Facing this apology, simply accepting it didn’t seem like the right choice.
But if I didn’t accept it, there was a chance the other party might become even more furious.
Sometimes, I like to take a gamble, so I just smiled, my grin making Jiang Sen’s expression turn strange.
Jiang Sen’s face gradually cooled, and the grip on my wrist loosened. He was clearly conflicted. A few seconds later, he regained his usual haughty demeanor and said again, “I misunderstood.”
What he left unsaid was the repeated apology.
If I didn’t speak up now, things could really go south.
I wiped the smile off my face and said seriously, “I don’t accept your apology. In fact, whether I accept it or not doesn’t make much difference. I’m not you. I’m just an ordinary person, an ordinary poor person. What can I possibly do?”
“I’ll compensate you,” Jiang Sen said.
I noticed the thin line of his lips twitching, betraying a hint of reluctance.
It was hilarious. What was there to be reluctant about? Was it because a nobody like me dared to reject you and bruise your ego?
Sensing my silence, Jiang Sen tried to explain, “Of course, I know you can find a job, but you also know the difference between jobs. I can find one that’s suitable for you, something less troublesome with better pay. This is both my compensation and your reward—”
“As long as you accept the apology and promise never to contact Yalian again after this is over.”
Jiang Sen defined the terms of the reward.
“Sigh.” I exhaled and placed a hand on his shoulder.
Jiang Sen clearly wasn’t used to this, tilting his head slightly to look at my hand. “You—ugh!”
His confusion was cut short by a grunt as I punched him hard in the stomach. His expression went blank for a moment, his pupils trembling as his face shifted from confusion to shock and then to anger.
“Are you insane?!” Jiang Sen bent over, his eyelids twitching, the corners of his eyes red as he shouted at me.
He was clearly in pain, even staggering a few steps.
If I didn’t act now, I’d miss my chance. I had to strike while the iron was hot! Without letting go, I punched him again before he could fully comprehend what was happening.
Jiang Sen tilted his head back, suppressing the pain once more, and tried to swing at me, but I grabbed his arm and shoved him backward.
We stumbled around like we were doing tai chi until we reached the car.
With a loud *thud*, I pinned Jiang Sen against the car.
“Call me sister, and I’ll spare your life—”
Wait, that wasn’t the right line.
“Alpha, you’ve caught my attention—”
Damn it, not that one either.
As I pressed him against the car, I quickly searched my mind for the right words. But just as I found them, he broke free and grabbed me, flipping me around and pinning my arms behind my back.
*Thud!*
Another loud noise as he pressed my head against the car.
“You ungrateful wretch,” Jiang Sen muttered.
I twisted my head to look at him and smiled. “I’m sorry.”
Jiang Sen paused. “What?”
“I’m sorry. I apologize. I thought you were just someone who relied on their status to bully others. I misunderstood you.” The moment I finished speaking, he pressed my head even harder against the car. My face was squished, but I couldn’t help but laugh. “What’s there to be angry about? I deal with this kind of anger eighty times a day, but I don’t get mad. Because this is just how my life is. Resentment, anger, frustration—I have to swallow it all. It’s just fodder for the beasts, isn’t it? If I were of higher status than you, I’d arrange a better job for you too. Who knows, maybe I’d even make you a governor! Then you’d definitely accept my sincere apology, right?”
Jiang Sen’s expression shifted. “You—”
“I’m a person just like you. Why should there be such a difference between us?” I interrupted him. “Or is there no difference, and you just think I should accept this kind of deal?”
Jiang Sen’s anger gradually subsided, evident in the way he loosened his grip on me.
I slid down the car like a leech, wincing in pain. Damn, it hurt.
This guy clearly had training. So unfair.
I crouched down, rubbing my arm.
A cool night breeze blew past as Jiang Sen lowered his head, his sharp jawline still strikingly handsome. He removed his gloves, bent down, and extended a hand with neatly trimmed nails. “I’m sorry.”
I reached out and took his hand.
He helped me up.
Jiang Sen had clearly gone through another internal battle between pride and conscience, and once again, his conscience had won.
I looked at him and said, “I forgive you.”
Then I added, “This time, last time, every time.”
Jiang Sen seemed to have prepared a speech, because after I spoke, his face showed surprise. His mouth, which had been open, closed again as if he was searching for a response.
Kid, I never fight by the rules. I specialize in catching people off guard.
Jiang Sen took a moment to gather his thoughts before asking, “Why?”
He already knew the answer, but he clearly lacked confidence and needed confirmation.
“You hit me, I hit you. It’s fair.” In this game of chess, I started with a standard friendship-breaking punch, then quickly canceled the animation to unleash the real skill. “But I think you’ve already gone this far, which is rare for someone of your status. So I forgive you. Actually, you didn’t need to say anything, or arrange a job, or even apologize. After this is over, I won’t approach Yalian either. In fact, getting to punch you twice was a win for me.”
Jiang Sen listened quietly, unsure whether to smile or not.
He said, “Now I understand what kind of person you are.”
So confident. I like that. I hope you stay that way.
I blinked and grinned.
The atmosphere was a bit awkward, since we weren’t fictional characters who could instantly become best friends.
I guessed Jiang Sen felt the same, because he tried to crack a joke, but it was a terrible one.
He said, “Actually, being a governor isn’t really a job I’d look forward to.”
I gritted my teeth.
To me, that job was like being a king.
This was a classic case of me fantasizing about the empress baking pancakes. I laughed, but it was the kind of laugh that made me want to die. Haha.
*
After that night, Jiang Sen and I only met a couple more times, just standing around chatting. The usual routine was him coming to visit Yalian, talking to me for a bit, then going upstairs to see Yalian, only to return within three minutes with some injury and continue chatting with me before leaving.
I was like an NPC, stationed downstairs.
This time was no different. Jiang Sen walked out with a dark expression, but when he saw me at the hospital entrance, his anger faded, leaving only a hint of impatience.
As he approached, he said, “How do you put up with it?”
I had just pulled out a cigarette but didn’t get a chance to respond before he looked down at me and said, “Is smoking really that addictive? Give me one.”
You’re so rich, why are you asking me for one? I’m broke—every cigarette counts.
I shook the pack and realized it was empty, so I didn’t respond, just patted the steps beside me.
Jiang Sen frowned, clearly reluctant, but he sat down anyway.
I said, “Feelings are just uncontrollable, aren’t they? Like how he likes you, but you can’t stand him.”
“What kind of love is that?” Jiang Sen wasn’t used to saying such things, hesitating even on the word “love,” his tone laced with the arrogance of a young master who didn’t trust such emotions. “Now I just feel like he hates me to death and only wants to torment me.”
He paused, then added, “And why hasn’t he given up on using you to provoke me? Even though—we’re kind of friends now.”
I smiled and adjusted my clothes, secretly sniffing myself.
Even though I knew he probably couldn’t see the marks, I still felt a bit guilty.
It’s not like I had that kind of habit, but Yalian was indeed hard to handle. Even though we hadn’t gone as far as marking, he seemed obsessed with doing clingy things like hugging, kissing, or biting my scent gland.
I guessed it might be separation anxiety.
*Ding!* I lit my last cigarette.
Smoke filled the air.
Jiang Sen glanced at me, sighed, and said, “The private jet got clearance for a midnight flight.”
“So?”
“We’ll be leaving tomorrow afternoon, boarding at midnight.”
“That’s not bad.”
Jiang Sen seemed thoughtful, then added, “When the time comes, you—”
“Let’s not talk about work anymore.” I interrupted him with a smile, shaking my head. “If it’s not something I’ve earned myself, it’s meaningless. Of course, I’d love a leisurely job in the inner city, but I just don’t think it’s necessary.”
I’ve given you the key points; you’d better take the hint.
“Then I’m curious, what kind of job do you actually like?”
Jiang Sen asked with a laugh.
He’s catching on.
I immediately put on a thoughtful expression, taking a moment before answering, “Security guard?”
Jiang Sen looked somewhat speechless. “Just that? You’re an alpha, after all. Where’s your ambition?”
“Yeah, you know, I dropped out of school twice,” I drawled, sounding a bit embarrassed. “Sometimes I do think about studying, but I can’t make money if I’m in school. So, I just want a job where I can read during downtime.”
Jiang Sen’s lips parted a few times before he finally let out a muffled “Hmm,” quickly changing the subject. “I don’t know if we’ll see each other again after this, but I guess you probably don’t want to see someone like me anymore.”
“Why would you say that?”
I turned to ask him.
“I think I was too hostile toward you at the beginning.” Jiang Sen fell silent for a few seconds, then began to backtrack, adopting the classic “reformed tycoon” persona. “Actually, Yalian and I had a lot of issues long before you came along.”
“He comes from a prestigious background, but he hates it. He thinks everyone around him is just trying to flatter him.” Jiang Sen looked troubled, his fingers tapping on his knee. “But, with all due respect, he has nothing without his status. Well, maybe except for his tantrums and daydreams. He’s found his fantasy in literature and movies—a partner who unconditionally respects and supports him. This person has to be considerate, gentle, and fulfill his prince or princess fantasies. Maybe even love him with their life? Sorry, I don’t really get it.”
Isn’t that just being a hopeless romantic? Just indulge him.
I didn’t understand his “not getting it.”
Jiang Sen propped his chin on his hand, a mocking and sharp smile appearing on his face, adding a touch of arrogance to his handsome features. What he said next was even more outrageous. “It could all be solved with a simple mark. Omegas are just that kind of creature. They can’t do anything on their own; they rely on alphas’ mercy. That’s why they’re kept protected.”
“A mark can’t solve everything.” I thought for a moment, then added, “At least omegas can choose who marks them, right?”
Jiang Sen asked, “Does it matter?”
He looked at me, his gaze meaningful. “He’s from a noble family, but am I any less than him?”
My expression gradually darkened. “Are you sure you want to say that in front of me?”
Jiang Sen seemed to finally realize that, before being friends, I was Yalian’s “admirer.”
He looked somewhat awkward but clearly wasn’t used to apologizing or explaining himself. He just tilted his chin up and changed the subject. “Give me one.”
“I’m out.” I shook the cigarette box, then took the half-smoked one from my lips, holding it between my thumb and middle finger. “Want to share?”
I laughed and shrugged. “Just kidding.”
But the next moment, Jiang Sen grabbed the half-smoked cigarette. “Sure.”
Me: “…”
Wait, I wasn’t serious. That’s all I’ve got.
Give it back, damn it! You actually took it?
I was internally freaking out, but I noticed Jiang Sen holding the cigarette with a strange expression, clearly unsure what to do.
It hit me—he thought this was a gesture of intimacy, a way to apologize.
Bro, if you’re not going to smoke it, give it back! No need for apologies!
My gaze on the cigarette was so intense that Jiang Sen noticed and immediately misunderstood. He put the cigarette in his mouth, the smoke blurring his sharp features and breaking my heart.
Jiang Sen coughed awkwardly. “It’s strong.”
“It’s cheap tobacco.” I couldn’t help but sound resentful, though I added, “Not used to it?”
Jiang Sen took a drag, holding the cigarette, and nodded. “Yeah.”
He then said, “But I don’t hate it.”
I didn’t want to say more, nor did I dare to look, afraid I’d end up fighting him for the stub. I just stood up and made an excuse to go upstairs.
I hadn’t gone far when I heard a muffled cough behind me.
…What a waste.
Such a waste.
As soon as I returned to the hospital room, before I could even close the door, Yalian rushed over and demanded, “Where have you been! Why were you gone so long!”
“Jiang Sen—” I hesitated, “He wanted to talk.”
“What’s there to talk about? Why doesn’t he just die already? Why does he have to bother me every day?!” Yalian was like a wind-up toy, pacing and ranting, pulling me along as he vented. “We’re leaving tomorrow, and I don’t want to go. I hate it. They’re all so annoying, I can’t stand it—I’m scared…”
He threw himself into my arms, holding me tighter and tighter. “Take me away, okay? Never mind, you’re useless. You can’t do it.”
Me: “…”
No need to remind me; I’m well aware.
“But I want to see you. I don’t want to see them.” Yalian hugged me even tighter, his body curling up as he spoke close to my ear. “I’ll hide you, sneak you away.”
“But how?” I gently patted his shoulder, guiding him toward the bed. “If we’re caught, I’ll die.”
“They wouldn’t dare. Like last time, okay?” Yalian seemed to think he’d come up with a brilliant idea, his brown eyes shining. “I’ll threaten them with death, no confinement, and no trouble for you.”
“And then?”
I asked.
“Then, I’ll keep you by my side.”
Yalian paused, then added, “Only you.”
He seemed to find his own words amusing, his eyes curving into a smile, his shoulders shaking with laughter. “Even if I get married, you’ll still stay with me, always by my side.”
Wow, you really think someone would be okay with wearing a green hat?
I thought to myself but still tried to soothe him. “Calm down. You’re just angry with him right now. It’s not possible for us.”
“I’m not angry with him!” Yalian’s voice rose, his cheeks flushing. “Why don’t you understand? I—”
I had already guided him to the bed, and I ruffled his hair. “Get some rest.”
Yalian deflated like a popped balloon, then erupted in anger. “Get out! I don’t want to rest! Just leave!”
“Okay.” I sighed in relief, walking over to close the curtains. “I’ll go.”
The view outside was beautiful—lush trees, bright sunshine, and a gentle breeze. Not far away, under a tree, I saw a stylish young man playing with a few kids in hospital gowns. Sensing my gaze, he looked up, meeting my eyes, and smiled warmly.
I was startled, but at that moment, I felt a force hit me from behind.
Yalian hugged me from the back. “Why aren’t you saying anything?”
The young man’s smile froze, his eyes narrowing.
Yalian: “What are you looking at?”
“Whoosh—”
I quickly closed the curtains.
“Nothing, just—” I pried his hands off, sounding sad. “I really don’t know what to say, Yalian. After tomorrow, we might never see each other again. I’m just a passing figure in your life. Why do you keep saying these things?”
Yalian frowned. “I—”
“Don’t say anything more. Just rest.” I peeked through the curtains again—the tree was now empty. “I need some time alone to think.”
I pushed Yalian onto the bed and left before he could respond.
Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no.
I hurried down the hospital hallway, my mind racing.
Damn it, I’ve wasted so much time here these past few days. How could I forget about him!
As I turned the corner at the bottom of the stairs, I ran straight into the young man.
He glared at me coldly. “Who was that?! Chen Zhiwei! Who the hell are you taking care of here?!”
At that moment, I felt a big red “DANGER” sign flashing above my head.
What’s harder to deal with than the boss’s son?
Nothing.
He grabbed my hand and started pulling me upstairs. “Who was hugging you from behind? Take me to them!”
At that moment, my brain started humming a tune again:
When I hold you from behind, I can't help but wish it was his face I was seeing...
Stop singing, and let's think of a solution!
