《Husband Is Too Sweet!》


 Chapter 1 - Divorce

    Pain!


    She opened her eyes... She was alive? Yu Yan looked around her, she was in an unfamiliar place. Where was this? She tried to sit up, but her body was too weak. After overcoming the shock, she realized she was in a hospital room. Had someone saved her? Who would have helped her? All this time, she had been alone, with no one to help her.


    She thought back at what had happened. Yun Feng had tricked her! All this time, she had trusted Yun Feng, believed she was her friend. Yet she had been scheming behind her back, desiring Yu Yan''s husband. Yun Feng had appeared to be gentle and kind, always covering for her friend, but behind her facade, she had been vicious and cruel. Yu Yan had been stupid. She had always listened to her so-called friend and this led to ruining her reputation. Yun Feng had made her out to be a vicious, jealous and spoiled shrew. However, Yu Yan had believed that the greedy woman, had been the only one on her side. Even though her husband had no love for her, he had never cheated on her. He had always been cold towards her, after all, he had married her only because of his grandfather pressuring him. But now he hated her.


    She had believed that she would be happy, living like a princess. However, she had been too naive. She had clung on to him even though he wanted to divorce her. After all, she had his grandfather''s backing. But he was no longer alive, and her husband had immediately divorced her.


    She had been left alone. With her reputation, she was unable to get a job with decent pay and had to work part-time here and there for her living expenses. She had ones been so beautiful with may pursuers. But a few years of hardship had med her skin turn dry and ugly. Now she had become haggard and had lost her glow. Even so, Yun Feng couldn''t let her be, the vicious woman wouldn''t be happy unless she was miserable. She had still acted like she cared, and made Yu Yan''s life worse and worse until she directly went for her life. Even until then, she had not known how her best friend had ruined her. If Yun Feng had not told her everything while torturing her to death, she would never have known.


    She cried. That vicious woman had not even let her child go! All this time she had thought her child died because she had not been careful, but Yun Feng had been secretly drugging her food so she would lose her child. Ha! No wonder the rumour that she lost her child because of overly drinking and partying came to be! It was all her work. She wouldn''t let that woman go! She will pay her back for all her misfortunes, for her child.


    Suddenly the door opened. She looked up to see Ke Ming walking in. What was he doing here? "Miss Yu, please sign the divorce agreement." He took out some papers and handed them over to her. "Divorce?" "Sigh! don''t cling to president Li, everyone knows he doesn''t like you. He is even giving you huge alimony. Just take it. Someone like you is not fit to be the mistress of Li household!" There was clear disdain in his voice, but none of it registered in Yu Yan''s mind. She looked down on the divorce papers. What was happening? They had long been divorced. Why would he give her these? She read through the papers. Ke Ming was right Li Yi Feng had been generous, giving her the apartment that they were currently living in and an additional 10 million. He had not given her anything before, was that why? But it did not look like that.


    While Yu Yan was wondering, Ke Ming became impatient. "Are you not signing? Don''t keep on dreaming! The old master wouldn''t be able to protect you forever. Don''t even consider to rely on the old..." "Pen." Yu Yan finally realized. She had been reborn. It should be the day after she lost her child. She had yet to make so many mistakes and Li Yi Feng had yet to hate her. That was why he had been so generous.


    She had loved him for so many years, but he had never even glanced at her. Yu Yan knew she still loved him, but she also knew it was better to part now before the damage was done. Yun Feng was more than enough problem for her, she did not need to antagonize Li Yi Feng. She couldn''t handle an enemy like him.


    This time she would not make mistakes as she had in her past life. She would make Yun Feng wish she was dead. Making her decision she calmly looked up at Ke Ming who had frozen from shock. He had never thought that the woman, who had always clung onto his boss, would agree so easily. Was this another tactic? Must be it, right? She was trying to get the boss''s attention by acting cold. He sneered. Who was she thinking of fooling? After all, this woman had drugged her husband to climb his bed. She had been lucky enough to get pregnant but had been out partying until she lost her child.


    Yu Yan put out her hand. "Pen." She asked again, waking Ke Ming up from his thoughts. Fishing out a pen from his pocket, he handed it over to Yu Yan, waiting to see how she would react. What kind of excuse would she use to not sign the papers?


    Unexpectedly, Yu Yan accepted the pen. Was she going to sign them? To his surprise, she signed them without hesitating and returned the papers to him. Ke Ming could not help but stare at her in utter disbelief.

 Chapter 2 - Home

    Yu Yan had been so deeply in love in her past life that she had never considered the consequences of her actions. She had been lead around by Yun Feng and had been used until she had no more value.


    This time she wouldn''t be so foolish. There was no hope to be anything between her and Li Yi Feng. It was better to end it early than hope for something that would never happen.


    After Ke Ming left, she did not wait for Long before leaving the hospital. She hated hospitals ever since she lost her child in her past life. It also reminded her of how alone she had felt without anyone beside grandfather Li visiting her. Her husband, Li Yi Feng had not cared, even though it had been his child too.


    **********


    At Li corporations, Ke Ming had Just arrived with the divorce papers. "She signed them without making a fuss?" There was a clear surprise in Li Yi Feng''s voice. "Yes, President Li. Should I hand the papers over to Lawyer Feng?" "No, I will take care of it."


    **********


    After getting home, Yi Yan went straight to bed. She was too tired to care about anything else. She decided that she would go BACK to the main house tomorrow and explain to grandfather Li about the divorce. After all, he had been genuine towards her and taken care of her.


    **********


    Next Day, Yu Yan went to the old house as planned. Grandfather Li came hurriedly down from his room. "Yan-er you should be at the hospital resting. What are you doing here?" "Grandpa, I have something to tell you. Maybe you should sit down first?" Hearing the serious tone of her voice. Grandfather Li became concerned.


    "What is it that could not wait until you had rested enough?" "Grandpa, I and Li Yi Feng have decided to get a divorce. We are not suited for each other." "What? Did that brat threaten you or did he force you? You don''t have to go on with this. Grandpa will take care of everything." " No, Grandpa. I think this is for the best."


    This sentence shocked the leaving old man back into his Seat. "Yan-er id everything alright? If the brat isn''t treating you well, you could always tell this old man. I will make sure that the Feng-er will treat you better. There is no reason to go to drastic measure." Yu Yan let out a sigh. "Grandpa, that''s not it. I have tried so hard to make him like me for so long, but it seems impossible. Grandpa, you can force him to stay with me, but you can''t force him to love me. I''m tired of this one-sided love Grandpa. It''s better to end it as early as possible. This way it''s easier for me to move on. I''m still young, I could find someone else that would love me wholeheartedly. Staying like this male neither me nor Li Yi Feng happy. Don''t worry though, you would always be my grandpa and I would come and visit you." Yu Yan sincerely explained. Grandpa Li finally understood that there was nothing more he could do to change her mind. Maybe she was right.


    **********


    " Prepare the car, I''m going to the old mansion." Li Yi Feng knew it would tell him awhile to make his grandfather understand. Getting ready to go, he notices his secretary''s awkward behaviour, like he had something to say. "Miss Yu has already headed off to the old mansion sir, she has probably already complained about the divorce. No Wonder she signed them so easily..." Li Yi Feng''s face turned dark, he hurriedly left.


    **********


    Meanwhile, Yu Yan was chatting with grandpa Li. Even though she had tried t lighten the mood, grandpa Li''s mood had dived the worse.


    After sometime Yu Yan realized there was nothing she could do. She understood that this was hard for him to accept. Only giving him time would let him accept what''s happening.


    **********


    When Li Yi Feng came in, the first thing he noticed was his grandfather''s bad mood. It seemed she had already complained t him about the divorce.


    Making his way to the table, he sat down. The servant hurriedly prepared a bowl and a pair of chopsticks for his use. The dining table was quiet, no one if them wanting to be the one to break the silence. In the end, it was grandpa Li that started to talk. "I heard you two are getting divorced." "Yes.. ." Li Yi Feng was Just about to continue when grandpa Li said something again. "Maybe it''s for the better, just do as you please." This left Li Yi Feng stunned, unable to continue to talk.

 Chapter 3 - Plans

    After lunch, Yu Yan made her way back to the apartment. This was where she and Li Yi Feng was supposed to live together, unfortunately, after the stupid drugging stunt she pulled, her husband had never come back.


    Now that she thought back, it was Yun Feng that had given her the idea. Even though she constantly said Yu Yan shouldn''t use such methods, she still told Yu Yan stories about how others had tried and succeeded. She told her how everything turned out perfect for her friend when the deed was done. How could she have been so stupid? Yun Feng was manipulating her into making the wrong decisions. However, if she hadn''t been so dumb and trusting, it wouldn''t be possible for others to make use of her.


    Yu Yan had to make plans, make sure she could live a better life than in her past. But first, she had to clear her name. She would not take the blame for her child''s death. No matter what she had to give her unborn child justice. Since she had been poisoned, there might still be some traces left. She had been so focused on getting out of the hospital, that she forgot to check something so simple.


    Taking the bus, she went to the closest hospital. She considered going back to L hospital but considering that Yun Feng was the one that brought her there, and the fact that doctors didn''t find anything wrong with her, might be because they were working for Yun Feng.


    Getting her blood checked didn''t take too long. She only had to wait a week or two before she could get the results.


    **********


    "Boss, you have been so busy that you have been unable to get the divorce finalized." "I told you that I would take care of it... Pay her the alimony money and change the deed for the apartment to her name." " Yes, Sir." Ke Ming was relieved since his boss was already settling the alimony it won''t be long until the divorce was settled.


    Unbeknownst to Ke Ming, his boss had other plans. He hadn''t decided to finalize the divorce yet. Somehow, Yu Yan that had been clinging to him for so many years had suddenly decided to divorce him. It wasn''t that he felt some kind of loss, but he felt there was more to the matter. He would get to the bottom of this before he made the final decision.


    **********


    Suddenly the phone of Yu Yan rang, checking it, she found out that Li Yi Feng had made a huge deposit to her bank. Ha, he could not wait to get rid of her. Somehow she felt relieved. This time, she would not get blacklisted from any workable place because she had offended her ex-husband.


    She bitterly smiled. He had not cared even a little bit for her. Her grandfather and Li Yi Feng''s grandfather had been friends. So they had grown up together as kids. She had always liked him, but he had been indifferent. After her parents passed away, grandfather Li had taken care of her, even to the point of making her his granddaughter-in-law. To her, he would always be family.


    Li Yi Feng and her were just impossible. Even if he did not care for her, he had not even hesitated to continue to work as normal, even after knowing his unborn child had died. He had not cared even a little bit. It was better to forget and start anew she reminded herself. She would become a designer, just as she had wanted.


    She was a very talented designer. She had finished her bachelor in both design and business and was still doing her masters. However, in her last life, she had been led astray by Yun Feng and was even tricked into designing gorgeous clothing under Yun Feng name. She had made the b***h a renowned and rich designer. Since she was unable to step into the fashion industry she could only let her precious work come to light through her so-called best friend. She must have fed her brain to the dogs, how could she have been so stupid?


    She was not from a wealthy family. If not for Grandfather Li, she would not have lived such a blessed life until now. Since she knew how the business-world would develop in the next ten years, why not use it to her advantage? She fiercely invested more than half her money in stocks and bought properties that were cheap now but would become pricey in a few years.


    In a month she would graduate and with her ability, she could get work at any decent place. Last time, Yun Feng had her believe that she should not be working as Mrs Li. Grandfather Li had even got her a decent job as one of the lead designers under the Li corporation, but she had used her days on spending money and idling around.


    This time she would work and make herself the most renowned designer in all of China. She would not let anyone step on her. She had already made plans of where she would be working. She would not tangle with her ex. It was better to avoid him and start at a small company. Lotus, a new company that had just started. It was led by the Wu family''s third miss. She had the capital and the ability to start it but was lacking a good designer. After two years the company was struggling and the youngest miss of Wu family was ready to give up on it. The stock price had fallen so low that Yu Yan had bought herself some shares. She would use this opportunity to make herself the lead designer and bargain some more shares for herself.


    After making a throughout plan she considered what to do with her current predicament. She had never liked going to bars or clubs because of the smell and all the noise. However, several tabloids had written about her being wild, and how this even caused her miscarriage. The best way to make her innocence known was to take legal actions against all that had slandered her. Considering this, she made a call to Old master Li''s lawyer.


    "Hello, uncle Pei. Do you have some time?" She calmly retold him what happened and asked if he could help her get justice. "Do not worry miss Yu, this is an easy matter. Considering how some of the tabloids dared to even name the bars and clubs, it would not be hard to build a case. With the vividness of their stories, it would be hard for them to prove that any of it is true. I will take care of it, do not worry."

 Chapter 4 - The deal

    With her problems taken care of, Yu Yan was able to peacefully go to sleep. She woke up early the next morning. From an early point on she had worked hard on her thesis for her master''s degree and had almost finished it. With only some fine-tuning left she had a lot of free time at hand. Eating a simple homemade breakfast, she made her way towards Miss Wu''s company with a few of her better designs. These were the design that Yun Feng had used at the start of her carrier. They had become very popular quickly and she had easily made her way into Li corporation.


    Getting off the bus, she went straight to the front reception to try her luck. "Hello, I would like to meet miss Wu." "Do you have an appointment?" "No... But I know she is in dire need of a good designer" The receptionist hesitated, looking at Yu Yan clothes she was able to tell that the stranger was not just anyone. However, she could not just let someone in without a prior appointment. "I''m sorry miss, but I can''t let you in. You have to get an appointment first." Even though Yu Yan knew, she had still hoped. Just when she was ready to turn back in disappointment, she heard the voice of a woman. "What''s going on here?" The newly arrived woman was looking back at her with curiosity. "Miss Wu, my name is Yu Yan. I''m here to offer you a deal. Your company have enough capital and good management, however your still in such dire state. What your missing is a good designer. I think we could mutually benefit from this deal." She looked amused but curious. Even though Yu Yan had almost finished her master''s degree she was only 22 years old. Even with her curvy body and long legs, it did not have much effect when one saw her innocent-looking, beautiful face. "Well then, why don''t we continue in my office?"


    In the large office, decorated elegantly the two women sat opposite to each other. Picking up the cup of tea that was offered to her, Yu Yan slowly tasted it. Hmm.. this taste matched the feeling she got from the lady in front of her. "My name is Wu Ming Yue, I believe you have a proposition for me?" "CEO Wu, you have great ability however you lack proper designers. I am looking for a job and thought we could come to an agreement." "If you wanted a job, you could apply like any other person. There is no reason for you to come to meet me personally?" "Well my designs can make you millions, so I would like to get some shares in return." Yu Yan stated without hesitating. There was clear disbelief in the eyes of the other woman. "You want shares? How much?" Wu Ming Yue asked. "15 present." Anger flashed through the eyes of Wu Ming Yue."Do you take me for a fool?" "No, quite the opposite. I will make you earn tens off millions, win the rising talent award, and get our clothing selling in the three biggest malls in the city all within a year!" "Impossible! You look like you''re b?r?ly past 20, your think business is simple?" "No. If I could keep my promise you will give me 15 present of the shares, if not I would work for free for three years. Just take a look at my designs, you won''t regret hiring me"


    Looking at the resolute young girl, third miss Wu received the designs. Carefully looking through them she was surprised. These designs were gorgeous. It was this kind of designer she was missing. Though she doubted the girl would be able to keep all three promises, her talent was apparent. It seemed she had found a treasure. "Alright, it''s a deal. When will you start working?" "In a month, after I graduate. " That left Wu Ming Yue surprised, she thought that the girl might look much younger than her actual age. Looking at her designs, she had a great sense. She had believed the young lady would at least have a few years of experience.


    After making the deal, both women eagerly got their agreement on paper before signing the contract. Having eaten lunch together Yu Yan left happily. She would enjoy life this time. Live out her dreams, enjoy simple, daily-life p???sur?s, having loyal friends, finding a nice man to marry and even having e few children of her own. These were things she had wished for, but never able to get.


    After buying groceries, she went home and started to do chores. After all, she and Li Yi Feng no longer had any relations, so she had already sent back the helpers at home. The apartment had two bedrooms, a study and a spacious living room. It was elegantly furnished with a modern but homely look. It was quite big for her alone. After all, she had to cramp in a small single room apartment. A tiny bathroom and the rest crammed inside a small room smaller than her current bathroom. She had learned to do all her chores on her own, and it did not seem too hard anymore. She quietly did everything that had to be done and made a simple, but tasteful dinner.


    There had not been much to do, but she still felt very tired after finishing. Her body was too weak. She had to properly rest and get better. She decided she would start working out after she recovered. Feeling sleepy Yu Yan decided to take an afternoon nap.

 Chapter 5 - Yun Feng

    The next few days passed by slowly. Yu Yan finished her thesis and not much to do. She had become quite idle. However, this time gave her plenty of time to rest and recover. Today, she had woken up early as usual. Heading out for her daily morning run. It was something she had gotten used to after a few days. She always felt free and calm at this runs and hat come to enjoy them.


    Getting home she took a shower and laid down on the sofa. Turning on the TV she watched whatever was on. Her days had been like this. She had planned to continue her peaceful days, but trouble came looking for her. Yun Feng could just not let her be and called her. Hesitating Yu Yan answered the phone. "Hello?" "Ah Yan, it''s been a while since we hung out. I know you''re busy with your thesis, but you have to relax at times. Why don''t you come over to campus and we could spend some time together and even get lunch afterwards?" Listening to the woman talk, Yu Yan could not help but sneer at her. It had just been like this in her last life. Yun Feng had tricked her into going back to school and then somehow convinced her to give herself Yu Yan''s best works, since making new pieces like this would be easy for her and Yun Feng would be able to use her help to get a decent job. Like this, she had tricked her to start doing her work for and kept making up new excuses for why she needs Yu Yan''s help. This was also the time when her whereabouts had been accidentally leaked and reporters came in swarms to accuse her of killing her child and heir to the Li corporation.


    This time she would not let them get their way. She was thinking about how she could get the truth out, it seemed an opportunity had come for her. She would not let Yun Feng''s hard work go to waste. Dressing her self up in white simple clothing and doing her makeup, she looks into the mirror. This was exactly the kind of look she had gone for. Innocent and sad, making people unable to anything but to pity her. She smiled at herself in the mirror. This time she would use all she had to her advantage. Finished getting ready she headed out.


    Getting close to the campus gates she was able to find Yun Feng already waiting for. Anger arose, this woman had used her kindness and taken everything from her. She had not even let an innocent child go. Such a vicious, ungrateful woman. Could she have had such a great life in her past if it had not been for herself? No, of course not. But, even so, she could not be happy unless Yu Yan was miserable. She could not let rage cloud her judgement. Yu Yan had to act like normal like she knew nothing. Only then could she get her revenge. Calming down she looks back at the treacherous woman. She seemed impatient. Seemed like she urgently needed those designs.


    Walking up to the two-faced woman, Yu Yan called out to her. "Ah-Feng!" The woman turned around. For a moment surprise flashed through her eyes, but she hid it quickly. "Ah Yan, you''re here. Why are you wearing such glum clothing? Maybe we should go shopping for something more vibrant and s?xy? How could you catch brother Yi Feng'' attentions like this?" Ha, this scheming woman! Guess she could not have her look a little bit sad for the show she had prepared for later. "No, I don''t feel like wearing anything fancy right now." "Ah Yan, you can''t if brother Yi Feng sees you like this he would think your gloomy and would dislike you even more..." Yu Yan did not want to keep on listening to her nonsense. She quickly intervened so Yun Feng unable to retort. "No, I''ve been wearing beautiful clothes all this time and it was not like he likes me more because of it. Besides it''s not like I would see him anyways." Yun Feng was unable to say anything. For so many years she had been controlling Yu Yan and she would always listen to her. what was wrong today? She felt that something was different. Had Yu Yan figured out what was going on? No that could not be. It must be because of the miscarriage, there was no way this stupid sl*t could suddenly become smart.


    "Then how about getting in, I booked a private room for us." "sure." Following Yun Feng inside the room, she looked around. It was just like last time. She had placed some really bad designs around so that Yun Feng would criticise them. This way she could look pitiful and act like she was only begging for some scraps. Making it sound like she was desperate and in dire need of her best friends help. Like this, she was able to get Yu Yan to promise to give her a few pieces and taken all her best designs. By the time Yu Yan ha found out and asked Yu Feng, she had already handed them over to Li corporation under her name and there was nothing more she could do unless she wanted to destroy her dear friend career.

 Chapter 6 - Not budging

    Listening to her, Yu Yan could not help but clench her fists. She had to calm down, she could not let her emotions slip. If Yun Feng had looked closely at her friend, she would have noticed her slip. However, she had been to busy with her scheming to notice. Yu Yan acted like she was diligently listening to her while ignoring what she was saying. Thinking of how she should respond later to the reporters.


    "Ah-Yan? Are you listening?" "Yeah, I''m just a little out off it." She looked smug, it seemed like she enjoyed making Yu Yan feel down. Afterwards, she tried to steer Yu Yan attention to the designs on the table, trying to trap her to help her. Of course, Yu Yan would not play along. She acted like she did not get it and ignored all of Yun Feng attempts. It made the other woman visibly annoyed. Had she always been such a bad actor, unable to hide her emotions on small setbacks? Yu Yan must have been stupid to trust her to such an extent in her past life. Unable to take it anymore, Yun Feng came straight to the point. "Ah Yan, could you look at these designs? What do you think?" Yu Yan looked at the ugly drafts. "Not that bad, if you fix them up a little they would be useful."


    For a moment Yun Fen was stumped. What was wrong with this b***h today. Calm down, she had to get those designs to get into the Li corporations after graduating. Only in her hands would those even be useful. Could this stupid sl*t even do anything properly with them? Hmph, how dare she go against her. Those were rightfully hers. How did Yu Yan even deserve anything of what she had now? Yun Feng''s thoughts were unbelievable. There was no way for Yu Yan to know what kind of crazy logic was used to get her to believe that she had the right to take what was not her own.


    "Ah Yan, you don''t have to console me. I know these are very bad. What am I supposed to do? How would I even get a proper job if I don''t have good designs to show?" "That''s not true. As I said, they might look bad now but if you fix them a little bit you could use them. You could get into a small company and learn from your seniors. This way you would be able to properly make designs on your own, see your mistakes and fix them on your own." "Ah Yan, you''re really mad, aren''t you? You have always helped me with my designs before this. Don''t be mad. This is extremely important. Can''t you give me one of your leftover designs? Please? I could only ask for your help." "Ah Feng, that won''t do. I have helped you with all your designs up until now and you have learned nothing. You can''t keep on depending on me all the time. If you use my designs, you would be cheating and my style and yours are different. It would be too obvious when you use your own next time." "Ah Yan, how could you say that?! Aren''t we friends? Don''t be unreasonable! I can''t work at some small company. You have to help me just this one time, is that too much to ask for?" "Of course, it''s too much! It would be too easy to find out that you did not draw them in the future. You would be blocking your career. I won''t help you this time!" Yu Yan resolutely made har stand and would not budge no matter what Yun Feng said.


    Of course Yun Feng to knew Yu Yan was right, but that was not a problem for her. She was going to continue to use her, but she could of course not say that out loud. B***h, how dare she block her! Yun Feng was getting more and more angry. There was just no way for her to get those designs today. It was not like she could not get them later, she would just take them secretly when she visited some other time. Yun Feng would not let her go, just wait until later. See how she would ruin Yu Yan''s reputation later. She would surely pay her back for this.


    How could Yu Yan not notice those vicious eyes? There was no way she would let Yun Feng succeed. She also knew this woman would not easily let this matter go, she had already made plans for how to make her fall. Never able to step foot in the designer business. Understanding that she would not get her way today, Yun Feng opted to go out for "lunch." Pretending as if she knew nothing, Yu Yan followed Yun Feng to campus entrance. Just as she had expected, there was a swarm of reporters lying in wait for her. Seeing the number of people Yu Yan stopped for a moment. However, Yun Feng acted as if nothing was wrong and dragged her along towards the reporters. Seeing that she had finally come out the reporters could not wait to surround her.

 Chapter 7 - First slap

    "Miss Yu, how could walk around without any care after killing the Li family heir?" "Don''t you have any continence?" "Is CEO Li finally going to divorce such an unworthy wife?" No kind and consoling comment were made. Every single one of them was here to attack her make her a laughing stock. Microphones were pushed towards her from all sides and plenty of cameras pointed at her. This was going live. Yu Yan did not answer imminently, she looked around noting which company all the reporters were from.


    "What are you guilty, is that why you are unable to answer?" Suddenly a familiar voice answered. It was Yun Feng. "Don''t be like that. Ah Yan didn''t mean too. She knows she was wrong, she would not act so carelessly and wilfully next time. Ah, please forgive her this time. I''ll apologise in her stead as her friend I should have forcefully been more careful instead of just advising her. Ah-Yan quickly apologies to brother Yi Feng! Tell him you''d be better and careful next time." Every word sentence sounded like she was taking the blame for her and helping her friend. But only the two of them knew ho she had accepted all the rumours to be true. An outsider would not know, and the first time around Yu Yan had been too depressed and caught up with the loss to notice. She had truly blamed herself back then.


    "No!" This one word made everyone quite down in surprise. "Ah Yan! don''t be wilful..." "Wilful? Are you saying I was out partying and drinking all night? Acting wild and shameless while being pregnant?" "No. That''s not..." Her voice had quite down much more, not accepting Yu Yan to retort her words. "Others might not know, but as my best friend should you not know. How could you accept all the accusations as if those rumours were true?! Are you trying to ruin me?" Everyone turned around and looked at Yun Feng. There was something wrong here. As a friend, she was not helping, but sending her friend towards doom. Yu Yan turned towards the reporters. "You how dare you slander me. Do you have evidence that I was out playing and drinking all night?! As reporters aren''t you ashamed of irresponsibly accusing people without knowing the truth?" There were obvious shame and guilt in some of the reporters'' eyes. It seemed like they already knew that she had been falsely accused, but still came here. However some were still not done, they had come all the way here and would not go until they got a juicy scoop.


    "The one who knows no shame is you! We do have a source." "Good! You should brig your source with you to court to be your witness." "Court?" someone asked hesitantly. "Yes, of course. My lawyer will send you the details since I would be suing you for malicious slander. They seemed to finally know fear. Did they think that they could do whatever they wanted without consequences? "How could that be? We are only doing our jobs. How could you be so vicious?" "Yes, Ah Yan. Let''s not make a big deal out of this. It''s just a misunderstanding." Yun Feng who had finally woken up from her previous shock piped out. "Viscous? Ha, as a reporter your job is to report the truth. With even finding out about the truth you come here to maliciously accuse a grieving mother who has just lost her child? I''m viscous? You''re here to make money out of someone else''s pain and want me to be lenient. Don''t even think about it! Do you think the legal system is for show? We''ll see each other in court!"


    With that Yu Yan turned around and left using the moment everyone was stunned to slip away. She left without caring about what would happen to the people left behind. After all, she had finished what she had come for today. She made a call as soon as she was out of everyone''s sight. "Uncle Pei, is everything ready?" "Yes, miss. I have already sent out notices to all the tabloids and the companies of those reporters that came today." Worthy of being old master Li''s layer. He had even known about what just happened at considered that as well. "Thank you, uncle Pei!" "No, problem miss." With this, she returned happily home, excited to finally get a little bit of payback and being able to change the outcome of her life. Unbeknownst to her someone else had also caught kind of what had happened today.


    **********


    In a quiet office, only the sound of the TV could be heard. A man was intently watching the news. Dressed in an elegant suit that emphasised his long legs and broad shoulders, he was elegantly sitting in his chair. Such a charming man was not common. Perfectly sculptured, handsome face with an even charm. The kind of charm that would make all women fall head over heels, willing to do anything for this man. Beautiful, gorgeous, handsome and s?xy. No word was enough to explain his beauty. His lean but muscular body leaned forward, clasping his hands that were on the desk together. Those hypnotising eyes that could suck one''s soul in, dangerously narrowed.


    Noticing the piercing cold atmosphere in the room, his secretary knew his boss'' displeasure. "Boss.." "Ke Ming, it seems I''ve been too nice lately. Making people believe they could easily scheme against me and get away with it. Find out the details behind this!" "Yes, Boss!" With this Ke Ming took the opportunity to escape from the room, he might die of pressure if he stayed any longer. Li Yi Feng was left alone in the office, staring intently at the figure of the woman on the screen. The figure was not as vibrant as usual, no heavy makeup. She was pale and looked weak, bothering him.

 Chapter 8 - Poisoned

    After making her way home, Yu Yan made herself lunch. Eating by herself had become a lonely habit from her past life. Finishing her meal she did the dishes. Just as she sat down on the sofa to relax her phone started to ring. "Hello?" "Hello, miss Yu. I''m calling from L hospital. Your report is in you could come and get it when you''re free." "How about in an hour?" "Yes, doctor Sun should be free at the time."


    It seemed she could finally get revenge on those that had helped Yun Feng kill her child. Arriving at the hospital, she immediately headed towards the doctor''s office. Knocking on the door she went inside when the doctor let her in. "Doctor Sun, the results?" "It seems you have been fed poison for about two months." "Poison?" Yu Yan acted surprised. "Yes, the kind that will cause miscarriage. There is no other harm done by this poison. Without being poisoned considering your health body, miss Yu would not have a miscarriage." Hearing this Yu Yan could not help but clench her fists together. The pain she felt was quite obvious and the doctor felt sorry for the young girl. "I''m sorry miss, but you''re still young, only 22. You have plenty of time to have more children." Yu Yan understood that this middle-aged doctor was honestly trying to console her and felt grateful. She forced a smile and received the report. She would not let those responsible go!


    When she headed out of doctor Sun''s office she was left in a daze. Why could she not have been smarter? Why not let her come back to montes earlier? She could have saved her baby then. Such depressing thought swam in her head, she was unable to get them out. Her lonely, hurt back caught the sight of a man passing by. What was she doing here? She was bothering him again. He could not forget that lonely and hurt back of hers. He walked forward and stopped in front of the office she came out off.


    **********


    Yu Yan had already caught a cab and was heading towards the Li mansion before she realised she had forgotten to notify old master Li. She called him and he responded immediately. "Hello, Yan-er? Have you forgotten your grandpa, now that you don''t need my support anymore?" "Of course not Grandpa, I''ve just been busy with my thesis and other things that had to be taken care of. I have the same important to talk to you about could I come over?" "Is there even a need to ask? Hurry over."


    **********


    In the office that Yu Yan had just left, a domineering man sat across doctor Sun. "Sir, no matter what I cannot divulge a patient''s information to outsiders without consent." Doctor Sun was sweating. This means cold glare was terrifying. "I''m her husband, I think I have a right to know." "Husband? The patient did not mention anything..." He stopped he felt like he would be killed if he continued to talk. "Doctor Sun, do you know who this is? This Mr Li, CEO of Li corporation." The middle-aged man trembled. He was in real trouble, but even so, he was professional and would not divulge anything. "C- CEO L- Li? E- even if it''s CEO Li I cannot divulge any information without proof that you are patient Yu''s husband. "Ke Ming, go and get the marriage certificate." "Yes, Sir."


    Like this doctor, Li was left alone with the arrogant man waiting for his secretary. The cold aura of this man had made the doctor tense. Why was this happening to him? After what felt like ages, Ke Ming finally returned with what looked like a marriage certificate. After confirming that their claim was true, he finally told them the result of the test. The more he told the colder the room got. When he had finally finished, the man left. Doctor Sun was finally able to let out a sigh. That devil was finally gone.


    "What now boss?" "Head towards the Li mansion."


    Yu Yan was currently sitting beside old master Li, showing him the result of the test and telling him what the doctor had said. The more she said the angrier he became. She told him only the house-help had opportunity to put anything in her food. "Those ungrateful b*****ds, don''t worry Yun-er. No matter who is behind this, I wot let them go!"


    Just then someone else walked into the mansion. Slowly he walked towards them, he looked at the papers at the table. Walking forward he sat opposite to Yu Yan, casting her a piercing gaze. Why was he here? Why was she angry at her? She had done everything to avoid him, but somehow he kept showing up every time she came back to the Li mansion. "Grandfather, I will take care of this matter." "You take care of this? If you had done things properly would this even have happened?" The old master''s anger was apparent. He had waited so long to hold his precious great-grandchild, but someone dared to scheme and kill it while the mother was pregnant. It had been different if it was a simple miscarriage, but they had gotten his hopes up and taken it away. How could he just let this go?


    Realising how tense the atmosphere was Yu Yan decided it was better to leave for today. "Grandpa, I''ll take my leave for today. I''ll make sure to come back another day." "No, you have to at least eat dinner before you leave. You just came how can you leave in a hurry?" No matter how angry the old man was, he would not let Yu Yan leave without eating. She tried coming up with excuses, but he would not listen. He insisted she had dinner with him before even dreaming of leaving. In the end, she had no choice but to relent.


    At the dinner table, everyone was quite. No matter how hard she tried to ignore it, it was hard ignoring those freezing eyes glaring at her. How was she supposed to eat like this? She will get indigestion. Yu Yan slowly moved her chopsticks, gulping down whatever she could pick. "Who are you glaring at, stupid boy!" Only after being admonished by grandfather did he turn his gaze away from the woman. Why was he angry at her? She did not trouble him! Was it because she had told his grandfather and caused him to be angry? Did he think to find the culprits were troublesome? This thought left her sad. After all, he was the father, should he not care? She touched her stomach. ''Don''t worry child, even though your father never loved you, both your mother and great-grandfather loved you very much. We would decently seek justice for you.''

 Chapter 9 - Trap

    Last night had been horrifying. When they had finally finished eating, Yu Yan hurriedly made her way home, not letting the old master come up with any excuses to make her stay longer. Even if they caught the traitor, there was no guarantee that Yun Feng would be caught. She had to set her trap in motion, punish her with other means if necessary. She would make her so miserable, that Yun Feng would rather wish she was dead.


    Just as she was thinking someone rung her doorbell. She went to the door to see who it was. Speak of the devil, Yun Feng had presented herself at Yu Yan''s doorsteps. Looking at the monitor she could see how impatient she was. She probably needed the design soon, hence she had personally come to get them. Grinning evilly, she waited until the woman becomes more and more irritated.


    Opening the door only after she had waited long enough, Yu Yan let the lady in. "What brings you here without any notice?" "Ah Yan, your still angry aren''t you? Yesterday I didn''t mean to imply that. I just wanted to help you out." Even though she was trying to look pitiful, it was obvious she was trying to hold herself back while grinding her teeth. "I wasn''t angry at you, just disappointed. After all your my friend, you should be on my side!" "Yes, I''m sorry. I''ll think through properly before saying anything in the future." She was at the brink of exploding. She had to let her go now or she would not willingly walk into her trap.


    "Ah Feng, I have to go to the bathroom, wait at the coach for me." With those words, she headed towards the bathroom. That evil woman would not let this chance go. She had planned everything well, giving her enough time to get what she wanted. Since she coveted the designs then let her have them, if she ever dared to use them, she could only wait for her career to be ruined.


    That blasted woman, how dare she ruin the plan she had used so much time to make. She was already giving her face by being so nice to the stupid orphan, but she dared to have everything she ever wanted. She would destroy her, take everything she has. Yun Feng was already being nice by using her designs as her own. Letting that stupid woman''s designs be under the name of such a great designer-to-be, was already lifetime with of luck, but she dared to block her. She would see how Yu Yan would obstruct her. While Yu Yan was in the bathroom she rapidly snuck inside the study and found the desk littered with designs. One look and you could see that these were masterpieces. Originally, she had only thought to take a few, so Yu Yan would not know that some had gone missing. However, looking at them now she could not help but be greedy. So what if she took them all, it''s not like she could do anything. She would already have given them to the Li corporation as her designs, there would be nothing that Yu Yan could do. Looking at the designs, she could only want them more. Instead of coming to the Li corporations with a few designs, she could even make a collection. Not knowing that this was a trap set by, Yu Yan she took all them and quickly put them inside her bag. Making her way back to the living room, she sat down as if nothing had happened.


    After giving Yun Feng ample time to do her deed, Yu Yan exited the bathroom. Looking at the other woman it was obvious her mood had improved. "Ah Yan, I just remembered I had something important to do today. I have to go now, see you later!" Saying that she runs off so fast, not even letting Yu Yan say anything.


    Ones Yu Feng had left, Yu Yan excitedly made her way to the study. When she laid her eyes upon the desk, she was left stunned for a moment. No wonder she had been in such a hurry. The greedy woman hadn''t even left one single piece behind to hide the fact that she had stolen her designs.


    **********


    Yun Feng was sitting opposite to an older but elegant woman. This woman was excitedly looking at the three designs she had been shown. Looking at the expression of the other, it was obvious she liked the designs. The older woman looked back contently. "These designs are good. They were done by you?" "Yes, of course. If you give me the job, I could promise that I can make more. I could guarantee a collection within a year. I still have more designs that aren''t finished yet, but within a month or two I can guarantee the designs of a hole collection." The other woman was a manager within the designer department, though she was not a designer herself she could tell that these designs were treasures. "All right, if you can launch a successful collection within a year, I can guarantee a promotion." "Thank you, ma''am." Yun Feng humbly replied.


    After signing the contract she happily went home. She could not wait to show the world how great she was, surpassing Yu Yan and stepping on her like the bug she was. She could foresee her future as an award-winning designer, while Yu Yan would be rotting away in a dump. She would use this opportunity to get close to CEO Li and even become the future, Mrs Li. ''Yu Yan, you just wait what is yours now will eventually all be mine.''

 Chapter 10 - Third meeting

    For more than a day that woman had been on his mind. When she had found out that she had been poisoned she had not come looking for him. She had gone to his grandfather instead. Did she think he would do nothing and just send her away? Though he had no love for her, that was also his child. He would never let anyone get away with this. He had been too neglectful. As hard as it was to admit, he had misjudged her. Considering how wilful she always acted, he was certain the rumours were true. He had never thought of other possibilities. After all, she had been an annoying bug at his side that never left him alone. Getting as far away from her as possible, he had never been concerned about her matters. Never cared and therefore never check if there were anything wrong.


    Well, even though a lot happened because of this misunderstanding she had finally relented and given him a divorce. Something he never thought would happen. It was just impossible between the two of them, he could never see a future with her. Just the thought of her annoying voice calling him hubby made him cringe. When this matter was settled he would finalise the divorce. Then there would be no connection between them. No excuse for her to use to come and find him after the divorce.


    However, first, he would make the culprit behind the miscarriage pay. He took out his phone and called his secretary. "Hello, boss." "Ke Ming, it''s already been two days. Have you not found the culprit yet?" "Boss, it was nanny Ye. But she disappeared not long ago. She was paid a huge amount of cash, with she was able to use to pay off her husband''s debt. There were no online transfers, so it took more time than expected. Both she and her husband have left home without telling anyone. By the looks of it, they won''t be coming back." "I don''t care what methods you use, but you better find them soon or there would be overtime work and no year-end bonus for you." Without even listening to the Ke Ming''s retorts he cut off the connection.


    He would have to tell his grandfather some news about the matter before he became even more restless. Should he tell that woman? No need. As long as his grandfather knew he would tell her. Considering this he headed towards the Li mansion.


    **********


    Yu Yan had promised old master Li to come back soon since she had left so hurriedly last time. She had already talked things over with him and even agreed to stay over. Li Yi Feng did not have the habit of visiting often, so if she went again only a few days after last time she would most likely not see him there. Besides if she wanted to keep contact with old master Li, she had to learn to face him. Why did she have to be scared? Since she would not be bothering him anymore, he would not have any reasons to deal with her. thinking like this she regained her confidence and headed straight to the Li mansion.


    Since she already had a room at Li mansion, which she stayed at before she married Li Yi Feng, she did not need to bring anything. Old master Li had always kept things for her even after marriage so she could come by often. Thinking about him, she was grateful. He had always been kind to her. Taken her in and looked after her. Grandfather Li was the only person she could call family. When she made her way in she was met with the happy old man, who was waiting for her. "Grandpa, why are you waiting here? I can come in by myself!" "How could I? It''s been so long since last time Yan-er stayed over. Come one in, don''t wait outside. Well, aunt Zhou has just made your favourites. Why don''t we sit down and eat?"


    Both of them happily chatted while heading towards the dining table, sitting down they happily ate together. They were happily chatting while eating, unlike when Li Yi Feng was there, this time the two of them looked like a happy family having dinner together.


    Just as one thought, that the two of them could have a happy evening, the atmosphere was broken by an unwelcome guest. Li Yi Feng came in and sat down to his grandfathers left and the opposite of Yu Yan. He did not expect the woman to be here. Aunt Zhou quickly served him soup and rice and he started to eat with them. He was quite surprised to see his grandfather happily chatting with the woman while eating. She too was acting different from last time, she was smiling and answering all his questions. Not the kind of nausea causing smile she would give him but a genuine smile.


    He also noticed how she tensed up when she realised he was there. The mood suddenly changed, she would answer if his grandfather asked questions, but she kept them as short as possible. No longer joking. Well, it was not any of his problems.


    She had shitty luck. She had only visited the Li mansion trice after the divorce, but every time she had the bad luck of meeting this man here. Concentrated on eating her food and answering old master Li, she pretending like he was not there. After the meal, all three of them sat down in the living room. Li Yi Feng had come here with urgent news.


    "Any progress?" Old master Li asked. Li Yi Feng noticed the woman who had tried hard to ignore him all this while concentrating on what he would say when she realised that it was about the baby. It seemed like she very much cared about this matter. After all, she was the mother. "It was nanny Ye, she had been hired to look after miss Yu after she got pregnant. She ran away with her husband not long ago. We''re still pursuing them." "How could you hire someone like that? Did you not make a throughout background check?" "She was the one miss Yu wanted and insisted on bringing in." With this, both looked towards Yu Yan. "I didn''t know. My best friend Yun Feng introduced her to me. She said she was reliable and that she knew the family well. Nanny Ye''s family had been working for their family for three generations. Her mother had been my friend''s wet nurse and nanny." "Yun Feng... the woman who apologised on your behalf and made it look like you were guilty on TV?" Old master Li asked. "Yes." Li Yi Feng''s eyes sharpened. He would check that woman. "Yan-er there is something fishy about that girl, you should stay away from her." Yu Yan listened to the elders advise.

 Chapter 11 - Intersting

    "Yi Feng since you''re already here, why not stay over?" His grandfather had been asking him to stay over a lot lately and he had declined him every time. He might as well agree this time. "Alright." Hearing him agree, he saw the woman opposite of him visibly stiffen. Sh*t! She was staying too. It was too late to change his mind now, his grandfather would never let him go.


    "Good, good." There was obvious happiness on the old man''s face. "Ah! Yan-er, you would be graduating soon and should be looking for the job right? Why not work at the Li corporation?" Grandfather had been pestering him until he agreed to give her the position of lead designer. He had been really angry at that time, but now he could let it just be part of the compensation for the divorce. "Grandpa, I already got a job. It''s just a small company, but it''s a good place for a newcomer to start." That left both men shocked. "Yan-er, it would be better working for the Li corporation. You could start as a lead designer instead of just a designer." "Grandpa, I want to use my ability to work my way up and if I work at the Li corporation you would always look after me and I would not become independent." Li Yi Feng was utterly shocked. This woman had always depended on his grandfather and his connections to get what she wanted. Had she changed? Interesting. Maybe it would not be so bad to stay for tonight.


    Even though it had been uncomfortable, she had chatted with old master Li until he was tired and went to bed. But what had made the evening most unbearable was that Li Yi Feng had been constantly staring at her. And now that there was only the two of them left, she felt even more awkward. What was she supposed to do? Should she bid him goodnight before escaping into her room? No, he would just find it annoying. Yu Yan derided to just ignore him, making up her mind, she did just that. Quickly leaving a stunned Li Yi Feng in the room.


    Li Yi Feng had never been treated like this before. He never expected the woman to utterly ignore his existence and just leave. Since when had things changed so much? If she did not want anything to do with him, then that was fine. He could be sure that she would not come to disturb him after their divorce.


    After making her way into bed, she realised that it was still too early to go to bed. She played around with her phone until she fell asleep. She was home alone, not feeling too good lately she went to bed after letting the helpers go home early. Her whole body felt cold and heavy. Her stomach hurt. Suddenly, she felt something hot between her legs. Blood. No! Her baby! "No!" She sat up and checked between her legs. No blood. It had just been a dream. A nightmare she had had countless time in her past life.


    She did not feel too well and her treat was dry. Getting up she went to the kitchen to get a cup of water. The lights were off, seems everyone had gone to sleep. After getting a cup of water Yu Yan was ready to get back. Then a deep and masculine male voice was heard from behind her "What are you doing?" Suddenly hearing an unexpected male voice scared her. Screaming she turned around ready to attack the intruder. "Aaah.. hmph." A big hand covered her mouth. "Are you trying to wake the whole house?" It was Li Yi Feng. He was too close just a breath away. She looked up at him with her big, bright eyes. Not knowing what else to do she kept quite. She realised he had moved close to her to keep her quiet. Even so, she could not help but blush. Her heart sped up, she had been trying so hard to forget him, but she was still in love. It was too dark he would not know that she was blushing right? Could he hear her heart beating? She was panicking. With such nearness, she could even smell his clean masculine scent.


    The woman was like small prey that got caught. She looked up at him with those beautiful big eyes. He could feel her warmth, smell the fruity scent coming off her with the close proximity. He could even feel how her face was heating up because of him. On his palm, he could feel those soft and luscious lips. They had tasted very sweet. Even though he had been drugged the one time they slept together, he still remembered what happened. It had not been bad. She tasted very good, if it had not been for her personality that always disgusted him, he would not have minded giving this marriage a try. He would admit that she was quite pretty when she kept still and had her mouth shut. Moving closer, he narrowed his eyes. Their noses almost touching. His hand still covering her mouth. He watched as he eyes widen in surprise, she trembled like a scared little rabbit. Yes, quite an interesting little creature.


    Not able to stand his strange actions anymore, Yu Yan ran away while Li Yi Feng was occupied with his thoughts. Closing her room, she hid under her quilt. What was going on? Why was Li Yi Feng acting so strangely? Forget it. It was better to pretend like this never happened and go back to sleep. But no matter how hard she tried, she was unable to fall asleep. Tossing and turning for hours, she was finally able to let sleep take ahold of her after a long while.


    Like always, she woke up early the next day. She did not have to look in the mirror to know that she looked like a panda. So embarrassing. Li Yi Feng would know that she was unable to sleep because of what happened last night. She would rather not get out of her room until he left, but she knew she had to get down to eat breakfast. If not, old master Li would become worried. Unfortunately, she did not bring any makeup with her. Without any other choice, she could only resign to fate and freshen up before she got down.

 Chapter 12 - Lunch date

    When she came down, both Li Yi Feng and old master Li was waiting for her at the table. She sat down, ready to have her breakfast with them. "Yan-er, was the bed uncomfortable? Do you need something changed in your room?" The elder worriedly asked. It truly was that obvious, that she had been unable to sleep last night. "Grandfather, she has used that room and bed for years. There might be other reasons that kept miss Li awake all night." Li Yi Feng commented with a small smirk on his lips. His eyes on Yu Yan with obvious implications. Was he making fun of her? Hmph! Ignore him. "I had a nightmare last night," she told and continued to eat.


    Li Yi Feng''s mood had been bad since early morning. He had not been able to sleep last night. Whenever he closed his eyes he would see those big watery eyes staring up at him. That woman was bothersome. Divorcing her seemed to be the right choice. He sat down to eat breakfast. All of the dishes were her favourites. His grandfather doted on her. Did he forget that his grandson was here too? It seemed his mood would not get better any time soon. However, after seeing her his mood turned for the better. She had not been able to have a good night sleep either. Good. He was not suffering through this alone. It seemed the woman was still hell-bent on ignoring him. Hmm... this might be for the better. Like this, she would steer away from him and would not bother him like last night.


    After breakfast, Li Yi Feng headed towards work and Yu Yan stayed behind to talk with the old master. Realising how time went by quickly, she apologised to the elder for not having lunch with him and headed out. Taking a cab she went to her destination. Looking at the elegantly decorated restaurant, she understood why many people liked to come here. It was quite nice and had a carefree and relaxing atmosphere.


    Getting inside the private room, she found her lunch date waiting for her. Wu Ming Yue looked up at the young woman that just came in. She smiled lightly at her. "Why don''t you sit down? This tea is really good would you like to have some?" "Yes, thank you." Sitting down, Yu Yan tasted the tea she had been served to her. Such a refreshing and nice tea. "Miss Wu, could you tell me why you suddenly asked me to come over?" Wu Ming Yue looked at her hesitatingly. "Miss Yu, no, I mean Mrs Li, why would you come to work at such a small company as mine instead of working for Li corporations? It is not like my little company is a business rival that CEO Li needs to send his own white to be a spy. No matter what it does not make sense unless CEO Li is planning to go against the Wu family and have decided to start by acquiring my company?" At the end of the sentence, her voice became sharper and eyes more fierce. "Miss Wu, it''s all a misunderstanding. There is no such hidden motive behind this. I came to work for you because it would be more ideal for my case. CEO Li and I have already gotten divorced, so it wouldn''t be good for me to work at his company." "Oh... I''m sorry." She looked embarrassed and ashamed that she had misunderstood. "No, it''s fine. I''m sure you had to do this." Seeing that You Yan was not holding this against her, Wu Ming Yue was relieved. Honestly, it would be bad to have to let go of such a talented designer.


    Finishing the business talk, both of them happily chatted as they ate. Not expecting to get along this well. "Who would have thought Could get along with such a young woman as yourself?" "Miss Wu must be teasing me, your just 25 yourself. You make it sound like your an old woman compared to me." She laughed. "It would be a waste to just end it after lunch. Do you have free time after lunch? How about spending some time with me?" Honestly, Yu Yan had never had any other friend beside Yun Feng. She was happy to get along with another woman and readily agreed. "Then, what should we do? Shopping? Karaoke? It seems too early to go to the club or having drinks." "How about watching a movie instead?" Yu Yan asked. She had always wanted to have a girlfriend she could hang out with and do small things with. Yun Feng would only come if she could open a lot of money. Wu Ming Yue was stunned for a moment. She had not expected this. All the young rich ladies and madams would only spend time together shopping, at a cafe or drinking. She too had been bored of such ways to always spend time and did not mind Yu Yan''s suggestion. "What kind of movies do you like? Classics? Romance?" Wu Ming Yue asked tentatively. Yu Yan pouted, she was not that interested in those genres. She Especially hated classics, those were just boring. "How about action movies or fantasy movies?" Yu Yan asked. Wu Ming Yue visibly brightened. She could never find a female friend to watch her favourite movies with she seemed to have hit jackpot this time. "I would love to. Then let''s go. Off to the movie we go!"


    Finishing their meal both girls happily headed for the cinema. Giggling along the way. Instead of taking a cab they decided to walk along the street. Two beautiful women, one elegant and glamorous woman and the other Pure, adorable but charming beauty, walked hand in hand. There was no way they could not get the surrounding peoples attention. Men were staring at them, unable to look away. "Are those to celebrities, models maybe? So pretty." "If they were celebrities they would probably have covered their faces. And there''s no way such beautiful women would be unknown if they were celebrities." "Yeah, your right." Some people passing by muttered.

 Chapter 13 - Mu Sheng Tian

    Finally arriving at the cinema, both of the vigorously discussed what movie they should see. After coming to a decision one went to buy tickets and the other snacks and drinks. Both women were intently watching the movie, however, the sight of such beauties caused many of the men that had come to watch the movie unable to focus. Finishing the movie they went to a nearby cafe. It had been a long time since Yu Yan was able to spend her days like this. This "girl''s day" had been nice. Not only was she content, but Wu Ming Yue had also enjoyed the day. Not wanting to part, both girls walked around speaking about anything and everything. Only when it became late, did they reluctantly part ways.


    "Ah Yan, now that we''re friend, you should call me sister Ming Yue. Miss Wu is too formal. Oh, we should also have a follow-up date!" She said teasingly before she left. Finally reaching home after the long day, Yu Yan was too tired to anything else. She had so much fun playing around for a whole day, that she did not realise she was exhausted. There was still a week left before she would start working at Lotus before then she would like to start thinking of ideas for her collection. After all, it did have to be the best, since she had no plans of working for free. Making new ideas, Yu Yan drifted off to sleep.


    The next day Yu Yan woke up early to go to a mountain resort up north. That''s where she had been last winter when she came up with the design she had shown Ming Yue. Nature and freedom she had felt there had been her inspirations. She wanted to see if she could come up with anything else there.


    At the resort.


    Walking around, she could feel it. The same freedom she had ones felt. Something she had forgotten in her past life. She had been so busy working to make a living that she had no spare time. No time to breath or just enjoy life. Sitting down amongst the trees, she drew anything that came to mind. Enjoying the breeze, the smell, she just watched as people walk by.


    After a few hours, she had gotten down a few ideas on paper. Believing that would be enough, for now, she headed back to her room. "Mommy," a cry from a child could be heard. Turning around to look, Yu Yan saw a little boy about two or three years old running towards a woman. The boy pouted as he said. "Mommy, You can''t leave me behind." The woman laughed gently as she looked back at the boy. "Silly boy, how could mommy bear to leave my darling. Mommy will slow down so my baby could keep up, okay?" The boy nodded as he happily followed after his mother.


    Yu Yan felt something wet fall on her hand. Was it raining? She looked up. No. Bringing her hand up, she touched her face. She was crying, again. Scenes like this had always made her cry, made her remember what she had lost. When would it stop? Will she feel this pain for the rest of her life?


    "Which idiot left such a pretty lady alone after making her cry?" A flirtatious voice came from the side. Looking up, it was quite a good-looking man. He came towards her, fished out a handkerchief from his pocket and handed it over to her. Who brings handkerchiefs to mountain resorts nowadays? He smiled. "They are handier than you think, so it''s always good to bring one with you," he said. Was her thoughts that obvious. "Hmm... Shall I cheer the pretty lady up? follow me." "No, Should head in." As Yu Yan turned around to live, he took her arm and pulled her along. "Let go! if you don''t let go of my hand, I''ll scream." "Scream? Hardly anyone passes by here. Would anyone come here?" He smirked."Pretty lady, do you think I lack woman with my handsome looks?" ''Narcissist.'' Before she could do anything he had dragged her a distance away. Then he stepped behind her and pushed her forward. Surprised she spun around trying to find out what he was up to.


    "Ah, I know I''m handsome, but instead of looking at me you should turn around and see what''s ahead of us." Turning she was astonished. What a beautiful sight. In front of her was a beautiful lake. Since it had already turned dark the fireflies that were swarming the place could be clearly seen. Watching the beautiful sight in front of her, she drew a few more pieces. She had completely forgotten the man who had brought her.


    Finishing, she stood up only to see the man still standing there, looking at her in wonder. Gazing at her as if she was some kind of alien. ''She forgot that I was here. How is that even possible?'' As if understanding something, he looked at her weirdly. It gave her the creeps. What was this man thinking? "Pretty lady, everyone has their own path. Instead of pursuing someone that would never fall for you it''s better to forget and start anew." Yu Yan looked up at him in surprise. How had he known? She sighed as answered. "You''re right, not everyone is meant to end up together." "Ha... You can''t choose who you would be attracted to. You should not worry, there is nothing wrong with you." Though the man was supportive, there was just something off about the way he spoke. "Ah, my name is Mu Sheng Tian. It''s good that you met me, not everyone is as accepting as me. Since fate brought us together we are now friends. You could always come to me when you need a shoulder to cry on." ''This man''s way of talking sound weirder and weirder. Accepting? Accepting of what?'' While Yu Yan was wondering, Mu Sheng Tian blabbered on and on about love.


    Soon both of them headed towards their respective rooms, they both got to know each other better. "Oh, I didn''t quite catch your name." "Yu Yan, my name is Yu Yan." She smiled at him. He had really cheered her up today. Though he probably approached her with hidden intentions, he was surrounded by women that would happily throw themselves at him. The infamous playboy, young master Mu, who would have thought she would meet him here? Mu Sheng Tian stared at her in a daze. "What a beauty... such a pity she would be..." he muttered. "What?" Again that weird feeling as if he was thinking about something weird. She looked at him questioningly. "Nothing."


    **********


    What the two did not know was that someone had been watching them for a while now. He had been staring at the pair as they were talking and laughing. "What are you looking at? Something interesting?" Another man came, peering out the window to see if something was going on outside. "Hmm, it seems like Mu Sheng Tian found his next woman. Wonder how long she''ll last?" The other man gritted his teeth together. "Shut up!" His friend looked at him in surprise."What''s made you so irritated Li Yi Feng?"

 Chapter 14 - Irritated

    The evening day after, three men were sitting together drinking. "Li Yi Feng, You early come out when we call you out for outings. How come you came?" One of the men asked. "Maybe he''s here to celebrate. I heard he finally got rid of his annoying and clingy wife. Ah, It should be ex-wife now." Li Yi Feng looked up at his friend. He was annoyed. Since last night he could not get rid of that irritating feeling that had been gnawing on him. As he had thought, that woman brought him nothing but trouble. Ke Ming, that loose thronged idiot. "Oi, don''t get so irritated. Ke Ming was so happy for you. Why do you look like you''re going to punish him when you get back. Gu Li Ming, say something." "Is it true? You finally got her to sign the divorce papers? I never thought that girl would ever let you go." Gu Li Ming looked at his friend in surprise. "That''s right. Exactly how did you get rid of her? After hearing how annoying she was from Ke Ming, we went to all that trouble to not meet her. She was like your shadow always sticking to you. That''s why I told you to never get married." The other man went on. "Shut up Mu Sheng Tian. Getting her to sign the divorce papers so soon after her miscarriage! You''re being too harsh Yi Feng." "Didn''t she lose the child because of paying and drinking too much? It serves her right." Mu Sheng Tian said without a care. "I heard that those rumours where lies." "Lies?" Both men looked towards their quiet friend. Li Yi Feng narrowed his eyes. This was none of their business, why care so much about that woman? "See, it''s not lies. That woman probably came up with that to stick to him. despicable!" "She was poisoned."


    His reply caught them off guard. the always cold and mighty Li Yi Feng actually explained why! Even Li Yi Feng was not sure why he said anything. but somehow, not saying anything bothered him. Why was he defending her? Why had he come here as soon as he found out she would be going here? It did not make sense! The other two men looked at each other. There seemed to be more to the story than their friend was telling them. "But, you still got divorced from her right after the miscarriage?" Gu Li Feng did not forget that his friend had not answered him. Li Yi Feng had no thoughts about replying. He looked up at his friends and his gaze landed on Mu Sheng Tian. The scene that he witnessed last night came to mind and his gaze turned cold. Mu Sheng Tian shuddered, he felt a chill to the bone as if a beast was locking on to him. He looked towards his friend. He knew it! What had he done now? Why was Li Yi Feng, this b*****d looking, at him like this? "Not yet. I haven''t officially settled the papers just yet." With those words, he stood up and left. If he did not leave now, he felt like more would slip out. There was no reason for him to explain himself to them.


    **********


    Yu Yan had stayed out longer than she had thought. Before long the skies had turned dark. She should have gotten back to her room earlier. If she had, she would not have been caught up in this trouble!


    "Wouldn''t you answer me, little beauty. How can you be out and about alone this late? Ah, you must be lonely. Why not keep me and my brother company?" The drunk man laughed as he eyed her. "Ah, my brother is right. We''ll treat you real good. Let''s go have some fun together, hmm?" The other man said as he too watched at her greedily.


    Yu Yan looked around. There was no one else in sight. She was quite far away from the lodge and would not be able to call for help and she might outrun the drunk one, but the other man looked sober enough. "It''s late and I''m tired. I don''t think I could accompany you, gentlemen." She tried talking nicely was she slowly back away from the men.


    "Where do you think you''re going?" As he was talking, he grabbed her hand. Not letting her get away. "Little lady, do you think you have a choice? Tonight you''re serving me and my brother! If you''re obedient we''ll be nice. However, we don''t mind doing it the hard way if you still want to run away." The man smiled her lecherously as he talked. Disgusting! In her past, she had also experienced these kinds of situations. At first, she had been lucky enough to get away but another time she was almost r?p?d. If it had not been for the stranger that had helped her she would certainly be r?p?d that night. She had come to realise that she had to learn to take care of herself. Even when she had become haggard and ugly, those type of men had still been attracted to her curvy body.


    **********


    Li Yi Feng had gone out to get some fresh air and cool down his head. He did not want to be asked more questions. Neither did he want to be in the same room as Mu Sheng Tian at the moment. Somehow he just wanted to punch that smiling idiot. As he walked away from were people ventured to get some peace of mind, he wandered into an unexpected scene. He never thought he would see the woman again at this late hour. What was she thinking of wandering out so late at night? Did she not realise she was a woman or did she not know how dangerous it could be? Why would she be in the wood so far away from people? She could not even call for help if she needed it. Looking at the man who was grabbing her hand without letting go, a wave of unknown anger came over him. He had an urge to pound the man half to death. ''Ignore it!'' He should not get involved with that woman. It would only cause him trouble. He turned away deciding to walk away from the scene. He looked back. He could not ignore it.


    "Long Hai, go help her out. Pretend you''re a passerby, don''t let her know I sent you." "Understood, master."

 Chapter 15 - Her type

    Thanks to Yun Feng, a lot of rouges came to her either to steal her money or to s?xu??ly ?ssault her. At that time she did not know that those unlucky meetings were planned, but she soon realised that she had to learn how to protect herself. Since one of the men was so drunk that he couldn''t even stand properly, he would not be a problem. However, the other man would be problematic and she would have to take care of him first.


    "Please, let me go." As she said those word, Yu Yan secretly fished out something she hid in her bag. Quickly bringing her hand up, she sprayed both men with pepper-spray. Kneeing the sober man between his leg before she elbowed him in the stomach. Then she pushed the other man way before she made a run for it. She sprinted as fast as she could, trying to get cover behind the trees. They would not be down for long, so she had to lose them as quickly as possible.


    **********


    Just as Long Hai was about to take action, both he and Li Yi Feng was surprised by what they witnessed. not in their wildest dreams did they think that such a frail little woman would be able to fight off two men. She was not as stupid as Li Yi Feng hard originally thought. Still able to protect herself calmly at such a situation, however, it was still dangerous. Long Hai quickly subdued both men so they would not be able to follow Yu Yan.


    After taking care of the problem Li Yi Feng decided to head back inside. He went into the private room and found both of his friends still there babbling on. About to turn around and leave he caught on to a sentence that made him stop.


    "Steng Tian, it''s seemed like you found a pretty lady yesterday. Though I could only see her back view, I do know that you''d only be interested in beauties. Are you not going to find her again to accompany you?" Mu Sheng Tian looked surprised for a second before he began to talk. "Don''t ask about it. Thought the girl is totally my type.... sigh. She is both pretty, cute and gentle." "Why the long face? I have still to meet a girl that was not seduced by you. I bet a few days of work would be all that it takes to get the girl hooked."


    Hearing their conversation it mad Li Yi Feng somewhat uncomfortable. No matter what the woman they were talking about was still his wife. That''s probably why he felt like this. Who would like other men taking an interest in their wife? But the fact that Mu Yi Feng had found her gentle puzzled him. No matter how he thought about it, she was like a sticky rice cake that either stuck to you or an unreasonable wild and jealous woman. She had somewhat changed since the incident. Had she finally able to use that head of hers and learned some sense. Where was the gentleness? Cute? He thought back at what had happened a few days ago. When she looked like a covered rabbit. Well, that could maybe be called cute? He did not like the thought of other people seeing her like that. It felt like only he was supposed to see that kind of scene.


    "Sigh... No matter how good of a woman she is it''s just impossible." Li Yi Feng perked up his ears at that sentence. "Impossible? Interesting, how so?" Gu Li Ming pushed on. His friend was not the type to give up before getting what he wanted. He was a persistent bastard, but somehow this woman made him give up after one day. He definitely had to know why. He had always been curious, and he loved hearing gossip about his friends'' life. Normally he would not take interest in Mu Sheng Tian''s love life, after all, he was a total playboy, but this woman somehow felt different. "That woman isn''t the type that would be interested in me." "Ha, you were rejected by a woman for the first time? Who would have thought there would be a woman that would not fall for young master Mu? Maybe I should get to know her?" "Tch. Do you think she would be interested in you? Forget it! Not even the mighty Li Yi Feng could seduce her." "What are you talking about? You should now how a woman always clings to him. When he''s around even you become nothing more than a forgettable sidekick." "Who''s a sidekick? You''re sidekick! Your whole family are sidekicks!" Gu Li Ming did not care about his friend''s little outburst and waited patiently for his explanation. "Ah, I should probably keep this a secret, but there is no way I could let go of the fact that you''re questioning my skills. It''s just we''re not her type if you get what I mean?" Gu Li Ming looked utterly confused. "Just get to point already!"


    "She''s gay!" Li Yi Feng''s eyes widened. Gay? There was no way that woman could be gay. "Haha. So lame! Just because she rejected you, you''re calling the girl gay. I hadn''t known you were this petty." "Of course not! I was being a gentleman and all and even took her to the lake to show her the great view there. Normally it would be romantic and the mood would be good, right? But this girl went into a daze and started to sketch for hours! She even forgot that I was there. When she finished her drawings and saw me she looked surprised. Her thoughts were written on her face! It was like she was asking me why I was still here!" "Haha, to think you would experience being ignored by a woman? But that''s still no reason to say that she''s gay. You might just not be her type." "How is that possible? No straight woman would be able to ignore the handsome me, let alone forget my existence! This alone is enough to prove that she''s gay!" Gu Li Ming was trying hard to restrain his laughter. His friend was undoubtedly pettier than he had expected. He looked up at Mu Sheng Tian. D**n, he looked completely serious. "Narcissistic much? There''s no cure for that my friend."


    Li Yi Feng looked on as his friends bantered. A small smile crept upon his face. If his friend had paid more attention to him, they would have noticed their friend''s unusual behaviour. Somehow Li Yi Feng felt better. Hmph! Seems that woman had really gotten some sense into that thick skull of hers.

 Chapter 16 - Trouble keeps coming

    After leaving the mountain resort, the days quickly went by and Yu Yan finally started to work. Her days were spent working to perfect her sketches and making them into flawless designs. In no time more than a month had passed. This month had been packed with work and she had hardly any time to relax. Though busy, she had lived peacefully. Since she enjoyed the work, she did not mind being busy.


    Even though she was content others started to get impatient. Elder Li was very unhappy. His stiff grandson never visited and now Ah Yan had also forgotten about him. But he was not the onl.y one who was unhappy with Yu Yan''s busy schedule. Wu Ming Yue could not even seeder new friend even though they worked at the same company. At first, she had asked to meet up again, but fas turned down every single time. She started to wine and bother Yu Yan until her friend started to ignore and avoid her. As the boss, she should be happy her employee was working so hard, but somehow she was not.


    Though Yu Yan understood she was neglecting everything besides her work she could not help it. In her last life, she was unable to do what she loved. Even though she had made masterpieces for Yun Feng, they had not been her designs anymore. They were all taken away. Though she continued to design for her so-called friend, she lost her inspiration and hope. Others may not have seen it, but to her, those designs had become dull, without life and soul. They were depressing just like she had been. Being able to design as many designs as she wanted, had gotten her hopes up. This life was different. These designs were hers and only hers. It could be clearly seen, as every design were unique with vitality and spirit. Finally able to work as a designer, she worked until she worked from morning to night.


    She had been so content, that she had forgotten all about Yun Feng. She had grown all those worries in the back of her mind. But some people just couldn''t go too long without making trouble and Yun Feng was one of those people. The TV stunt had cost her dearly. Her reputation was ruined. Since Yu Yan had won the lawsuit, things had turned for the worst. People looked at her strangely, her scheming side had been known. Her family owned a media outlet, though not too rich she was of the upper class compared to commoners. But compared to the big and wealthy her family was nothing new money, nothing special. She had used Yu Yan''s position as madam Li to mingle with the upper class and then she had secretly spread rumours and made Yu Yan an outcast. However, now those friends had distanced themselves from her. She had tried to get back on their good side, but nothing had worked. Not only was her situation bad, but also her family was doing horribly. She had used her father''s connections for the media stunt. The outcome had made all those people lose face and retaliate against her father''s company. The company was already at a bad and their retaliations had broth the company near bankruptcy. She really needed the help and influence of those rich women. After thinking everything through, she could only come up with a plan. If Yu Yan was to explain that everything was a misunderstanding than those women would not be so wary of her anymore.


    Making up her mind she called her friend. "Hello?" "Ah Yan, we haven''t met for a while. Why not meet up this weekend? I''ll come to pick you up on Saturday morning, we''ll go shopping! I''m kind of busy now and can''t talk much. See you this weekend!" Not letting Yu Yan voice her objections, she quickly ended the call. Yun Feng would make Yu Yan pay for all the damages Yu Yan had caused her. She just had to wait until the weekend. Those ladies may look down on her for being a scheming woman but none of those noble ladies were pure. Though they were on guard against her, those women would never take Yu Yan''s side. After all, all of them hated Yu Yan. They did not want a backstabbing friend but would happily watch if Yu Yan was ruined. Just two years ago, Li Yi Feng had been the golden bachelor that all the ladies wanted to marry. However, Yu Yan, that commoner had suddenly taken the position of madam Li that many had eyed. This had left many unhappy.


    She only had to bring Yu Yan and make her say a few good words for her and her name would be cleared. After that those women would take care of everything. They would embarrass and make a laughingstock out of Yu Yan. Thinking about it a sinister smile crept up her face.


    **********


    Yu Yan really regretted answering the call. She had ignored many calls lately and decided to answer this one before even seeing who''s call it was. As she had thought, she had lived to peacefully the past month, so trouble came looking for her. Yun Feng would never be kindhearted and invite her out without scheming.


    Well, she had no choice, if she did not go that woman would most likely use more drastic measures to deal with her. Besides this could be another opportunity to get back at her. Settling her worries, she continued on her work. She would take care of the problem when the time comes.


    **********


    Saturday morning.


    "Ah Yan let''s hurry! The earlier we go the better." Yun Feng was anxious. She could not be late! If she made those noble ladies wait, things would get harder. Her anxiousness did not go unnoticed by Yu Yan. Seeing Yun Feng like this, Yu Yan ate leisurely taking her time. The more anxious Yun Feng was, the happier Yu Yan became. "Why the hurry? let me eat first. We have the whole day anyways. Don''t stand anymore, sit down." "We can grab something to eat on the way! Let''s go." "No, it''s such a waste to throw away food. It''s not like we''re meeting anyone. It doesn''t matter when we go." Yun Fen looks away guiltily. Sh*t! If they did not hurry Yun Feng would be in trouble. Yu Yan observed the woman carefully, so they were meeting someone? Then she definitely had to be late. Doing the dishes against Yun Feng objection she even went to the bathroom and waited a long time before she came out. Yun Feng was obviously very angry and was trying to hold it in.


    Finally able to get Yu Yan into the car, Yun Feng made the driver drive as fast as possible. She had already been called ones while Yu Yan was inside the bathroom. The caller was obviously irritated. She had to plead for forgiveness and make up excuses. She hated that those women could do as they pleased, while she had to please them. She had to put down her pride and listen to their every whim. To be at their beck and call like a servant. Just wait until she becomes madam Li! Then she would show them.

 Chapter 17 - Spending money

    It did not take to long before both of them made it to the mall. Yun Feng did not wait for Yu Yan to waste more time and grabbed her hand before dragging her along. Soon they made their way too meeting point. The ladies waiting were obviously angry. They had waited for fore more than half an hour. For small fries such as Yu Yan and Yun Feng to make them wait for this long, was humiliating.


    Reading the mood Yun Feng hurriedly apologised."Ah, we''re sorry. We didn''t mean to be late! Ah Yan woke up late and we were delayed. We''re really sorry!" Yun Feng did not hesitate to blame Yu Yan. All the women turned to Yu Yan and looked at her unpleasantly. "Yu Yan, who do you think you are? How dare you make us wait for so long?" If it was before, Yu yan would have just been scolded without saying anything back. She had desperately tried to fit into the upper class and had always been a loyal fan would never blame Yun Feng. However, now she was different. There was no way she would take this without saying anything back.


    "What do you mean? Why are you here? Ah Feng didn''t you say that only the two of us would be going shopping today?"The women looked suspiciously at Yun Feng. ''This b****h! How dare she make me look bad?'' "Ah Yan, what do you mean? When I called you a few days ago I mentioned we would be going with a few friends. Maybe you weren''t paying attention?" Yu Yan looked innocent as she stated: "Ah Feng, how could you say that? I''m sure you never mentioned it. Besides, when I was eating earlier and you wanted me to hurry up, I remember I said it would be fine since we''re not meeting anyone else. You still did not mention anything."


    Yun Feng paled. Her schemes had been laid b?r?, those ladies would understand what was going on. And she was right in thinking that, the women were angered. This no-one dared to use them in her schemes? "Yun Feng, how dare you?" There was no going back now. those ladies would never help her, but she had to appease them somehow. After all, she could not bring more trouble to her family. She had to think of another way to help her father''s company.


    "Ladies it''s a misunderstanding. Why don''t we buy you some nice clothes and jewellery as an apology?" That seemed to have calmed them down a bit. Though these women were from prominent families they were nothing compared to the giants like Li, Mu, Wu, Gu and Yang families. Every time they went shopping with Yun Feng and Yu Yan they were always able to bring back plenty of gorgeous dresses and jewellery worth millions. No matter how much Li Yi Feng disapproved of this wife of his, elder Li doted on her. Before marriage, elder Li made sure she had everything she needed, including money. After marriage, she definitely had more to spend as madam Li. Though none of them would still keep in contact with Yun Feng, they did not mind using this opportunity to spend someone else''s money. After all, they were given a certain amount as an allowance, but that was never enough. There were always more clothing and jewellery that they wanted but could not have.


    The ''we'' used by Yun Feng did not go unnoticed. With we, she meant Yu Yan. It had always been like that. Whenever she brought her rich friends, they spent Yu Yan''s money as if it was their own. Yu Yan smirked. Since Yun Feng wanted to treat them, she would make sure to make Yun Feng lose a lot of money. She would not be satisfied if Yun Feng did not lose all the money she''s saved up.


    With even stopping to look at any other stores all of them went into the most pricy store choosing and trying on beautiful dresses. Yu Yan did not pay attention to them and cost to study the newest collections. These were after all, what inn now and gaining more knowledge about what would sell would be good for her. From time to time she would wander back to those other ladies and give them compliments, making sure they would choose the most costly ones. This pleased them. No matter if she was favoured or not she was still madam Li, to have her fawn over them, made them feel proud. If not for being disliked by Li Yi Feng, this women would never dare to bully Yu Yan.


    After several hours of looking through everything, everyone except Yu Yan had chosen several pieces. Yun Fen happily came over to Yu Yan, when she finished choosing. It had been a long time since she last went shopping with Yu Yan. All the dresses she had previously bought were out of date and she needed some new gowns for special occasions. These kinds of dresses cost a lot and she could not bear to use her own money to buy them. Especially now that her family situation was bad. Good thing she had someone as stupid as you Yan around to buy her everything she needed. "Ah Yan, we''ve all chosen what we want why don''t we go pay?" "Sure! You go ahead, I urgently have to go to the restroom. don''t worry I''ll be back soon." Without waiting for Yun Feng to reply, she quickly went out. Going outside, she waited from a spot that could not be spotted from the inside.


    "Wait..." Yu Yan had vanished, even before she finished. Looking at the impatient ladies, Yun Feng had no choice but to go to the counter with the rest of them. They had chosen many dresses, so it would take a while before the saleswoman could sum it all up. Since Yu yan would be back soon there should not be any trouble. Easing up, she waited for the bill together with the rest of the ladies. After about two minutes the saleswoman had summed up all the money. Yun Feng had long since started to feel uneasy. Yu Yan was still not back. This sum of money, there was no way she would pay it.


    "The total sum would be 360 000 000. Who would be paying?" Hearing the sum Yun Feng almost fainted. In the past, they had never spent this much, but they had spent plenty. She had never flinched then because it was never her money. But now she was terrified. Yu Yan was nowhere in sight and she did not even have that large of an amount on her. One of the women pointed at Yun Feng as she said: "She''ll pay." Yun Feng was shocked, she did not expect to be put on the spot. All of them were well aware that Yu Yan was supposed to pay, but these women did not care who paid. Since Yu Yan was not here let Yun Feng pay. "Ah, wait a bit more. Our friend would be here soon." The saleswoman looked suspiciously at her. Obvious contempt in her eyes. Yun Feng was embarrassed she had never felt so humiliated before.

 Chapter 18 - Second slap

    After waiting for a while, Yu Yan was still no there and the saleswoman started to become impatient. It was not easy getting a job at a big store like this, she had to be professional. Since these people were customers, she could not be rude. She could tell most of these women were noble ladies but it seemed like they were being treated by a normal person. Though richly dressed, there was no elegance or noble air around her. She was obviously trying to curry favour with the upper class using someone else money. Working at a place like this there was no end to people like her. Sure she was wealthy but this was obviously too much for her. The saleswoman felt disgusted. She hated these kinds of people. Acting all high and mighty before commoners and submissively in front of the noble families. She could wait until now since the other customers were looking at clothes and not paying yet, but by the looks of it, someone else was ready to pay too.


    "Customers, I cannot wait any longer. As you can see others are also waiting to pay." Yun Feng, who had longe turned pale tuned red out of rage and humiliation. How dare she, a mere saleswoman embarrass her in front of so many people?! But no matter what she could not pay that huge amount. If she did not buy anything for herself, she might still be able to pay. However, how could she say that? Would that not be admitting she did not have enough money? She would never be able to show her face again! That Yu Yan, Where was she? How dare she put her in this position? She would definitely make her pay!


    Gritting her teeth, she swallowed down the shame. "I''m not being these clothes anymore. Could you deduct the price?" She said as she picked the ones she had chosen. From behind she could hear someone snicker. They were laughing at her! She felt utterly disgraced. "Yun Feng, it can''t be that you can''t afford this much, right? If you don''t have money, just say so. If not, wouldn''t it look like we''re bullying you? Why did you say you wanted to treat us, it''s not like we can''t afford this." Yun Feng trembled with rage but she could not afford to lash out at these people. She could only smile and reply. "Of course not. I just remembered I had bought a lot of dresses this month and haven''t had the chance to use them yet. It would be a waste to buy more than I could use. I''ll still pay for the rest."


    Yun Feng could only brace herself and pay the sum after deducting the dresses she had chosen. Thankfully she had enough to pay for the rest. She will make Yu Yan transfer the money to her later. Never had she felt so ashamed before. No longer in the mood to stay, she wanted to get as far away as possible. It felt like someone had ripped her heart apart and su?k?d her lifeblood out. This was all the money she had secretly saved up for years. With her current family situation, she might have to depend on herself for a while and can''t afford to waste money.


    When she made her way out of the store she found Yu Yan standing in a corner looking at her phone. All the anger she had been keeping down burst out. She strode forward and raised her hand ready to take out her anger. Yu Yan had already aware of someone approaching and raised her head. Seeing the palm that was about to fall on her cheek, she raised her hand and stopped her.


    "What do you think you''re doing?" "You! How dare you stop me?! What was I doing? What were you doing? Where have you been? How dare you make a laughing stock out of me?!" Yun Feng screamed in rage. "Tch, I told you she was a scheming b***h." "How shameless." "I''ve never seen such a white lotus before." The ladies that had followed Yun Feng out started to mutter.


    The whispers brought Yun Feng back to her seances. Her image! She acted like she was wronged as she talked on. "Ah, look people are misunderstanding me now. Ah Yan I only lash out because I was worried. You said you would go to the bathroom and be back to pay. We waited so long for you, why didn''t you come back? I was afraid something had happened to you. How could you be so irresponsible?" "What are you talking about? I''ve been waiting for so long. Why did it take so long just to pay the bill? I didn''t buy anything, of course, there''s no need for me to go back to pay. If you were worried, you should''ve called me. Was just about to call you when you were ready to slap me." Yu Yan did not hold back. She exposed all of Yun Feng''s lies.


    Yun Feng felt n?k?d all her scheming was laid b?r? for all the passerby to see. Had she not been shamed enough today? How could Yu Yan make a laughingstock out of her? "What are you talking about Ah Yan? Weren''t you going to treat us all today? How can you go back on your words?" Did she think her small act could help her reputation? How could Yu Yan let this chance go? "When did I say that? Indeed, I always buy clothes for you, but today I didn''t even know there were going to be more people than the two of us when you invited me out. Besides, didn''t you say you wanted to treat everyone? How could I know you wanted me to pay like always?" Yu Yan acted innocent as she shamelessly ruined Yun Feng''s reputation with an innocent look. Wasn''t that what Yun Feng had done to her in her last life?

 Chapter 19 - Trending

    Wu Ming Yue had been trying to get her new friend''s attention for a month now. Tired of waiting, she decided it was time for her to just go and drag her out. this was a first for her. She was usually used to people trying to get her attention not the other way around.


    Taking Yu Yan to her favourite cafe, they both ordered some drinks before starting to talk. In all honesty, Ming Yue had been worried. Her friend was working way too much. she was worried that this would cause her to be overworked. But looking at Yu Yan it did not seem like she was tired. Actually, she seemed more spirited than the last time she saw her. Yu Yan was clearly still happy from what had happened earlier that day. The isolation she had felt, when she was all alone and people wrongfully accusing her, would not happen this time. This time it was Yun Feng''s turn to feel the desperation. To feel like there was no way out.


    "Ah Yan, don''t you think you''re been working too much lately? Overworking is not good for your health. Though I appreciate your hardworking and passionate nature, I can''t let this go on. If you need someone to talk to, you could always talk to me. Don''t use work to bury your sorrows away."


    It never occurred to Yu Yan that she would cause a misunderstanding. She had cased Ming Yue needless worry. Feeling guilty she explained. "Sis Ming Yue, it''s not like that. I just love designing and the fact that I can finally design my own clothes just made me a bit too eager. I''ll keep what you said in mind and not overwork myself. don''t worry." However, it did not seem to alleviate her friend''s concern. There was clear disbelief written on her face. "Ah Yan, I know you just got divorced, but there are other fishes in the sea. Don''t get hung up on Li Yi Feng." "Sis Ming Yue, I gave up on him a while back. I know that there is no hope for a relationship between us. If I hadn''t accepted this I would never agree to get divorced. I had clung onto him for years without him being able to get rid of me, I wouldn''t let go if I wasn''t ready to." "Really? That''s good! I thought you were working your ?ss off to forget about him." "No way, I would never use designing for something like that. It''s an art and is supposed to be enjoyed. One day I would become a world-renowned designer, just wait and see!"


    Hearing her friend''s ambitious dreams, Ming Yue felt relief. "If it''s like this, why not move on with a new man? Should I set you up on a blind date?" "Blind date? I don''t think I''m ready to be in a relationship so soon after the miscarriage. Maybe some other time?" Ming Yue was able to tell how heartbroken her friend became when she talked about the child and decided to never bring it up. It seemed she would have to wait a while before setting up a blind date. Yu Yan was young after all, so there was no reason to hurry. She only thought it would be a good method to move on from her failed marriage.


    After chatting and eating for hours they both went their separate ways.


    The next day something good happened again. Yu Yan had been unhappy that she hadn''t filmed Yun Feng''s outburst. It would be a good way to spread what happened without her parents interfering and patching things up. Since she wanted to utterly destroy the other''s reputations she could not leave any way for them to fix things. Unexpectedly someone had filmed the whole thing and the video was already trending. At these time and age, people would of course post such juicy drama of the rich. With Yun Feng''s father''s connection in the media, they would be able to get the video down, however, the damage would already be done by then. Many people had already seen her true face. Things would get worse and worse for Yun Feng from now on.


    **********


    On another side of the city, Yun Feng had already closed herself in her room and wailed all night. Tired, she fell asleep only after daybreak. Since it was a Sunday, father Yun was at home and resting. Both he and his wife was from the older generation and wasn''t the type to check the internet for new trends and news. Only after half a day had passed had an acquaintance called to ask if it was their daughter that was on the trending video. After finding out what happened, father Yun was enraged. He burst into Yun Feng''s room and started to furiously scold her. If his wife had not held him back, Yun Feng would also have been beaten.


    Seeing her father''s anger, she fished up her phone to see what he was talking about. Finding the video of how she had been shamed, she started to bawl again. "Father, mother you must help me! This will ruin me! You have to take this video down. How could people be vicious enough to destroy me like this? Daddy, you have to get justice for me! You can''t let the one who posted this go!"


    Seeing hoe devastated his bay daughter was, father Yan''s heart softened. "Don''t worry baby girl. I will take this video down soon. I won''t let the people who harmed you go. Daddy will get justice for you."


    **********


    "It seems, she has gotten smarter." The man looked at the video that had been trending since last night. Ke Ming was worried, it seemed his boss was getting more and more interested in Yu Yan. His boss had never shown interest in any woman before, this would be a first. If it had been any other woman, he would have been overjoyed. However, the jealous and petty woman did not deserve to stand beside his boss. Ke Ming was yet to realise how much Yu Yan had changed. The bad image that had been imprinted in his through the years was not something that would change easily.


    He looked up to find his boss still staring at the video, not willing to look away for a second. "Ke Ming, this video... don''t let anyone take it down. Find the source and get the video. Make sure no one else gets it before you." Was his boss serious? Was he already that bewitched that he was willing to help that woman this much? "Boss, is that necessary? Why would you do this much for that woman?" Ke Ming flinched when he was glared at by Li Yi Feng. DIdn''t his boss know that his glares were deadly?


    "Ke Ming, if you want to work for me then never question my orders. I wouldn''t remind you again. This woman, Yun Feng, is most probably the reason why my child is dead. I can''t... No, I won''t let her go!" Ke Ming was instantly relived. It seemed he was overthinking.

 Chapter 20 - Adoption?

    Old master Li had been lonely these days. Ignored by his only grandson, no great-grandchildren to play with and even Ah Yan had forgotten him. He really wanted great-grandchildren. With his grandson''s temperament, could he depend on the boy to give him small bun to hold? Should he just adopt one? That stiff little brat may be asexual. Would he ever have great-grandchildren? Of course, Ah Yan had been pregnant so it meant that his stupid grandson was not completely useless. Then he remembered that Li Yi Feng had been drugged. Old master Li felt devastated. Had the brat ever been interested in a girl? Beside Yu Yan, there seemed to never be any girls close to his age around him. Only those stupid pretty boys from Mu and Gu family. He would also occasionally spend time with that Wu boy? Hmm... How come all the men around him were good looking? Even Ke Ming was a looker. Old master Li was shocked. It could not be! There was no way that would be possible! He was overthinking. He desperately tried to change his thoughts, but it was impossible. His mind was screaming at him. Repeatedly. He was gay! His grandson was gay!


    Old master Li felt crushed. His great-grandchildren! Ah! This was not fair!


    He had become depressed these days. This did not go unnoticed by aunt Zhou. She became increasingly worried when she saw the old master constantly spacing out. Without knowing what else to do, she called Yu Yan. She had always been able to make the old man happy. The girl would know what to do.


    Hearing the exaggerated tales from aunt Zhou, Yu Yan had been scared witless. In her past life, the old master had passed away about two years from now. Were things happening faster because of her? She hurriedly took a leave from work and rushed over to the Li mansion. Seeing him so down, she was surprised. They had not seen each other for only a month and things were like this?


    "Grandpa, what''s wrong? Don''t be like this. Why don''t we sit down and eat?" As she talked, Yu Yan held onto grandfather Li''s hands.


    The old man let out an audible sigh. Looking at her he defeatedly said his next sentence. "Ah Yan, I don''t think I would ever be blessed with great-grandchildren. If things go like this, the Li family line would end with me."


    Noticing his depressed mood, she consoled. "Grandpa, that''s not true. You would be able to hold a little great-grandson and great-granddaughter sooner or later."


    "Don''t lie Ah Yan. Don''t say things you don''t believe." True. Would a man like Li Yi Feng ever settle down? In her past life, even ten years after their divorce, he had not remarried. She did not know what to say at this point. "That little b*****d, how could he do this to me!" Grandfather Li bellowed.


    "Grandpa, calm down. No one could tell how the future would turn out," she said.


    "No, I can''t depend on him! If only I had more grandchildren." Suddenly grandfather Li looked up at Yu Yan. That was it, was this child not more like his own grandchild than that stupid iceberg. "Ah Yan, you have to remarry. Forget that stupid boy. Grandpa will find you a better man." She was shocked. how did things turn out like this? Why was everyone close to her pushing her to blind dates? "Ah Yan, it couldn''t be that you have no plans of remarriage, right?"


    "Of course not. I already told you I would start anew. I''m still young and want to become a famous designer. Someday I will find someone to settle down with and start a family. I don''t want to be alone for the rest of my life!"


    Old master Li looked relieved. "Ah Yan, you''ve always treated me as your grandfather and I''ve always seen you as my grandchild. Why not accept me as your grandfather? Let me adopt you!" Before she even replied, grandfather Li had made up his mind. "Yes, now that your divorced nothing is hindering me from adopting you!"


    **********


    The news of Yu Yan visiting had already reached Li Yi Feng''s ears. He had not seen her for a month. The old man had not seen him for a while and would probably start to wh?n? soon if he did not visit. He should head back to the main mansion since he did not want to be nagged. Li Yi Feng never considered that he normally would only visit once after several months, there had even been half a year gap between his visits.


    His mood turning better, he headed to the Li Mansion. Thought his boss'' mood had become lighter, Ke Ming''s mood had turned for the worse. Had helot just told the boss that the woman was there? Why was he going there now? He was going to lose all his hair because of worry if things went on like this.


    When Li Yi Feng arrived the old one and the young one was happily chatting while eating. Grandfather Li''s mood had become much better. Noticing Li Yi Feng, the old man became visibly unhappy. "What are you doing here brat?"


    Li Yi Feng raised his bow questioningly. This was the first time this old man had become unhappy with his visit. Normally he would nag Li Yi Feng to come over. Curious about the reason why the old man was unpleased, he asked. "I''m here to see you? Why are you in a hurry to chase me away, grandfather?"


    "Can''t you see my Ah Yan is here? If you come would she stay over? Hmph!"


    Li Yi Feng did not care about his grandfather''s opinion and walked over to the table and sat down. As all three of them ate old master continued his discussion with Yu Yan. "Ah Yan, are you sure you don''t want me to find a match? I know a lot of good husband candidates. That Wu boy is good. Why don''t I set you up? You can meet up first and then you can decide if you want to continue dating or not."


    Li Yi Feng eyes widened, what was this old man thinking? Was his grandfather trying to put a green hat on his head? He wanted to send his own granddaughter-in-law to another man! Li Yi Feng felt irritated. Why did this woman not saying anything? Would she go? He narrowed his eyes.


    Yu Yan felt awkward. It did not seem like grandfather Li would give up easily. Both men were eagerly waiting for her answer and she felt pressured. "Maybe not just yet?" She replied not entirely denying his request. This put the old man in a good mood however, the younger one was glaring at her. Why? Probably because young master Wu was one of his friends. He probably did not want her anywhere near his friends.


    "Ah Yan we should register you as my adoptive granddaughter as fast as possible, then we would really be family." As old master Li happily went on about his plans, Li Yi Feng stood up and slammed his hands on the table. His eyes filled with rage as he looked at his grandfather and wife.


    "No!"

 Chapter 21 - Asking for help

    Yu Yan felt slightly relieved, she did not want to be Li Yi Feng''s adoptive sister. She had loved him for so many years, though she had let go, she still had some feelings left. That was also the reason why his rejection hurt. She did not know that he was so disgusted by her.


    Old master Li was furious. He could accept that his grandson did not like the woman he had chosen. After seeing the outcome of the forced marriage, he had decided to not interfere with Li Yi Feng''s matters anymore. However, his brat was too much! He dared to interfere in his matters. But even before he was able to yell back at his grandson, Li Yi Feng had already turned around to leave.


    "I won''t accept! No matter what, you can''t adopt her." Leaving these words behind, Li Yi Feng stormed out.


    **********


    At the Yun family''s home, father Yun was still worried about his daughter. He had tried everything he could, but someone was blocking him. The video was still there and Yun Feng was already known as a scheming woman. Because of the incident that happened more than a month ago, things had already turned bad for the company. He was already having a hard time keeping it. Yun Feng''s reputation was getting worse, this was in turn affecting him. Family friends that were ready to help had started to distance themselves.


    To be honest he was very disappointed in his daughter. He had made her get close to Yu Yan because of her connection to the Li family. Both he and his wife were aware of his daughter''s growing affection and obsession with Li Yi Feng. They were happy and did not object. After all, to have a son-in-law like him would be their honour. Unfortunately, CEO Li had married Yu Yan. However, having a connection to madam Li was also good. But Yun Feng had not been ready to give up. At first, he had been concerned. But seeing how his daughters scheming had gone unnoticed he silently agreed to her plans. However, he regretted it now. He should have been stricter with her. Pampering her too much had caused all this. Even at this point, he could not abandon his darling daughter that was the cause of his misfortune, but it did not seem like he was able to help either.


    After thinking about it for a long time, he concluded that only the Li family could help his daughter out of this situation. Even though he knew how much his daughter hated Yu Yan, he could only let her bow down to that woman and ask for help.


    **********


    Yun Feng was enraged, to think that she had to beg for that sl*t''s help! No matter what she did not want to do it, but her father had no other way left to help her. She had no other choice but to swallow down her pride and ask for help from the woman who had caused all her problems. Even until now, she still blamed Yu Yan for everything not even considering that everything had been the result of her scheming.


    She had tried calling and leaving messages but was ignored. To think she would one day be ignored by Yu Yan. She had then gone to find the woman at her home, but the doors were locked and password changed. She could not get in.


    ''How dare she!''


    Left with no other choice, she waited outside for hours without even seeing Yu Yan''s shadow. Only when it became dark did Yu Yan return home. Anger arose, but she had learned her lesson from last time. She gritted her teeth and smiled gently as she spoke. "Ah Yan, what took you so long? I have been waiting for hours. Why are you ignoring my calls?"


    Looking at the woman acting pitiful in from of her, Yu Yan was left speechless. Ignoring her calls? Of course, she had long since blocked her number, Why would she answer? "What are you doing here? I''ve been busy all day and didn''t have time to check my phone," Yu Yan said.


    Looking like she had been abandoned, Yun Feng spoke of her reasons. "Ah Yan don''t you know that I need a friend''s support the most at this times, how could you leave me alone now?"


    So it was still about the video? Acting as she did not understand she looked at Yun Feng. "What do you mean? I have been really busy the last few days. I don''t know what''s going on. Did something happen?" As Yu Yan inquired, Yun Feng ground her teeth. After all Yu Yan had done, she still dared to act innocent. Yun Feng did not believe, Yu Yan was unaware. She had noticed the changes in Yu Yan since the miscarriage. Did she know that Yun Feng had poisoned her? No, if she knew, there was just no way that she would be so nice. Yes, even after all this, deep down Yun Feng knew that what she had been experiencing was not that much compared to what she had done and planned to do with Yu Yan.


    "Ah Yan, have you seen the video? My reputation is ruined. Can we go in and talk. Only you could help me at this point," Yun Feng said.


    Yu Yan could not let the other woman into her house at this time. She had so many designs lying around. If she Let Yun Feng in, all of them would mysteriously disappear. "Why don''t we go to the cafe nearby? My place id a mess right now," as Yu Yan spoke, she had already started to move towards the cafe. Yun Feng did not think too much of it. Anywhere was fine as long as she reached her goal.


    Sitting down ordering drinks and cakes, Yun Feng hesitated before she spoke. "There''s a video on the internet, it''s all slander but people are believing and distancing themselves because of it. Ah Yan, you''re the only one that can help me at this point. You have to help me. Though I was in the wrong the other day, you know! I''m not like that. I don''t know what came over me. I just felt so humiliated when everyone was laughing at me. Ah Yan, I''m sorry! I really am sorry, please you have to help me. Can''t you ask CEO Li or elder Li for help?"


    Yu Yan sneered, Yun Feng was asking her for help? "You know how much grandpa Li dislikes you, last time I brought you to the Li mansion, even I was thrown out. He would never help. Li Yi Feng would never help me there''s no need to even try and ask," Yu Yan answered the other woman''s request. Though looking at Yun Feng, it was clear that she would not leave until she got the result she wanted. Not wanting to get involved with Yun Feng any longer, Yu Yan lied. "But since it''s you I''ll ask grandpa. I won''t take no for an answer."


    Getting what she wanted Yun Feng happily left. Yu Yan was still under her control. Hmph! Only after walking a distance away, did she notice she had forgotten her bag. Cursing she turned back to find her bag. However, even before stepping into the cafe, she found Yu Yan talking with another woman. The stranger was a beautiful woman, giving of a noble and elegant air. Who was she? One look and it was obvious she was from a prominent family. Since when had Yu Yan known a woman like her? Getting suspicious, Yun Feng crept closer to eavesdrop on their conversation.


    The stranger: ... remember don''t overwork yourself. Make some time to go out with me sometimes.


    Yu Yan: I know, stop nagging mom.


    The stranger: You brat! Hmph! I know you said you wanted some time even though you''re already divorced, but... You see, a friend of mine is trying to find a match for her brother. Why don''t you consider it? He''s a good man...


    As they continued to speak Yun Feng was unable to keep listening. Divorce? Since when? That d**n b***h, how dare she keep something so important from her?


    ''Yu Yan, just you wait until my name has been cleared. Just see how I will deal with you then!''

 Chapter 22 - Banquet

    After getting such juicy information, Yun Feng left to figure out her new plans. While Yun Feng was scheming, Wu Ming Yue and Yu Yan'' s conversation was interrupted by a call.


    Yu Yan: "Hello?"


    Elder Li: "Ah Yan, it''s me. Don''t forget to come to my birthday banquet."


    Yu Yan: "Of course not. I''ll be there!"


    It was good that grandfather Li had called. Yu Yan had been so busy these days that she had actually forgotten. Old master Li was one of the few people that sincerely cared for her, no matter what, she wanted to be there for him.


    The banquet was held in two days. Exactly how was she supposed to find herself something appropriate to wear? Noticing her friend''s dilemma, Wu Ming Yue was happy to help. "Ah Yan, I''m going to that banquet too. We could go together. Why don''t I help you pick out something great?" Taking her friend''s offer, Yu Yan spent the rest of her day running from one store to another. Wu Ming Yue went crazy when it came to shopping. She would not accept anything less than perfect.


    **********


    Many people had already come. The Li mansion that''s normally quiet, was bustling with guests. Though this was a birthday banquet for the old master, no one would let go of such a good chance to greet new people and grow their connections. These kind of parties were the higher-ups mingled, were filled with business opportunities. Young women were dressed prettily in hopes of catching the eye of one of the bachelors at the parties. If they were lucky enough, they could use this chance to get to know someone from the Wu, Mu or Gu family.


    In a corner, some women were eagerly discussing something. "Is that true?" "Yes, I heard it from her best friend!" "Could that woman''s word be trusted? Hasn''t she been all over the news these past days? She''s such a scheming woman, how could her words be true?" As the young ladies happily discussed, soon those rumours spread through the whole mansion. All the guest had heard about it in no time. Many of the young ladies got their hopes up. If the rummers were true, maybe they could get a chance? How many of them had been devastated when CEO Li married? Now that he had finally left her, the golden bachelor might fancy one of the guests.


    While many of the women tried to get close to Li Yi Feng in hopes of catching his attention, two ladies arrived. The women were beautifully dressed and instantly caught the attention of all the men at the mansion. One of them had a noble and elegant aura. The s?xy, red dress was elegant at the same time as it showed off her figure. Her hair was done up, showing her beautiful neck and back. Her sharp eyes made it hard to look away when one laid their eyes upon her. Beside her was another beauty. Unlike the first lady, this one glowed with purity and innocence. She had donned a beautiful white dress that accentuated her figure. Though she looked pure her figure was excellent with curves at the right places. A slit went up to her lower tight, making it possible to glimpse her beautiful long legs as she walked. Her mesmerising eyes looked at her friend as they chatted while walking in.


    While the arrival of the girls caught the attention of the men, the women were displeased. It did not go unnoticed that these two beauties had the attention of every single man at the party. This made them tense up, there were yet another two women that would be their opponents. They started asking around, to find out who these newcomers were.


    Girl 1: "I think I''ve seen one of the ladies before. Hmm... where was it?"


    Girl 2: "Ah, isn''t she the third young miss of the Wu family?"


    Girl 1: "That''s right. It''s her."


    Girl 3: "Who''s the other one?"


    While most of the ladies looked curiously at the newly arrived women, some had taken the opportunity to get close to the young miss from the Wu family. Becoming friends with a lady from such a prominent family would be good for them. But how could Wu Ming Yue not see the greed in their eyes? She took Yu Yan''s had as she ignored them and led her friend away from the annoying crowd.


    Those women that had smugly jumped at the chance were embarrassed. The others that had been smart enough to wait snickered. There were always idiots like these women, who could not wait and would jump head-first without thinking.


    The new appearance had also caught the eye of the four men in the corner. These four that had been aloof and ignored the ones that had approached, had finally seen some guest that caught their attention.


    Gu Li Feng: "Sheng Tian, isn''t that your gay girlfriend?"


    Mu Sheng Tian: "That''s right! Who''s the pretty lady with her? Hmm.. doesn''t she seem familiar? Maybe she''s Yan Yan''s new girlfriend? Ah, Yan Yan moves on fast."


    Gu Li Feng looked at his friend weirdly. What right did he have to talk about moving on too fast? Where there anyone that changed their lover faster than him? Did he not see Wu Ming Yi''s face turning black. Though Gu Li Feng noticed Wu Ming Yi''s blackening face, he was not aware of Li Yi Feng''s change. Yan Yan? When did Mu Sheng Tian become close enough with Yu Yan to call her that? Li Yi Feng glared at his friend.


    Mu Sheng Tian felt a chill run down his back. He turned around. What was that? He felt killing intent locking onto him. Was it just his imagination? Just as he was about to open his mouth to continue what he was saying, he was interrupted by his friend.


    Wu Ming Yi: "Shut up! don''t you know to do anything else but gossip?"


    Mu Sheng Tian: "Ah, brother why are you getting angry at me. Even if they are just your cup of tea, you can''t do anything if you''re not their type."


    Gu Li Feng could not watch on as his friend was digging his grave. Of course, he had to help! His poor friend, doing all the digging alone. He should give him a hand. He smirked as he said: "Sheng Tian, they could be just friends you know."


    Mu Sheng Tian: "There''s no way! I''m good at observing people. Did you not see how the elegant lady threw herself at Yan Yan, grabbing onto her hand? Look she''s still holding her hand, not willing to let go."


    His friend really had a pit in his head. Weren''t all close girls like that. Did he think women behaved the same way as men? Gu Li Feng watched excitedly as Wu Ming Yi got angrier, ready to explode at any moment.


    Wu Ming Yi: Mu. Sheng. Tian. You shut up for me! Another word about my little sister and I don''t care if you''re my friend! I''d definitely beat you up!


    Mu Sheng Tian looked backed at the snickering Gu Li Feng. This b*****d. He knew! Instead of helping his brother out, he was making trouble for him. ''Gu Li Feng you dare to calculate against me! Just you wait, I''ll get back at you!'' Noticing his friends unhappy look, Gu Li Feng ignored it. He was not afraid of young master Mu''s petty revenge. If it had been Wu Ming Yi or Li Yi Feng, it would have been a completely different matter.


    Grandfather Li had finally noticed Yu Yan. Walking over, he happily greeted her. "Ah Yan, you''re finally here!"


    Girl 4: "Ah Yan? That''s her?"


    Girl 3: "What''s she doing here?"


    Girl 5: "Maybe the rumours were false?"

 Chapter 23 - Rumours

    While Yu Yan was unaware, the guests were discussing her matters. Were the rumours about the divorce true? People looked back and forth between Li Yi Feng and Yu Yan. CEO Li had always been cold towards his wife, but he had always escorted her himself to the parties they went to. But today they had come separately. Did it mean that those rumours were true?


    As people were discussing, a woman was watching from the sidelines. The man she had come with, had gone off to talk with a potential business partner. Listening in on the conversation she moved forward. "Those rumours are true. Even though CEO Li has been cold towards his wife, there was no talk about divorce before. Things should be different now. There would be no smoke without fire," she said as she put on a smile. "That''s true." The people around agreed. No one was stupid enough to spread false rumours about CEO Li, so there was most likely truth in those rumours. They had also been told that it was a close friend of Yu Yan that had confirmed the matter.


    The young ladies were happy. To think that the woman would dare to come here after getting a divorce. Who did she think she was? Without CEO Li as her backer, Yu Yan was just a commoner. What right did she have to mingle at such high-class parties? They looked smugly at Yu Yan.


    **********


    "Ah Yan, I''ll go speak with my elder brother for a bit. Just talk with elder Li, I''ll be back in a moment." As she said those words, Wu Ming Yue was already looking around impatiently trying to find her brother. Finding her target, she left Yu Yan with grandfather Li as she made her way towards Wu Ming Yi.


    Though old master Li wanted to stay with Yu Yan for the rest of the evening, he had to greet his old friend that had come to see him. Not long after Wu Ming Yue left, he was whisked away by a group of old men. Yu Yan did not mind, she was happy he could enjoy the day with his friends. Looking around she moved towards the table filled with delicacies. But before she could make it there, she was rudely blocked by three ladies.


    **********


    When grandfather Li came forward to greet one of the beautiful ladies, Mu Sheng Tian was shocked. Not only was he surprised but his friends were also dumbfounded. That pure-looking lady was the infamous clingy and jealous woman? They all turned to look at Li Yi Feng, only to find their friend intently staring at the woman. There was something more to the story, it was so obvious there was no need to ask.


    Noticing his friends gazes, Li Yi Feng turned around. Ignoring the obvious question in their eyes, he stared back at them. They knew it would not be an easy matter to get any information out of their friend. Nevertheless, they had no intention of giving up. Gu Li Feng did not mind throwing his friend under the bus, as he spoke: "Sheng Tian, you said she was gay after flirting a bit with her. Didn''t you say that she wasn''t interested in men?"


    Mu Sheng Tian glared at young master Gu. Did he think that Mu Sheng Tian was unaware of what he was doing? What if Li Yi Feng blamed him? Even if he hated his wife, there is no way he would be fine with his friend putting a green hat on his head. As expected, his friend was throwing one of his famous death glares at him. Timidly meeting his friends glare, he hurriedly explained. "Yi Feng, it''s not like that. I just met and talked a bit with her. I was even totally ignored and forgotten once she saw the fireflies. As expected, she didn''t put me in her eyes because she had already set her eyes on you." Mu Sheng Tian ignored his own pride as he went on blabbering. What was the use of his pride? He had to save his skin first!


    Li Yi Feng expression eased up. Whenever he thought back at what happened at the resort, anger would flare up. However, it seemed he had thought too much of it. Nothing had happened. The fact that she had ignored Mu Sheng Tian lightened his mood.


    "No."


    As Li Yi Feng cold voice fell, all four became quiet. Why would their friend drag on, without finalising the divorce? Had he not always wanted to get rid of his annoying wife? Something had definitely changed. They had to know why. Yet before they could dig for more information, they were interrupted by a mischievous voice. "Brother! Ah, why is it so hard to find you?"


    **********


    Yu Yan looked at the three women that had stopped her. They maliciously looked at her, obviously looking to cause trouble. They had waited until she was alone so they could take their anger out on her.


    "Ah isn''t this the famous madam Li?" Su Rong smirked as she asked. Her family was not too small, but neither was it big. To be able to come to a banquet as big as this, her parents had worked their ?sses of pulling every string they had. Still, she was just one amongst many. If she didn''t get noticed, how would she hook a rich and nobleman? Looking at Yu Yan, she felt jealous. She had already married CEO Li and was seducing other men now? It was good CEO Li had thrown her away. Who would want a broken shoe like her?


    "Su Rong, you can''t say that. She''s already his ex-wife, what madam Li?" Xia Rou snickered as she spoke.


    "Ah, you''re right! I can be so forgetful sometimes." Su Rong gloatingly looked at her as she answered.


    Seeing how Yu Yan kept silent, Liu Yi Fei spoke up. "What? Cat got your tongue?"


    By now all of the guests had noticed the problem and was expectantly looking towards them, ready to watch a show. The younger ones had gotten closer, crowding around the three girls and Yu Yan. They did not want to miss any of the drama.

 Chapter 24 - Third slap

    Yu Yan knew that people would find out about the divorce sooner or later. However, the Li family had yet to publicly announce the matter. How could the information have leaked out? Watching the crowd, a woman caught her eye. She was hiding amongst the people looking at the scene with obvious schadenfreude.


    Yun Feng!


    How had she gotten in?


    She was just about to reply, but before she could say anything an angry voice bellowed. "You shut up! How dare you come here to make trouble! Guards throw them out!"


    Before the guards could act, Yu Yan appeased the old man. "Grandpa, wait. I want to ask some questions first." Old master Li was unwilling, but since it was his Ah Yan''s request, he relented. "Ex-wife? Where did you hear such rumours from?"


    The there women had been scared silly. They did not expect elder Li to stand up for her. Had she not been divorced? Why did she still have the old master''s support? Not wanting to take all the blame for the ruckus, Liu Yi Dei hurriedly explained herself. "Everyone was saying that CEO Li divorced her. Even her best friend can testify!"


    Oh? So this matter was connected to Yun Feng. She glanced at the crowd, just to notice her scheming friend paling.


    Old master Li caught on to the fact and asked. "Best friend?"


    "Pushing the blame on someone else after making trouble, these three ladies are no good!" A voice could be heard from the crowd. Yun Feng had panicked and screamed out, she quickly hid so no one would notice she had been the one who spoke. If Yu Yan found out about her scheming, who would help her with the rumours about herself? She regretted it. She had let anger cloud her mind and acted before thinking. Why did she not wait until her name was cleared before spreading the rumours?


    Yun Feng thought she had hidden well. However, Yu Yan had been carefully watching her all this time. Would Yu Yan let her go? Of course not! Looking straight at her, she called out. "Yun Feng, why are you hiding in the crowd? Since you have so much to say, why not come out to say it?"


    Soon everyone''s attention was on Yun Feng. With no other choice Yun Feng stepped out as she spoke. "Ah Yan, what do you mean? I don''t know why these girls are slandering me. I''ve never seen them before. Don''t you believe me?" She looked pitifully at her.


    "Believe? Why are you spreading rumours about me? You still dare to call yourself my friend?" This time Yu Yan did not care to keep up the facade. After tonight Yun Feng would be completely ruined without any way to clear her name. There was no longer a need to be careful around her.


    "Lies! Why are you saying that? Ah Yan, do you hate me because I lashed out on you that day? I said I was sorry and thought you had forgiven me. If you were still angry, you should just have said so. How could you slander me like this? Did you plan it out with those ladies beforehand?" Yun Feng cried heartbreakingly as she spoke.


    The man who had brought Yun Feng felt sorry. How could everyone bully such an innocent girl? He angrily looked at Yu Yan as he spoke. "Yu Yan! Don''t you have a conscience? How could you scheme against such a pure woman as Yun Feng? How could you be so vicious?!"


    The poor man did not see the fury on elder Li''s face. Liu Yi Feng on the other hand noticed. She had made a big mistake today, if she pushed as most of the blame on Yun Feng, she might not be punished too badly. She did not hesitate as she spoke. "If you don''t believe me, you could ask the other women. Many witnesses saw her convince everyone that the rumours were true!"


    "It''s true, I was there," someone voiced out. "Me too!" "I also heard her." After the first person, several of the ladies confirmed that Yun Feng indeed had spread rumours about her.


    Elder Li was furious. He had always disliked this snake-like woman. "Throw her out! Did I not tell you, people, to never let her in?" Old master Li raged. The servants were shaking. A brave, young servant stepped forward and stuttered. "W-we didn''t want to let her in, but she was brought by a guest and we had no choice but to..." Old master Li instantly understood. "Then Throw that guest out with her!" His mood was completely destroyed.


    Yun Feng could not take this lying down. If she was thrown out like this how could she show her face in public? "Yu Yan, How could you treat me like this?! What''s wrong with what I said? It''s the truth!" She screamed as she was forcefully dragged out.


    Yu Yan did not speak. What was she supposed to say? After all, it was the truth. Sooner or later everyone would know. It was no use denying it.


    Li Yi Feng had been watching from the beginning. He was just about to step out when his grandfather beat him to it. The guests were whispering their doubts as the wile woman was dragged out. Though Yun Feng had been exposed, people still believed there were some truths in what she had said. He did not like it. His irritation was obvious to his friends. He watched Yu Yan as she kept quiet, not denying the rumours. He clenched his fists. He wanted to drag the woman out and punish her!


    For the first time in his life, Li Yi Feng acted out of impulse. Not caring about the others, he stepped towards Yu Yan. Grabbing her hand, he pulled her with him and marched towards his car. Placing her at the passenger seat, he sat down and started to drive. He turned to look at her only to find her in a daze.

 Chapter 25 - Flashback (Part 1)

    The inside of the car was eerily quiet. Both of them were silent, not saying a word. He did not give her any explanations for his actions. Was he angry with her? She had so many questions but did not dare to ask any of them.


    Yu Yan felt awkward, not sure how to react with this development. She looked at him. He was as dignified as usual. Looking down at her hands that rested on her ??p, she thought back about how she had been acting around him.


    - Flashback -


    A sixteen-years-old Yu Yan was sitting at her desk, happily drawing in her notebook. The Yu Yan at that time had been so carefree, not interested in anything but her designs and love. She was rudely interrupted when someone came barging into the classroom, screaming. "Ah Yan! You, how could you sit here leisurely when that woman is seducing brother Yi Feng?" Yu Yan looked up in shock. What?


    Yun Feng looked hat her in a loss as she spoke. "Ah Yan, how could you be so innocent. There are so many women, that want to be with brother Yi Feng. There''s a rumour that he''s dating the school belle!" Seeing Yu Yan''s worry, Yun Feng continued to talk. "Why are you just sitting here? We have to go and take care of it!"


    Yu Yan was worried, so she did not feel there was something wrong with what her friend said. Trusting the girl she asked her for a solution. "What should I do? We''re just high schoolers, we can''t get into M University."


    "We''ll barge in of course," Yun Feng said.


    Yu Yan knew that would cause a lot of trouble. Li Yi Feng would be unhappy if she did something like that. Knitting her brow, she voiced her thoughts. "No we can''t, we''ll be in trouble."


    Yun Feng was displeased. This fool was not following her plan. The whole purpose was to make trouble. There were no such rumours about Li Yi Feng, to begin with, but she had to somehow make him hate Yu Yan. If things did not work out as planned, how was she supposed to get together with brother Yi Feng? "Don''t be stupid. With your backing, it doesn''t matter what you do. It''s that woman''s fault for seducing brother Yi Feng." Yun Feng gave reasons to convince Yu Yan. It was not that hard, Yu Yan had always been very trusting and when it came to matters concerning Li Yi Feng, she was not able to think straight.


    "Ok, I''ll go talk to her. I''ll tell her that I and Li Yi Feng are childhood sweethearts," Yu Yan hesitatingly said. Calling herself his childhood sweetheart was already stretching it, but she did not want to see another woman besides the man she loved.


    "How could you be so stupid. If you gently talk to her, would she give up? These kind of women are the type that wants to climb into a rich man''s bed! You have to act domineeringly. Give her a few slaps, curse at her and pull out half her hair," Yun Fen irritatedly said.


    Yu Yan was hesitant. That seemed too harsh. "Ah Feng, isn''t that too much?"


    Yun Feng did not give up. While she dragged Yu Yan to M university, she tried everything to convince Yu Yan. Telling her lies about similar happenings in the past that had been resolved like this. Though doubtful, Yu Yan could only believe her one and only friend. After being convicted by Yun Feng, she had acted viciously not caring to listen to the poor girl''s explanations.


    PA!


    She slapped her.


    Pa! Pa! Pa!


    Again and again, until her hands felt numb.


    "Stop!" An angry voice could be heard. She turned around to find Li Yi Feng glaring at her. He stomped forward and dragged Yu Yan away from the innocent school belle. "What are you doing?! How dare you make trouble?" Li Yi Feng angrily roared at her as he glanced at the beaten girl.


    For the first time in her life, Yu Yan had felt heartbroken. So it was really true? Why else would he protect the girl? Hurt and angry she screamed back at him. "How could you take that b***h''s side! If she had not acted so shamelessly, would I do all this?!"


    The more she spoke, the angrier he had gotten. For the first time, she saw Li Yi Feng expression show something besides his indifference. He had never been too cold or too warm towards her, but that day he showed disgust for the first time. His disgusted look, painfully squeezing at her heart.


    "Drag her out! Who let her in?" Li Yi Feng looked on coldly as he spoke. She had been so shocked that she could not say a thing. She had blamed Yun Feng for a long time. But Yun Feng had somehow convinced her that it was because Li Yi Feng was under the other woman''s spell. She told her again and again that it was her own fault for being too naive and let other women approach the man she liked. It was because Yu Yan was not good enough to satisfy Li Yi Feng!


    The young Yu Yan lost all her confidence that day. Hearing again and again that she was not good enough until she was brainwashed to believe it was the truth. She became uncertain and insecure, easily jealous if another woman came to close to Li Yi Feng.


    In a luxurious room, an elegant woman was sitting by the table. The waiting room was elegantly decorated. It was sparsely furnished, with just what was needed and nothing more. The woman was beautifully dressed as she sipped her tea while awaiting someone''s arrival. As she waited, someone burst in and glared at her.


    She smiled kindly at the woman as she spoke. "Madam Li, it''s nice to finally meet you. What do I owe the p???sur? of your company today?"

 Chapter 26 - Flashback (Part 2)

    Yu Yan was furious. This fox had come all the way here, but dared to act innocent? "How dare you act like nothing? Is this a place were sl*t''s like you could roam freely? Scram!" By now, she had become used to seeing beautiful women around Li Yi Feng. She had chased away plenty of those women. She had tried to gently approach the matter several times, but those were just ignored. Even if she hated to act like this, Yun Feng had been right. Only when she did things the hard way would the women be scared away.


    The other women looked at Yu Yan in shock. "What in the...," before she could even finish speaking, Yu Yan lunged at her. Grabbing her hair with both hands, she started cursing at the woman. Hearing the commotion, several employees came into the room. They tried persuading her to let go, but nothing worked. As the woman cried out in pain they were able to separate the two women after a while.


    Before Yu Yan could do more harm, Li Yi Feng arrived. Enraged he roared at her. "Yu. Yan! Have you gone mad! How many times have I told you not to step foot into my company." Looking at the security guards that followed him in, he ordered. "Throw her out, I don''t want to see her here again. Fire whoever let her in."


    Yu Yan refused to leave and was dragged out. As she was being pulled out the discussion between the woman and Li Yi Feng did not escape her.


    The woman: "CEO Li! Is this how your company treats its business-partners?"


    Li Yi Feng: "CEO Pei, I am deeply sorry. I cannot...."


    - End of flashback -


    Yu Yan let out a sigh. She had been so horrible. What was worse was that none of those women had any illicit relationship with Li Yi Feng. She had harassed so many women out of jealousy. Before Ke Ming, Li Yi Feng had a female secretary. Yu Yan had treated her so badly, that the women ended up quitting on her own. She realised too late that she had been played.


    Li Yi Feng did not know why he left with Yu Yan. Over the years her behaviour had become worse, but somehow it seemed she had changed. It was like she reverted back to the child he had once known.


    - Flashback -


    "Big brother Yi Feng, look I got some pretty flowers for you!" A four-year-old girl came running up to him with wildflowers in her hand. She was the little granddaughter of his grandfather''s friend. No matter how much he ignored her, she persistently stuck to him. She was wild and full of energy, unable to sit still even for a moment.


    He did not know why his parents wanted him to "play" with her. He was already eight and quite m?tur? for his age. There was really nothing they could do together. At first, he had been annoyed. With her around, the tranquillity around him disappeared. He was unable to read the books he enjoyed so much. However, after some time, he had gotten used to her. Now without her, it just seemed to be too quiet. He held his book in his hand, looking at her and not accepting the flowers she was holding.


    Realising that her big brother would not take them, she put them down and ran off to find something else to do. As he watched her, she stumbled and fell. Li Yi Feng worriedly looked at her. Like always she stood up, smiling and continued to play on her own.


    After an hour or so, she came back to him smiling. She was covered in dirt. Exactly what was she doing? He did not remember doing things like this when he was four. Such a strange girl, but she was somewhat cute.


    The girl he had known changed. She became vicious and jealous. He did not know what happened to the innocent and naive girl that had grown up beside him. The more he saw of her the more annoying she became. She always made him irritated. And this irritation soon turned into disgust. He realised she was no longer the girl in his memory.


    Even with all these changes, his grandfather was adamant on letting her marry him. He opposed it to no avail. Would she always be this distrusting and jealous? Would she continue to irritate him and make him more disgusted with her? Many thoughts like these had been on his mind at that time. At some point, he even believed it would stop her jealousy if they got married. There had not been any love, but compared to others she had been acceptable. But he had been wrong, her jealous and distrusting heart had just gotten worse. He regretted it. He felt tired every day. Rather than dealing with her, he preferred to stay at the company and work all night. Soon he found a new place to stay just to get away from her.


    But she had changed again. No longer vicious, unreasonable and jealous. Then why was he still irritated by her? Had she not given him exactly what he had wanted?


    Divorce...


    Yes, he could finally be rid off her. But the thought left him annoyed and displeased. He would no longer be bound to her and she would be free to do whatever she wanted. She could start anew with another man... Anger rose up in him. He was unwilling!


    The two people that were caught up in their own thoughts soon arrived at Yu Yan''s apartment. The car stopped and Yu Yan got off the car. To her surprise, Li Yi Feng followed her. What had gotten into him? Believing that he would leave once she made it to the door, she walked as fast as she could. Arriving at her door, he was still there. Standing just a few steps behind her, he was patiently waiting without saying anything. Yu Yan felt pressured. Quickly tapping the password, she opened the door.


    She had changed it! The password to the apartment was new.


    Li Yi Feng stared at her. The woman was already eager to leave him. She was distancing herself from him. He felt irritated again. As she walked in, he followed her in. He did not know why he was so pushy. Pushing himself inside the house of a woman living alone. Somehow he did not want to see her close the door and leave him out.


    What was happening? What was this man up to? Yu Yan did not know why he had followed her into her home. Did he have something important to tell her? Glancing at him, she walked up into the living room. He followed suit, walking in as if it was his own home. He made it to the sofa and comfortably sat down. Yu Yan stiffly watched him and after a moment of hesitations she sat down. Looking at him, she silently waited for him to speak.

 Chapter 27 - Was this closure?

    However, even after a long time, Li Yi Feng did not say a word. He just sat there silently staring at her as if he was trying to get some answers out of her. Not knowing what else to do, she just patiently waited.


    He ha been staring at her, watching to catch any changes in her attitude. He saw that she was nervously glancing at him from time to time. Yet the obsession that once clouded her eyes had disappeared. Instead, her eyes were bright and clear. D**n! What was he doing? Standing up, he was ready to leave. But his abrupt actions startled the little woman. She stood up in a hurry, looking at him with a startled expression. Just like a scared little lamb. Her eyes widened as she looked at him. He watched her as her watery eyes held only him at the moment. Still dressed in the beautiful dress, she looked mesmerising.


    He walked closer to her and she nervously stepped back. Annoyed that she avoided him avidly, he pressed on. Getting closer and invading her personal space. He looked down at her gazing into her eyes. His piercing gaze was only focused on her. As if hypnotising her, his deep dark eyes looked into her own as he moved closer. His gaze captivating her, leaving her in a daze. When she understood what was happening he had already moved too close. Stepping back she realised that she already reached the wall. She looked up at him restlessly. Then she glanced to her side, trying to get away from him. Seeing that she intended to escape, he raised his hands effectively trapping her.


    They were so close they were almost touching. She could feel his breath and smell his scent. His eyes held danger, watching her as an animal would watch its prey. His closeness made it hard for her to think. She was left standing there blushing.


    He watched her intently as she reacted to his proximity. Her eyes would nervously dart around, not daring to look at him for too long. He watched as her cheeks slowly turned pink. He felt an urge to do more but held back. She looked up at him again. Her hands clenching her dress as she nervously bit her lips. His eyes moved. He looked at her luscious red lips.


    As if spellbound, he moved closer. His nose almost touching hers. He looked into her watering eyes as he moved closer. Their lips touched, it was like electricity went through her body. Yu Yan was dumbfounded. She knew she should push him away, but she could not. Her heart was beating faster, she had no way to control it. No way to control what she felt towards him. She had wanted him for so long and only after she had given up, was he kissing her. She did not want to let go. She wanted to be kissed by him once, even if it was the last time. She would take this as a break-up-kiss. She closed her eyes, enjoying the sensations.


    He moved his lips against hers. Taking her lower lip between his, he gently su?k?d at it. Her lips were as soft as he imagined. Soft and warm. As his lips moved against hers, he noticed she was not responding. Displeased, he nimble at her lips. She trembled. Moving one of his hands towards her waist, he moved her closer to himself.


    She nervously put her arms around him, hesitantly moving her own lips, trying to kiss him back. Her innocent and amateurish movement was like a catalyst, waking a sleeping beast within him. He wanted more!


    Pressing harder and closer, his tongue moved. Swiping over her lips, it moved in between them. Prying her lips open and invading her mouth.


    Hot!


    The heat was unbearable. It was spreading throughout her body numbing her.


    As his tongue moved around in her mouth battling her own, she was losing her footing, unable to stand on her own. He pressed her body against his, not leaving any room between them as she held onto him for dear life, not letting go.


    His tongue moved, tasting every part of her. He passionately kissed her. Feeling the soft and moist sensations as their tongue moved against each other. Not willing to let go, he kept on kissing her. As the hot and numb feeling was spreading, she was unable to keep up with him as he conquered her mouth. Only when she was almost breathless did he break the kiss. Still holding her close they were both breathless. She could only gasp for a few breaths before he moved in again, capturing her lip yet again. Sucking, nibbling and ???k?n?. Again and again, he invaded her mouth, not getting enough of her. Getting addicted to her taste. His tongue moving impatiently.


    "Ah..," a m??n escaped her lips.


    He stopped.


    He was utterly dumbfounded. What was happening to him? He had to get away from her! He needed to cool down and think. Forcefully separating himself from the seductive woman he stormed out of the apartment.


    Yu Yan looked at him as he left. She looked at the door... and it dawned on her.


    He had left.


    Right after kissing her, without a word, she was left behind.


    She knew there was nothing between them. Even when she convinced herself that this would be the last kiss, a way for her to get closure, deep down she had hoped for more. A tear silently slid down her cheek. This was for the better. She was surer than ever, that there was no hope for any romantic relationship between her and Li Yi Feng.

 Chapter 28 - Taboo

    As soon as Li Yi Feng got in the car, he drove away. Driving out of the city, he drove until he reached an open clearing. His mind was a mess.


    What had he done?!


    He could not calm down. She was the woman, he had desperately tried to escape. Why was he clinging onto her, now that she had let him go? He was confused, why had he acted like that? He did not know. An image of a beautiful girl in a white dress, looking up at him nervously flashed through his mind. F**k! He would be lying to himself if he said that he did not know why he kissed her. She had been so enchanting that he was unable to resist.


    He tried to get his mind off her, but every time he closed his eyes, all he could see was her breathless state as she seductively looked up at him. His body was heating up, getting aroused by just a single thought. He had never felt like this before.


    Lust?


    Was that not what Mu Sheng Tian had called it? Did he too feel such a strong urge? That was the reason he would find a new woman almost every day? He had never understood this before, but somehow he felt like he had understood his predicament. The need he had felt was not something he could control.


    He had to control it somehow, he can not act like he did today. Wound it not be fine as long as he did not see her? Then he would stay away from her!


    **********


    It had been over a month since Yu Yan had seen Li Yi Feng. At first, she had been a little bothered. Hurt that he had left so abruptly. For days she was scared of how she should act if she was to bump into him. However, that never happened as she did not see him again. She finally felt some relief. Everything between them was truly ending. With the upcoming fashion show, she became busier as the days went past. She had almost finished everything and her collection could be launched any moment now. Just thinking about it made her excited. With all the work that had to be done, Yu Yan did not have any spare time to worry about anything else. Unbeknownst to her, she had already tossed him in the back of her mind.


    Unlike her, Li Yi Feng was not able to pass his days peacefully. No matter what he did, it was like she was following him. He was not left in peace even when he slept. In his dreams, he would see her again. The scene repeated itself in his mind and he was not able to forget her captivating look. Unable to focus he was also often caught staring in a daze. For the first time, the almighty CEO Li who had been known as a workaholic was unable to do his work properly. His current state made the employees worried.


    As Li Y Feng was once again staring into open space in a daze, Ke Ming walked into his office. Ke Ming had tried knocking on the door several times, only not get an answer. Coming in he was met with a familiar sight. His boss had been like this for the past month. Even though he was worried, there was nothing he could do. And Li Yi Feng''s condition seemed to be getting worse.


    "Boss... Sir?!" He finally got Li Yi Feng''s attention. "We were finally able to catch nanny Ye and her husband. I''m sorry it took so long. The two of them were out of the country and it took longer than expected. We''ve tried to find out who ordered the poisoning, but they refuse to answer. They''re saying that they did all that on their own." Ke Ming spoke tiredly. They had tried everything from threats to treats, but nothing seemed to work. Unfortunately, they could not torture the answer out of them. He looked worriedly at his boss. Waiting for further instruction, not daring to do anymore without Li Yi Feng''s consent.


    Li Yi Feng knew what his secretary was thinking. If he took those two to that place, he could get the information they wanted. However, he was not willing to step foot in there. He had made a promise a long time ago that he would not be like that man. Yet he could not leave things be like this. After all, it concerns his own child and he somehow felt some guilt. He had not protected them. His wife and child. "Wait outside," Li Yi Feng uttered. Opening the locked drawer on his desk, he looked inside. Inside laid two teddy bears, one pink and the other blue. He had been excited when he found out that Yu Yan had been pregnant. But the expectation and excitement soon turned into disappointment and anger. Rage, that had been taken out on her. Not even for a second did he consider her as a victim.


    Making up his mind, he went outside the office. "Bring those two to that place. We''re going there." Li Yi Feng said as he walked out resolutely. He hated that place, the place that reminded him of long-forgotten past. Choosing to cut his ties to that place and that person. But if he needed to go there for the child... for her, he would do it. He owed her at least that much.


    Ke Ming wanted to stop him but decided to not comment. He had known Li Yi Feng for years, even before he started to work for him. In all those years, Li Yi Feng had some limits he never stepped over. Some taboo matters that could not be touched. However, this time he had decided to step foot in that place he had vowed to never go to. It could only mean he had made up his mind, and that this was that important to him.


    As they drove, Li Yi Feng could not help to think back. Remember those horrid memories that he wanted to forget.


    "Mother! Mother... please don''t die," a small boy cried as he held on to his mother. He was no more than seven years old as he watched his mother bleed out.


    The rain never seemed to end. It kept on falling, reflecting the child''s mood. Though young, he had always been very bright. He knew this was not good. There was no one around and his mother''s lifelessly laid on his ??p. As the rain fell it mixed with her blood, pooling around them. Terrified, he trembled.


    He held onto his mother''s hand as she looked up at him. She raised her other hand and held his cheek. "Baby, don''t be scared. Mother, might not be able to be with you for much longer, but I will always look after you. I will watch over you and I will be right inside here," she spoke as she pointed at his heart. Smiling she continued to speak. "Yi Feng, mommy is sorry that I could not protect you more. Can you promise me something?"


    The boy cried as he nodded.

 Chapter 29 - Prisoners

    "Yi Feng, promise me to never take anything that man gives you! You can''t become like him." The boy cried as he promised his mother. "Mother, I''ll find who did this to you. I will make sure they''re punished. The police would get justice..." Before the boy could speak anymore, he was stopped by his mother. "Yi Feng, don''t. You can''t do that. This is all that man''s fault. You keep away from him and this matter. Do you understand." The woman weakly but insistently looked at him. "NO!" The boy screamed. He was not willing to let go of things that simply. "Listen to me, please," she begged. Seeing his mother like this, the boy promised his her in the end.


    - End of flashback -


    After that day, he had left that house. Not wanting to have any more connection to the man he had once called father. Changing his name from Su to Li and living with his maternal grandfather. His paternal grandfather had wanted to keep him. Yet, he soon understood that what happened, had left a deep scar on his only grandson. He did not want the child to be more hurt by his own son. Deciding that it had been for the better, he let old master Li take him.


    Li Yi Feng''s paternal grandfather had tried to contact him on several occasions, but Li Yi Feng wanted nothing to do with the Su family. He blamed them all, even knowing it had been his father''s fault did not change anything. To him, they were all to blame. If they had not let his father act as he pleased, always spoiling the only son of Su family, things would never have turn out like this.


    After that day, the young and cheerful boy turned distant and cold. Keeping everyone at arms lenght and not getting too attached to anyone.


    Arriving, he left the car. Looking at the place long forgotten, he walked in. The little hut, that was placed in the middle of the woods did not look like much. However, Li Yi Feng had spent a lot of time in this forest and knew it as if it was the back of his hand, knew it was more to it than eyes could tell. When he had still been young and ignorant he had been taken here on several occasions. Slowly moving forward, he got into one of the smaller rooms. It was decorated colourfully with toys, seemingly only a child''s playroom. Harmless. Yes, that is what it looked like to outsiders. Lifting the carpet, he opened the hidden hatchway to the basement.


    Hesitating for a few seconds, he went down the stairs. Noticing the arrival of two new people, the young guard was startled. He had not been told that someone would be arriving today. Looking at the two strangers, he became suspicious. "Hold it! This is private property. How did you get in here?"


    Li Yi Feng watched the unfamiliar young man as he stuttered out his questions. Not minding him Ke Ming spoke up. "We have the password, you could do a check. We don''t have any time to waste and need to get down to business. Could you hurry it up."


    The guard hesitated. He was told to not let anyone unfamiliar in. New to the job, he was unsure of how to proceed. "I can''t let you in. Even if you know the code, this is not a place anyone could come and go." Hearing the different voices from outside, someone from the inside shouted. "Hey kid, is everything okay?" Relieved that someone was willing to help, the guard answered. "There are two strangers outside..." Laughter came from the inside. "You''re still too soft, newbie. Weren''t you told to shoot any trespassers?" The guard paled as he replied. "B-but they''re s-saying they have the password."


    Unlocking sounds could be heard from the inside and a ruff-looking middle-aged man came out. Annoyed, he looked towards the intruders, curious to find out who would disturb him at this time. When he saw who it was, he froze in shock for a moment. He quickly reacted and greeted. "Young master Su, I''m sorry for not personally welcoming you. We were unaware that you would be coming today."


    Li Yi Feng looked displeased as he spoke through gritted teeth. "My surname is Li, not Su." The middle-aged man stiffened for a bit before showing them in. "Young Master, the prisoners that your people brought earlier are kept in one of the dark rooms. Shall I take you there?"


    Li Yi Feng slightly nodded. He followed the older man in. Though the man did not call him young master Su anymore, he was not willing to call him young master Li either.


    Walking along the pathway, it was just as he remembered. Dark, cold and damp. A mixture of smells ?ssaulted his senses. The putrid smell of blood, sweat, excrement and dirt. A flood of old memories came to the surface. Li Yi Feng clenched his fists. He would get the information he needed, and leave never to come back again.


    As they came to a locked room, the man hurriedly opened the door. Inside, a man and a woman were tightly bound together. dirty and ragged, they pathetically laid there. Noticing that someone arrived, they looked up, trying to find someone in the darkness.


    "You can''t k-keep us like this. It''s illegal! Let us go!" Nanny Ye''s shrill voice could be heard. But no one answered her screams. Not being able to stand the silence any longer her husband continued to scream. "You criminals! Let us go and we would act as nothing happened. Do you think the authorities would let you go if you keep us any longer!"


    The two of them had been forcefully brought back to the country and imprisoned. They had been questioned for hours without food and water. Just when they thought that these people would let them go, they had been transported to another place. This place was dark and foreboding. Though they had just come, this place terrified them. Unable to see anything, they could only listen to the screams coming from around them. Would they be tortured? Finally, when someone came in, they tried acting brave, trying to intimidate the other party into letting them go. But none of this seemed to work. No matter what they said, their jailers kept quiet.


    The silence put the couple under more pressure, making them worried. Just when they were unable to bear anymore, an ice-cold voice spoke up, making them feel as if a bucket of ice water was poured over them. "Let you go? You think you''ll be able to leave here alive?"

 Chapter 30 - The Su familys way

    "So you do know it''s illegal to kidnap and kill, yet dare to use poison yourself?" Seeing his boss'' cold attitude, Ke Ming spoke up. Nanny Ye and her husband trembled. Fear apparent. Judging by the way they were interrogated earlier, they had thought these people had certain limits they would not cross. This gave them a sense of safety and that is why they dared to keep the secrets. After all, the people they worked for were not good people, if they dared to betray them their ending would not be any good either.


    "I-if you''re going to kill us a-anyway, w-why would we answer you?" The man stuttered out his question. The middle-aged man found this funny and he laughed out. "Why? It''s not a matter of whether we keep you alive or not, but how long you''d like to be tortured. If you answer our questions obediently, we''ll give you a quick death. However, if you''d rather want a painful and slow death, I don''t mind granting your wish.


    Still not truly believing that the other party would go that far, the two of them tried to keep a brave front. Though all the shaking did not help their act. "Young master, let me play with them for a while. When you come back later, they''ll be ready to answer your questions," the older man turned to Li Yi Feng and said. Not wanting to stay any longer, Li Yi Feng left. He would come later and get his answers, he would not let the mastermind go!


    **********


    Later the same evening.


    Li Yi Feng had tried to get as much work done as possible before he went back to the secret underground prison. Unfortunately, he was unable to focus on his work and was not able to do too much. Giving up, he decided to head back and see if the old man had gotten any new information out of the couple.


    (WARNING: a bit BLOODY and SAVAGE descriptions. NO DESCRIPTION ON HOW THEY WERE TORTURED. Just a little explanation on their state.)


    Arriving, he could hear the screams of the two as they cried and begged. The disgusting smell of blood and fear ?ssaulted his senses. He walked into the room to find their bloody and shivering in a corner. Barely conscious. He sat down on the chair that was placed for him and looked at the brutal scene. It made sick to his stomach. But, this was how the Su family worked. For generations, they had been in control of the underworld. It did not surprise him to see this scene, but the satisfied and happy look on the old man''s face still did not sit well with him. He knew the people in here were twisted beyond repair. Taking p???sur? in such a barbaric act.


    (END OF THE BLOODY SCENE)


    However, no matter how much she wanted to answer this young master questions, her mouth did not seem to be able to make out coherent words. Worried that they would be left alone with these beasts, her husband started to stutter out all the information he knew. "I-it was that Y-Yun F-Feng, my mother-in-law works... her. T-tempting u-us with a lot of m-money to p-pay for d-debts. S-she t-threatened..." He was able to get out the information, even though he was unable to speak properly. He wildly looked in all directions as he continued to mumble. "W-we have to... n-need leave c-country. H-hurt. S-scared. S-save m-me." He did not seem to be in his right mind.


    Li Yi Feng did not feel any pity towards these people that could murder an innocent foetus, his child. He continued to press on with more questions. "You have proof?" "Y-yes, y-yes," nanny Ye''s husband mumbled as he frantically looked in all directions, crawling closer to a corner. "H-hid... h-hid it. S-safe... M-my secret p-place." As he spoke more, the more insane did he look. Terrified and trembling with an insane look in his eyes.


    "Who else was behind this. Do you think I am a fool? A stupid woman like Yun Feng has no way to get such a poison. Who was the true mastermind?" Hearing Li Yi Feng''s last question, they became frantic, screaming and crying while shaking their head. No matter how much he asked for more, they did not answer. It was like they could not hear anything that was said. There was no use continuing any more today. They seemed terrified to answer the last questions.


    The old man saw the situation and decided to speak up. "Young Master, it looks like there need to be done more work on these people. Come again tomorrow morning, you''ll definitely get the rest of the answers tomorrow." Li Yi Feng sneered at the older man. Did the man think he was unable to see the greed for more blood? The excitement and need to do more harm and to hear those two scream in pain all night. He did not care if they were put through inhuman torture, but he needed them alive until he got the information he needed. "They''ll still be alive if you put your hands on them again?" Li Yi Feng sarcastically spoke. The man looked startled, knowing he had gone too far, causing the young master to be displeased. He made a sorry attempt to placate Li Yi Feng. "Young master, I have a lot of experience, I can still keep them alive..." "Alive and sane?" Ke Ming finally questioned, seeing how irritated his boss was with the persistent man. "Do not touch them until tomorrow, after the boss has gotten his answers, you could whatever you please with them."

 Chapter 31 - Old nightmares

    In the end, Li Yi Feng decided to come back the next day, to find out who the mastermind was. The drug that had been used to poison Yu Yan was very rare and hard to get. Without connections to the black market, one could not get things like that. However, Yun Feng had somehow gotten her hands on that kind of poison. There was definitely something suspicious about it. She neither had the connections needed nor the ability to make such plans. It could only mean that there was someone hidden behind the scenes, that was manipulating her.


    Getting home late, Li Yi Feng did not feel like sleeping. Sitting down in the study, he continued to do the work he was unable to do earlier that day.


    **********


    A small boy, sat waiting in the room. Making sure no one knew what he was up to. His father liked to take him to their family hut, saying that everything here would one day be his. However, the boy could not understand what was so special about this place. Any of the other places owned by their family was much greater than this.


    But, there was just one thing that made him curious. Sometimes his dad would disappear into the playroom. He had watched as his father went in, after waiting for a while, he had followed in, only to find the room empty.


    He had asked his father, but he refused to answer. His father would say it was a magic trick. How could the fall for such an obvious lie? He decided that he would find out about the mysteries his father was hiding.


    After waiting, he made it out of his bed. Sneaking into the playroom, he tried to find a hidden door. Li Yi Feng felt exited. It was like he was playing spy. Soon enough, the boy found something beneath the rug. Walking down the dark stairs, the boy kept vigilant. He did not know there was such a secret room underneath his playroom. Slowly walking down, he arrived in front of a big iron door that was slightly ajar.


    Quietly making his way in, the boy looked around. The place was dark and humid. No lighting could be found. But the worst part was the smell. Li Yi Feng did not know what it was, but it smelled horrible. Why would his father sneak in here repeatedly? Looking around he walked on trying to find the hidden secret. The passage was long as if there was no end to it. That was when he heard voices, amongst them one that was familiar. His father. Panicking the boy went into the closest room and hid himself, not wanting to be caught.


    The footsteps came closer and closer.


    "Wait for your turn, bastard! I''ll have a go at her first and when I''m tired of her you guys could play as much as you want," Young master Su laughed as he answered.


    All along a woman''s voice could be heard. She was crying and begging to let her go, but it did not seem that the men cared. The boy that had hidden himself, finally realised something was wrong. He got scared and moved into the corner. From where he sat, he was not able to see too much, but he could see the woman''s feet stumbling along as if she was being dragged. What was his father doing?


    (WARNING: BRUTAL AND SEXUAL CONTENT - ****)


    Li Yi Feng shrunk his body, moving further into the corner. He felt a foreboding feeling as if something really wrong was about to happen. He closed his eyes not wanting to see what his father was doing. Yet it only heightened his other senses. He could clearly hear the sound of clothing being ripped. All along the woman kept crying and begging. The boy moved his hands to his ears, trying to block out the noises, but it did not help.


    He could still hear the woman crying and screaming as the men laughed out loud. Screaming for someone to help her. The sound of slapping and heavy breathing could be heard. The boy trembled. It went on and on for a long time, without an end. After what felt like an eternity, the crying and screaming stopped. Was it finally over?


    (END OF THE SCENE.)


    (For those that did not read the scene above. Li Yi Feng witnessed his father and a bunch of men raping a woman. He did not see a thing as he had his eyes closed, but he heard everything)


    Thinking it was over, the boy opened his eyes, peeking outside his hiding spot. What he saw, scared him and scarred him for life. Right in front of him laid a woman, her body and face bruised. She was not wearing any clothing, but he could see torn clothes all around her. Her head was turned towards him, her eyes lifelessly staring back at him.


    Li Yi Feng abruptly woke up. Breathing heavily his hands trembled. He felt cold as if even his bones were frozen over. His back damp with sweat. It was that nightmare again. It had been so long since he had last dreamt of it, but after his visit back to that place, it seemed he would be terrorised at night again. The nightmare that would not leave him when he was a child. At that time he had not understood what happened. He only knew that something horrible had been done by his own father.


    Arriving early, even before daybreak, Li Yi Feng stormed inside, only to find the door unguarded. Where were the guards? Suspicious, he went further inside, not finding anything else wrong besides the missing guards. Arriving outside the darkroom that the couple was kept in, he felt that something was off. Hesitating he opened the door, only to be met with a bloody scene.


    They were dead!


    The guards and the couple laid lifelessly on the floor, with precise cuts on the necks that had taken their lives.

 Chapter 32 - Another unreasonable designer

    After the incident, Li Yi Feng had tried to find out who had interfered. The mastermind obviously knew more about Li Yi Feng than he had thought. He had gotten rid everything that was connected to himself, not leaving behind any trace. The mastermind had spies in the Su family, and probably around Li Yi Feng too. The only clue that was left behind was the fact that this was somehow connected to Li Yi Feng. He had thought the target was Yu Yan, but he had been wrong. The target had been him! The poisoning had been done by his enemy, but who that enemy was, he did not know.


    After thoroughly checking, again and again, he was sure that no traces were left. He could only temporarily give up the mastermind and go after Yun Feng. This time, however, he would secretly inquire about her. He will find proof that she was connected to all of this. If he imprisoned her like the couple, the mastermind might get rid of her before he got anything worthwhile out of her.


    **********


    As each day passed, Yu Yan was getting closer to finishing up her new outfits for the winter collections. Almost being finished and still having time, she found herself having a lot more free time than planned. When she started to work she had been so focused on work that she had not had time to do anything else. She had come earlier than everyone else and left later as well.


    Realising that she had not made time to get to know her colleagues, she decided it was time to do just that. However, she was struck by another problem. Who exactly was part of the designer department? She had worked on a whole collection alone and interacted with only one person, who she had ordered around for the past months. What was her name? Fu Xiao Min?


    Deciding to get to know her colleagues, Yu Yan went to work. Instead of arriving early, she went in later. This way she could meet everyone in the office unlike before when she was busily working in her office, without stepping a foot out.


    Walking into the designing department, she found people busily running back and forth. How was she supposed to get their attention? While she was standing still trying to find the one face she knew, someone bumped into her.


    "Ah!"


    Yu Yan was surprised and turned around to look. Behind her, a girl was holding a white dress that now had coffee stains on it. The girl looked at the dress in distress before she looked up at Yu Yan furiously. Glaring at her, the girl screamed. "You! Look what you''ve done! My masterpiece! You ruined it!"


    The girl''s screaming quickly caught everyone''s attention. Someone saw the sate of the dress, and mumbled: "Zi Wei has been working hard for five years before she was allowed to design a dress herself, and now it'' been ruined"


    "It''s not easy to get such an opportunity. She might have to work under lead designer Huang for a few more years before she gets another opportunity."


    "This was her chance to prove herself, and if everything went well, she could have become in charge of a collection for the next season."


    Though the people tried to keep it quiet as they whispered, it was not hard to hear what they were sating. However, how was this Yu Yan''s fault? She had been standing still when this woman bumped into her from behind. Looking at the angry woman, Yu Yan did not say anything, waiting to see what she would do.


    "I''ve been working on my new design for a year now, and you dare to ruin it! What''s with that look? Who do you think you are to come one here and act arrogantly?!" The woman continued on. She looked up and down Yu Yan and sneered. Thought the clothes looked good, they were not labelled. By the looks of it the woman before her she was not a rich heiress. She had never seen her before. Even the interns, wore designer clothes. Making sure this was a woman she could offend, she continued to scold. "Are your eyes for decorations? Do you think, this is something a beggar like you could pay for? Why haven''t the guards thrown her out yet?"


    Yu Yan was a bit shocked by how shameless this woman was. It seemed people like Yun Feng was everywhere in this line of work. She looked down at the dress. It was so mainstream, nothing special that made it stand out. No originality.


    Looking back at the screaming woman Yu Yan finally answered. "This dress is so bad anyway, it wouldn''t have made it even if it wasn''t ruined."


    The woman flared up. Pointing at Yu Yan as shrieked. "Y-you! How. Dare. You! What would a nobody like you know about designing! After ruining my masteries, you still dare to talk back?!"


    "Why wouldn''t I talk? How could that be considered a masterpiece? You call yourself a designer, but make something unoriginal like this dress? Not a single thing that stands out! What are you that scared that your design would fail? Making something that has no distinctiveness?"


    The people looked at the dress. They had to admit that what the stranger said was true. The dress was quite plain. Seeing everyone''s gazes as if agreeing with Wang Zi Wei flushed. How dared this nobody to shame her and make her a laughingstock? How much hardship had she gone through to reach this point? She could not let this woman go! How else could she explain to chief designer Huang?

 Chapter 33 - Wang Zi Wei and her little helper

    The security guards did not dare to move. Unlike the designers, these people had to come to work much earlier on day-shifts or in the evening for the night-shift. They had clearly seen Yu Yan come and go and knew she was working here. They had also noticed how their boss, miss Wu, would sometime come when it was late trying to get Yu Yan out to play. This woman was someone with backing, how would they dare to throw her out?


    Listening to the screaming woman, they decided it was better to act like they did not see what was happening. All the noise did not just attract the other designers, but also people from other departments came over wondering what was wrong.


    Seeing as none of her colleagues tried to help her and was rather enjoying the show, Wang Zi Wei fumed. Those designers that were already recognised and could get one or two of their designs sold had always looked down on her. Thinking they were above her. Had they not been in the same state when they were new too? And the other new ones could not wait to see her fall. Jealous of the opportunity she had gotten, they wanted to snatch it away from her. How would they help?


    Seeing that people from other departments rushing in, she could not help but feel embarrassed. What was she going to do when chief designer Huang finds out about this matter? She had to somehow settle it before that happened. Looking around for help, a man caught her eye. It was Mr Dong working for IT. He had pursued her for a while, but she had not accepted as he did not fit her taste. Only someone with good enough income to support her spending with good looks was qualified to be her boyfriend. Though his salary was acceptable, he was ugly and old. However, that did not stop her from receiving gifts or spending his money once in a while.


    "Mr Dong! Look, this woman came waltzing in and destroyed my masterpiece. Not only does she refuse to compensate me, but she also didn''t even apologise." Looking at him for help, she cried pitifully.


    Seeing the woman he had been pursuing for months finally calling him on her own initiative, Mr Dong stepped out. Wanting to take this chance to get closer to Wang Zi Wei, he called the police over, before standing beside her. Not even looking at the woman who had offended Wang Zi Wei, he spoke up like a hero. "How can there be a woman like this? If you destroyed the dress, you should pay for it. How can you be so shameless?!" Mr Dong smirked, now his beloved Zi Wei would look at him, right? He was sure he looked like a knight in shining armour, giving a hand to a helpless girl. Every woman liked that kind of man!


    Yu Yan snickered. Ha, those two would make a good pair. It was like watching two clowns. The man that had joined in had a proud look on his face, as he watched the girl. His thoughts were obvious. Did he think he looked like a hero or something? The middle-aged man had lost most of the hair on his head and had a beer belly, but still wanted to date a young woman.


    Hearing the laughter, Mr Dong turned around, someone actually dared to mock him! Yet instead of blowing up the man tuned quietly when he saw Yu Yan. He had not expected to see such a charming woman. Compared to her, Wang Zi Wei looked like a village bumpkin. He had been unable to see her from where he was standing earlier, but now he was stunned. Sh*t! If he had known the other woman such stunning beauty, he would never have helped Wang Zi Wei.


    Noticing the silence, Wang Zi Wei turned around to see why her helper was quiet. This, however, only made her angrier. Lust, infatuation and regret were clear on his face. Just because she did not like the man, did not mean she was willing to give up this free wallet, especially to her enemy!


    Angry, Wang Zi Wei roared at Yu Yan. "Don''t get too smug! When the police get here, see how I''ll deal with you!"


    Yu Yan was getting tired of all the screaming and decided to end this charade. "Why should I be scared? First of all your design has no value. It''s a useless piece that won''t be used. Secondly, you''re the one making trouble and a scene. If the police want to arrest someone shouldn''t it be you? Thirdly, I never bumped into you. Your the one that didn''t watch where you went. So to conclude it''s all your fault."


    The woman paled. She knew that she had not been careful earlier and did not watch where she went. But if Yu Yan hadn''t been there, nothing would have gone wrong. So it was still not her own fault, but Yu Yan''s. A woman like Wang Zi Wei would never admit her mistakes but instead chose to push the blame on others.


    "If you hadn''t been here, my dress would still be fine. Lotus is not somewhere anyone could come and go and this is the designing department! People that don''t belong here should not be here!" As Wang Zi Wei spoke, she still stubbornly pushed all the blame on Yu Yan.


    Yu Yan could not believe this woman. Shameless. There was no need to reason with people like this since they would always stubbornly insist they were in the right. She really was just like Yun Feng.


    "What is going on here?" While talking, a person walked out. Looking around at the crowd the person became displeased. Why were so many people gathering here? "What are all of you doing here instead of working?" Seeing Wang Zi Wei standing in the middle of the crowd with a ruined dress, the person could not help but send her a questioning look.

 Chapter 34 - Chief designer

    Looking at the newly arrived person, Wang Zi Wei paled. Things could not get any worse. It was all because of that stupid woman. Fuming, she glared at Yu Yan. Feeling the gaze on her she turned around, to find that person looking at her questioningly. She trembled.


    "Chief designer Huang... This woman came into our department without permission and ruined the design I''ve been working on for days."


    Director Huang looked at Wang Zi Wei while she talked. He had always hated irresponsible people. Even if the stranger had destroyed the dress, it''s a designers responsibility to take care of their designs. This woman had been begging for an opportunity for such a long time. considering how hard she worked, he had even given her a chance. However, it seemed to be wasted on her.


    "Don''t you know to put your work in a safe place? Do you expect, it would be fine if you left it just laying around?" He asked with displeasure.


    Wang Zi Wei felt her knees weaken in fright. Yes, chief designer Huang, had always been stern and ruthless. He either liked someone or disliked them. He hated designers that made excuses. He had always believed that any faults with the designs were always the designers'' mistake. That''s why she had hoped to settle it before he found out. If the police arrested the woman, she would have the law on her side and chief designer Huang would not be able to blame her.


    Mr Dong had been staring at Yu Yan all along, but she had not even glanced his way. A woman like this was just his type, but by the looks of it, there was no chance for him to get his hands on a girl like that. He was furious at Wang Zi Wei that had made him offend such a beauty. Considering how things were now, it would be better for him to just stick with Wang Zi Wei. After all, she was quite an easy woman. As long as he spent a little money on her, sooner or later he would get her.


    Thinking about it, Mr Dong decided to continue to help Wang Zi Wei. He knew it would not be good for Wang Zi Wei to explain and spoke up for her. "Chief director Huang, there seem to be a misunderstanding. Zi Wei was, of course, careful with her design. As you can see, she was holding the dress when this rude woman spilt coffee on it."


    Chief designer Huang looked suspiciously at them. "Coffee?"


    "Yes. Not only didn''t she apologise, but she even humiliated Zi Wei, saying that her dress was useless and ugly. She''s looking down on Lotus'' designers. How can you just stand by and let her bully your people?" Since he was siding with Wang Zi Wei, he did not mind going all out, exaggerating and adding to what had happened.


    Listening to the other man speak, Mr Huang looked at the dress Wang Zi Wei was holding. "Is that so?"


    "Hm... I''d have to agree with the woman though. A dress like that really is useless. It''s neither a unique piece or a breathtakingly beautiful one. It''s so plain and would never stand out. I would never have accepted it."


    With just a few words had sent all of Wang Zi Wei''s hopes tumbling down. Chief designer Huang had put her down in front of so many people, her future was ruined. Though Lotus had not been doing well, their boss was able to invite a reputable designer to their company this year. And the said designer was Mr Huang. He had been in this business for years. After losing his muse a few years back, he was unable to make designs like he used to. However, he was still a veteran and had good judgement on what kind of clothing was good and not. Being told that her piece was useless by him would ruin her. Though the former chief designer never gave her an opportunity, she would never be so harsh. Wang Zi Wei had thought har chance had finally come after Chief designer Huang started working here, but now her career was ruined!


    "N-no... Chief designer Huang, the dress look like this because of the coffee stains. Before this, it was still good, but because of this woman..."


    However, Huang Jing Yu did not let her speak more and interrupted her. "If she was the one who spilt the coffee, why are you the one holding the mug?"


    Hearing his question, Wang Zi Wei stumbled. It was over.


    Just as things could not get any worse for her, steps could be heard coming closer to them. Turning around, she saw that the police had finally arrived. She might not be able to do anything about the dress anymore, but she could not let the woman who had shamed her go.


    "What''s wrong here? Who called?"


    "Officer it was us, this woman is trespassing and refuses to leave," Wang Zi Wei pointed at Yu Yan as she spoke.


    Yu Yan finally decided to say something, when she noticed the police officers. "Officers, she''s lying. That woman has been slandering me, saying that I ruined her dress when she was the one who had not been careful. You can ask around, and there''s still the CCTV."


    "NO!"


    How could Wang Zi Wei let, Yu Yan talk? "It''s her. She won''t leave. Only employees are allowed in here!"


    "Who said I wasn''t an employee?"


    She stilled at You Yan''s question. Yu Yan could not be a new employee, right? The time for recruitment as long over and they had not been told of anyone new arriving. She was sure Yu Yan was a stranger.


    "No, I have never seen her before. No one has seen her, she doesn''t work here," Wang Zi Wei said.


    The police looked around, it seemed like no one really knew who this woman was. Just when they were ready to arrest her another person arrived at the scene and spoke up for Yu Yan.


    "No, she works here."