Please..." he pleaded the three with his puppy eyes and sat down on the chair close to Wang Shi.


    "Don''t say please, sweetie, I said you can keep it," Suyin said, accepting the teacup as offered by Jianyu, not paying any attention to the seat chosen by Honey.


    "You sure going to regret saying that." Wang Shi stifles a smile.


    "Jeez, that''s just a puppy! Besides, a pet would help Honey recover from PTSD. It will increase his verbal skills and help him gain confidence by having the responsibility for caring for a pet."


    "Remember your words. I''ll come back to them later." Wang Shi smiled in his teacup, sharing a look with Xiu Mei and Jianyu, both smiling too.


    Honey kicked at Wang Shi''s foot. Leaning forward, he pitched his voice low. "What are you doing? Don''t forget, you still need me to appease her. We are partners in crime. No backstabbing."


    "Fine. But remember, if she comes to know, which she will, I''m out of your mess. Anyway, I''m looking forward to her reaction." After a knock and Jianyu''s call to ''enter'', servants brought in breakfast and set it on the table.


    It appeared as if they were not informed of the number of people. The meal was enough for twenty.


    "Who else are joining?" Suyin looked at the large plate of chocolate cake, dripping with hot sauce and fresh cherries. She cleared other dishes off from her way and reached to pull it towards her.


    Xiu Mei reached for the same cake. "X. But he''ll be a little late. Work calls--" her eyes met with Suyin''s.


    None looked at their partners, getting a sense they were being watched with an obvious smile.


    "Though I don''t like sharing my dessert, with you, I will. Just this once." Xiu Mei slides the plate to Suyin.


    "How alike we are." Suyin served a slice first to Xiu Mei and then to herself.


    "Alike in many things-- independent, brave, intelligent, unconditional love, and we got the most loving partners in the world" Xiu Mei winked at Wang Shi, taking a bite of cake.


    Suyin licked the sauce first. "I won''t comment on the last one. But to me, we are alike because we both reached for the thing we like without any hesitation. If we want something, we want. As simple as that."


    "That holds true for you, Mei." Wang Shi joined the conversation. "Your story is the perfect example. Remember, you didn''t hesitate a bit before reaching to destroy Jianyu''s company and him?"

 Chapter 326 - The breakfast-2

    "Yet here we are. Together. Madly in love. Parents of two kids and the thi--- and looking forward to raising many more. So you see, destiny has the final say." that earned Xiu Mei a kiss on her cheek from Jianyu. Suyin noticed Jianyu''s gaze was soft and filled with yearning for his wife.


    Jianyu, "Exactly, destiny has its own plans and according to my experience, they are always better. Nothing can stop what''s meant to be."


    Wang Shi placed a piece of waffle on Suyin''s plate. "I''m holding on to that. He better has a good plan, otherwise, once I die, I''m going to beat the crap out of certain someone."


    God cast a wary look, ''Why do I think he''s talking about me? Help, Suyin. Your man has started talking to me and it''s not good.''


    Suyin understood where this was going. "Hope and humor, they both go really well together. And trust me, if God dares do anything funny with my life now, it will be me giving him a beating."


    ''I''m out! Somebody pack my luggage. Look what''s happening on Earth! They are planning my murder.'' God stood from his throne and dashed to his room. Maybe looking for his Wifey.


    Away from everyone, Honey leisurely enjoyed the Honey drizzled pancakes and fresh fruit juice, stroking Cleopatra''s fur all the time. Sometimes it''s bliss when your mother doesn''t pay attention to you.


    "Hey, sorry I''m late." Lu Xion joined them on the table, occupying the only empty chair beside Suyin.


    Up this close, hit with all that masculinity at eye level, Suyin couldn''t help but notice him. Breathtaking face. A neatly trimmed beard defining his jaw structure that any artist would kill to sculpt him. Sharp features, full lips, and long voluminous hair braided perfectly, ending on his broad shoulders. And why she never noticed he owns the most gorgeous pair of blue eyes? So worldlier.


    Definitely the God was in the mood when he made him. She doesn''t shy from accepting that this one was one notch higher than Wang Shi and Jianyu. A fine specimen.


    "Cough cough." Xion snapped his fingers. "Miss Zhao, pay some attention to your left. I might get stabbed otherwise."


    Instinctively she averted her gaze, her cheeks burning hot. She was too preoccupied with scanning the man''s looks that she didn''t notice she was staring all this while. And the man to her right was sulking, crackling jealousy pouring from him.


    Instead of adding maple syrup to Suyin''s plate, Wang Shi ended up emptying half the bottle of Tabasco. Does he even know how cute he looks when jealous?


    "Swap your seat with me." Wang Shi said.


    "If jealousy is a disease, two men are definitely going to die a slow miserable death." Xion looked at the two men from the rim of the milk glass before taking a slow sip, as if enjoying a drink.


    "I''m not jealous. I''m just a man that would love to punch every man whom my wife and girls pay a second look." Jianyu sneered.


    Wang Shi''s nose wrinkled. "Me? Jealous of you? Bless your little delusional heart. Whenever I look at you, the only thought that crosses my mind--Really? That''s the s.p.e.r.m that won?"


    Honey, "What is s.p.e.r.m?"


    Xion, "Oh that! Wang Shi, your son is asking something. Help the little curious mind."


    Everyone, "SHUTUP!"


    Suyin pointed at Honey''s barely touched plate. "Concentrate on your pancake. Finish all that." Next, she looked at Wang Shi, "And you--Watch what you say."


    "That''s the result of your company, my sarcasm queen." Wang Shi shrugged. "Now swap your seat with me."


    "No. I have something very important to talk to him."


    Honey stood, "I want to sit with mummy."


    Xion''s brows rose. "Ah, baby bear on the mission to help daddy? But tell me, does your mum knows of your little pet fox?"


    "FOX!" Suyin''s head snapped in Honey''s direction,


    Honey sat down, "I don''t want to sit with mummy."


    "And you knew it?" Suyin jabbed an elbow into Wang Shi''s waist,


    Wang Shi opened his mouth, then thought of diverting the topic, "What was that you want to talk to Xion?"


    "Don''t fool me. I''m not letting a pet fox in my house."


    "That''s between you and Honey. I''m out of this."


    "It''s decided then. He''s not keeping it."


    "But you said having a pet is good for my growth." Honey w.h.i.n.ed from his seat.


    Wang Shi, "He has a point. What were your words again?"


    "A cat and dog are called a pet. Not a Fox! For God''s sake, you can''t bring a wild animal inside our house."


    Honey pointed his chubby finger at Xion. "He owns five black panthers as pets. Two a.d.u.l.ts and three cubs. Scold him too." Suyin''s gaze shifted to Xion, revealing a scorching force of an angry momma bear. So this was the traitor spoiling her baby. "And he gave two cubs to Yuyu and Lan as well."


    "YOU GAVE WHAT?" Now it was Xiu Mei''s turn to b.a.r.e her fangs. Jianyu secured his wife''s hand, calming her down. "PANTHER? SERIOUSLY? Jianyu you heard that? Somebody give me a knife, I''ll stab this idiot right away."


    Xion shuffled away from his chair, growling at Honey who busted him and now providing a weapon for his murder. "Little devil, why don''t you show your momma the third one? The one hidden inside the basket under your seat?"


    "WHAT? A PANTHER?" Infuriated, Suyin looked at Wang Shi. "Are you going to open a zoo next?"


    "Before you kill me, let me tell you, I was not aware of the panther." Wang Shi turned to Honey, "Say something to your mom."


    Honey tucked the baby fox under the armpit and grabbed the basket, bolting towards the door. "I''m not giving my pets!"


    "..."


    And silence ensued....


    Wang Shi gulped.


    Once again, he was left alone to handle the angry momma bear.


    The atmosphere turned dangerous in the presence of two seething women, both looking to first kill a certain blue-eyed monster and then their respective partners.


    But the way Xion and Jianyu were holding Xiu Mei alarmed Suyin. Jianyu''s one hand was at her stomach and the other rubbing her back, while Xion grabbed the towel and dabbed on her sweaty face.

 Chapter 327 - Bring her up

    "Make her sit, and give her some water to drink. Rub her palm and feet. " Suyin jogged across the table to check her pulse. A minute later her expression turned into a shock as she cast a meaningful look at Xiu Mei.


    Xiu Mei pressed at Suyin''s hand, hinting her to hold her silence.


    "What is it?" Wang Shi asked.


    "Um, nothing. Her pulse is coming back to normal."


    Wang Shi nodded, not doubting Suyin a bit. "Must be low BP. She has this problem for years. Give her sugar and saltwater first."


    One minute it seemed things were getting normal, and the other second Jianyu picked the half-full jug of water and emptied it at Xion''s face.


    "Jianyu--"


    "Not now, Mei. He knows everything, yet--" something stopped Jianyu from speaking any further.


    Suyin felt uncomfortable, aware there''s a secret circulating between the three. One that Wang Shi was unaware of. "Mr. Xion, I''ll deal with the fox. But giving panthers to kids is not acceptable. They are wild animals who feed on flesh; they kill for food." She breaks the tension.


    Xion''s gaze moved to her face, "I''m not stupid to let them have panther without understanding consequences. But what other option I had when they literally cried to let them have one? When Honey heard about it from Yuyu and Lan, he came to me and asked for the third one. This is the first time that child has asked something from his uncle, the first time he ever spoke to me. How could I have said no?"


    He cursed viciously and wiped his hand across his face.


    "Just because they are not mine, doesn''t mean my love is any lesser than yours. I''m equally concerned about their safety. Professional trainers will train cubs and kids both so they learn to get along with each other. If anytime cubs showed feral or threatening behavior, they will be euthanized. Kids already know of this. They agreed to my conditions."


    That was a sigh of relief for Suyin and Xiu Mei.


    "However of my explanation, you are their mothers and have full right to make the last call. But I will not ask kids about that. Do the honors."


    "What about the fox?" Suyin questioned, but Xion pointed her attention to the man beside her.


    "The fox is one of the many animals rescued by forest rangers from Gong Tuan''s base. They found many exotic animals there. When Honey accompanied them to see those animals, somehow this little one snuck inside his backpack." Wang Shi explained. "The decision is yours, but I think we should let him keep the fox. He''s deeply attached to the baby."


    Suyin and Xiu Mei shared a glance, both worried for kids, but none want to break their little hearts.


    "We''ll watch. If anytime we feel it''s not safe, animals are to be taken away with no further discussion." Xiu Mei said.


    "No matter if they cry or throw tantrums," Suyin added, and everyone agreed.


    ....


    ....


    After breakfast, Suyin stopped Xion before he could leave for his room and it becomes impossible to talk. Talking with Jianyu and Wang Shi was far easy. You just have to call or walk into their rooms as they were at hospital premises. However, Xion was staying near the docks, where they had set the temporary camps.


    "You said you have something important to talk about?" He guessed immediately.


    "Yeah. I want two things from you. Your ship and Gong Tuan." Suyin felt several gazes drawn to her. Xion shoved his hand into pockets.


    "Gong Tuan is yours. I''m holding him until you decide his fate. Why my ship?"


    "To take Gong Tuan on his last ride."


    *******


    Suyin could only hear the loud hum of the ship as it slides off from the docks, into the water. Today the wooden deck of the luxurious ship Marius was her land and sky her blanket. The seagulls and albatross shrieking overhead and the people accompanying her were her witnesses.


    The feeling of someone''s warm hand curling into hers broke her attention. She knew whose hands could be this warm and didn''t turn to look.


    Neither he questioned, nor he said a word, and she''s thankful for that. Unknowingly, she intertwined her shaky fingers into his.


    On the balcony of the bridge, she heard Xion''s voice calling for birds. He was standing barefoot, hair left open, holding a wooden bowl in hand, his eyes in the sky. The birds flapped their wings, crowding him as they pecked in the bowl, taking whatever offered.


    When his gaze met with hers, he passed the bowl to one of his men, gesturing another as he came to stand holding the railing.


    A man came to Suyin and tipped his hat. "I''m the navigator of the ship, Harun. Where should I instruct the captain to take the ship?"


    "To the deepest. Where the hungry sharks and dangerous creatures live," she answered without a speck of emotion, and turned to look at the horizon. The man, as professional as he seems, didn''t cast a judgemental glance or either question her. Of course, living alongside the king of the underworld, he must have witnessed cruelty many times.


    When at sea, the scorching sun becomes your clock. Judging how it was shining above head, she calculated it was noon. A perfect time to have lunch. They sure were right on time.


    The anchors dropped in the middle of somewhere, and once again she leaned over the railing to check if this was their destination. Her brows scrunched. The water was as calm as sky. No sharks or deadly sea creatures.


    SPLASH


    SPLASH


    She looked as someone emptied a bucket of something into the ocean. Followed by another. And another. The stench of raw fish, and iron permeated the air. She realized, it was fish chunks, mollusks, and blood was thrown into the ocean to attract sharks by their smell.


    Soon, the calm water turned into a wave of chorus dance of beautiful yet dangerous creatures, swimming everywhere, only the top fins and faint shadow visible in the deep blue. There was a grace to their movement, yet a fierce fight for food. Hungry. Blood thirsty.


    "Bring her up." Suyin said.

 Chapter 328 - The revenge

    "No. I don''t want to go. It''s scary. It''s bad. Please don''t take me. Badman. Badman. I''ll complain to Zeke about you. Lulu, why are you not saying anything? I don''t want to go! I DON''T WANT TO GO!"


    Amara wiggled under James and Zeng''s grip on her arms, grabbing whatever thing that came in her way to stop them from taking her to the dock, her feet making a line on the floor. Luo following her in a wheelchair hooked to many contraptions, Evan taking care of him despite the former''s disapproval.


    "Lulu-- stop them. I don''t want to go!"


    Luo was not in a condition to say a word of console because of the oxygen mask. He gestured to Amara with a hand moment..... a faint attempt to calm her frantic self.


    James and Zeng stopped seeing Suyin, their grip on Amara loosened.


    "ZEKE!" Amara dashed into Suyin''s embrace. "Look what they are doing. They hurt me." she showed the red marks on her arms. "I don''t want to be here. Water is bad. We cannot breathe there, and it swallows everything. It is very bad. It has my babies in its belly. I don''t want--"


    "Shhh--" Suyin cupped Amara''s face. Her eyes looking into hers. "Don''t you always wanted to punish the man who caused your kids'' and husband''s death?"


    Tears of pain rolled down Amara''s cheeks. She pointed an accusing finger at the ocean. "It gobbled Susan, Shin, and Timmy. May babies! I saw it swallowing them." She screamed at the water, "SPIT IT OUT! GIVE THEM BACK! I WILL SET YOU ON FIRE. BURN YOU."


    With a loud thud, two men dropped a large wooden crate on the floor, causing Amara to turn on the boom.


    Suyin walked around the closed crate, her fingers tracing its rough edges, her grey orbs like that of a viper''s. Feeling a presence, the man inside the crate grunted and writhed against the sealed walls.


    She is the predator.


    Everyone watched as she picked the chisel and tucked it beneath the edge of the lid, lifting it upward. The wood popped open and slide to the floor.


    Amara looked frozen, tears gleaming her cheeks.


    "Not this water, not this ocean.....He is responsible for your family''s death." Gong Tuan peered at Suyin with wide eyes, his mouth brutally stitched with metal wires, bleeding. "It is him who stole your husband''s organs and traded them in the black market. It is him who had brought the country where it is today that your son couldn''t receive a medical facility. It is him who forced you to leave your own home and look for shelter in another country. It is him who put you on that boat and killed your boys. It is him. It was always him."


    Amara peered down in the crate, her angry eyes were the gathering of the clouds ready for a storm.


    Luo pulled his oxygen mask against the doctor''s instruction, his muscles strained while making efforts to get oxygen. "D-din''t I said I will bring him to you one day? It''s him, Amu..... A-and he''s yours. Do whatever you want to punish him." Seeing him wheezing, Evan had to pull the mask back on.


    Suyin stepped back. On her cue, two men brought a plank and put it on the floor. Then they turned the crate to its side, causing Gong Tuan to roll out. His effort to squeal in pain muffled by the metal wires, bleeding more when he moved his lips.


    They dragged him to the wooden plank. Suyin drew in a deep breath and picked the hammer and a six-inch nail from the table.


    Everyone watched her in silence.


    Without a change in expression, or getting a frown line, she nailed Gong Tuan''s ankle to the plank, repeating the action for another. The man let out a heart-wrenching grunt, the zig-zag line around his mouth pulled by a millimeter.


    For the third nail, she paused and looked at Amara, her hand stretching out.


    Amara looked between Suyin and Gong Tuan, her hands unclenching before she took two fast strides. Picking the nail from Suyin''s hand, she hammered it on Gong Tuan''s palm, then to another.


    But it seems this was not enough for her. As the plank was raised in the air, Amara snatched the control of the pulley and pulled the joystick downward. The plank lowered into the water in slow motions, stopping until Gong Tuan''s calf was immersed.


    Gong Tuan grunted, shivered, writhed at the sight of sharks. His dripping blood in the water arousing their hunger.


    AHHHHHHHHH


    It was the scream of mouth and lungs renting the air. Several stitches pulled open. She pushed the joystick forward after five seconds that lifted the man up in the air.


    Deadly bite marks, and chunks of missing flesh. Pain would be a small word to describe.


    "S-Shu--Shu-yin...SUYINNNNNN!"


    Once more, the plank was lowered, bringing in more pain than one could ever take.


    AHHHHHHH... AHHHH...


    The shark wiggled violently and fell into the water, bringing along a piece of leg, leaving only the ankle dangling on the nail.


    Gong Tuan looked at Suyin in horror. By now he should have fainted or better died. Why was it not happening?


    Suyin rotated the empty vial of adrenaline tartrate between her fingers and clutched Wang Shi''s hand with the other.


    "Y-YOU.....BITC----"


    A dangerous smile came to her lips as she lifted Wang Shi''s chin. Her gaze shifted to Gong Tuan''s as if telling him to remember this forever. And the next second she bent forward to take his lips. Wang Shi stilled, his heartbeat breaking unevenly. It was the most unexpected kiss of his life.


    All the voices fell silent. It was only her and him. He opened his mouth, his hand reaching for her hair, only to slide at her bald head. But before he could pull her closer, everything disappeared the way it came. She had pulled back, her eyes looking into his, and then it shifted it to Gong Tuan provocatively.


    He created this human weapon, and now this deadly weapon became his doom.


    .....


    Amara continued toying with Gong Tuan for hours, even after he was dead, and only the chunks of his limbs were left nailed to the plank. None moved until it was over, and the wind picked back up.


    ********

 Chapter 329 - And I was talking about my moon

    In the pitch dark, El Sandrios was no more than a ghost town with barely a few lights flickering. Suyin sat down on the terrace, her gaze at the black heavens. The moon bathed in its dappled beauty, in perfect synchrony with its heavenly companion. It was difficult today, and she needed relief from the crush.


    She could not help but go through her life. Calling it a roller coaster ride would be apt. Everything that she had never expected happened. Well, that''s life! It never stops giving you surprise, shock, disappointment, betrayal, happiness, and sometimes happiness.


    Her foot absentmindedly kicked the gravel on the floor as she wondered. That was why she did not hear the man coming.


    "Did you find it?"


    She peeled her gaze away from the milky glow to the owner of the deep voice. "What?"


    "Our destiny, my love." His wheelchair stopped barely a foot away from her. The man accompanying Wang Shi secured the brakes and left at his order.


    "What are you doing here?"


    "To be here with you. Gong Tuan was your mentor--"


    "No. To me, he was only the man responsible for my son''s death. Period." She corrected sharply, "And today, I punished him for the same and many other crimes he had done against humanity. Why would I mourn or feel disturbed? M not a saint."


    "My bad. I thought you could use a friend tonight."


    "Really? Last I can recall you don''t want to be my friend--" there was a hint of teasing in her words that relaxed him.


    "--but your life partner. Yes. I remember. " He completed her sentence, "But the first step to that journey is through friendship."


    Her gaze returned to the moon as if it attracts her more. "Poor luck. My hands are already full. Go find someone else."


    "Poor luck. My hands are empty, and my heart stuck at you. Do you mind accepting my friendship?"


    "Not accepted."


    "I won''t be anything like James. And you know that." She heard a screech of the wheelchair, and a gust of wind brings along a delicious fragrance of cinnamon that she knows too well. "Trust me, I''m a very good human diary. Available at a cheap price. And I can cook, wash clothes, house cleaning, and can give you a relaxing massage whenever required. Limited period offer. Grab it before it''s gone."


    A chuckle escaped her mouth. His self selling skills were definitely tempting and cute. "Such amazing perks! Friendship accepted. I''m glad you are finally settled on this relationship and won''t bother me anymore."


    "HEY, NO!" He held her hand as if she might slip away any moment. His action resembles Honey. But can she tell how ridiculous it looks on him?


    She burst into a peal of laughter. The sudden impact startled and stole the man''s breath and he patted his heart jokingly. "Oofff, survived a thousandth heart attack. Life with you would be an exciting journey." he reached to wipe the tears from the corner of her eyes, their gaze meeting for a long time until Wang Shi teased her. "Do you have a map? I''m lost in these beautiful eyes. OUCH, OUCH, OUCH, Why are you hitting me?"


    She slapped at his arm again and again, "When will you stop doing this? Every time spouting these utterly nonsense cheesy lines. Stop reading romance--"


    Abruptly, he held his hand and kissed her wrist, turning her into a red plum. "That''s the queen Suyin I like most. Feisty. Like a wild duck. Be like this."


    She followed his eyes to her feet, realizing she had stopped kicking gravels and thoughts about past life. So he was diverting her mind!? He''s just-- just-- just--sigh. She doesn''t have any words to describe. Let it be.


    She realized he was dressed to bed. Cotton trousers and a thin shirt. No socks. Just a pair of slippers. Nights were colder, he shouldn''t be out like this, lest he catch cold. His lungs were still healing.


    She shifted to make space for him and patted on the cotton mattress. At least the floor mattress was warm. Delightfully, he let go of the wheelchair and joined her on the raised cemented platform. His happiness sore when she scooted closer to give him some warmth as they both lie down on their back. Their eyes at the night sky.


    No. Only she was looking at stars but the man''s eyes were at her. He knew she knew he was looking at her. Gosh, she''s such a shy baby, and her red cheeks giveaway her reaction.


    "Beautiful, isn''t it?" She asked, trying to divert the man''s attention that''s making her conscious.


    "Very."


    "Even its imperfections had not stopped it from shining."


    "True. Have a lot of imperfections but still she''s the most beautiful. She glows in the dark and gives the feeling of bliss. That''s why she''s special."


    She frowned at the usage of ''She'' in his words and turned her head. Her body squirms just a little as her muscle tensed. His gaze was still locked on her. "I was talking about the moon."


    "And I was talking about my moon. You got a problem?"


    She felt like a wooden piece. Though he said that with a straight face, she can tell how pleased he was by her reaction. He always does that, and every time it renders her speechless. Words seem impossible to form to match his level.


    "Nothing. Keep staring. Better take notes on how to be awesome."


    Wang Shi chuckled, annoying her further. Don''t know how, but she and Honey''s etiquettes were parallel.


    "Suyin,"


    "WHAT?"


    "What are your plans next?"


    "What do you mean? I''m going to live with Honey, and you--" She breathed. She shouldn''t say it. Nope. Never. But-- "You are part of us. Of course I won''t disown you. We will raise our son together, teach him about good and bad about life and fulfill his every dream. Even the dream of taking a family vacation every year. I have already planned our first one, there''s a waterfall at a drive of four hours from here--"


    "You want to stay here?"


    Suyin''s expression stuttered. She was confused, uncertain, all her thoughts swirling inside her head. This was the first time she couldn''t come up with a solution. She wants to stay but at the same time, not.


    "That''s great!" Before she could say a word, he exclaimed.


    "What?"


    "I''m staying too."

 Chapter 330 - They are plum. Round. Toned. Soft. Shiny

    Suyin''s lips pursed, nose flared. Must he be so clingy? Ready to chid him, she sat on her heels. "You--"


    "Wait Wait. You are misunderstanding. I''m not staying because of you but for the people of this country."


    "Oh." Wait. Why she felt dull and disappointed?


    "Following Gong Tuan''s demise, the country is in utter chaos and currently under the control of an insufficient and unstable government. It''s the right thing to intervene before another dictator arise and turns our efforts into a waste." he said, "That''s why I have discussed it with Dad. He thinks we should stay until Revon stabilizes his position and takes over as the leader after elections. We''ll help him in that."


    "And....I have some promises to fulfill. Won''t leave before they are done." Slowly, he moved his palm, resting at the back of her hand. "This is a lot of work, and I won''t be able to do it myself. Will you help me take care of the political and social aspect while I take care of other departments?"


    Suyin found herself dumb. "Why didn''t you say it before?"


    He shrugged, "I was looking for the correct opportunity to talk to you."


    She bit her lips. Her head hung. "What if I have said no? Would you have stayed here alone?"


    It would be wrong to say that Wang Shi didn''t felt happy with her dejected look. He rose her chin up to look into her eyes and asked, "Do you want me to stay here alone?"


    Anger surged within her, and she yanked his hand away. "Honey is the responsibility of both of us. You better not run away from it. He needs both his parents."


    Chuckling, he fell back on his back. "Oh Suyin! Sometimes you push me away, sometimes you bind me with you in the name of Honey. Just what does your heart want?" he winked.


    "Definitely not you," she lie down. "Then it''s solved, we are staying until the country''s president is selected." As far as Honey''s education was concerned, they both were educated enough to home-school him. "By the way, what are your other promises that need to be fulfilled?"


    He sighs, "You will know." One of the many promises was to win Suyin''s heart. That''s the promise he made to himself.


    Staying here comes with many perks- working, living, sleeping, and eating together, no family and friends but just they three and their constant teasing and bickering. This won''t be possible in Cheyna as he was sure she wouldn''t agree to live in his house.


    And he can already see a crack in the icy heart; better seize the opportunity.


    When the distances are narrowed, hearts come closer.


    ....


    ....


    Don''t know how long they stayed like this in the silence of the night, gazing stars. "Shishi, what bad had he said that you stitched his mouth?" she asked abruptly.


    "Why are you asking this now?" He looked. But how did she know it was on his order that Gong Tuan''s mouth was stitched? "And how did you--"


    "My ex is still missing. Though I don''t know what you did to him, the anger I saw in your eyes that night is enough for an answer." She said, "When it comes to me and Honey, you ditch your humanly side and become one like your underworld king friend. So answer my curious mind, what had he said?"


    He brings back his gaze to the stars. "Leave it."


    "I want to know."


    Sighs, "A wh*re mother who beds her son''s killer. I don''t like it so I got his mouth stitched. Will do it again if someone dares to say a word against you. That was the most lenient punishment I could come up with, as I have promised you not to torture him." Anger swelled within him.


    "That was anything but lenient. Don''t let Honey see this side of yours." Suyin said calmly, "An evil man always believes in his thinking. That''s why he''s called a villain. You can just vent your frustration by punishing them but can never change their beliefs."


    "You are not a bad mother. Ask Honey and he will tell you what you are." he held her hand in concern.


    She turned, propping her head on palm, her expression as calm as the night sky, "I know.  No need to ask Honey, I can see it in your eyes. You wouldn''t have let me near him if I was like Zena."


    His brows rose. "Aren''t you praising me too much tonight? Not like I have complaints, please do it often. I feel motivated. Will double--no--triple my efforts from now."


    "No thanks. I might not be able to hold myself anymore from kicking your a.s.s."


    "Ah, my ass! Your ''the most favorite'' part of my body! If you want, I can give you an unrestricted view of it--" he hooked his fingers under the sides of the trouser, lowering just a little and Suyin stood up in panic.


    "WHAT? NO NO NO--" Her hands at the side of Wang Shi''s trousers, stopping him from doing anything shameful. She pulled his trousers up.


    "They are plum. Round. Toned. Soft. Shiny. Just give it a look, I bet you will reach to squeeze--" she slapped her hand at his mouth.


    "One more word and I will break them into four." He licked her palm, and she pulled back reflexively, "E..." wiping on his shirt.


    At the opportunity, he yanked her towards her. She steadied herself before it could hurt him. Her hands at his bandaged c.h.e.s.t, his delicious fragrance doing all the bad things to her heart. Wild strands of hair that brushed his head in soft breeze, itched her to brush them away.


    "Break whatever you want. The man, his heart, his body, and his soul is all yours." He said, rubbing her flushed cheeks with his thumb.


    She wiggled in his grip. Or that she pretended to wiggle. "Let go of me."


    "You aren''t making efforts to get free from my grip. Are you inviting me, Honey''s ducky?" he winked just to see more of her flushed face, and her cute nuances.


    "ARGH, NO! Shameless man!" she dived into the crook on his arms, hiding her blushed face. It''s true she doesn''t avert him as before, but definitely, she wasn''t  ready to give another chance. "I''m careful of your injury. That''s it."


    "That''s it?"


    The intimate pitch in his voice sent a jolt of goosebumps in her. "That''s it!" she turned to her side so as not to let him see her face.


    His body so close, powerful taut muscles touching her back and t.h.i.g.hs, turned her stiff. She cursed the time when she invited him to the bed. Hidden under a thin layer of cloth, the hell, she could feel every curve and plane.


    Swallowing hard, slowly she tried to scoot away, but felt a grip on her waist, pulling her closer. "Shishi--"


    "Yayy! Ducky and daddy are together together. Honey, happy happy!"


    Suyin and Wang Shi''s head snapped in the direction of the voice, finding Honey standing near the platform, doing a happy dance with both his pets.


    Cleopatra the fox wrapped around his neck, and Bagheera the panther curled on his palm.


    Suyin, "We are not--"


    "You are disturbing us, bratty." Wang Shi spoke with a gruff voice.


    Honey rolled his eyes. "Stingy. Do you want me to jump between you and snatch mummy from you?"


    Suyin, "That will be good--"


    Wang Shi, "I will throw away Cleopatra and Bagheera. Howz that sound?"


    "Hehehe.... I was joking. Why take my words seriously? Daddy is best." Honey bent to pick a blanket and hopped onto the platform, carefully opening it on the two. "You guys continue. Bbye. Love you. I''m sleeping with Cleopatra and Bagheera tonight."


    Wang Shi, "Good night."


    Suyin, "What continue? No, wait. Honey-- Honey-- HONEY---"


    "Don''t move. I don''t have any malicious thoughts, but stay closer tonight. You have seen a lot today; for my peace of mind, stay." Wang Shi''s grip on her waist tightened.


    Does he still think she''s affected by the brutal killing of Gong Tuan? She''s not! Surprisingly she''s not. Maybe because her son got justice, or maybe because demons of her past had ended finally. Whatever it was, she''s must calmer and looking forward to the new beginning.


    But again, she found herself liking the concern he showed for her. In no time she heard his slow and steady breathing, which takes her to her own dreamland.


    *******


    Seven months later....

 Chapter 331 - Seven months later

    Seven months later....


    "More and more people are supporting you, Revon. Congratulations. You are people''s new favourite." Suyin turned the laptop to let him see the astonishing figures. According to the latest poll, the people''s choice for the next President was Revon. Their months of hard work paying off, victory just elections away. "I''m positive about the elections next week."


    "Yeah. Numbers look favourable. Hope the result stays the same."


    Suyin caught the apprehensiveness in Revon''s tone. "Is there something that''s bothering you?"


    Revon sighed, "I''m worried about Zeldiz. One of my core team members has informed that they offered him money to change parties. Don''t know how many more members were approached and how many really accepted the offer? And now this survey-- she won''t keep quiet."


    Zeldiz? The candidate standing against Revon in elections. A graduate from Oxford, three decades of experience in business, family roots in politics and her grandfather being the one running interim government during Alpha''s time.


    Suyin recalled her meeting with Zeldiz. Definitely a strong and capable woman, but a sly fox jumped into politics only intending to suck the country dry of its natural resources and profit her business.


    Never let a business person run the country. They will never keep the country first but just the business.


    "Don''t know about others, but rest assured, I declined her offer long back."


    "Why am I not surprised she approached you? Btw, how much she offered?"


    "Enough that my next many generations could live a lavish lifestyle without worrying about earning." Suyin said, "But why did you ask? Are you going to compensate me for the loss?"


    He smiled softly. Even if he wants, he can''t. Suyin had done so much for him and his people that no money would be enough to pay her. "Can I?"


    "You already have. Your friendship and the decision to lead the country is enough. Now stop worrying--"


    "MOMMY!!"


    A muffled yet cheerful voice sounded from the closed doors.


    Suyin glanced at the wall clock, a smile lifting her lips. She picked her backpack, "Sorry, Revon. It''s mommy time now." Revon nodded, "Monitor Zeldiz. That''s our best option for now."


    "MOMMY!!!" As she opened the door, the voice rang in her ears. Standing in front was her little firecracker. Cleopatra wrapped around Honey''s neck as he runs a hand on her smooth white fur while Bagheera standing close, carrying a school bag on his back.


    Seven months and the two animals have outgrown her own baby. Especially the panther, it''s no more cute, but dangerous. A melanistic panther darker than night with only a pair of golden eyes and white fangs visible. Many times Suyin had almost peed herself when she woke up at night to go to the washroom and the animal sleeping near her bed wakes up with her.


    Not to mention he follows her to the washroom, only to be shut out by her.


    Bagheera walked over and nudged his wet nose at Suyin''s knees, sending a shiver run down her spine. "Honey, how many times I have told you, keep him away from me."


    ''And here she''s at it again.'' Honey rolled his eyes. "You know he''s asking for your bag."


    Yeah, she knows. Not like this was the first time.


    "No thanks. I don''t want to." Bagheera licked her knees, and Suyin''s body stiffened. It''s just a matter of time, he''ll take a bite of her one day. She pleaded with her eyes, and Honey mouthed, ''bag''. Invisible tears rolled down from her eyes. If the animals were not Honey''s favourite, she would have sent them away long back. Thankfully, Cleopatra had no interest in her.


    With trembling hands, she tied her backpack to Bagheera''s back and shuffled to Honey''s side in record time. Honey patted her arm. "You should be used to it by now. Don''t forget he takes you as his mom. Daily you waste ten minutes like this. C''mon, dad must be waiting for us at lunch."


    "I''m not his mom."


    "Bagheera, mom is saying something."


    Bagheera looked at Suyin.


    "That.... I love you, s-son." Once more she shivered when her legs were licked in gratitude. ''Why me, God?''


    God, ''This you get for cursing me and planning my murder.''


    They sped through the streets, towards the hospital where Wang Shi had made his new office. She looked in the front mirror to make sure her three sons were settled, not making any mischief. Nope. The three were just marvelling at the people walking on the road.


    No matter how many times they take the same route, she always found their heads poked out of the window, a serene smile on their--Honey''s lips.


    The wind blew her pixie hair, and she immediately secured them with a push of hairband.


    Seven months! That''s a long time to stay in a foreign country that''s different in everything- culture, food, language, people and home. She had never expected her visit to El Sandrios would turn this long, and Wang Shi and Honey would join her. And the two unwanted sons.


    She can call these seven months the best time of her life. Her newfound life!


    They live in a one-bedroom apartment on hospital premises that hosts all the doctors and staff.  Daily Wang Shi would wake them every morning and drag them to exercise. Then they take turns to prepare breakfast and help Honey get ready for school.


    After which she and Honey would drive to her office barely fifteen minutes away as Honey''s school was on the premises of her office. Though the education system was not up to the mark, they had volunteers and retired professors taking classes. Sometimes even she does that too.


    Throughout the day she takes care of the political and social issues along with Revon and his team. At lunchtime, she and Honey would leave together to join Wang Shi on the meal. After lunch, her next schedule depends on work. Sometimes she returns to the office or goes for a site visit, or maybe help Wang Shi in the hospital.


    Wang Shi. Just thinking about him, a smile came to her lips. Why not? After James'' she had never felt the need to have another friend. It was only until when Wang Shi offered his friendship to her that night and soon she realised how much she needed this new and m.a.t.u.r.e friend.


    True to his words, he became her living personal diary that always calms her down with wise words but never judges her.


    Don''t know when he became her touchstone, her voice, her strength, her favourite shoulder to lean on and talk under the stars, her eating and travel companion, her ''the first person to talk about day''s activities, her primary leisure time, her mental and emotional therapist, and someone who hears her boring political and social talks thousands of times but never complaints, and---- maybe her retirement partner.


    She hated this thought, but Wang Shi had filled the fine gap that existed between her and James''s friendship. Life had been so smooth-- so serene--calm-- beautiful-- that she cannot help but acknowledge the reason behind it as Wang Shi.


    __________

 Chapter 332 - Please, kiss

    The security guard gave a salute as she drove in through the gates. The kids jumped out and ran to the first floor. Honey''s voice echoing, "One who comes last will eat food cooked by mommy."


    Suyin scowled. Even the ever so lazy Cleopatra sprinted at a lightning speed.


    Bagheera came first. Cleopatra second and Honey ended up last.


    "Poor you. Mommy is making cake tonight. And it''s mine!" Honey sticks his tongue out at his two brothers and pushed the door with his bum.


    Suyin caught the whiff of cheese accompanied by soft music when the door opened. Obviously, lunch had always been the man''s department. And dinner? It''s the teamwork of three. Teasing and bickering nonstop.


    She dropped the bag on the table and looked across the open kitchen, catching Wang Shi swaying to the tunes of music while stirring something with a spatula.


    Oh, those hottie bums! Swaying in perfect rhythm. Left. Right. Left. Right.


    A table for three sets in the small living room, curtains parted. Of course, it''s Friday lunch. Everything starting from Friday has to be special. It''s the announcement of the weekend.


    "Hey," she got closer, "Smells amazing. I can''t wait to dig in." A gasp escaped her mouth when he turned abruptly and sn.a.k.e.d his arm around her waist, pulling her close. The next second she felt his cheeks brushing with hers, electrocuting her entire being.


    "Hm, no fever. Good. Last night you scared me. This has happened thrice in the past two months, maybe we should get a blood test done."


    Suyin "..."


    The delicious fragrance of his Cologne mixed with his own was intoxicating and tickled her nose. She eyed him sternly. "Who checks for fever like this?"


    Illegal. This action should be declared illegal. No. The man himself should be declared illegal. Rouge. She pressed her stomach to stop the fluttering of butterflies at hottie bum''s touch.


    "My hands were soiled. Do you want your dress to get stained?"


    "What about the one wrapped around my waist? Ain''t it soiling my dress now?"


    "Nope, I was careful. I still am."


    She sighed. Just with whom was she arguing and damaging her brain cells? "Let me go now. Kids are watching." Of course, the three were seated on the floor, watching the two as if a romantic movie playing live in the kitchen.


    Honey made a face as if swallowed a whole lemon and looked his left and right. "Just kiss! We are tired of waiting." He stood up with a grunt, a hand supporting his back, and bent forward. "Cough, cough.... I''m getting old now. Don''t know when my kid-parents will kiss again, cough, cough, cough--"


    Suyin and Wang Shi''s mouths twitched as they shared a glance.


    Wang Shi, "I think we should rain check on our picnic plans this Sunday--"


    "I need to wash my hands. Baghee, Cleo, come, come." And the three sprinted to the room. Honey poked his head out from the door, "The plan is still on, right?"


    "Honey!"


    "Ok. I''m going. You continue. But please, Kiss."


    Suyin was smiling at Honey when Wang Shi spoons warm sauce from the pan and holds it to her lips. "Black truffle pasta with parmesan and meatballs. Taste and tell." she hummed and closed her eyes as the rich umami flavors and cheese melted on her tongue. "I knew it! When I got the ingredients today, I had to make it."


    Her eyes snapped open. She felt empty when he let go of her suddenly, and resumed cooking. Remnants of his touch lingering on her waist, the sensation as powerful as magic. She could still smell his cologne on her.


    "How was your day?"


    "Nothing different," she answered with no interest, trying to smile back when he looked.


    True to Honey''s words, it''s been months since Wang Shi had kissed her. Not even forehead kisses. As if everything had come to an abrupt halt between them. The man was really giving her space, never invading it for once. Though she shouldn''t, she''s not liking it even a bit....


    She wanted to maintain a friendly relationship between them for the sake of Honey, but now that he''s really doing it, it angers her.


    Worst, he''s taking care of her, he''s doing everything that he used to, but by keeping a distance. Last week she had casually mentioned about her cravings for truffle pasta. And today it''s on her plate. Considering how difficult it was to get these ingredients here, he must have gotten them from Cheyna, which explains the long wait.


    She hauled herself on the kitchen counter.


    "No no-no. Don''t wait here. It''s hot and congested." he pulled her down by hand, nudging her to the living room. "Veggies are still in the oven. Just ten more minutes."


    "I don''t want to." She put on oven gloves and moved to check the vegetables. "How was your day?"


    "Fine. Just this once you can help me in the kitchen. But I''m not letting you cook dinner. Now coming back to your question, I did a complicated valve replacement on a sixty-year-old man, took a lecture with university students, and got a ruptured intestine case in emergency and after lunch, I have to go on rounds."


    So much! Yet he cooked lunch for them. He always does.


    That night on the terrace, when Wang Shi had said he had promises to fulfill, least she knew those promises were to help the citizens of El Sandrios to deliver them good medical services and did a billion-dollar investment in the health care sector.


    Though it would benefit him in the long term, it will take over a decade to achieve a breakeven point in investments. Had he put the money somewhere else, it would have given better and faster returns. Not to forget he had put his business expansion plan on hold because of this.


    She poured water into a glass and shoved him away from the counter, her movement firm, an action wielded by a strong woman who never takes no for an answer. "Sit under the fan. I''m taking over." the water splashed as she forced the glass into his hand. "GO! And wipe your face dry with cold water. Gosh, you are sweating profusely."


    "I''m done washing my hands. How can I help?" Honey showed his clean hands to Suyin.


    "Help me add meat to Bagheera and Cleopatra''s bowls."


    Wang Shi pulls out one of the chairs on the table, "Honey, mommy''s angry today. Have you done something naughty?"


    Honey, "I wouldn''t dare. Not until we are done with Sunday picnic."


    "All you are thinking of is your picnic. Stingy."


    THUD


    THUD


    Thud, Suyin set the pasta bowl on the table. Another thud, and serving plates were added. Followed by a thud on every addition.


    Honey and Wang Shi curled into a tight ball, not daring to make a noise.


    *********

 Chapter 333 - It was Jianyu

    Suyin wrapped a thin shawl on her shoulders, and head outdoors to get some fresh air and make an important call. Wang Shi had returned to the hospital, and Honey was training under the tree with Bagheera and Cleopatra. So no one else was likely to disturb her, and she can keep an eye on the three kids.


    Just as she picked the phone to make a call, her gaze paused at the wallpaper. Their first family vacation. She, Honey, and Wang Shi, soaked from head to toe, posing in front of the waterfall. Her heart hurt a little, the way it always does when she looks into their hopeful eyes.


    Seven months!!! They haven''t said it by words, but by their actions.


    A ball came rolling and stopped near her foot. Seeing Honey running to fetch it, Suyin threw it at him. Honey blew a flying kiss at her, which she caught in her fist, and save it her heart.


    She pressed the call icon, scrolling a few numbers down to call Xiu Mei. "Hello, beautiful momma." Suyin''s not the type to say such words as soon as the phone was picked, but the woman in question was an expecting mother. "How are you? And howz the little one?"


    "Kicking. Playing football nonstop." the lovely complaint from Xiu Mei sweetly slide through Suyin. "Yuyu and Lan were much docile if compared to this one. Thank God it''s not twins this time, I wouldn''t be able to handle two football players."


    Suyin chuckled, picking the latest reports Jianyu had mailed her. She was Xiu Mei''s doctor and had been guiding her throughout her pregnancy. "I know it''s troublesome and painful, but it''s also a good sign. Baby is active and healthy."


    "And my reports?"


    "Absolutely normal. You and baby are doing great. I have made some changes to your prescription considering your due date is in three weeks. And have sent a do''s and don''t list as well."


    "Yeah. I can see that. Quite a long list. And you have sent a copy to Jianyu too? He''s going to make me follow each and everything religiously." There was a hint of complaint in her voice.


    "That''s because he loves you and is worried about you. I find it very sweet. Do you know daily I receive a call from him?"


    "And what about brother Shishi? Does he ask about us?"


    Suyin sensed the tightness in Xiu Mei''s voice. Unfortunately, Wang Shi was upset with them and had not been on talking terms since he came to know of Xiu Mei''s pregnancy. Not like he was to be blamed.


    They kept such big news from him and let Mei follow him to El Sandrios when she was barely six weeks into the pregnancy. It was a huge risk. He wouldn''t have forgiven himself had anything happened to the baby or mother.


    "It''s the mind that gets angry, but the heart still cares. I have seen him looking at your reports secretly and he always eavesdrops when Honey talks to Yuyu and Lan. He still cares, Mei. Just a little angry. I''m sure things will be as they were before." Suyin heard Mei''s soft sniffing. "Mei, are you--"


    "No. I''m not crying. I know I shouldn''t. It''s just we are missing him, Suyin. He hasn''t called us in months. That never happened before. I want to tell him, we weren''t trying to pay him back. It''s the same love that he always gives us, made us do it. Even in our seven births, we cannot think of redeeming ourselves from his debt. We know, we can''t." Xiu Mei exhaled softly.


    Uneasy, Suyin took a deep breath. It was equally difficult for Wang Shi here. Only she knows how much he wants to talk to his brother. But his anger was stopping him. "If may I ask, what you cannot pay him back? What debt are you talking about?"


    Xiu Mei was silent long enough that Suyin thought the call was dropped. "Mei?"


    "I''m still here." Xiu Mei said, "It''s-- It''s about the incident that changed his life."


    "Are you talking about Zena?"


    "Yes. It''s my husband who should be at Brother Shishi''s place that night when Zena drugged him."


    Suyin leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees, recallingWang Shi''s words when he''d told her about his past, that he wasn''t Zena''s target. Now she understood, what does he mean, and why he never told her the complete story. It was his brother, Jianyu.


    "Jianyu couldn''t attend the meeting that night. Since Brother Shishi was in the same country, he did." Xiu Mei''s voice thinned. "Suyin, had he not replaced my husband in the meeting, nothing would have happened. Nothing. Neither he would have drugged, nor abused, and nor Zena would have conceived. It shouldn''t be him whose life turned upside down, but mine and Jianyu''s. We snatched everything from him. It''s because of us he suffered and is still suffering. Somewhere we are responsible that he isn''t getting the love of his life. It''s we-- I, and Jianyu.... Why the fu*k God is hurting him? WHY?"


    "Shhhh---- Calm down. Take deep breaths." by the end, Xiu Mei''s voice was breaking, and Suyin could tell her blood pressure must have spiked up because of sudden agitation. Knowing Jianyu never leaves pregnant Mei alone, Suyin instantly messaged him.


    "Suyin?"


    "I''m here. Jianyu is coming. Continue taking deep breaths."


    "Suyin, my brother-in-law is a gem of a person. You won''t find another of him in this entire world. I don''t want to push you, but don''t miss out on this meaningful journey of life just because of a mistake he wasn''t even aware of." oh my, Xiu Mei was inconsolable. She was letting out everything she was holding for months. "Rewinding time is not possible. The reality is things mess up, but don''t let one mistake ruin a beautiful future. Please.... think over."


    Suyin''s grip over phone tightened. Something inside her churned. "Mei, please--"


    "NO! I know you love him! I have seen it in your eyes--"


    "Now you are pushing." Suyin said, "You just take care of yourself first. I promise he''ll be there at your delivery. I''ll make sure of that."


    "Christ Suyin. Second chance should always be there--No! JIANYU NO! LET ME TALK TO HER-- I''M TIRED OF WAITING-- IT''S HAPPENING BECAUSE OF US--"


    Suyin let out a sigh of relief knowing Jianyu had arrived. Faint sobs could be heard as he tried to coax Xiu Mei.


    .....


    .....


    "Shh.... stop crying. It''s bad for the baby, love." Xiu Mei continued murmuring ''Brother Shishi'' in between her sobs, "Even Shishi won''t like it if he sees you like this. Should I tell Suyin to tell him about you?"


    "I told her the truth. Everything."


    "Why? Shishi had made me swear on Honey that I will never tell about it to anyone. Not even Uncle Wang and Aunty Liu know about it."


    "He made you swear, not me. I just want to see them together. I want to see him getting the love he deserves. How can we be happy when the one who took the biggest catastrophe of our life on himself?" in her pained voice was proof of how much Wang Shi meant to them. "When she loves him, why can''t she just forgive the past and accept him? Why, Jianyu? Why? Starting all over again is not that bad. I did it with you. See, how happy we are."


    ...


    Suyin ended the call and set the phone down on the bench with a shaky hand. A tear slid from the corner of her eyes. She scrubbed it away. But another followed. And another.....


    She turned to the other side of the bench to escape being caught by Honey in this state. Her shoulders tremble. When the pain pierced her heart, she sobbed with full acceptance of the pain.


    "I won''t. I won''t accept you."


    _____________

 Chapter 334 - James and Zeng

    Footsteps crunched on the shell paved path.


    "Suyin."


    Her body stiffened, fists clenching around her dress. "What?" without turning, she asked. Soft steps approached, and now the man was standing facing her. He reached to lift her chin up, but she firmed her muscles, keeping her gaze down. "I-I was talking to mom. Got emotional."


    Unknown to her, Honey shook his head at Wang Shi, mouthing. ''Aunty Mei.'' It was he who had called Wang Shi when he saw Suyin''s expression change. Upon sneaking on her, he heard her taking Xiu Mei''s name.


    Wang Shi lifted her chin with added force and she saw him sweating, gasping for air. Honey standing with him, wearing a look of equal worry.


    Her gaze drifted to the building ten floors tall, without a lift and Wang Shi works at ninth Tears welled in her eyes. "You ran all the way here? For me?"


    "I got worried when honey said you are crying in the garden." His thumbs c.a.r.e.s.sing her cheeks as softly as ever, "What happened, love. What did Mei sa--" Her body acted on its own and the next second she jumped into his embrace with such a force his steps staggered backwards. Her hands wrapping around his waist, squeezing him. Getting the hint, he squeezed her back. The tightest hugs that she always prefers.


    And she couldn''t stop crying and he wouldn''t stop making shushing noises, stroking her back. This tenderness was too much for her. And the more he gives, the more it hurts.  She wants to scream at the sky, break something, tear something before the inner struggle breaks her.


    Honey rubbed Suyin''s back as far as his hands could reach.


    Shocked yet comfortable silence filled the space between them. Neither of the two men questioned her.


    Sometimes it''s best not to question.


    Sometimes it''s okay to cry.


    Sometimes....


    .....


    .....


    Standing in an inconspicuous place in the garden, Zeng took a step, but James stopped him. "Don''t go. Let her be."


    Zeng''s gaze dropped at the winning trophy in his hands, and then at Suyin. He had come to El Sandrios after two months to surprise Susu, but in return, he gets to see her crying. "She loves him. She does. Then why isn''t she accepting him? Why this pain? Why the denial? Will she forever be like this?" He rose his hand to throw the trophy but James held his wrist.


    "Why not ask the questions to mom?"


    Zeng''s eyes went sharp. "How is mom related to this?"


    James took the trophy, marvelling at the design and its splendour. "British Grand Prix. Congratulations." His calm demeanour flared Zeng''s anger.


    "Fu*k your congratulations. I asked you something."


    "Susu will be proud of--" Zeng held James by the collar, teeth-rattling with violence as he pinned him to the tree and threw a punch. James smiled between bloodied teeth. "Ask those questions to mom first. You will get all the answers."


    "Mom has nothing to do with it." Zeng exhaled.


    "Just put mom at Suyin''s place, and dad at Wang Shi''s and ask her why isn''t she accepting dad even after his constant apologies and efforts."


    Zeng let go of James. His eyes searching James''s face as he tries to understand him. "Because dad wasn''t there for Susu."


    "So as you. But you got the apology. So what exactly is holding mom back? Do you know she still loves dad and sleeps with his photograph under the pillow? And here everyone can see Suyin loves Wang Shi, yet she''s not accepting him. Why?" James set the trophy down on the floor, and took an aggressive step, and threw a punch. "This is for hitting me."


    As he turned, Zeng held James''s wrist. "Susu and Mom, both are dear to us. If you know the reason, then tell me. We can''t just watch them like this, or can you?"


    James shook his head. "This is skirting very close to the things about Suyin''s life that I cannot tell you. Can''t break my promise."


    "You can''t break your promise but you can see her like this." Zeng''s grip slipped from James'' hand. He let out a bitter laugh, "Anyway, why would you bother? Not like she''s your real sister. It was just a friendship of convenience. Now you have Evan, have opened two new restaurants, inherited Ricci family''s fortune and aren''t you both planning for a baby next? Life''s just too good, isn''t it? My Susu can just go to hell. Or even better, she should be like that woman--" James''s followed Zeng''s gaze at dishevelled Amara sitting lost in the garden while Evan tries to feed her. "Numb."


    After Luo''s death, Amara was just a hollow body, waiting for death. The solace that she had found in Luo after her husband and kid''s death died along with him. No treatment, no medicine, no psychiatrist were working on her. Her body deteriorating everyday.....


    "You just go, make love with your hubby--"


    James threw Zeng off and pinned him to the ground as the tension spiked. "That''s one hell of a dirty trick you played."


    "Dirty it be. Either help me or get out of my Susu''s life." James''s mouth thinned, and Zeng understood he had hit the right spot. "Prove it you are really the brother she never had. Prove it, by knocking some sense into my stubborn blockhead sister''s brain."


    James looked in the direction where Suyin was standing, wrapped in Wang Shi''s arms. A moment later he got off from Zeng and gave him his hand. "We need to talk to Dad about it."


    *******


    "Do I really have to wear this?" Suyin stood in front of the mirror and stared at clothes. White shirt and camouflaged shorts that''s too short for her liking, especially when it''s just a Sunday picnic, not a club party.


    Honey had shoved a packet into her hands, asking her to wear it for the picnic. He refused to listen to her when she tries to reason. Like mother, like son. Thinking of that, how did he know of her size? He''s just six!


    "Of course, you have to." Suyin gulped at the sight of Wang Shi''s dashing figure as he stepped out of the bathroom wearing camouflaged trousers and a white shirt, perfectly fitted. The clothes look like they were off to an Indiana Jones adventure in the jungle instead of a picnic. "Honey had made long plans for this picnic. Aren''t you excited?"


    "Is this is really a picnic?" She dangled a fake moustache that''s included with the clothes, another forced thing from Honey. "I''m a woman. Why do I need a moustache?" she pastes the moustache on Wang Shi. "See, it''s for you."


    Wang Shi jutted his lips upward, squeezing moustache between lips and nose. He looked at his reflection, "Hm, Handsome. I should keep one. Show me how you look."


    She holds the second moustache between her lips and looked in the mirror. "Ridiculous."


    "Cute."


    "Are you two done?" Honey poked his head from the door.


    Suyin winced, head snapping at the door. "Two minutes." She dashed to the bathroom and closed the door. She pretended she didn''t hear the soft whispers where Honey asked if she''s okay and Wang Shi replied. ''She is. She will be. She has us.''


    ********

 Chapter 335 - The scavenger hunt

    "Okay, everyone. Please pay attention." Feng Jin spoke into the loudspeaker. Dressed in black military attire, he addressed the ten teams standing ahead. "As you all know, Cheyna military''s work in the country is at its last leg, and we''ll be heading back after the elections- we have organized a forest scavenger hunt at the request of kids." Honey winked from the crowd, jumping on toes in excitement.


    "Total ten teams, each consisting of five members--"


    "But we have only three!" Suyin protested, looking right and left. Only Wang Shi and Honey. She looked as Revon, his wife Marina, son, and his teenage friend had teamed up with Dr. Jeff. "That''s betrayal. You could have joined ours."


    Marina smiled. "Don''t blame Dr. Jeff. I asked him to join us. Your team is already full. Look again."


    "Mom! How could you?" Honey rolled his eyes. Bagheera roared, lurching forward as if making himself visible. Lazy Cleopatra reacted and jumped on Bagheera''s back, fangs barring at Suyin.


    Suyin blinked. "Right, we got five, too. Sorry. Continue."


    "Hand over your personal bags to the military. You will get them once you reach camp. Here--" Jin pointed at the table, "Three scavenge bags each team. It has all the necessities you might require during the long hunt. We have hidden refreshments in the forest which you can take and store in your bags or can share with other teams. Every refreshment bag found gives you an added point. Please go through your scavenger hunt list and tick all the fifteen items before reaching base camp. The first team to reach will win."


    Everyone checked the contents of their bags. Suyin''s bag mainly contains food, water, and first aid. Wang Shi''s with tools like knife, compass, machete, camera, binoculars, and rope. Honey''s with map, gloves, emergency guide, a pencil, zip-lock bags, and a scavenger hunt list.


    Suyin leaned as Honey reads the things written on the paper.


    1. Find an acorn


    2. Take pictures of five different birds.


    3. Find an empty snail shell


    4. Take a picture of rock big enough to stand.


    6. Pick a wild mushroom growing on a tree.


    7. A piece of trash thrown by man into nature that can be recycled.


    "Wow! This is easy and fun. We will surely win!" Suyin grinned, charged with excitement. This was a hundred times better than their planned picnic.


    Honey looked skeptical, "Have you read everything?"


    "No need. Just usual things found in the forest. We will tick them off the list as we go."


    ... oh, Suyin hadn''t read everything. Wish she had.


    Wang Shi looked down when Honey kicked at his foot, pointing at the last item written on the paper. Both shared a look of horror. They ain''t going to win.


    Nope.


    No chance.


    "If any team member falls or withdrew, the entire team disqualifies. Military officials are posted in the forest to see no one cheats and also to keep everyone safe. I''ll be head of this hunt. Any questions?" Jin waited for objections. "Good. Board the jeeps to reach starting point."


    As Jin walked to follow everyone, Honey ran up to him. He yanked him down by tugging at his uniform and pointed his finger at number 15. "Seriously? I should have never told you about it. We ain''t winning."


    "You will thank me later for it."


    "What do you mean?"


    "What do you do when you get scared?"


    "Hug dad. Mommy doesn''t seem reliable, especially when she herself jumps at the site of a lizard. And dad is the strongest."


    "So?" Jin ruffled Honey''s hair, but Honey yanked it, pouting. In any case, he wasn''t winning. Suyin would definitely create a fuss. Jin stood and straightened his trousers. "All the best, sister. My stakes are at your team. Don''t make me loose."


    "You won''t. I''m a pro and have done many real adventures. This is nothing. We''ll be done in half the time."


    "Half the time, of course. See you at the camp."


    "At the camp."


    Wang Shi " ?????¡á?  "


    Honey " ?????¡á?  "


    *******


    Honey led the team, shouting so loud that birds squawked off the tree. Having Cleopatra and Bagheera on the team was the bonus as they have already ticked ten items off the list. Not to forget twice Honey was scolded- once when he tried to pick the mushroom with b.a.r.e hands, and second when he asked for the Swiss knife from Wang Shi to copy his actions of cutting vines with a machete to make way through the dense forest.


    "Looks like you are enjoying this?" Wang Shi said. "You never stopped smiling."


    "I always smile when I''m with Honey and-- cough-- with Honey."


    "Why do I think you were about to include me as well?" Wang Shi smiled as if he was about to enjoy his favorite game.


    Suyin looked away, definitely blushing. "Delusional. You think too much of yourself. Concentrate on the game."


    "Red."


    "I''m not!" Her hands reached to cover her cheeks.


    Wang Shi looked up, carefully keeping his expression neutral. "I was talking about this red flower. It''s on the list." Suyin followed his gaze. A red flower tucked in the corner of a log, hidden from plain sight.


    "Oh. Now she''s redder and caught red-handed. "And there''s moss around it too. Our twelfth item"


    "H-Honey, we found two more. A red flower and moss." Wang Shi continued with Suyin, letting Honey put it in the zip-lock bag. He easily stepped over another log, pausing and offering a hand to Suyin, which she accepted. "On a serious note, your smile is my most favorite thing. You scared the hell out of us that day."


    He was checking the water if she wanted to talk about it. She does. "Xiu Mei told me everything about you."


    He frowned, "I hid nothing from you."


    "But about Jianyu and Zena."


    He paused for a second. "So you felt bad about me and cried."


    "Trust me, that''s not the reason. I know how much you love your brother and family. Though I still don''t want to tell you why I cried." A weight lodged in her c.h.e.s.t. She can''t tell him how it hurts when she pulls herself away from him. She can''t tell him as much as she loves his company, every loving gaze of his leaves her in agony. He was still hoping, making efforts, and yet she can''t accept him.


    She stopped by the tree to catch her breath, sweat glistening her brows and the fake mustache on her lips. She peeled the mustache off, looking for the water in her backpack, only to find the bottle empty. Honey had asked about it a while ago and had shared it with Bagheera and Cleo.


    Wang Shi raised Suyin''s hand to hold the damp cloth on her forehead. "Hold it." He takes out the water bottle from his backpack and brings it to her mouth. She barely took a sip. He lifted the bottle to make her drink more. "Don''t worry about shortage. Keep yourself hydrated."


    She looked as he stuffed the bottle in his backpack, not drinking the remaining. "Why so much care? I might never accept you. Never. Don''t care for me this much."

 Chapter 336 - The scavenger hunt 2

    Wang Shi turned, showing a devastating sight of his face. "If you think I''m doing everything to get you back, then why are you doing it too?"


    "You--"


    "I know everything. Suyin. What you have and are still doing for my parents, my grandpa, Jianyu, Mei, and everyone that''s related to me. I know how you daily update about me and Honey to mom and dad and have promised them to take care of us. I know how you talked for hours to grandpa when he was distressed about losing his two grandkids. I know Dr Colton is still treating grandpa on your request."


    Honey''s two cousins were dead. Their father was the mole of the family who had collided with Alpha to get the Wang family''s wealth. It was he who had poisoned elder Wang and spread the rumours.


    However, in his greed to take over the family business, Wang Chuzhi failed to understand that Alpha''s revenge was against the entire family. Which includes him too. He was also a Wang.


    His ignorance costs him the life of his two kids.


    "--I know, you help me in the hospital so that I don''t exhaust myself and take some rest. I know you call my assistant daily to ask if I had eaten something or not." He leaned closer, his hot breath mingling with hers. "I know you are hurrying up the work here so that I could be there for Jianyu and Mei. I know everything. Now tell me, why so much care? Aren''t you as selfless as me?"


    Suyin turned her face. "I-I don''t have an answer to that."


    "I have. We care because we love and respect. That''s what a healthy relationship is about." He pressed his palm at the swell of her b.r.e.a.s.t where her heart lies beneath. "This little organ is surely taking our decisions and making us do as it says." He pinched her cheeks. "Isn''t it?"


    Suyin smiled, both lost in the moment.


    "MOM, DAD, I FOUND A REFRESHMENT BAG." startled, they jumped, their heads snapping in the direction from where Honey yelled. "WE GOT APPLES! AND A HAIRY CATERPILLAR HAS MADE A HOLE IN IT. EWWWW...."


    "This boy--" Wang Shi hit his head at the tree trunk, exhaling. Suyin giggled.


    "Let''s take the picture of Mr. Hairy caterpillar. It''s on the list."


    Wang Shi caught her hand and pulled her. "Ms. Zhao, don''t think I ignored the usage of word ''might'' in your sentence." [I might never accept you] "This means--"


    Suyin pushed at his c.h.e.s.t. "Though I love this discussion, I never thought we''d be discussing our ''care'' towards each other in the middle of the forest, wearing these clothes and a ridiculously itchy mustache on our face." She made a face as she pulls out the mustache from her pocket, pasting it on her face.


    Wang Shi burst out laughing, "I''m going to frame your pic and keep it at my bedside."


    She gasped, "You clicked my pic in a moustache?"


    "And it''s your best pic I ever had."


    "Delete it."


    "It''s a treasure."


    "I hate you!"


    "And I love--" he looked, "I love ???? ."


    "I love ???? too. But--"


    "Can you two please concentrate on the task at hand?" Honey walks to them, hands at h.i.p.s. "If I were doing it with Baghee and Cleo, I would have finished the hunt by now. Duh, lazy and talkative elders." He threw an apple at Wang Shi and one at Suyin. "Buck up you two. Still got two more items. "


    Wang Shi counted on fingers, "Three items more."


    Honey rubbed his nose. "Two. One was collect animal poop. I got it."


    Suyin, "How?"


    "I just got it."


    Suyin and Wang Shi looked at Bagheera and Cleo simultaneously, one sniffing around bushes and one trying to steal bird eggs from tree.


    "E.." Suyin''s nose scrunched, "Shishi, he''s not sleeping with us tonight."


    "Ducky, stop. Don''t forget your turn is about to come. I bet, after this, you will hug me to sleep."


    "Honey!" Wang Shi warned.


    Suyin frowned, "What do you mean?" she looked at the two, talking to each other with eyes. "What are you two hiding? Spit it out."


    ...


    ...


    "No. No way!"


    "Suyin, listen to me once."


    "Mom, please. We''ll lose."


    "STAY AWAY FROM ME BOTH OF YOU." Suyin hustled around the trees,  staying away from the two as they chased her. "We are done. Call Jin, we are pulling out. I''m not playing this game anymore."


    "But I want to win!"


    "And I want to kill that rascal uncle of yours." Suyin snatched the machete tugged at Wang Shi''s waist, waving it in the air. "Feng Jin, you are dead. I''ll chop you into pieces and feed to lizards."


    "Great. When you do so, we''ll take a family picture and win the hunt." Honey suggested.


    "..."


    "..."


    "If you want to play, then continue. I''m out."


    "You know that''s impossible. We will be disqualified." Honey w.h.i.n.ed.


    "Then be it. What''s more important, me or the game?"


    "What''s more important, me or your fear of lizards?" Honey countered.


    Suyin, "Fear of lizards."


    Honey, "Game."


    Stuck between them, Wang Shi looked as the two growled at each other, fires sparking in the air. "Tom, Jerry, let''s talk this out--"


    "STAY OUT OF THIS!" both yelled. Wang Shi raised his hand, surrendering.


    Honey looked back at Suyin. "This is the last time, I''m asking."


    "Good! I won''t have to waste my energy anymore saying the same thing over and over." Suyin sat down near a tree and turned her bag upside down, searching for the phone.


    Honey snatched Wang Shi''s bag and ran to a nearby tree. "Ha, you forgot, the phone is in this one."


    "Honey!"


    "I want to win." Honey fixed his foot on the rough edge of a tree, reaching up to take a branch, balancing and then pulling himself up. And then to another branch, higher. And another. Suyin and Wang Shi''s jaw dropped.


    Wang Shi, "From where did you--"


    "By watching Baghee and Cleo." Honey answered before Wang Shi could ask. His two pets climbed after him, proudly setting on either side. They purred when Honey ran a hand on their fur. "Now, coming back to the task. I''m not moving from here until--"


    "Dream on. You will come down once you are hungry. And so as your brothers."


    "It''s just a picture! Not like you have to eat it."


    "That I agree." Wang Shi said.


    "Dr. Wang Shi, you said something? Say it again." Suyin showed him an eye.


    "Dr. Wang Shi is supporting me. Stop scaring him, ducky."


    Wang shi "..."


    "I''m sitting here. When you two are done, just tell me." Wang Shi sat down, fishing out the apple from his pocket that he didn''t get the chance to eat.


    Time passed. Apple finished. But the two remained still at their places. Suyin sitting under a tree, and Honey on a tree apposite hers, his legs dangling.


    Suyin watched Honey with narrowed eyes as he made a paper plane and flew it towards Wang Shi. He whistled, and Wang Shi unfolded it to read.


    "What is it?" Suyin asked. Her world flinched when Wang Shi shifted his gaze above her head. She sat frozen.

 Chapter 337 - The scavenger hunt 3

    "Shishi, please tell me it''s not that. You are just joking with me."


    "Quite." Wang Shi said, walking towards her. Honey jumped down from the tree and reached to get something from the backpack.


    She sprang up. "Is it on my head? Help."  She shouldn''t have sat under the tree. Wasn''t a tree bark a perfect breeding ground for insects? Squealing, she jumped on her feet, leaping straight into Wang Shi''s arms. "Take it down. It will eat me up. Shishi..... shrug it off!" gasping for air, she felt him dusting on her hair, her shoulder. Her hand clasped tightly around his waist. "Is it gone?"


    "Easy." he turned her and dusted her back. "I''m looking for it--"


    "IT WENT INSIDE MY CLOTHES?" Suyin couldn''t stop the shriek that tore from her throat, unbuttoning her clothes, her feet prancing against the ground. "GET IT OUT! WHERE IS IT? GET THE FUC* OUT! SHISHI--"


    His one hand slides against her abdomen, while the other holds the shirt close. "WHAT ARE YOU--" but he hauls her up, dragging her into the deep forest. She heard water crashing against the rocks, her eyes registered the mini waterfall.


    The next moment, he jumped. Loud and splashy.


    ...


    Fear, panic. At least it was that way for Suyin until she realized it was just shallow water, up to the waist. With his arm wrapped around her, he hauled her to the rock, keeping her covered under his c.h.e.s.t.


    "Are you all right?" His warm breath tickled against her ear as he whispered.


    "L-Lizard."


    "Don''t move. Stay still. I''m checking." he pressed his lips to her ear, hands sliding under her shirt, grazing her b.a.r.e skin. Suyin''s breath hitched, muscles tightened.


    For God''s sake, he was just checking for a lizard. Why was she turning into a heap of liquid? Wasn''t the water around enough.


    Drenched, the barrier of clothes between them holds no meaning. "S-Shi--" She wondered if he could see the goosebumps rising on her flesh as clearly as her. Does he know what''s happening to her body under his touch? Bet he knows.


    Wang Shi doesn''t glance at her body but holds her gaze as he slowly trails his fingers up the side of her b.r.e.a.s.t. "Not here. It probably is out," he said, withdrawing his hands.


    Suyin held his hands at her waist, as if asking him not to withdraw. He frowned, waiting for her next move. She shifted a higher in his arms, sliding his hand down to rest at the side of her h.i.p.s. He firmed his muscles.


    "This--You can''t." It''s the forbidden area. He remembers what happened last time when he touched her there.


    "You can. Check here too." She bit her lips, hiding the shiver that went down her spine. But the way her back arched, she''s certain he noticed.


    "It''s not here. I''m sure." His words differ his body language as he lets out a low sound from his throat when her lips brushed at the crook of his neck which he tried to hide behind by a cough.


    "But I''m not. Do it. Something is tickling me here."


    "Suyin--"


    They heard a commotion coming from the forest. Sound of leaves scrunching under foot.


    "Is that Honey? Or other teams following--"


    "Shhh---" with one arm holding her by the waist, he leads her to the waterfall. It was like a natural alcove built by the nature, curtained by the waterfall. He first checks the place for any hidden insect and then gently sets her down on his l.a.p. "Just stay here with me. Don''t make any sound."


    Fear advancing and she wiggled, almost in tears, her grasp tightening around his neck.


    "Ok ok..... let me see."


    He pitched closer, swaddling her legs on his l.a.p. Her eyelids scrunched as he lets his hands on her upper t.h.i.g.hs, drifting upward to feel around the h.i.p.s. She felt him pausing at her right hip, feeling something with fingers.


    She too felt the bump, and something crawling inside. "Oh, God!"


    His one hand went to unbutton her shorts, while the other holding the creepy-crawly firmly in its place. A gasp escaped from her throat when his hand went under, his intoxicating touch boring inside her, tracing the hems of her panty. He clenched his hand in a fist around something and fling it outward.


    "There," he said. Suyin''s face retrieved from his embrace to see. A snake barely five-inch, wiggling. "Baby snake. Probably got under when we were in the water. Did it bit you?"


    "I don''t know."


    "Check."


    "No pain."


    "Then it didn''t." He flung it to the curtain of water, out. Then he grabs her knees and scoots her closer. "Shall we talk now?"


    Suyin brings her face within inches of his, tracing the bleeding scratchy marks with the tip of her fingers. She must have done it in panic. But he never complained, neither stopped her. "Sorry."


    "More than this, you owe me an explanation about something, don''t you?" His voice was deeper and serious than a moment ago.


    And as she sits on his l.a.p, his musky cinnamon fragrance was everywhere on her. Her entire body on heat. Slowly her fingers moved up to trace his jawline, to his cheeks, to his perfectly sculpted nose.


    "I''m talking to you."


    Lost in the moment, her fingers stopped at his lips. She licked her lips, remembering the deliciousness whenever he kissed her. Gaah, she can''t even remember when was the last he kissed her. But she does remember what type of kisser he was. A deep, passionate, and loving one. He knows how to give and take p.l.e.a.s.u.r.e.


    "Suyin!"


    She jumped out of her thoughts when the man held her hand, shaking her awake.


    ''Wait. What was I doing? Did I just lose control? I let myself be vulnerable in front of him? How couldn''t I control my feelings?'' her mind juggling.


    "Answer me."


    She blinked, "What?"


    "What exactly changed that you didn''t panic when I touched you down?"


    Her throat bobbed. He knows. He knows everything. Stupid. Stupid. She herself led him to it. A chill broke over her skin. "I don''t know what you are talking."


    He rakes a hand through his hair, and sets her down from his l.a.p, a little rough, "There were many ways you could have answered that. ''Shishi, I want to talk about it, but can you give me some time?''  this could be one. ''Let''s talk when we go home'' sounds good too. And even ''I''m not comfortable talking about it'' would''ve done. But instead, you choose this. As always."


    "Shishi--"


    Paying no heed to her voice, he walked to get out of there.


    *****


    "Listen to me once--"


    Wang Shi jerked her hand away, walking faster. Leaving her behind. Her messed-up clothes ensured she won''t be able to catch up.


    "Dad! Are you okay? Where''s mom?" Wang Shi looked over the shoulder. Honey followed his gaze, sighing in relief at seeing her walking from behind. "Everything''s under control. We caught him. He''s in Uncle Jin''s custody." As she reached, Honey jumped to hug Suyin. Bagheera rubbed himself against her and Cleo sprawled at Wang Shi''s feet, asking for a tummy rub, but got ignored.


    "What happened here?" Suyin asked. Wherever she runs her eyes, military personal were scanning the area. Some even rushed to form a barrier around them.

 Chapter 338 - The scavenger hunt 4

    Honey looked up from her arms. "When I climbed the tree, I saw someone there. He had his gun pointing at you."


    The paper plane was Honey''s way to inform Wang Shi, keeping in mind not to startle the enemy. "There wasn''t any lizard, but dad acting to protect you, and divert the man''s attention." At the opportunity, Honey informed Feng Jin about it, while Bagheera and Cleo acted on Honey''s instruction. The two wild pets perfectly used their hunting and tree climbing skills to nab the man.


    It was a team effort. Only Suyin being oblivious.


    Suyin turned to Wang Shi, "How could you leave Honey in danger?"


    "He was not. You were. And I know Bagheera and Cleo were there to save him. They are being trained to protect him in any emergency."


    "But you could have told me. A hint, a signal, or anything."


    "There are things we don''t think necessary to tell others, isn''t it?" Sarcasm. He was talking about her. "Now if you''ll excuse me." he stopped by Feng Jin, "Interrogate. I want to know his motive and who send him here."


    "Give me a day."


    "Have you seen Dr. Jeff?"


    "With teams, at the base camp. We have stopped the hunt after Honey informed us, and escorted everyone there."


    Suyin gulped. She ran a hand through Honey''s hair. "I need to talk to your dad. Are you okay? Can you go back with your uncle?"


    Honey sensed something off. "Are you two fighting? There wasn''t any lizard. Trust me."


    "Not fighting. Promise. Its elders talk."


    Honey watched her expression, tensed. "I''m a big boy too."


    "Honey!"


    "Fine. Whatever it is, solve it. Will wait for you at dinner." She kissed his cheek, before running in the direction where Wang Shi left. For Dr. Jeff.


    ********


    Dr. Jeff looked up in shock at Wang Shi. He scrambled to get onto his foot from the ground, his punched-out jaw pressed with one hand, the corner of the lips bleeding.


    "My oath doesn''t allow me to reveal my patient''s details. I''m sure you wouldn''t too."


    "Shishi!" Suyin ran inside the camp where Wang Shi was questioning Jeff. She placed herself between him and Jeff. "I asked him to help me. Is asking for help that bad that you are beating him?"


    Wang Shi backed away from rage. "For the past three months, you are getting a fever every two weeks. Many times, you are emotionally unstable. You wake up in the middle of the night, sweating. Have frequent headaches. Vomiting. Swelling in legs. The cognitive-behavioral treatment and medicines that he is giving are clearly affecting you. This bastard should have stopped it long back."


    "But it''s working too. Yous saw it just now." Suyin said, helping Jeff on his foot. "I wanted to be free from my past, that''s why I asked him to help. And the symptoms you said are not because of the medicines, I''m not taking any. But it''s Xanax."


    Wang Shi glanced at Jeff. Jeff nodded. Now that he has Suyin''s permission, he was free to tell. He has to tell. "I''m treating her for five months. For the initial two months, she was doing great, but as the treatment progressed and we went deeper, she started getting anxiety attacks during every session. It raised her heartbeat. To calm her down, I had to give small doses of Xanax. That''s why the side-effects."


    "Then you should have stopped after the first attack."


    "I asked him to continue." Suyin defended.


    Aghast, "Suyin--" Wang Shi paused, "--Get out." it was for Jeff. "Make sure no one comes in. Otherwise, be ready to live in this forest forever."


    Suyin blinked at Jeff.


    Wang Shi took two hurried steps toward her. He cupped her face in his hands. "Why? Why hurt yourself so much? It wasn''t necessary."


    "It was. I was tired of living in this shackle. I wanted to be free and complete." There was more on Suyin''s lips, but she didn''t say it.


    "It''s one thing to free from the shackle, and another to torture yourself. You are free and complete."


    "How can I when any hand that touches my body refreshes my memory of that night?"


    There was a pause, and she knew he wanted to ask something, but thinking how. "Can I ask you something?"


    "You don''t need permission."


    "It''s rude."


    "You can never be." She said.


    He breathed, "Knowing you, I''m sure you will allow no other man in your life. And me? You have already drawn a line between us. So tell me, for whom are you going all this trouble?"


    Suyin looked away, fear, hesitation rippling on her face. "Can''t I do it for myself?"


    "After six years?"


    "Yes--AHH-"


    He pinched her chin up. "Eyes on me, love. Now tell me. What exactly changed that you went for the therapy?"


    Suyin had no answer to that. And the one she was giving, he wasn''t buying it.


    "Silence," his lips quivered. "That''s all you have given me in these seven months. I know I had promised never to cross the line and give you the time you want--" she wiggled under his firm grip on her arm. He shook her. "--listen to me. I was, and I''m still willing to wait and let you have as much time as you want. But you know what? It''s useless if you are not ready to accept your feelings."


    "I-"


    "Oh, don''t you dare say you don''t have any feelings. I understand you more than you understand yourself. Or should I remind you how lost control just now and melted under my touch?" Suyin''s face paled. "You think I''m a fool and didn''t notice how you look at me every time. Or how you are fighting against your own feelings? Just tell me, why? When there is so much love, why can''t you accept it and end this pain?"


    Tears and silence. That''s all Suyin had to give him. She didn''t even have the guts to look into his eyes. Even when he was forced, she was just staring at hollow instead of his mesmerizing eyes, lest her heart waver.


    He waited...


    But the answer never came.


    "Silence. So that''s all I deserve, right? Is this all Honey deserves?" Slowly he stepped back, his grip on her slipping. She felt empty, fear crawling. "Fine then. Guess this is the ending."


    He just left?


    Leaving her alone in that tent, crying?


    She fell to her knees. Tears in her heart became tears in her eyes, unstoppable. And this time, her friend, her partner, her human diary, her man, wasn''t there to hear her.


    Standing outside the tent, Wang Shi heard her sobs. His fist clenching. Tears came as if long last acc.u.mulated pain trickling.


    "Why Suyin? Why are you doing this to yourself?"


    ********

 Chapter 339 - Angry Honey

    "Dr. Wang Shi, please. It''s good Suyin wasn''t hurt. I-I apologize on behalf of my daughter." Zeldiz kneeled, hands folded ahead. Her finest violet cotton gown was hand embroidered with silk threads, vented with gold beads, and layered in ruffles at hem and sleeves. Hand-hooked lace glove on her fingers. She wore a matching violet cotton headwrap, wrapped and pleated in elegance with a diamond in the center. From head to toe she speaks money. People like her don''t accept mistakes that easily, it was shocking to see the proud Zeldiz on her knees.


    A young girl of eighteen kneeled by her mother''s side, eyes glistening with tears. She places a hand on Zeldiz''s arms. "Sorry, mumma."


    Zeldiz''s eyes closed into a helpless sigh when she glanced at her daughter. "An iron is eaten by rust, so are the envious consumed by envy. Just because you like Dr. Wang, it does not give you the right to plan an assassin attack on his wife. My heart aches for your one-sided infatuation, but you cannot snatch or force another man''s attention to yourself. You disappoint me, Zara."


    "She''s not his wife--"


    "Shut up!" Zeldiz cut off Zara''s words with a sharp sideways glance. "Never say it again. What is she to him, it has nothing to do with us. Everyone''s the master of their own life. Your actions and words are outrageous. To think my daughter would droop so low! It must end now before you destroy yourself and the entire family."


    Zara hung her head. "Yes, mumma."


    "I''m confining you immediately. Your maidservant would sleep in your room from now onwards. All your bodyguards would be replaced. And as soon as the college admission opens in the UK, you are to send there for further studies. Your passport restricted to travel between El Sandrios and UK, solely." Zeldiz huffed out a breath and looked up to see Wang Shi. "I request you to put a lifetime ban on her entry to Cheyna. This will further ensure she doesn''t follow you there."


    "Quite an impressive motherly lesson you taught there, Mrs. Adin." Wang Shi rounded the table and stood, leaning against it. His tall legs crossed, one hand spinning the crystal paperweight, the other hand crossed behind. The posture screamed elegance, danger, and power. Zara lifted her painted eyelids, visibly attracted and taking every inch of him.


    Her move earned her a glance from the man disdainfully dismissing that she lowered her eyes.


    "Sadly, it won''t save your daughter from paying the price."


    Zeldiz looked up, horrified. "I-I assure you, she''ll be punished--"


    "How? By doing everything you said just now?" He said. "That''s not punishment but restrictions. You are just protecting your daughter from my wrath. Don''t forget she attacked my--" he added weight to his next word, "--WOMAN."


    "Dr. Wang Shi, you are a m.a.t.u.r.e man. Zara is just a teenager, please."


    Ignoring her, Wang Shi pressed a hand on the vibrating phone in his pocket. Suyin. That''s her fifty-eighth call. He flicked his wrist at Revon and sat down, rather opting to finish his glass of whiskey instead of talking to her.


    Revon stepped, "You will commit 50% of your wealth to the trust formed by Suyin for the orphaned kids here. And your daughter will serve next three years, seven days a week, six hours a day, serving orphans."


    "Mumma, no!" Zara cried.


    Revon ignored her, glancing at the door as two military personals dragged a man in and dropped him with a thump. Beaten to a pulp, but alive.


    "He had already confessed everything, and according to the law of El Sandrios, his punishment is 1000 lashes, and ten years in prison. The same goes for the mastermind, i.e. your daughter--"


    "No thanks. We are okay with the punishment you have decided earlier."


    "Mumma--" Words stayed on Zara''s tongue when Zeldiz cast a sharp glance. Zeldiz stood from her position, signed a cheque.


    "This is all I have in my bank. In a month''s time, I will pay the rest after selling my assets. Zara will report for the community service after elections." and she turned without waiting for a reply, dragging Zara.


    "Revon forgot to tell--" She paused at Wang Shi''s words, "--its is all over the news that one of your men sneak attacked Suyin. We disclosed nothing further, people can make their own stories. Don''t put any hopes on election now."


    Zeldiz''s fist clenched. "I''ll take your leave, Dr. Wang. Thank you," she said with clenched teeth. Getting out, she kicked the flower vase kept outside. Then a sharp slap across Zara''s face. "I was never this humiliated before. Why can''t you just die instead?"


    Zara cradled her slapped cheek, crying, "I''m millions of times better than Suyin. Young. Rich. Beautiful. Good family background. Just like him, we too belong to a strong political and business family. Why did you kneel and scolded me in front of him? This is not you."


    "Idiot. You do not know the power named Wang Shi. He''s never alone but has the support of his three brothers from the Feng family, Xiu Mei, and underworld king Lu Xion. Offend one, and you offend everyone. Thank your stars that he is letting you go even after you dared to attack his beloved." Zeldiz said with gritted teeth, her sharp nails digging in Zara''s arm, "I''d rather you be dead than get on the wrong side of these men. Once more you did something like this and I won''t shy from getting rid of you."


    "No!"


    "Oh, try me dear."


    Zara hung her head, "Yes, mumma."


    ******


    "Bro, Sister Suyin is calling me--" Jin glanced at the screen, and then Wang Shi lying on the couch, rubbing his temples.


    "Tell her, I''m in the emergency. Won''t come home tonight."


    "Bro--"


    "Just do as I say. Or do you need the order from President''s son?"


    *******


    [Stuck in an emergency. Asked me to inform you not to wait. Won''t make it to dinner.]


    Suyin bit her lips as she read Jin''s message. Why ask Jin to message? Why not pick her calls? She looked over her shoulder. Sitting at the dinner table, Honey had his eyes set on her.


    She instantly held the phone over ear. "Oh, emergency? Is it serious? Ah, intestine rupture. Damn, it''s a long complicated surgery. Yeah, I can understand you won''t be able to join us for dinner. It''s alright, I''ll accompany them tonight. Will send a bento for you later--"


    RING RING


    Suyin gathered up every bit of her nerve as she turned to face Honey. Her phone ringing. Honey calling.


    He narrowed his eyes at her.


    "I-I have to leave for the hospital." She walked to the corner to fetch two food bowls and slide them across Bagheera and Cleopatra. "Keeping a serving in microwave. There are three slices of chocolate cake in the fridge. I saved it for everyone. You guys love it, right?"


    Only silence. Forget about Honey, even the two pets didn''t spare her a glance. "I-I might be late. Do eat everything." She literally was talking to herself. Or maybe the walls. Just what was she hoping? She grabbed a shawl and keys, paying a last glance at the closed door, two pets sitting outside in wait, untouched food, and the laptop on the table with the movie Mowgli on standby.

 Chapter 340 - Are you with me solely because of him?

    Suyin''s gaze slide at the man standing outside Wang Shi''s office. Feng Jin. Her steps hastened only to be stopped at the door. "Jin,"


    "I got orders from the president''s son, sister. Can''t go back on my duty." His lips pursed, "Please."


    She glanced at the door. Another closed door she had to face today. "Do you remember your promise?"


    "I do." He said. Guilty of his rudeness towards Suyin when they first met, he had promised to go above his duty and everything in the world to side Suyin once. It was also his way to express gratitude for mending things between him and Wang Shi when the latter got angry for his behavior.


    He stepped aside. The promise made by a military officer had to be fulfilled.


    Suyin''s nose scrunched at the stench of alcohol once she stepped inside. On the couch, Wang Shi was sprawled with one leg dangling, two empty bottles, and a glass lying on the floor.


    "Oh Shishi," she ran to lift his leg up before he could fall. She slides her hand under his neck as gently as ever, sliding a cushion. He half-opened his eyes, grunting, and pushed her. Oh, wish he had slapped her instead. "What have you done, silly? Just lie down, please."


    He swayed upon trying to stand. She held him by the shoulder. "Don''t move. I''ll get you water--" she stood only to be yanked down by him on his l.a.p.


    With trembling hands he ran a knuckle down her cheek, eyes speaking emotions that only she understands well."I love your beautiful eyes. So deep. Grey. Mesmerizing." He slurred, his alcohol breath lingered on her face.


    She s.u.c.k.e.d in a breath when he blew a stray strand out of her eyes. He kissed her eyelids. Slow. Sensual. "You know they shine when they see me. Why? Your lips can lie, but your eyes can''t. So what possible reason could you have to condemn me to reproach? Look-- I drank two bottles thinking about it. They say when you drink your subconscious mind answers questions that your conscious mind can not. But I''m still answered. Perhaps I should go for the third, fourth, fifth bottle--"


    She silenced him with her hands on his lips. "No more drinks. Please. Don''t do this to yourself. It hurts."


    "Yes. It hurts. And the worse, I don''t have any medicine to stop it." he jutted her lips out like a child in pain. "Do you have any?"


    She raised her fingers to his cheeks, pushing down the pain erupting in our own hearts. "I don''t. It hurts me too because I could not witness the misery I''m causing you, Honey, and myself."


    "Then end it, my love. Why aren''t you telling me?"


    Her throat went tight the way he used the endearment. "To keep myself from saying the wrong things." He blinked away the sleep threatening to come over.


    She stood from his l.a.p against his wishes, rounding the corner to fetch a jug of water. He looked at her outstretched hand, the jug full to the brim, and then at her.


    "Not this. I want to hear about those wrong things. Tell me. I deserve to know. Is it still about your son''s heart?" She settles herself back on his l.a.p, letting him hug her waist, bringing the jug to his mouth.


    "Water will flush out the alcohol from your system through urine. Drink it all. "


    "If I do, will you--"


    She forced the rim of the jug to his teeth until he had drunk a considerable amount, wiping his lips with her sleeves. She set the jug aside on the table. And he waited like a patient child.


    "It''s not about my son, but our son. Honey."


    "Go on. I''m feeling better now. Listening."


    "Without being your wife, I''m Honey''s mother. But being your wife, I will be his stepmother. Everything will change." She said. "I''ll be judged for my every decision that I shall take for Honey. And just like normal mothers, I don''t have the liberty to make any mistakes or take harsh decisions for my child.


    And if at any time I have done something that doesn''t stand apt on the rules set by society, I''ll be pronounced as a terrible mother. A stepmother who has taken the harsh decision because she hasn''t birthed the child. Because the child isn''t her blood and flesh. And if you dared to support me in my decisions which you will, people will talk that you are not supporting your own son because you are indebted to me or maybe charmed by me. People will never stop, Shishi! It will affect Honey''s growth."


    He nodded repetitively as if a broken toy on loop. "So now people''s opinions matter more than our happiness? Great! Brilliant! Are you the same Zhao Suyin who never bothered about people? I guess not."


    "There''s more." She lost the courage to look into his eyes. "I dread about our future. You want a life with more children. I know how much you crave for a daughter. What if--"


    "--what if our kids will be like those half-siblings who fights, who kill each other to claim right over the father''s wealth? What if things turned out like the way it turned out between my cousin and me? And Honey would be the one on target? Isn''t it? "


    She looked up at the ceiling, taking a moment to stare at the carvings that belong to the El Sandrios culture. Oh God, she needed this diversion. She heard him gulping more water until the jug was down to the last drop. And then he nudged her off of him, leaving for the washroom with a word.


    Vomit. Retching. It makes one feel wretched. At such time, kind words and a pat on the back could do so much. She sprinted, struggling to turn the locked knob. "Shishi, open the door."


    "Neither you trust our upbringing, nor Honey." his voice came amidst the sound of water, "And besides you are completely taking decisions based on uncertainty. Have you ever thought about how Honey would react if he came to know of your reasoning? What I''m feeling right now? Anyway, you never regard me in this relationship so why would you care how am I feeling. The decision power solely belongs to you." the door clicked. Before she could get in, he stood in the doorway, wiping his hands with a towel. "Excuse me."


    She moved aside to let him go, nervously playing with her fingers. He threw the towel on the table, opened the drawer, and gulped down a pill with water, not bothering to look at her as if she wasn''t there. She caught a glimpse of Honey''s custody papers that he had offered, but she never accepted it. She won''t. Never. Honey is not only hers, but his too. But before that she has to--


    "H-Honey-"


    "FOR GOD''S SAKE STOP RANTING HONEY EVERY TIME! HONEY THIS HONEY THAT--" She jumped, choking a gasp. He breathed to calm himself first before continuing, "Tell me Suyin, is everything in your life about Honey? Is everything in our relationship about Honey? Are you with me solely because of him? Because I never saw you doing anything--" he pointed at the same between them, "-for us. I never saw you talking about us. Not like I mind you being considerate about Honey, but where am I? Where are we? For God''s sake, I never even get to hear I love you from you. It''s always I love Honey. Sometimes I really wonder if it''s the love I see in your eyes or just my desperate heart tricking me. Do you even love me? Say it."


    Suyin trembled, hands at pounding heart. He never yelled at her. Never. She gazed at him for a long moment. "I-I--"


    "Please leave."


    "Shi-"


    "I''m not in the correct state of mind and need some sleep. Get out."


    She left. She didn''t turn to look at him again and silently left. She knew he wouldn''t look at her too. She has hurt him. Probably he would never look at her with the same gaze again. He would never speak or react to her directly in any way. Never. She has lost.

 Chapter 341 - Life is uncertain. Eat dessert.

    Suyin was right. That was the last night he spoke to her. But least she knew it would also be the night she was last seeing him. Wang Shi left for Cheyna the next morning, leaving her alone with Honey. No message. No phone call.


    He just left.


    Every morning it got harder and harder as she roused, prepared breakfast and lunch, and leave for the office to finish pending work in the country. Everything around her turned grey and dull. Honey stopped speaking to her. Bagheera lost his interest in her. And Cleopatra only showed her white fluff bum every time he saw her.


    Though she never told Honey anything, he sensed it. Kids always do. He didn''t let her help him get ready, or choose the day''s outfit, or comb his hair, or accompany her to school. After breakfast, he''d just go to Wang Shi''s office and sit there all day with Bagheera and Cleopatra in tow.


    The lunch box which she prepares daily came untouched. At supper, he''d eat at the table with her, but without a word or a glance at her. She craved to hear ducky or mom, but all she got was his silence and lifeless eyes. At night, he''d bring bedding to the living room to sleep on the couch, where he would send a message to Wang Shi-


    [Missing you dad ????  ]


    And the reply would come instantly, [Me too. Take care of your mom. Love you, bratty. ?? ]


    He''d reply, [She''s fine.]


    After that he''d hold the phone to c.h.e.s.t, playing their family videos on loop until sleep takes over. He wasn''t watching the videos, but the voices, giggles, bickering, and everything was like a lullaby for his exhausted mind.


    Suyin''s was no better. Her thoughts were all about Wang Shi and the time they had spent. His teasing. His cooking. Charming smile. Cheeky lines which she used to hate once.


    And his fragrance that still lingers everywhere in the house.


    Life wasn''t life without him, and she''d do anything to get the old life back.


    Days bled into weeks, and their two weeks'' stay ended. The elections were over and Revon turned out to be the unparalleled winner, crushing his opponent, Zeldiz. And with backing from the Cheyna government and names like Suyin and Wang Shi, Revon''s position in the country as the new president will only strengthen with time.


    "One more week, Suyin. I would love to see you and Dr. Wang Shi as the guest of honor at the Presidential oath ceremony and dinner."


    "Dr. Wang Shi has left already. I should too." Suyin''s gaze drifted to the little figure desperately running in and out of the bedroom, collecting things to pack. Bagheera and Cleopatra biting into their own things that they want to take and chasing after Honey. The egg pie, Bacon sandwich, juice, milkshake, and muffins at the breakfast table doesn''t catch their interest. They had been packing since night and resumed soon after waking.


    "Maybe we could--" he stopped when Marina squeezed the back of his palm.


    "We have already taken her eight months. Let''s not bother her anymore. I''m sure she''s looking forward to meet her family. Every extended day in El Sandrios must be unbearable to stay."


    Suyin faked a smile, sipping tea gone cold. She looked over the rim of her cup. Honey was searching for something, but couldn''t locate it.


    "Alright, then. I won''t hold you anymore," Revon called someone and soon someone knocked on the door. He took the liberty to open the door, and in came three men following him, holding things on a tray covered with a silk cloth in red.


    He pulled the cloth from each tray.


    A beautiful piece of emerald necklace. A rare vintage watch. And a box with intricate carvings and writing that Suyin didn''t understand.


    "Revon this-- I can''t."


    "Please. It''s nothing in front of everything you and Dr. Wang Shi have done for us." Revon said.


    "And we won''t let you go without a piece of El Sandrios. It''s in our tradition to bid adieu with a gift." Marina said. She picked the most mysterious item; the metal box of a size of three books stacked together and called for Honey. "It took us a while to think of a gift for this little one." Honey looked at her and the box in her hands with no interest. Yet he made sure to remember his dad''s upbringing and remained polite.


    Revon crouched down, holding Honey by the shoulder. "The last king of El Sandrios was a collector of rare items. We found all this and many more rare items in Alpha''s base. Most probably, when Tamis took over the last king he took over his collection as well, which eventually passed on to Alpha."


    Marina gently put the box in Honey''s hand. "Little one, since you love adventure, exploring, and mysteries. I''m sure you''d love to unfold the mysteries behind the box and find out how to open it. Who knows if it''s a key to a great treasure." Honey bowed in gratitude.


    "Thank you for the gifts, Marina, Revon." Suyin said, reaching to touch Honey''s head, but he dodged it and ran for his room, leaving Suyin rubbing her fingers.


    Embarrassed.


    Revon cleared his throat. "We shall leave now. Marina?"


    "I shall be right behind you," Marina said. Revon understood the hint and left the two women alone. Marina touched Suyin''s hand. "Don''t misunderstand me, Suyin. Neither I''m prying into your life. But you and Dr. Wang Shi have lived with us for over seven months, it''s inevitable to not notice the things between you and him."


    Suyin bit her lips.


    "In the end, we only regret the chances we didn''t take, love confessions we never did, relationsh.i.p.s we are afraid to have, and the decisions we waited too long to make. The example is right in front of you-- Luo and Amara. He died in regret. And now Amara, she''s no good then a dead." Marina squeezed Suyin''s hand and turned, stopping at the door. "Ah, I forgot. Evan has decided to let Amara stay here. She never leaves the place where Luo''s tomb is. It won''t be good if we force her to leave, isn''t it?"


    Suyin nodded. "It''s an excellent decision."


    "Think about my words. Take care." She turned and left, leaving Suyin struggling with her own thoughts. She sat down on the balcony, tired. A man with a hat was mowing the grass. His t-shirt reads in bold.


    [Life is uncertain. Eat dessert. Seize happiness. Don''t fret.]

 Chapter 342 - Dont you wish you to change a little?

    At the airport, everyone came to escort Suyin and Honey. Swooning, praising, and awed that Wang Shi sent his private plane for his wife and son. She heard them calling her lucky. If only they know the reality of their relationship.


    Suyin hugged everyone before moving towards the airstair. Following him was Dr. Jeff, Evan, Jin, and staff members from Wang Shi''s team.


    The plane gained the needed speed on the runway before taking its star bound leap. At a height, she looked outside the window. A man was painting something on the hoarding board. It reads, [Go ahead. You never know what could be on the othe--] ''other side'' she completed. Probably an advertis.e.m.e.nt for tours and travels.


    Frowned, she pulled the blind. Her eyes searched for Honey, stopping at the little figure snuggled between black and white on the couch a little away from her. His gaze set outside the window, lips moving in a murmur.


    The server brought fortune cookies, coffee, juice, and milk. She picked the cookie tray and sauntered to Honey with a warm smile, extending the tray ahead, "Sweetie, I brought you fortune cookies. Let''s see what''s written in them."


    Indifferent, bored, without sparing a glance at her, Honey picked two, break them to get the slips. He put the crumbled cookies in front of Bagheera and Cleopatra, and the slips in the tray in her hands, then gesturing her to go back to her seat.


    Suyin''s face fell. "It''s been two weeks, fairy. When will you stop this torture? Ducky misses you."


    The look he gave was anything but that of a cheeky Honey she was used to. "Two weeks and you are complaining already. Aren''t you doing the same with dad for months?"


    Her lips trembled. She noticed Jin and Evan''s attention on her and she sat down to avoid their prying eyes, though Honey was considerate to keep his voice low only for her to listen.


    "Mom, I will live with you. Respect you. Will follow your teachings, and lessons. Be a good boy. Be everything that you want me to. But will never be your son. Before I get to know what mommy is, dad was my mommy and daddy. I might have never said this, but I love him a little more than I love you."


    "So you are punishing me?"


    "No. That''s what you are doing with dad. I''m just keeping my promise that I will never force you again and will forever be with you. That''s it."


    "Isn''t this forcing?"


    He shrugged. "I didn''t ask you to get along with dad and come to our home. Don''t call it forcing."


    "But this attitude--"


    "I''m not feeling happy from inside and want to be alone. But still, if you want to see my smile--" he stretched the corner of his lips to maximum, showing teeth, but eyes remained sad, absent of Duchenne marker. "Now, will you excuse me? I''m sleepy." His action of pulling the blanket was an indirect way of saying leave me alone.


    Suyin nodded tightly, reaching to touch him, but her hands stopped when Honey looked at her again, igniting hope in her heart. "May I please go to meet dad first after the plane lands? And-- if you could allow me to stay a night with him, I''d appreciate it." he opened his mouth to say something more but couldn''t. Suyin understood; another word, and he''d cry.


    "You can stay with him as much you want. No need to take my permission. He''s your dad."


    "Thank you."


    Thank you? That felt so wrong. So cruel. A child just thanked her for letting him meet his father.


    Now she''s really the stepmother.


    A cruel stepmother.


    So she had given up Wang Shi for this? For the title of a stepmother?


    She had given up her love to become a stepmother?


    ******


    And Honey left with Feng Jin for People''s hospital where Wang Shi was. That was the moment Suyin saw his beautiful smile that reached his eyes. But it was not for her, but for the happiness of meeting his father again.


    She stared at his departing figure for the longest, thinking how amazing it would be if he turned and she could sprint to him. To tell him to take her with him, and they''d live forever together.


    A press at her shoulder woke her from her dream. Evan gave her a paper, took the suitcase from her hand, and left without even waiting for her to say a word.


    She opened the letter.


    [One day I hope you look back at what you had and regret every single thing you did to let it end. I did when I was locked up. And that was the first time I realized what pain is. Don''t you wish to change a little? I did and see what I have. James.]


    "Don''t you wish to change a little? Be with Wang Shi, have a perfect family, two kids, two pets, a house on the mountain..... but is it possible for me?" she whispered.


    ********


    The first drop of rain began to fall when she spotted James waiting for her. He whistled and waved. Before she could walk up to him, he sprinted towards her as if pants on fire and held her wrist. "What took you so long? Evan was here ten minutes ago."


    "I--"


    He pulled her, ignoring the strength he was putting in his grip. "Later later. We have to go to the temple. Where''s Honey?"


    "He left with Jin."


    "Great. At least he wouldn''t be with us to see all that."


    Suyin frowned, catching the tension in James''s voice. "What?" she covered her head with her palm as water dripped when they came out. The car parked in no parking area. Evan was already seated in. "What happened? And what do we have to go to the temple?" she saw him tipping the guard.


    "Dad is getting married and Mom has rushed there to kill him and his new bride."


    "WHAT?" She pushed him. "I''m driving. Fill me in on the way."


    Suyin drove the car, demonstrating her unparallel ability to break all the traffic rules, cursing at multiple traffic lights, and slow traffic. She broke the barrier at toll collection, drove the wrong way, on pavement, and on the broken road, splashing water everywhere.


    ******

 Chapter 343 - Because of you.

    "This is the last time I''m telling you. LET ME GO!"


    "Throw her out. We have instructions."


    "Dare touch me, and you''ll repent this forever. I''m his legally wedded wife. Whatever''s happening inside is against the law. I''ll sue each and everyone who runs this temple. My daughter is Secretary General in Social services. Zhao Suyin. You know what she''s capable of, don''t you?"


    "Mom!" Suyin rushed with open arms and embraced her distressed mother, pressing her tear-stained cheek to her. "I''m so sorry I''m late. Why didn''t you tell me before?" Can''t believe this was happening for a week now and her mother was struggling alone. Even Zeng and James failed to do something. Useless.


    "Look what that obnoxious man is doing." Si Han clung to Suyin, anger pouring through her entire being. Red blotchy face, smeared with mascara and messy hair, makes her appear dreadful. "God knows what got inside that rotten brain of his that he wants to marry. How could he when we are still legally married? Isn''t this against law?" Suyin nodded. "But they aren''t letting me in. I''m warning you, if this marriage happened, I''ll first butcher everyone who stopped me from getting inside--" her dark gaze narrowed on the temple keepers, "--then I''ll chop the priest into pieces before setting the place on fire."


    "I will," Suyin looked at James, "Call Wenwei. Ask her to come here ASAP. And where the fk is Zeng? That idiot is never there when his family needs him most."


    "Suyin, just let me in first. We have already delayed a lot." Si Han said, shivering as the wind picked. "Please. I still love him. Help me. And I know he loves me too."


    That was the first time in years that Si Han had accepted her love openly.


    The temple keepers grunted and formed a barrier at the door. Suyin flicked a gaze over her mother''s shoulder and stroked her arm. "Jamie--"


    "Got it, Susu." An evil smile curled Jamie''s lips. He folded his sleeves to elbows and looked once at Evan standing at his right. "Two mine, three yours--"


    Evan pounced at the temple keepers, baring his animal instincts. The harsh training as Beta came in handy. In no time, the temple keepers were lying on the ground, howling in pain.


    James winked at Evan.


    Evan used the signed language, saying, "This better works."


    "It would."


    *******


    "Zhao Shu, stop this nonsense right there!" Si Han hitched her skirt up to her knees and dashed over the couple standing facing the buddha. She took off her heels and threw each at her husband and the bride in a red veil, not missing the targets. "You bastard! You cannot marry her."


    Suyin''s long stride matched with her mother''s.


    "Why?" Zhao Shu turned. He blatantly ignored Suyin''s presence.


    "Because I''m your wife."


    "So?"


    Si Han stared at him in open-mouthed horror. "What do you mean by that? You can''t marry someone else when we are bound together by the sacred thread."


    "Are you sure we are still bound together? Because as far as I can see, you have nothing to do with me anymore. After Yiny''s divorce, we have lived separately for years, and even now if we are together, we are just two people sharing the same roof and nothing more. So why shall I not move on in life and stay with you? Give me one good reason."


    Si Han looked at Suyin. "You have to do this yourself, mom. Dad isn''t wrong either. Tell him what you have said to me just now."


    "NO!" Si Han warned. She stared back at her husband. "We aren''t divorced yet. This marriage is illegal."


    "It''s not. When you refused to sign the divorce papers, I appealed to the court and provided evidence that we are living separately for seven years. They have granted me to dissolve our marriage." He showed the papers which didn''t interest anyone. Whatever he said was true.


    Stream of tears rolled down Si Han''s eyes. "W-we have kids."


    "And they are old enough to understand this and let their father marry someone. Someone who can be his companion in old age. Am I not allowed, Yiny? Or are the rights exclusive to women?"


    Suyin was speechless. She turned to her mother and shook her shoulder. "Just tell him you love him. Why torment yourself with all this? Tell him how much you love him and want to be with him."


    "Oh, so you love me?" Zhao Shu descended the stairs and came to stand facing his wife. "Then how about you replace the bride at the altar and we marry once again? I''m still willing to start a new with you."


    Excitement stirred in Suyin''s eyes. "You and mom together! It''s the most beautiful thing I have heard. What else could I wish for? Mom--" she saw her mother standing speechless. "Mom? Say something."


    "She won''t, Yiny."


    "Why?" Suyin asked.


    "Because of you."


    "SHU!" Si Han yelled. "It has nothing to do with her."


    "Swear on her and repeat what you said just now." he lifted his wife''s hand and put it on Suyin''s head. "Swear it."


    Si Han yanked her hand down.


    Her mother''s action twisted in Suyin''s heart. She knew whatever her father was saying wasn''t a lie. "Dad, tell me. How am I keeping you two away from each other?"


    "You are not, sweetie. Don''t pay attention."


    Suyin ignored her mother and kept her gaze on her father. But he didn''t say a word.


    "Sorry, Suyin, they know everything," James said. Suyin looked at him, her brows meeting. "They know what Qi Wren did to you. Mom knew it from the beginning. She''s a woman and your mother. Didn''t she accompany you throughout your delivery? She caught you during that time, but never let you know about it."


    But.... that also became the reason for the tiff between her parents?

 Chapter 344 - Dad-wife

    "Mom, are you not getting back with dad because you think you''d be doing wrong to me? Or are you blaming dad for whatever happened?" Si Han couldn''t lift her heavy eyelids to look into Suyin''s eyes. And Suyin knew exactly why she wasn''t. "How could you? Whatever happened has nothing to do with dad. I bet, he would have killed Wren had he knew about it. Every father would have to save their daughters. Mom, dad loves me! He loves me with all his life! I''m his little Yiny! His favorite! And when I have forgotten everything, why couldn''t you?"


    Si Han opened her mouth, but Suyin put her finger on her lips. "I''m not done yet. You have just drowned me in a forever guilt for being the reason my parents couldn''t be together. My presence is the very reason you aren''t together even now! How am I supposed to live with it?"


    "Aren''t you doing the same, Yiny?" Zhao Shu said. Catching Suyin and Si Han''s attention as both looked, confused. "Honey. Isn''t he the biggest reason why aren''t you getting with Wang Shi?"


    "T-That''s different, dad."


    "Only the circ.u.mstances are different." A sideways step, and now he was standing facing Suyin. "Tell me, aren''t your reasons all related to Honey, just like your mom''s related to you? People will talk, question your love, conflict between siblings, uncertain future, blah blah blah....."


    Suyin''s heart shook. "H-How did you know?"


    "Next time don''t give your phone to James to transfer data. Especially when you speak your mind and record it as your personal diary." Suyin''s gaze moved, and James tucked behind Evan. "But it''s good at least we know what''s stopping you. Like mother, like daughter. Anyway, have you ever thought about how the little boy will live with the guilt that you and Wang Shi aren''t together because of him? His existence is the very reason that''s making you think of uncertain fears. Can his little heart take the blow?"


    Fear crept. Honey must never know.


    "Child, answer my one question with all honesty." he touched Suyin''s cheeks. "Do you love that man?" and tears poured from her eyes. "I know the answer, but want to hear it from you. Tell me, do you love him?"


    Her lips trembled. The answer on her tongue.....


    She slowly nodded.


    "Say it."


    "Y-Yes."


    "How much?"


    She gulped. Never looking away from her father''s face.


    "I-I can''t put it in words. But every time I push him away, it burns a part of me. And the pain always stays, gripping me in its clutches, reminding me of its presence every second. I think of death without him." Tears sprang free like a waterfall, and she hugged her father. This was the first time she had poured her heart out to a living soul instead of talking to her phone. "Dad, I can''t. Why is it so difficult?"


    She felt him rubbing his chin on her head, soothing her with soft strokes on her back. "Silly child. You are making it difficult. The man is head over heels for you. He loves you madly. I have never seen a love like him and as a father, I couldn''t be more assured to give my precious pearl to a man like him."


    "I know he''s best. But people will--"


    "To hell with people and their talks. They can do whatever they please, none of us give a damn about them. You just follow your path and move on. Don''t forget they will forever talk, even if you do or not do something. So isn''t it better to let them have a topic to talk about?"


    "Our life would be difficult--"


    "When was life not difficult? We all have challenges. But only the warriors face it headstrong. And grooms from it. Trust me, after some point in life, you will just look back and laugh at these challenges. I fought for your mom, and look what I have today-- you and Zeng. My best reward."


    "But our future--"


    "Learn to live in present, forget about the past, and don''t worry about the future. Future is forever uncertain, and its uncertainty is the very heart of the human creativity so you can paint your own canvas." he cupped her teary face, wiping them by strokes of thumb, "Yiny, brace the unknown and have faith in yourself and the man you have chosen. Things will fall back in their place. And if it didn''t-- that''s the life throwing a lemon, and your dad has a very good lemonade recipe."


    Suyin felt a touch of another warm hand on her head as her mother came to stand with her. "Mom!" she hugged her. "Your dad is right. Go my little bird, your happiness lies with him. Knowing my blockhead daughter so well, I know she''d forever regret this decision and be a cry sulky baby. It''s best you face the challenges with him, and complete this beautiful love story of yours."


    Suyin gazed at the two. "Was this all your planning?" Her mother shook her head.


    "Mine!" Everyone looked when Zeng''s voice came from the altar, but none could find him there. "Here--here---I''m here." The bride lifted her wedding gown way above her knees, displaying a sight of her long hairy legs, and jumped in front of the family. She yanked off the veil off of her head. Zeng! "Mine and James. And we pitched in dad. Evan was a supporting character. Mom was the prop."


    Mother slapped the back of Zeng''s head. "Rascal. You were marrying your dad?"


    The priest was horrified and kneeled in front of the Buddha statue. "Oh, lord buddha! Forgive me for my sins. I was about to tie a father and son in the sacred thread of matrimony? Forgive me. Forgive me."


    "Hey, but you didn''t. Thankfully. Mom''s slipper saved us." Zeng patted his beating heart. "For a second I thought I''m really getting a dad-wife. Thinking about the honeymoon between us gave me goosebumps."


    This time Si Han''s slap came stronger. "Shut up, you cheeky monkey."

 Chapter 345 - It was the time

    Suyin chuckled.


    "You guys are horrible. It seems you have prepared yourself for everything. And even he--" she pointed her finger at Buddha, "--even he colluded this time. The entire universe is educating me since yesterday."


    "Because you would have reasoned it too if it were another woman." Zeng said, "You would have challenged the people, and everything. Why can''t you do it for yourself? With being unfair to yourself, how can you help others."


    Suyin went quiet. "I-I can''t deny that."


    "Ha, I won an argument!" Zeng raises his fist in victory.


    "But now it''s clearer than ever that mom and dad love Susu most. Are you sure you are not adopted?" James teased, running to hide behind Suyin when Zeng ran to beat him. His expression turned serious suddenly as he hugged her from behind. "Sorry, Susu. I--"


    "No." she touched his cheek. "I''m not angry. Your intentions were not wrong. But next time I''m not giving you my phone."


    Everybody laughed.


    Zhao Shu put his car''s keys in Suyin''s hand. "Go. Take your man." She looked at her mother. "Don''t worry about us. The fact is, I really don''t care anymore. I only did this to make you understand."


    "But--"


    "We have lived a considerable time with each other. Have raised two amazing kids. Even we had to continue living like this, I won''t give a damn. At least now I know the reasons."


    "Suyin, you should go." Si Han stepped between Suyin and Zhao Shu. "I have things to talk to your father. Don''t worry about us. Just go where your heart is."


    And she sprinted as if her life depends on it. Her feet bringing a jump of happiness as she ran.


    *******


    This was the second luxury car that she had ruined in a day. Not to forget the heavy fine slips that''d arrive home. Let''s just hope they don''t cancel her driving license and throw her in jail.


    Huffing-puffing just as she reached the hospital, the president''s security stopped her to take the lift that reach Wang Shi''s office lounge.


    Of course, they will. Elder Wang was admitted here for months. And that''s the restricted area.


    "Let her go." Before Suyin could reason, she heard Junjie''s voice coming from behind. "Remember, no one stops her again. Otherwise, I''ll let brother know that you stopped Qiang''s mother."


    The bodyguards stepped back instantly. The security in-charge bowed in apology. "We are newly appointed, sir. Please forgive us, madam."Junjie dismissed them


    "Sister, you are drenched." He said, grimacing as water pooled under her feet.


    "Don''t bother. I just want to meet Shishi. Like Now."


    "You--" A smile broke on Junjie''s face, his head tilting in amus.e.m.e.nt. "I was right about you when I named you Annabelle. Scary. Dangerous. But a doll. You finally realized, didn''t you?"


    Suyin nodded. "But yet to appease the angry birds. Are the passwords to the lift unchanged?"


    "Unchanged. And brother is going to get the biggest surprise of his life." He takes off his coat and wrapped it around Suyin''s shoulder. "Oh, I''m so lucky to come here on time and get to witness this."


    She slapped his hand before following him to the lift. Shy.


    "Sister, what changed that you--"


    She rolled her eyes. "Long story. Just understand that I break the walls that were stopping me. Maybe it was good Shishi left me alone for two weeks."


    The ding from the lift was the signal they have reached.


    Suyin squared her shoulder.


    The office looked the same, and it surely refreshed her memories. The last time she had left this place she had severed her ties with him, and today when she''s back, she''s here to start a new with the same name.


    "Everyone''s in the VIP room with grandpa Wang," Junjie said. It was the room solely built to treat the President of the nation and his family.


    Suyin bit her lips, "Everyone?"


    "Yes. Uncle Wang, Aunt Liu, Honey, Sister Meimei, Jianyu, and Brother Shishi."


    Suyin winced.


    The entire family?


    Suyin kept herself from touching her hair, or check her appearance once. Fought to check her wet clothes. Coming unprepared seemed a bad idea suddenly.


    But how was she to know that--


    Wait. She knew it already that Elder Wang was in the hospital. She just forgot about it in her excitement.


    Junjie walked ahead, knocked once, and hold the door open. "Look who''s here!" he welcomed Suyin with a wave of a hand.


    It was the time.


    She stopped. Cursing her stars. The entire family was there, staring at her.


    Mr. Wang shoved his hand in his pocket. Mrs. Wang rose her brows. And Suyin wished Wang Shi''s mother wouldn''t say a word. Not now. Now today. Please.


    Xiu Mei''s face bloomed into a beautiful smile. The pregnancy glow doing wonders and she looked so cute with a baby bump. And Suyin could tell by her body stance that she wants to hug her.


    Jianyu tilted her head, amused, and looked at Wang Shi once to see his expression. Honey muttered something, running to hide behind Wang Shi. He mouthed at her, ''Don''t take me. You promised me one night.''


    And Elder Wang. Though hooked to contraptions, gave a million-dollar smile from the oxygen mask on his nose and pressed the button to prop his bed a little up. His eyes shining as if Suyin''s presence has done magic to his old bones.


    Standing amidst them, Suyin felt most weird. Talking to Wang Shi in privacy would have been so much better. God knows what would happen and what these people will do.


    Wang Shi stood close to Elder Wang in scrubs, a file in his hands. His face was devoid of any expression, shoulders tensed, knuckles turned white from holding the file too tight. He was worried. Scared. Uncertain of her next action. The frown lines on his forehead hurts her. But who was she to blame when she has done this to him.


    "Come, child, why are you standing at the door?" the old man said hoarsely. "Honey, won''t you prepare tea for your mother?"


    "I will put you under if you speak another word." Wang Shi warned.

 Chapter 346 - Take responsibility

    "My greetings to the elders present here." Suyin bowed. "I-I-- Can I talk to Shishi for a moment, please?"


    None speak.


    The old man waved his hand at Suyin, giving a go-ahead, and then he waved at everyone, asking them to take their seats as if a soap opera was about to begin. All eyes at the center of attraction. Her.


    Suyin "..."


    ''Guess this has to be done in front of everyone. Thank you, God. You just wait.''


    She breathed and turned to Shishi.


    "I-I had my fears. Uncertainties. Inhibitions. I know I have hurt you a lot because of all that. These past seven months you never stopped trying, and I never stop pushing you. What a blockhead I was. Dumb." her voice turned serious as she continued. "Don''t know when your efforts broke all my defences. I found something far greater in you.... I found friendship. I found a new best friend that I never realised I needed.


    I don''t have to pretend to be anyone or anything with you and can just be the wild, impulsive Suyin that I am. I enjoyed your company so much that slowly you became my habit. My necessity. My reason to smile. To laugh. To cry.


    Morning tea and conversations with you became an inseparable part of my life. Talking to you is easy, and you never judge. Your cheesy lines though make me cringe, they make me shy too. I smile at your smile. I feel touched when you ask about my day or check my fever."


    Her voice started to choke, and she stubbornly shook her head to jerk the tear from her eyes to continue.


    "I spent the last two weeks without you, and they were the most hellish of time I have ever faced. Life lost its colors. I had no one to tease me and look at me with a smile and say how beautiful I look. No one prepared a yummy breakfast for me. No one asked me how was my day. No one cared if I had my meal. No one cared how I got the bruise on my hand. No one.....I was alone. Living alone. I felt incomplete. Everything was a nightmare without you.


    Dammit, it''s your fault. Look what you have done to this woman. Ten years of crush should have stayed as a crush. But you turned it into this. You even monopolised my dreams. Must you be so stubborn?"


    She sniffed, wiping her runny nose with the back of her hand.


    "In your absence, I realised how much I missed you. How much I want you. How much important you are to me. You are someone who invested yourself in me, saw me win, supported my vision, and loved me with all your heart. Yet the stupid me---" she sighs.  "Shishi, the fact is Suyin can die but cannot stay away from you. That''s impossible now. I lost my heart to you. I-I want to be with you. Forever and ever."


    None spoke.


    Wang Shi stayed rooted at his place. His expressionless face scaring her.


    Junjie and Honey stared at her with jaw dropped, eye-popping out comically. They rubbed fists on their eyes, shook ears to confirm if that''s really happening.


    Mrs. Wang held her husband''s hand, both looking at Suyin fondly.


    Jianyu rubbed Xiu Mei''s shoulder when she got emotional.


    Elder Wang grinned, giving her two thumbs-up. He even pulls down the oxygen mask and gave a flying kiss. "She''s just like your grandma. Ha, i-it reminds me of our proposal--" he caught Wang Shi staring and pulls up the oxygen mask, pretending to go back to sleep.


    Of course, Wang Shi has every right to be like this. Seven months he tried, and she was a bitch.


    But would she give up that easily? Never.


    She took a step closer. "In the end we only regret the chances we didn''t take, love confessions we never did, relationsh.i.p.s we were afraid to have, and the decisions we waited too long to make. I don''t want to be the one to be defined by this quote.


    I-I understand your anger. And I deserve it. I''m ready to be punished, whatever it may be. But I''m not ready to stay apart from you. Now that you have messed up with my heart, you have to take my responsibility. For the lifetime. No refund. No exchange. Mandatory love required. With passion I pursue and cling to you, because you have your grip on my life and soul, and I want to keep my heart close to you. Dr. Wang Shi, will you accept Zhao Suyin?"


    Everyone in sync, "SAY YES!


    No response.


    Embarrassed. Suyin looked at the old man with a crying face, pleading with her eyes.


    Honey pulled at Wang Shi''s trousers. "Dad, say yes before her mind change. Let''s seize this chance. Look, we even have witnesses. She won''t be able to go back on her words."


    The old man pulls down his mask. "Honey dear, bring my stick. I have to knock some sense into someone."


    Wang Shi turned, pressed the button on the intercom to call Nurse Mia. "Give .5ml of Ativan to the old man." then he turned, grabbed Suyin''s wrist, and walked out.


    The old man pulls down the mask for the nth time, "Hey, I want to hear it! Do it in front of me. Are you going to kiss?"


    Xiu Mei suppressed laughter. Jianyu came to the old man and fixed his oxygen mask. "The med Shishi ordered is a sedative. If you don''t behave, I''ll let the nurse sedate you. And then you won''t get to see anything at all." that worked, and the old man turned into an obedient kid.


    Honey ran after them but was held by Junjie. He fit his fist, kicked his shoes in his stomach, "Let me go, uncle Juju. Dad is angry. I need to do something. Earlier it was mom, and now it''s dad. Are they going to play this game forever? Dumb a.d.u.l.ts. I''m a thousand times better than them."


    Junjie whispered something in Honey''s ears, brightening Honey''s face like thousand light bulbs. "Oh, you are so cunning, Uncle. But I like the idea. Let''s go."


    The next moment, the two were found standing outside Wang Shi''s office, their ear against the door.


    *******


    Suyin caught the movement of steps and shadows from the little space under the door.


    That must be the worrywart Honey.


    Gosh, and she loves this little fluff ball.


    However, what matters right now was the man standing before her. This won''t be easy. Wish she was aware appeasing angry Wang Shi was this difficult she would have come prepared with her dramatic family.


    "I know what Honey did after I left. Don''t worry, I will talk to him about it. You don''t have to do this to get him back."


    "Not Honey. I''m doing this to get Honey''s dad."


    .....

 Chapter 347 - Title *secret*

    Rain falls like God''s own poetry, each drop like a letter in a song that''s singing the tale of love. And with it came the earthy fragrance. Natural. Soothing. Calming. The melody and the fragrance bring serenity as the two love birds untangled the chaos of their life. Blessed by the God. Witnessed by the heavens.


    "Why, Suyin?" Wang Shi held his breath as he lifted his eyes to meet hers. Beautiful. Deep. Yet so unsure. "Why do you want me? What exactly changed?"


    "I changed," Suyin said. "I thought I was doing right by staying away from you until I came to know mom isn''t with dad because of me. She knew already what Qi Wren did to me, and still holds dad responsible for getting me married to that monster. Or maybe she thinks it would be unfair to me if she gets back with dad. Just whatever it is-- her reasons are all related to me."


    "Just like yours is related to Honey?"


    "Yes. And I realized how baseless they are. She loves dad, yet she''s stopping herself just like me."


    "So you love me?"


    "Argh," She tucked her hair in anger. "You dumb man, why do you think I agreed to therapy? Why did I push myself with heavy medicines when the treatment was already a bottleneck? Why do you think I lost control in the waterfall cave? Why I came to your office in the middle of the night? Why do my eyes shine when I see you? Why, dammit?"


    Wang Shi licked his lips. "I don''t know."


    She moved like a bolt of light. Slipped her hand around his neck, curling her fingers in his hair. Rose to her foot and kissed.


    A wild kiss that drew blood. A punishment. Anger.


    She pulled back for breath, panting, eyes narrowing at him. "Because I love you. You occupy my mind every day. Every second. In your absence I have counted down days to get a chance to see you again. I love you, Dr. Wang Huang Shishi. I love you."


    A tear slides down from his eyes, and she tip-toed to kiss it away. Then moving to brush his bleeding lips with hers. "That night you asked about your place in my life. But you had already answered it by saying that you see love in my eyes. That was the truth you saw! Silly, Honey was already with me, so what do you think I was crying for? The only thing that was hurting me was the thought of not getting you in my life."


    "What about people?"


    "We''ll face them together. I don''t want to be a coward."


    "Future uncertainties?"


    "Haven''t you said to trust our upbringing?"


    "Think again, Suyin. I don''t want to hear nonsense from you again."


    Suyin shrugged. "Zhao Suyin doesn''t want to use her brain anymore in matters related to the heart. A mistake once done shouldn''t be repeated."


    He smiled. Finally, he smiled. "You have troubled me a lot."


    "I can say the same. Do you have any idea what my situation was when you left me alone?"


    "I do. Dr. Jeff kept me updated." Suddenly, his voice grew timid. Apprehensive. "I have a confession to make."


    "What?"


    "The next day when I woke up Dr. Jeff came to me to explain your case." the weight of Wang Shi''s words grew in the room, making her feel as if walls were moving, shrinking the room.


    "Is there something wrong with me? I know I''m weird. Am I nuts? Insane? Mad?"


    "No. No." He held her in his embrace tight when her eyes watered. "He was there to tell me something about you-- something that he had found during the treatment and it was important for me to know."


    "Go on. I''m listening."


    "I need you to understand that the seeds of your fears and uncertainties originated inside you in your early childhood, with abuse at the hands of your cousin, aunt, gender-biased mistreatment, emotional and physical abuse at the hands of your ex, and then the loss of your son. Even your mentor, Master Gong, never gave you the correct treatment but manipulated your fragile mind for his own motive. All this build up over the years and eventually exploded at the wrong person. Me."


    Suyin gasped. "Why you?"


    "I asked the same." Wang Shi rubbed her arm to ease her shivering. "The person you get most angry with is also the one whom you love the most. According to Jeff''s analysis, I have a huge impact on the mind of the fragile Suyin when she was only a weak girl. Remember, I''m your decade-old crush? That''s why you overthink when it comes to me."


    Realization struck, and she exhaled. "Yes, that''s true. I have experienced nothing like this with someone else other than you. My decisions are always swift, confident, but with you, I''m stuck on an edge. Undecided. Scared. Until--"


    "Until someone guides you or pushes you to have faith and take a step ahead." That''s where her family and James came to help her. "It was never my plan to leave you alone in El Sandrios. No matter the circ.u.mstances, Wang Shi would never leave his Suyin alone. I did it on Dr. Jeff''s instructions. He thinks I''m the needed push in your treatment to make you move past the bottleneck. He was sure you''d accept your feelings."


    Suyin covered her mouth. "So you were aware of the plan?"


    "Yeah." though he was against hurting her, he had to do it knowing exactly what suppressed emotions do to the patients. Not to forget she had tried to commit suicide once.


    "I''m glad you did that." He just made her open the door that she was forcing herself to not look at." I would have died--" he silenced her with a hand on her lips.


    The next moment, she saw him taking a step back, and held out his hand to her, his palm open.


    "So my dear Suyin, will you be Shishi''s? Forever and ever. Lifetime deal. No exchange. No return. Mandatory love required."


    She smiled. Lifted her hand to meet his and his fingers curled. He brought her hand to his mouth, and kissed her knuckles, and pulled her into his embrace in one swift motion.


    She lifted on her toes, his lips just an inch away.....


    "So?"


    "So?"


    "S-SO?"


    BANG BANG BANG


    Suyin and Wang Shi''s heads snapped at the door simultaneously, bumping into each other.


    "Oww..."


    "Ahhh..."


    "SHE''S WAITING FOR A KISS, MR. SLOW!" Honey''s voice came from the other side of the door. "IF YOU DIDN''T DO IT, I WILL. LET ME KISS MY DUCKY! OPEN THE DAMN DOOR!"


    BANG BANG BANG


    "This monkey! He is peeking from the keyhole!" Wang Shi growled and she couldn''t contain her laughter. Ah, these two! "Get lost, bratty. She''s min--"


    Before he could complete, she pressed her mouth to his. His taste poured into her like a drug, and she drank it like a desperate addict got a new life. Soul meeting soul on the lover''s lips.


    She heard the celebrations from the other side of the door and grinned....


    But he pinched her waist, demanding her attention in the tender moment that doesn''t want to wait anymore. There was something heavenly about this kiss, a thirst of months....


    His hands found her h.i.p.s, and she jumped into his arms, wrapping her legs around him. Don''t know when she found herself being lowered on the couch on his l.a.p, and he continued kissing her, going past the boundaries of her lips to tease her naughty tongue.


    Suyin hugged him with all her might to feel his body against her. It was the feeling of being back into his arms and it was so beautiful at that moment that tears rolled down her eyes.


    "I love you, hottie bum."


    "I love you too, my sweetheart."


    It was the burst of love that reached its destiny after crossing hurdles and marked their destiny forever. It was the connection of hearts that shows the strength of the two souls destined to meet.


    That''s why it''s called Mark of the destiny.


    ********


    Title- Mark of the destiny.


    Imp- And here I end the last arc. I know you want to know more and that will come in epilogue chapters. Including the *cough* cough* chapters. Suyin''s pregnancy. And some family moments.


    Love you guys. Thank you for supporting the book. It was a memorable journey.


    IMP- The book is already complete. The rest of the chapters will be the bonus chapters. So don''t pressurize me for updates or ask if I''m stretching it to August. Every author has to use the bonus chapters to promote his/her next work.


    Love


    dream_ash

 Chapter 348 - Epilogue- Family 1

    It was the most beautiful night. They kissed, they nestled into each other''s arms; they confessed their love for each other, however, a swarm of emotions took over Suyin. Tears stream down her cheeks as she kept on apologizing over and over.


    "Shhh...It''s alright, love. All''s well that ends well. Now that we are together, I''m already forgetting those bitter moments." Wang Shi whispered, holding her in his embrace and running his fingers through her wet, tangled hair.


    She looked up from his c.h.e.s.t, catching his eyes blood red. "I-I thought we would never--"


    "Shhh....I''ve got you--This is over-- Don''t say--" he couldn''t finish, his throat painfully tightening. The same fear he had faced as well. But seeing the compassion and love in her eyes, now it seems worth it.


    Peaceful silence engulfed them. They forgot the world around them by lying in each other''s arms. Her wet body burrowed into him, both clutching each other tightly as if life depends on it.


    Don''t know how much time passed, none broke the hug.


    BANG BANG BANG


    "Don''t." Wang Shi tightened his grip around her waist when she jolted up. "Those annoying people will interrupt this moment. Let them stay outside."


    She blinked her swollen eyes. "Among those annoying people are your parents and a pregnant woman."


    "And a whining child who knows his game too well. Wanna bet he''s the one banging the door."


    "Why?"


    "Obviously to coax his angry ducky?"


    That made her laugh. "And I won''t let myself melt by his cute pout. Nope. Not this time. He was really harsh on me--" he gave her a knowing look. She slapped his shoulder. "--hey, I will. Believe me." his only reply was an expressionless face that silenced Suyin, and she dropped her head on his shoulder.


    Something feels off. She wasn''t able to keep herself awake.


    He stroked her back. "Suyin?"


    She hummed.


    "You are cold," he touched her neck and cheeks with the back of his hand, "Because of your wet clothes your body is losing heat faster." Sighs, "Even my clothes are damp, it won''t help either."


    She felt a thawing in her heart, the warmth of being cared by someone and being held in his arms. "Nothing that a hot water bathe won''t fix."


    BANG BANG BANG


    He scowled at the door and then concentrated back at her. "I''ll prepare you a bath. You better not catch a cold."


    "I can do that. Open the door first. Let them in." He made a face, and she lightly slapped his cheek, "GO!" Though she asked him to go, her own sounded weak to her own ears. She wanted to spend more time like this but alas....


    Heat pulsated through her when he scooped her up in his arms, carrying her over to the bathroom and turning the faucets at a set temperature.


    Suyin stripped out of her black dress and stepped into the bathtub in her u.n.d.e.r.g.a.r.m.e.n.ts, m.o.a.ning at the touch of warm water against her feet as she sat down on the edge of the tub. She kept her face straight, suppressing the smile, understanding why he was rooted. "The door, Shishi!"


    He sighed, looking at his own wet clothes, his gorgeous woman, and then at the bathtub spacious enough for the two. But another bang on the door broke that dream of his. "You are a bully. Come here," he said, leaping at her to squeeze her cheeks into a fish pout and snatching one last kiss. "I''ll remember this."


    And he left....


    "Don''t forget to give me clothes. With u.n.d.e.r.g.a.r.m.e.n.ts." she reminded from the bathroom.


    *******


    Embarrassment. The only word that''s apt to describe Wang Shi''s face when he opened the door to see his entire family standing. Waiting. A stupid knowing smile on their faces.


    "Dad! What happened to your lips?" can anything be worse than this? The first question to pop out of Honey''s mouth turned Wang Shi downright flushed.


    With great efforts Wang Shi looked up, only to find everyone holding their smiles in. "Shut up, everyone." he looked down, "And you. Mind your own business."


    "Whatever." Honey bends his body at awkward angles to get a peek inside the room. "Where''s duck-- mom?"


    "Bathing." Honey''s eyes narrowed when Wang Shi blocked his way. "She doesn''t want to meet you."


    "As if I''ll believe."


    "You have no other option."


    "Dad, are you looking for a fight? Move aside, this is very serious. I have to have to talk to her."


    "Get an appointment, brat. She''s mine."


    "Grandma, Grandpa, look what dad is doing!"


    "Shishi!" Liu Jeilan said, exasperated at the way her son was troubling her grandson.


    "Mom-- hey--"


    Honey snatched the opportunity and crawled his way inside from the space between Wang Shi''s long legs. "Ducky is mine. Stay out. Don''t forget I''m her first love."


    Wang Shi "..."


    The family broke into a peal of laughter.


    Junjie was the first to move, walking with open arms "Congratulations, brother. Finally Annabelle is yours." he ducked when Wang Shi showed a slap. "Sorry, sorry...." hugging him the next moment.


    Jianyu gave a thumbs up, jerking a tear from his eyes, and Wang Shi opened his other arm for him.


    "Hey, you guys forgot about me." Jin had just stepped out from the elevator and saw them hugging, sprinting to join them. "Congrats brother. I''m so happy for you." Junjie the messenger had shared the auspicious news at the family WhatsApp group. It was a celebration!


    Liu Jeilan held her husband''s arm, smiling in between tears. She had never seen her son this happy that his eyes were reflecting his happiness. As a mother, what else could she wish for? "He''s just like you. Stubborn. Finally, he got her."


    Wang Huang, "And I can see you aren''t angry anymore."


    "You see our son''s smile? That''s all I care about. Besides, I realized, Suyin is really the one Shishi and Honey deserve. She''s perfect for our family. For my kids."


    "If it''s done, I''m waiting." Xiu Mei reminded and Wang Shi kicked his brothers away, welcoming her. "Yayyy! Cheers for SuShi."


    "SUSHI?" Junjie asked.


    "Suyin+ Shi= SuShi."


    ******

 Chapter 349 - Epilogue - Family 2

    "Ducky," Honey cooed, placing his head at the bathroom door, hearing the sound of water. "What are you doing?"


    No reply.


    "You know, what I said on the plane was a lie. Just forget it.  I-I did it for dad. That''s it. The truth is I love you more than anybody in this world. You are my favorite. My cute quaking ducky."


    No reply.


    He knocked softly. "Mommy! My sweetest, intelligent, most beautiful, gorgeous, lovely, charming-- aii--" the door opened, and he fell facedown at her feet. Looking up and made a cheekiest face. "Mommy--"


    "Excuse me, Mr. Wang Qiang." Nose high in the air, Suyin tightened her bathrobe, striding to the lounge. Muttering curses at Wang Shi for not giving her clothes.


    Honey ran before her to access the cupboard before her. He pointed at the first dress. "This one?"


    No reply.


    He pulled the hem of the second dress. "This one?"


    No reply. Suyin sat down to apply lotion, taking Honey''s action from the corner of her eyes.


    "I think this green dress. Mommy will look cute-c.u.mber."


    Suyin pulled her cheeks in. Where on earth did he found this cheesy line? Like father, like son.


    That action didn''t go unnoticed from Honey''s eyes and yanked the dress from its hanger. "I know this--CRK--CRK--" His hands froze. Gulped. His gaze slowly moved up, horrified to see a gaping hole under the arm where the stitches meet. "Nope. Not this one. Yellow suits you better. Let''s get this one--"


    "Please spare that." Suyin stood to get herself a dress before another one gets sacrificed. Her mouth twitched at the sight of a hole in cute-c.u.mber dress.


    "I-I will buy you two--no three. I have--" he counted on his fingers, "--five hundred eighty-five yuan in my piggy bank. Remaining amount Aunty Han will discount for me. After all, I''d be her grandson."


    Suyin "..." ''Cunning''


    "Why are you here? Go to your dad. Don''t you love him a little more than me? I''m nothing to you." Suyin went back to the bathroom to change, and he followed her like a lost puppy, wagging his tail. Honey bumped into her when she stopped at the door abruptly. "I shall change my clothes inside. Do you want to join me?"


    When she came out, the little one was sitting on the floor. He stood and followed her to the dressing as she sat down facing the mirror to dry her hair. "Ducky. I know you can''t stay angry with me. Please.... let''s be friends again." His hands started kneading the knots in her shoulders.


    No reply.


    He rubbed his soft cheek against her, and she swallowed, catching him grinning at her from the reflection.


    "Aww... Someone''s trying to control. C''mon, why try when you can''t? I know you want to kiss me. Look look- my soft chubby red cheeks."


    Only Suyin knows how much patience she was using to keep herself in check. And the worst- he was glued to her like a little seductress, enchanting her with his baby fragrance and cute antics.


    "Ten little fingers, ten little toes, two little ears, and one little nose. Two little eyes that shine so bright and one little mouth to KISSSS. Kiss ducky kiss...."


    She stood but he wrapped his little fingers around hers. Eyes pooling with tears. "When God created mothers, all as lovely as can be. He made one extra special and saved her just for me." he held his ears. "Sorry."


    Suyin kneeled. That was where her anger ends. No matter what, it''s not in her capacity to stay angry with him for long. And that was where Honey wrapped his arm around her neck, and gave her a forehead kiss, melting her anger away.


    A forehead kiss!


    "Stubborn."


    "Like mommy like son."


    "Naughty."


    "You are smiling."


    "Troublemaker."


    "Yet you love me."


    Suyin opened her mouth but closed it. No matter what, Honey would come up with a befitting reply. He kissed her nose. "Are you still angry?"


    "What do you think?"


    He poked his cheeks with fingers, grinning ear to ear. "Prove it."


    And the next second, she smothered him with countless kisses. "Naughty."


    Giggles echoed in the room. "Ahhh... no no no not tickles.... no please... hahaha...ha ha ha..."


    "Seriously, Suyin!" Suyin stopped tickling. She and Honey looked up to find everyone staring at them. Wang Shi glanced at his watch. "I expected better. Not even thirty minutes! Did you forget how he tortured you for two weeks?"


    Honey bolted up and hugged Suyin protectively. "Hey, you are flaming the fire I just put off. Must you be so jealous of our love?"


    "Love? Excuse me? She''s my wife."


    "WIFE?" Everyone in sync. Wang Shi pursed his lips. In that instant Suyin''s cheeks were rosy, and she could feel everyone''s gaze moving between her and Wang Shi.


    Wang Huang leaned to whisper, "It was right of me to tell you our love story. Ah, but I was a step ahead. I expected better." Liu Jeilan pulled him to her side.


    "W-Would be." Wang Shi cleared his throat. "M-my would-be wife."


    "Ooooo.... so brother is proposing?" Junjie''s hand went across Suyin''s shoulder. "Sister, do you accept the proposal? Just remember, three brothers come complimentary with him."


    Honey raised his hand, "And a son."


    "Enough now. No one will tease my daughter-in-law--"


    Everyone, "DAUGHTER IN LAW?" This time Honey joined as well.


    Liu Jeilan closed her mouth.


    Jin laughed. "This was the highlight."


    Junjie, "And the scariest. Daughter-in-law! Pfft--"


    "Oh Shut up with the teasing now." Liu Jeilan strolled to take Suyin''s hand in hers. "Let''s go. Elder Wang must be waiting for you."

 Chapter 350 - Epilogue- Family 3

    Smile. That was all the old man was when he saw Suyin and Wang Shi coming into the room. No need to ask what happened. Their eyes were answering everything.


    He didn''t want to have a conversation while lying down, but the poor body didn''t support him to stand. He pressed the button to propel the bed up and extended trembling hands towards Suyin. "Come, child." he looked at Wang Shi, "You too. Sit with her. Let me see you two together to my heart''s content. Who knows--"


    "Grandpa." Wang Shi squeezed his hand, careful of the IV. "Don''t say it."


    "Silly child. Do you think I don''t know why none of you have left my side in this past week?" he glanced at the ceiling. "I''m bored here and want to see my sweetheart again. Do you think she would be as old as me? I think no."


    Suyin cast a worried glance at the monitor, at the unfavorable numbers and readings. Elder Wang brought her trembling hand to her cheek. Suyin held his hand at her cheek. "Don''t look at them. They are worthless. Just like me."


    "Can I-- Is there something I can get you?" she asked.


    "Yes," he said. Suyin waited but the old man didn''t say another word but just looked at her with teary eyes, trying to communicate everything he was feeling and wanted to make a request. He looked at Wang Shi, at Honey, and then at her.


    She bit her lips and gave a terse nod of acceptance. "I will."


    Wang Shi doesn''t have to ask what it was. His grandfather had only one wish to see him and Honey forever happy. The old was just seeking a confirmation that Suyin would look after them.


    "And I can assure you, that my grandson and great-grandson will forever treasure you. You will be the pearl these two are going to fight for." Suyin chuckled in between her tears, reaching to wipe tears from the old man''s eyes. "Ah, wish I could live a little more to see you as my daughter-in-law." he looked over at Wang Huang and Liu Jeilan, "It should be the grand wedding. Let the world see this old man Wang''s grandson is getting married. Don''t disappoint me."


    "GG." Honey climbed on the bed, crawling his way to hug the old man. Tears ran free from his eyes.


    "Hey, buddy. Are you crying? Watch it, your ducky will think you are a crybaby."


    Honey looked up, pouting. "No one can--"


    "Ah, I remember remember. No one calls her ducky other than you and your dad. But I like this endearment a lot, so can I?"


    Honey hugged him back. "Fine. But don''t make it a habit."


    "Duc--ky." The old man smiled using the endearment. "And what do you use for this naughty one and Shishi?"


    Suyin pointed her finger at Honey, "Little fairy."


    "You must be blind to call this little devil a fairy. A-And him?"


    Suyin couldn''t bring herself to say it.


    "Hottie bum." Honey''s chocking voice came from elder Wang''s c.h.e.s.t. The old man cackled, his face grimaced at the sting of lungs. He warned others not to make a sound or move lest they scare Honey, who was already shedding tears on his c.h.e.s.t.


    Wang Shi hinted Junjie to take Honey out.


    Honey didn''t object or ask anything. He understood everything. This was probably the last he was seeing his GG. He kissed the old man''s forehead. "Bye, GG. Love you."


    "Love you back, buddy."


    .....


    Three days....


    Suyin and Wang Shi stayed by the old man''s side, taking turns to take care of him at night. As doctors, they knew it was the time.


    The old man never talked again after that day as if all his wishes were fulfilled. All he did was stare at the ceiling, hugging his dead wife''s photo to the c.h.e.s.t.


    The last day, he gave her a red envelope before breathing his last.


    A few days later when she opened it to find a silver dollar coin from the 19th century. When she showed it to Wang Shi, he told her it was the coin his grandmother received from the Wang family''s elder when her marriage was fixed into the family.


    ''Blessings. An elder''s blessing''


    ****


    Time never stops....


    Life never pauses....


    Elder Wang died.... The same week Xiu Mei gave birth to a little baby boy.


    In a blink of an eye, four months had passed.


    And if one thing that most changed in these four months was-- their relationship. It strengthened. It turned more beautiful and romantic where none of them shy away from expressing their love and d.e.s.i.r.e for each other.


    Thirty-eight hours had passed and Suyin had rushed back from the office to not miss the special moment. Standing at the operation theatre observatory, she had her eyes on the man who was doing one of the most challenging surgeries of his life.


    One hundred and five staff members were coordinating to make the surgery successful. All lead by Wang Shi. The conjoined twins were barely a year old girl, sharing a common diaphragm and a liver and just a pair of lungs.


    It''s a responsibility. And Wang Shi doesn''t want to disappoint their parents. He understands the pain of losing a child.


    And she knew he''d do it successfully.


    He will.


    Forty hours...


    And she saw Wang Shi stepping back from the table. He takes off his glove and looked up at the observatory and gave her a thumbs up.


    Ignoring the presence of people around her, she gave a flying kiss, mouthing, ''I''m proud of you.''  and like a proud wife she was, she applauded for him, loudest, joined by everyone present.


    An hour later, after confirming that the twins were stable, he returned to the office to see Suyin.


    "Suy--"


    She threw herself at him, peppering kisses all over his face. Startled at first, soon he composed himself and return her gesture with a deep kiss on her lips, tasting the strawberry of her lip balm. Just when he thought to go deeper, she broke the kiss, leading him to the table where a scrumptious hot meal was waiting for him.


    "But I''m interested in strawberries only."


    Initially, she didn''t understand but seeing him l.i.c.k.i.n.g his lips, it dawned on her. "Later. But first this." she pressed at his shoulder to make him sit.


    "Promise?"


    "Greedy man."


    He checked his watch. "Forty-one hours and ten minutes, Suyin!"


    She could see the red marks on his face where he had worn the mask and the head equipment. The swelling around his eyes was prominent. "Behave. You have an entire night to kiss me."


    "But--"


    "Two days, no kissing."


    "He--"


    "No cuddles too."


    He opened his mouth, but Suyin was already ready to increase the punishment. He raises his hand in defeat. Face drooping in disappointment as he pulled the plate.


    "Stop."

 Chapter 351 - Epilogue- Because you are making me conscious.

    "Stop."


    His brows rose. But Suyin came over and settled down gracefully in his l.a.p. He wrapped his arms around her waist. "Am I getting a treat, my love?"


    "Just food. And stop looking at me like that." Jeez, his gaze!


    "Why?"


    "Because you are making me conscious." She turned to get a serving and a spoon. Awed by her actions, he opened his mouth before she had even spooned a bite. "Now coming back to the task where a mother complains about the naughty child as soon as the father returns from work. Honey is behaving weird."


    "Not weird. He''s in search of an adventure. A treasure. A kick! It''s your fault for letting him bring that box from El Sandrios."


    "My fault? My fault?"


    "Ok fine. That was a terrible choice of words." he pointed at the sweet and sour fish and she spooned a piece for him. "You should have not asked him to meet a museum curator to know about the box. Now that he knows the symbols on the box date to15th century and is probably linked to the lost treasure of Llanganates, he won''t stop."


    She facepalmed, "This boy. Impossible. Let me get that box once, I''ll hide it. No. Burn it." he let out a chuckle, "What!"


    "Actually I''m glad that he''s busy--" he nudged the tip of his nose to her earlobe, kissing just below it, sending a jolt of electricity that she almost dropped the plate.


    "You-- Now I understood why Honey is always in search of an adventure. He got it from you."


    "But I''m looking for a different type of adventure--"


    "NO!" she shoved the spoon in his mouth before he takes another move. "After eating, you will only sleep cuddle with me. Nothing more."


    He asked for a moment to let him finish the food in his mouth and then, "No... You may have forgotten, but I didn''t. We have an appointment booked with Dr. Jeff."


    "Later."


    "I''m not missing it. No chance."


    She dropped the spoon, "But--"


    "Two days, no kissing." He scooped the rice and bring it to her mouth.


    "Hey--" and shove the spoon in when her lips parted.


    "No cuddles too."


    "Bully."


    "Who started first?"


    "Fine. But I''ll ask Dr. Jeff to shift the appointment two hours later. Take it, or drop it."


    He hummed in satisfaction and pinched her puffed-up cheeks.


    Two hours makes a lot of difference when you have the company of your partner. They cuddled and slept, waking up with a refreshed mind. Though she had tried to switch off the alarm, he was a step ahead and dropped a message to his assistant to remind him.


    Daiyu scratched his head when Suyin gave him a lethal look while passing by his office on her way to Dr. Jeff.


    ******


    "Slowly open your eyes,"


    "Eighth session without it. And this time you did it without Wang Shi. Congrats. "


    "Yes! Can we let me join us? I want to show him this."


    "Of course." Jeff fished out his phone from his pocket and called Wang Shi who was waiting outside in office. A second later, the door to the therapy room opened. Suyin raised the injection filled with yellow liquid up in the air like a trophy.


    "You-- Xanax--" Wang Shi took the injection, his eyes looking at Jeff for confirmation.


    "Yeah. It wasn''t required." Jeff answered.


    "Yes! And it''s all because of you." She leaned to press her mouth to his rough cheek, her lips tingling at the touch of stubble.


    Over the last four months, he had adjusted his schedule according to hers so that she never has to come for the therapy alone. And if any emergency occurs, he made sure that Dr. Jeff reschedules the session for the same day and only conduct it in his presence. Never missing once.


    Today they experimented to see how she reacts to therapy in Wang Shi''s absence.


    Though Wang Shi''s support was crucial, the treatment can''t be considered successful if she couldn''t do it alone.


    "Don''t credit me for everything." He kissed her temple. "Dr. Jeff deserves some too."


    "Oh , you guys know that I''m here? Stop kissing." Jeff rolled his eyes and turned, "C''mon now. Follow me to the office."


    They followed him out and sat down opposite his desk. "What happened, Jeff? Wang Shi asked.


    "You tell me. You were there in the sessions before, have walked with Suyin on this journey, have seen the ups and down, and are a doctor. What changes have you seen in her over the past four months?"


    "She--" Wang Shi took her hand in his, his eyes lingering on her glowing face. "-- she is a lot more happier and carefree. No more restlessness, ill thoughts, overthinking, nothing.... She is living every moment of her life. Both personal and professional. Something''s changed in her, yet not. My fierce Zhao Suyin is still the same, just a little adorable."


    "That''s what I wanted to hear. And what about your intimate life?"


    Suyin bit her lips. Wang Shi smiled. "We are working on it. No hurries."


    "Well...." Dr. Jeff wrote something on his pad and folded the paper into three folds before passing it to Suyin.


    Suyin''s face beamed like stars as she unfolded the paper in front of him. She bolted up from her seat. "Really?"


    Jeff, "Yes."


    "What is it?" Wang Shi stretched his hand to get the paper, but Suyin dodged it.


    "Nothing. I have to go somewhere urgently. Will catch up at dinner." She bends to press her lips to his, forgetting Dr. Jeff''s presence again. Wang Shi kissed her right back as his heart soared by her happiness. Whatever it was in the letter, her smile says it''s nothing he should be worried. "Bye. Miss me."


    And she dashed like a wind.


    "What was in it?" Wang Shi asked the moment she was out.


    "Ask her. I''m not breaking the patient confidentiality clause."


    "I''m the boss."


    "But the rule stays the same."


    "You are fired."


    He picked the phone. "Let me see how your ''wifey'' reacts to that."


    Wang Shi "..."


    "Put the phone down and get back to your job."


    "Ha, that''s what you call wife''s slave."


    Wang Shi folded his sleeve. "Say again?"


    ******

 Chapter 352 - Title- *secret

    [Emergency. Come fast.] *added google location.


    .....??


    "SUYIN!" Wang Shi screamed as he got down from the car. It was pitch dark, moonlight barely contributing as he frantically looked around with his phone''s flashlight.


    His heart racing wildly against his c.h.e.s.t, body trembling. Fear, panic, anxiety- no words were enough to describe his mental state. "SUYIN!"


    He again checked the message send by her thirty minutes before. The three words in black pushing negative thoughts further into his mind, shaking his heart. Even the beautiful lake view and the soft fragrance of cherry blossoms couldn''t help him think wisely.


    CLICK


    He looked up.


    A light flickered. Followed by another and another, making a row of woven threads of bulbs hung above, slowly illuminating the place. His feet automatically followed the path, stopping at a white screen with a projector setting.


    A chair set facing it.


    "Suyin?"


    "Please take your seat, Dr. Wang Shi." Woosh. Suyin''s voice echoed, settling his heart that he let out a sounding breath. He sat down, eyes searching for her. It was then he noted the place he was at. Something tickled his heart. Why didn''t he notice it before? Suyin had called him at the lakeside.


    The lake where he had proposed to her.


    CLICK


    A picture appeared on the screen. It was him taking a lecture, teaching a group of young medical aspirants.


    CLICK


    Another picture. Young Suyin with broad glasses, sitting among the students, attentively taking notes.


    "Once upon a time, a girl got the opportunity to learn from the youngest genius of the medical world. Lest the girl knew, in this four days program, her life was going to change forever. From a momentary attraction to a crush of a lifetime, that young medical genius was surely a heart stealer. Poor girl."


    Once again Suyin spoke through the mic.


    Wang Shi wanted to smile at this, but crossed his arm and made himself look serious. Can''t forget he''s angry. She scared the hell out of him.


    "The girl knew they were miles apart. He was the king, and she was just a commoner. This was the modern world, fairytales don''t exist. She never pushed her luck, and let the man be her forever crush and inspiration.


    The man moved on in his life. And the girl married someone else. But guess what? Destiny had made up its mind to bring them together. Twice separated, but the third time, destiny played cupid. Or let''s say it poetically, it was the alignment of stars that they met again.


    Unknown to these two, they were already tied to each other forever-- by a heart. A heart from one son to another. This has to be a complete story.


    This time when they met, she was a divorcee and had lost her child.


    And He- he was a single father.


    So I can say, their chances were almost zero. It would take a lot to bring them together."


    The pictures continue changing on the screen from their separate lives to one-day meeting again in the middle of an accident while helping injured.


    "And from there, the series of them meeting never stopped. From hospital to his home to their offices to going together to the restaurant, school, museum, and whatnot. Including this lakeside where he proposed to her after punching the hell out of her ex." Suyin chuckled in the mic.


    "The girl realized he still had that magic effect that has butterflies flutter in stomach and curls her toes. Maybe he is the one. Maybe it''s more than a crush. Maybe she''d find love. And everyone deserves a second chance. So why not?..... And she had another reason to say yes. The man had a little version of him beside him. The most adorable one. The man convinced her. She got convinced. And from here, they started a new chapter of falling for each other and second chance."


    "Like a gentle breeze of spring, slowly they started building this relationship, making way into each other''s heart. And the little fairy unknowingly became the foundation of this relationship. A foundation that can''t be shaken."


    The pictures changed nonstop, showing their precious moments which Wang Shi had always captured on his phone. Some pics were from Suyin''s phone. Some from Honey. And many she must have collected from people in their circle.


    Wang Shi heard some noise and looked over the shoulder into the darkness. A thought crossed, and he checked Honey''s location on the phone.


    Ah! Matched! If Honey''s here, this means-- sighs-- looks like the entire family was here.


    "But it wasn''t a smooth sail for them. Their relationship was meant to be tested. A test of trust, sacrifices, staying put, and fighting the storm head-on. If they fail any of these, they fail the test of love." Suyin''s voice turned heavy. "The girl was stubborn. She was heartbroken, angry, hurt, and had put an end to this. But the man-- he was stubborn. Hellbent to get her back. And he did exactly that."


    "Even the seasons change four times a year, but he-- he didn''t budge. Such a villain he was to know exactly how to win her over." Wang Shi let out a loud chuckle. Don''t know if it was the use of the ''endearment'' or the way she weighted her voice while saying the word. "You know what he did? He loved me and loved me and LOVED ME until my entire being forced me to love him back."


    The lake glowed with thousands of lotus, each fitted with a light glowing at its base as if the stars descended from the sky, catching Wang Shi''s attention. His eyes squinted at the silhouette standing over the deck in the middle of the lake.


    He stood and walked near. Just when the tip of his shoes touched the edge of the platform to the deck, the first light lit up.


    He took another step and two more lights lit up. The anticipation builds up. He had a hunch it''s going to be the biggest surprise of his life..... The most special one.


    Title- The proposal part 1

 Chapter 353 - Title- *Secret

    "I don''t know what life has in store for us. I don''t know what the next day, next hour, next minute, or next second will bring for us. But if there is truly an almighty above,  watching us from his live tv, I command him I get to live every moment with you. I command him, that I sleep in your arms every night and wake up to the beats of your heart. I command him I see the world while holding your hand. I command him not to play with our lives again, otherwise, I''ll barge into his heaven and punch him. I command him I don''t want to grow old with each other but remain childish forever....."


    His steps paused, his breath hitched at the sight of the gorgeous woman. Tall and slender. Beautiful grey eyes perfectly highlighted by shades of black and red, red luscious lips, sculpted cheekbones, silky skin, and breathtaking smile.....Deep V neck A-line long chiffon gown in red, snugged at the waist and free-flowing down, complimenting her figure and hugging from all the right places. She looked nothing short of a Greek goddess descended from Olympus.  ??


    Wait. The gown!


    Wasn''t it the one he had bought for her for an art event at the national gallery? Where did she get it from? It was long forgotten, lying somewhere in the unwanted corner of his house.


    He knew she would look beautiful in it, but this-- God, where could he hide her? Was she even wearing evil''s eyes amulet? She better be.


    He was yet to recover from the shock when Suyin gave him the biggest shock of his life.... Somewhere in the background soft music accentuated the beauty of the moment. It was the song ''True companion by Marc Cohn''...


    Wang Shi''s lips quivered. He knew what''s coming next... His eyes traveled down as she got down to her knees, her fingers curling around the mic tightly, "Will you-- Will you marry the Jerry of your Tom?"


    Everything inside him bursts into chaos, heartbeats echoed in ears like jungle drums.


    "Hey, I''m Jerry, you are Tom." A voice came from the darkness, but Wang Shi was so lost in her to pay attention to something else or move his gaze away from her. Everything seems like a dream. What if he moves his eyes and the next moment she disappears?


    She set the mic aside and picked a blue velvet box kept near her foot. With trembling fingers, she opened it and held it out for him. Her eyes on him. Smiling. Teary. He can see how deep she was into the moment.


    "Shouldn''t I be the one asking this?" his voice cracked as a swarm of emotions took over.


    She smiled, still holding the ring for him. "Are we gender stereotyping the proposal?"


    "No. But I wanted to do this. Just waiting for the right time."


    "Okay. You can try another time. I don''t mind another proposal and another ring. The many the merrier." she said, "In fact, you can do it every year. But not tonight. It''s my moment--"


    "You--" He broke into a grin and took another step to clear the distance and pull her from the floor into his embrace. The impact knocked the emotional breath out of her as she hugged him back with all her might. "So this was the emergency, huh? Silly. I so want to scold you for giving me a heart-attack."


    "Do it after accepting my ring. Everyone''s waiting with party poppers, and firework."


    He broke the hug to see her face, lips curling into a mischievous smirk. "What if I don''t?" he heard ruffles, whispers, and scrunching of leaves from the darkness. Definitely others were losing patience.


    "Then I will take it." Honey screamed, running his way on the wooden path to reach the deck. Yuyu, Lan, three black panthers, and one white fox following as if all connected to Honey by an invisible rope.


    Honey placed his hand on his h.i.p.s, watching the two with stern eyes, "You two are taking forever. Are you going to make us wait till Christmas?" He looked at his little army. "Why are a.d.u.l.ts so slow?"


    The four furry animals followed their masters and growled at the two.


    The family and friends also stepped out of the darkness and waited at the pathway, suppressing their laughter. They don''t have to do anything. The kids were doing it with more conviction.


    Suyin snorted, "You see this? I have a backup prepared. The name is Wang Qiang. Say no, and I will put this ring on his little finger and use that ugly yellow car of yours to elope somewhere in the snowy mountains. Better think fast."


    Honey stretched his hand, and Wang Shi slapped it away. "O...."


    Wang Shi snorted, "Will the ring fit?" Suyin brought the ring close to her eyes to inspect it and at that exact moment, he slides his ring finger into it. "A perfect fit. See, it''s meant for me. Only me."


    It was a ring like no other. It looked simple band of gold, but the fingerprint carving on top definitely has some meaning. Suyin has this something in her that she makes the gift meaningful and special.


    He winked at the little human who was just a second away from stealing his ring, watching him jump to his feet, throwing a triumphant fist in the air. Screaming. Celebrating.


    "YAYYYYYYYY!


    The girls and their furry companions followed.


    Wang Shi''s hands raked into her hair, tugging her head back, and he dipped to press warmth against her mouth.


    "OH NO!" The kids covered their eyes and turned their backs.


    Suyin closed her eyes, snaking her hands around his neck, tipping on her toes.


    This....


    This kiss....


    This kiss felt like a kiss of the century. A silent promise....


    Time stopped there. The feel of her soft body leaning to him, wrapped in his arms as he invaded all her senses, felt forbidden. She smelled hynoptic. His heart a ticking bomb. She wobbled on her knees, and he firmed his grip, pulling her up.


    She opened her mouth, letting him pry his tongue to invade her. Soft. Addictive. Magical.


    He faintly registered the sound of hooting, clapping, something loud popping, and firecrackers lightning the sky..... Who cares? The woman in arms was more interesting. Intoxicating. Breathtaking. She bit at his bottom lips gently, telling him to give her a chance to devour him. Without waiting, she took over, this time invading his senses.


    Title- The proposal

 Chapter 354 - One Of A Kind Proposal

    "Hey, stop crying." Suyin extended her fingers to wipe tears from Wang Shi''s eyes. ;


    He took hold of her wrist, stopping her and then kissing it. "I''m not." Chuckling in emotions, he pulled her close. "Too much you are. You know, you are the best?"


    "Of course I''m." she waved her hand to the family, beckoning them to join. "So where''s my ring?"


    His nose wrinkled, "Um--"


    "Exactly, Shishi. Get my daughter-in-law a ring." Liu Jeilan said, joining the couple. Suyin coughed, still unsettled by Madam President''s endearment. Wang Huang chuckled, then cleared his throat being stared at by his wife. "What''s that for?"


    "You sacred the girl, Liu!" a peel of laughter echoed, turning the old lady''s cheeks red.


    "Oh shut up, Huang." She cupped Suyin''s hand in hers. "How long will you feel awkward in front of me? Shall I apologize agai--"


    "No, please," Suyin said hurriedly. She sighed, throwing a stern glance at the rest of the family, who were taking p???sur? in teasing Liu Jeilan. "Stop it, everyone. You are putting me in a difficult situation." she looked back at Liu Jeilan. "Madam President, trust me--"


    " Madam President!" Liu Jeilan gasped. "This is not done. No ways. Sweetheart, call me mom." she looked at her right where Suyin''s mother was standing, "Your girl is impossible. She''s still calling me as if I''m a stranger. Where are those people--" her gaze scanned around, stopping at a man standing away from the family. "Ah, come forward. We can''t delay this anymore."


    The man came forward, holding a file in his hands, and bowed. He then passed the file to Liu Jeilan, instantly moving aside when Wang Huang towered to look. After a minute, the President couple nodded at each other, satisfied as they passed the file to Suyin''s parents.


    Wang Shi and Suyin both stood there, confused, both questioning each other. Both shook their head.


    "Not your set up?" Wang Shi asked and Suyin shook her head again.


    Just then, they felt a tug on their clothes and looked down. Honey flashed his biggest grin and winked. "Credit goes to this genius."


    "Now what are you up to?" Wang Shi grumbled. ;


    "Something you will thank me for." Honey patted himself on the shoulder, but his mischievous grin gave away nothing. Once the file was done circulating amongst the family from both sides, Honey accepted it and took a gracious walk to the dinner table set for the couple, and laid the file open over it. He stood on the chair to get a height.


    When none move, he snapped, "What are you waiting for? Bring them here. We are losing time. Just ten more minutes remaining."


    Before Suyin or Wang Shi could say or ask, the family members split into two groups. Suyin''s side, and Wang Shi''s side. Each pulling their respective ''candidates'' to the table.


    Zeng, Fei Hong, James, Evan, and Suyin''s parents on Suyin side.


    Xiu Mei, Feng Jianyu, Yuyu, Lan, Junjie, Jin, Wang Huang and Liu Jeilan. The furry babies choose to be on Wang Shi''s side, their tails wagging when Yuyu and Lan gave them a piece of meat. Bribe. ;


    "Alright guys, what is happening here?" Wang Shi asked, picking the file from the table.


    "Yeah. None of this was in our plan. Shouldn''t you be just leaving us alone by now?" Suyin''s voice came strained, almost crying. She had made more plans for the night, but these people were ruining it. ;


    "Ducky, why are you so eager to kick us out from here? Just what else what have you planned?" Heat crept from Suyin''s cheeks that she had to look anywhere but at Honey. The worst, Zeng, James, and Evan, pursed their lips, suppressing their smile. James winked when his eyes met with hers.


    Suyin frowned, ''Corrupt mind.''


    Feeling a pull on her arm, she looked as Wang Shi asked for her attention. She leaned to read the contents-- with every line, her heart skipped a beat, warmth spreading her entire being. She looked up to meet Honey''s gaze, who was smiling from ear to ear. She could swear she saw a sliver of tear in his eyes, which he immediately covered.


    Marriage documents. ;


    "You--" coherent words failed to form. Suyin spread her arms, "Come here, you naughty one." Honey jumped from the chair, dashing straight into her arms. "You got this prepared for us." Not a question, but a sure statement. Only Honey could come up with such an idea to surprise them.


    He nudged his nose in her neck, inhaling her. "When you shared your plan, I came up with my own. Grandma and grandpa helped me. And uncle Juju made last-minute arrangements." he looked up from her arms, taking out a beautiful ring from his pocket. Suyin looked up in gratitude at her father- and mother-in-law, but couldn''t catch Junjie''e eyes as he was standing away from the family, in the back.


    "Mom," Honey pinched the ring between his finger and thumb, "Will you be my mom?" The question caught her off guard.


    Wang Shi looked down at the mother-son duo, frowning next. "Hey, that''s my ring!" Honey immediately clutched it in his fist when Wang Shi tried to take it. "Bratty, though I love your plan. Good job. I''m proud of you, but you are not having this ring. Give it back. Suyin, I bought this ring for you. It was in my drawer for months."


    "Too bad you never gave her." Yuyu and Lan came forward. Lan stuffed a piggy bank in Wang Shi''s hand, "We are buying it for Honey bro." ;


    Yuyu stuffed another piggy bank. "Take mine too." She looked at Honey, cheering, "Go ahead, Honey bro. We got you covered. We won''t let uncle take it." The girls were proud of their job, certain that the money in the piggy bank was enough to buy anything in the world.


    Wang Shi sighed, helpless. Hiding a smile. The kids were just too adorable. Innocent. Especially his son, who not only prepared marriage documents but was now proposing to his mother in the sweetest of ways. The one of a kind proposal where a son was proposing to his mother. And the proposal was- ''Will you be my mom?''


    "Mom--" Honey held the ring up.


    Tears slipped from Suyin''s eyes. It''s only natural when something this heart-warming touches you. "I''m already your mom, sweetie."


    "Yes. But I want it forever and ever. Seal it with this. I want to see it on your finger."


    Suyin''s smile pulled wider. She pulled her hand free from a lacy red glove, bringing her hand forward. Honey stopped just at the tip of her middle finger, pondering deeply. He looked back at his grandparents. "Um, which finger?"


    Everyone pointed at their own fingers, shouting, "RING FINGER!" ;


    The beautiful diamond ring slowly slid upwards, reflecting the bond between a man and a woman-- the only difference this time was it was reflecting the beauty of the relationship between a mother and a son.


    "You two," Wang Shi put the piggy banks on the tables, crouched down, and squeezed them two in his arms. "Fine, I''ll buy another--"


    "No, you are not allowed to take it off." Honey wiggled out of the hug.


    Suyin, "I won''t. Shishi!"


    Wang Shi opened his mouth to retort but thought better of it when he saw there was more than one pair of stern gaze directed at him. Almost everyone was against the idea to take off Honey''s ring. ;


    His face was picture worthy when he was bullied by everyone. Xiu Mei clapped on his back and opened her palm to him. Above it was a ring. ;


    "Surprise surprise!" Jianyu said. "How can you not notice the ring Suyin gave you is a couple''s ring? So you see, Suyin had everything planned." ;


    "No--" Suyin dismissed taking all the credits. "Everyone helped. From A to Z. Without them, I couldn''t be able to do this. Especially when my artistic taste is always questioned."


    "Since how long have you been planning this?" Wang Shi asked.


    "Since the day I confessed my feelings. I was just waiting for the correct time."


    Finally!


    He studied the beautiful diamond ring for a second. A wedding band in rose gold with his fingerprint carved on top, his initial underside, and a tiny diamond in middle. The only difference between her and his rings was the absence of diamond in his and the width. Simple and exquisite. Suyin brings her hand forward, happiness beaming in her eyes. He paused, pouting, glaring at Honey''s ring on her ring finger.


    Suyin chuckled, "I will wear them together, on the same finger. Both are special. Can''t differentiate." and he slides the ring up, setting it with Honey''s. ;


    Amidst the round of applause, Wang Shi caught her mouth with his, and he kissed her softly. ;


    "Oh no! We have limited time." Honey sprang up. "Sign the papers before the clock struck twelve. I want you to get married today."


    Wang Shi, "Why?"


    "Because I don''t want to wait a day extra. Just get married!" He nudged them to the table. "C''mon."


    And under Honey and everyone''s watchful eyes, Suyin and Wang Shi signed the documents, followed by the signature of witnesses. Officially sealed. Validated. Declared man and wife. ;


    The government official hand over the marriage certificates prepared in advance and left the family alone. ;


    Firework sparks come own the night, come announce the marriage of the couple to the heavens, to the almighty sitting above who had witnessed everything and had endured Suyin, Wang Shi, and Honey''s curses.


    Wang Huang and Zhao Shu popped open bottles of champagne. "To our kids!" ;


    James ordered his team to set the dinner tables for everyone, surprising Suyin. She had asked him to arrange a dinner for her and Wang Shi, but it seems these people made changes in her plan and made it better. Thousand times better. She couldn''t ask for a better celebration to get married to her hottie bum.


    **********