Translated by Eve
Edited by Kara
Xiao ge, Ive already looked through the documents Louis sent over. I think that it would be fine to cooperate with the Grier Group, but there are still some details that require.
Snow fell gently outside the windows. Yang Jie poured some piping hot, brewed tea into a small redware cup before gently pushing it over to Xiao Yuanmu. When he noticed that the other didnt move, he looked up. He saw the other glancing outside at the snowy landscape with a pensive look on his face.
Yang Jies hand paused in the air. He then lowered his gaze and said, Xiao ge, its Old Mr. Songs birthday today. Song er shao will probably head home right after work. He likely wont come looking for you. You neednt worry.
Xiao Yuanmus cold face turned to face him. His eyes were icier than the frost that was dusted over the plants outside. In contrast, his tone was much more mild. Its none of your business, Wang Dong.
Yang Jies pupils shook. A while later, he continued, That Song er shao doesnt like you nor cares about you. If he did care about you, he would have at least told you about the birthday banquet today. But, he.
Wang Dong.
Xiao Yuanmus voice sounded indifferent, but there was a warning within it.
Yang Jie pursed his lips. His birth name was Yang Jie, but he loathed his alcoholic, abusive father. When that had happened to his mother last time, he had changed his name. But, because people were used to calling him by his birth nameand because Xiao Yuanmu had said that it would be more appropriate to call him by this name for now and change it later after they had leftXiao Yuanmu had been calling him Yang Jie all this time.
It was only when he was angry that he would call him Wang Dong.
Prior to this moment, the only other time Xiao Yuanmu had ever called him Wang Dong had also been because of Song Xuanhe.
The first time had happened on a Wednesday two weeks ago. It had rained hard the night before. Xiao Yuanmus car had been parked at the orphanages gate and had ended up getting crushed under a tree. Therefore, Yang Jie had gone to pick him up. At that time, Song Xuanhe had also been there. The atmosphere between them had been strange. Yang Jie didnt like Song Xuanhe, so he didnt ask about it. But when he had seen Song Xuanhes cold expression, he couldnt help but feel unhappy.
Therefore, after sending Song Xuanhe back to his office, he hadnt been able to stop himself from saying, Xiao ge, youre going to leave soon. When will you break up with him?
Xiao Yuanmu had been watching Song Xuanhe walk into the Song Groups building. He had then looked away and answered in a flat voice, Does me leaving have anything to do with whether I break up with him or not?
Yang Jie had been taken aback. When he had finally understood what the other was saying, he had been startled. He hadnt been able to stop himself from blurting out his thoughts. Xiao ge! Are you saying that you still want to be with Song Xuanhe even after leaving the country?! Hes a fickle playboy! He might cheat on you. Moreover, even if he doesnt cheat, I doubt hed be willing to maintain a long-distance relationship with you!
Originally, there had still been a bit of a smile on Xiao Yuanmus face. At that moment though, it had been completely replaced with ice. But, Yang Jie was his loyal subordinate, who had followed him throughout two lifetimes. Therefore, his tone had still been very serene. Its fine if you dont like him, but I dont want to hear you speak ill of him behind his back again. Ill overlook it this time. There better not be a next time.
If it had been Yang Jie from Xiao Yuanmus previous life, who had understood Xiao Yuanmu extremely well, he would have shut up upon hearing these words. However, the current Yang Jie did not have that kind of tacit understanding with Xiao Yuanmu. Moreover, ever since he had found out about how Song Xuanhe and Xiao Yuanmu had gotten together, he had loathed Song Xuanhe, this rich kid who liked to use his power to bully people. It had made him disapprove of their relationship even more.
Xiao ge, he has never given you a pleasant expression any time I have seen him. In the past, he used his family background to force you to be with him. But now, with your current identity, you dont have to be held back by him. Besides, even if you like him, he doesnt like you, ah. I can tell just by looking at the expression he had on when he was with you this morning!
Xiao Yuanmus cold look had eased up when he had heard Yang Jie mention Song Xuanhes expression that morning. His lips had even curled up into a smile. They had just helped each other out with a very typical issue men faced in the mornings. He hadnt expected Song Xuanhe to get so mad. When he recalled that ashen expression on Song Xuanhes face when the other had gotten out of bed to wash his hands, the smile in his eyes deepened.
Its not your place to talk about our relationship.
Xiao Yuanmus mood had improved after thinking about this, and his tone had also eased up. Therefore, Yang Jie had mistakenly thought that Xiao Yuanmu didnt really care. Thus, he continued speaking his thoughts, Xiao ge, I think that Song Xuanhe isnt worthy of you. Hes nothing but a good-for-nothing rich second-generation living under his ancestors shade. He cant be compared to you at all. Hes unworthy of you in every aspect. Furthermore, a long-distance relationship is hard to maintain. He doesnt even seem to like you at all. When the time comes.
Wang Dong.
Xiao Yuanmu had looked up. There had been a frosty chill repressed in his eyes. Even through the rear view mirror, Yang Jie had been able to feel the cold. I wont warn you a third time. Dont meddle in our affairs.
The tone of the man in the back seat had been very mild and had even sounded refreshingly pleasant. But, it had made Yang Jies back go cold. He had gripped the steering wheel tight and had replied in a quiet voice, I understand.
At that time, Yang Jie had decided that he would not meddle anymore. But, Song Xuanhe was really too much. He and Xiao Yuanmu were clearly lovers. It was one thing for him to not invite Xiao Yuanmu to Old Mr. Song, Song Yansongs birthday banquet, but how could he not even tell him about it?
Song Xuanhe clearly didnt take Xiao ge seriously. Yang Jie just didnt get it. There were people in this world who looked gentle, noble, and easy-to-interact with but actually had hearts colder than ice. Meanwhile, there were people who looked aloof and hard-to-approach but were actually more soft-hearted than anyone else. Song Xuanhe was the former whereas Xiao Yuanmu was the latter.
In this relationship, the only person who would be hurt was Xiao Yuanmu.
Not only was Xiao Yuanmu Yang Jies saviour, but he was also the person who he admired and planned to follow for the rest of his life. He didnt want to see him fall for someone like Song Xuanhe, who was nothing but a good-for-nothing, cold-hearted rich kid.
Yang Jie finished his own cup of hot tea and then turned to Xiao Yuanmu. Xiao ge, I know that you dont like it when I talk about Song er shao, but this is just how it is. I dont want to speak ill of him, but think about the last two weeks. Youve been so busy that you dont even have time to eat lunch, but you still squeeze out time to make dinner and eat with him. But, what about him? Is he grateful? Not only does he not come, but he also goes to hang out with his friends. He has so many people by his side. He doesnt need you to care about him.
Xiao Yuanmu looked at the redware cup in his hand. There was a stark contrast between the dark colour of the cup and his fair fingers. Placed on this table within this antique-styled pavilion, the image of his fingers around the cup made for a shockingly beautiful sight.
He didnt look up. He didnt seem angry either. He said in a flat tone, And?
Feeling encouraged, Yang Jie continued to persuade him. Xiao ge, hes not even willing to give you any sort of official title. Why must you like him? With your qualifications, you can choose anyone else. Why must you insist on falling for someone as heartless as Song Xuanhe?
Are you done?
Xiao Yuanmu looked up, his eyes calm. Yang Jie didnt know why, but the others gaze made him feel like he was in imminent danger.
If youre done, lets go. Xiao Yuanmu put his cup down and stood up. When he noticed that Yang Jie was still sitting in his seat, motionless, he peered down at the other. Things should not be attempted more than three times. Ive already reminded you twice before this not to stick your hands in our relationship. I dont want to have to remind you a fourth time.
Yang Jie was taken aback. Panic clenched his heart. He parted his lips, wanting to say something, but Xiao Yuanmu had already left the pavilion and walked into the snow. His voice was immeasurably cold as if it was stained with the frost and snow. Ill give you five million. That should be enough to ensure that you and your mother will be able to live comfortably from now on. Dont come looking for me again.
Xiao Yuanmus legs were long, and his steps were quick. Very soon, his silhouette was about to disappear behind the rock garden as he turned the corner. Yang Jie stared at his back in a daze. A cold breeze blew against him, and he abruptly came back to himself. He didnt even have time to throw on his coat as he dashed after Xiao Yuanmu.
Xiao ge!
Yang Jie had never worshipped someone as much as he did Xiao Yuanmu. He also knew that there wouldnt be a second person. He had already decided to be Xiao Yuanmus right-hand man for the rest of his life. He didnt want to stop now.
Xiao ge, I was wrong! I promise there wont be a next time! Yang Jie sprinted. He increased his speed when he caught sight of Xiao Yuanmus figure. When he had accidentally bumped into someone, he could only give them a rushed apology. Im sorry.
He caught up with Xiao Yuanmu and stood in front of him, cutting off the others path. There was regret and pleading in his voice. I know I was wrong, really. Xiao ge, I promise never to talk about your relationship with Song Xuanhe again. Please dont abandon me.
Yang Jie really regretted it. He shouldnt have spoken ill about Song Xuanhe. No matter what Song Xuanhe was like, he was the person Xiao ge liked. No one was allowed to get in-between their feelings. It was only to be expected that Xiao ge would be angry. If someone had called the person he liked into question, hed also get angry.
Xiao Yuanmu didnt speak, but he didnt walk around him either. He only looked at him coldly.
Yang Jie sighed in relief when he saw this. Whats going on between you two is your own business. Youre boyfriends. Regardless of what happens, its up to the two of you to resolve it yourselves. I will never mention anything I shouldnt again. From now on, when I see him.
Yo! Before Yang Jie could finish speaking, he was interrupted by a voice that seemed to carry a smile. I was wondering why you looked so familiar? Turns out its my cousins little boyfriend. What? Did he not take you to the old sirs birthday, because he was too ashamed to show you off in public?
Song Jiabao walked over with a smile on his face. He had been full of rage when someone had bumped into him. He hadnt expected that that person would be with Song Xuanhes boyfriend though. Furthermore, Song Xuanhe wasnt around. This was a chance bestowed to him by the Heavens!
When he saw that Xiao Yuanmu wasnt going to respond, he pushed Yang Jie aside and walked over to face him. When he saw Xiao Yuanmus face that was even more perfect and otherworldly than the snow, amidst the winter scenery, he couldnt help but feel like his breath had been taken away for a moment. When he spoke again, his tone had changed. Now that Ive taken a good look at you, I have to say youve got a nice face. Otherwise, there would have been no way you would have been able to infatuate that cousin of mine otherwise. You had even seduced Boss Sun on the cruise and made him spare no expense when asking Song Er for you. How about you dump Song Er and get together with me? I promise to take you to the old sirs banquet and let you walk in with great fanfare. How about it?
Yang Jies fists had already been tightly clenched when he had heard Song Jiabaos first sentence. But, he had forced himself to endure it when he had seen Xiao Yuanmus expression. When he had heard Song Jiabaos later words, he could no longer bear it. He sent a kick towards the others abdomen, causing the other to fall head-first into the snow. He then said in a cold voice, Who do you think you are to actually dare speak to Xiao ge like that?
Song Jiabao had never expected for Xiao Yuanmus people to lay a hand on him. When he crawled back up, shock was written all over his face. His expression twisted, and he gnashed his teeth. Do you know who I am? Im going to go to Old Mr. Songs banquet and tell everyone what just happened! Forget walking through the Song Familys doors. Youll never be able to stay in the Capital again!
Then, Ill make sure you cant go to the Song Family banquet!
Yang Jie advanced again. Song Jiabao was prepared this time, but he was no match for Yang Jie, who had received special training. When he was kicked to the ground again, he once again threatened them. He said that hed come after their lives tomorrow for daring to do this to him today. But under Yang Jies merciless kicks, he could only curl up on the ground in the end and beg for mercy.
Xiao Yuanmu had been watching on the sidelines the whole time. When he saw that it was about time to stop, he raised a hand to put an end to this. Under Yang Jies confused stare, he said in a flat voice, People might pass by later. Take him to the parking lot. Remember, dont kill him.
Song Jiabao raised his head, incredulous. When he met with Xiao Yuanmus emotionless, ice-cold gaze, he felt his back go cold. Belatedly, he felt fear bubble up in his chest.
The author has something to say:
I dont know if this POV change will catch you guys off guard. But, we cant let Xiao Yuanmu disappear for a long time after they break up. Therefore, well be getting two POVs for some time. I wrote this chapter in Xiao Yuanmus POV to help you guys get accustomed to it.
Theater:
Song Xuanhe: Even if you beat me to death, I wont sleep in the same bed as Xiao Yuanmu again! Luckily, I had been able to hold it in, so he hadnt realized that I had been lying about having erectile dysfunction!
Some time later:
Xiao Yuanmu: So, you werent lying to me.
Song Xuanhe: !!! A mans first time doesnt count!!!
Eve: Omg the morning issue that men havehelping each other out.Mumu really moves fast. *blushes* Also, violence is never the answer, friends. Except when youre dealing with a fictional arse like this who deserves no pity imo.
Kara: Ahhhh! Im back! Real life kicked me in the face, so I disappeared for a week. But, Im back and missed my babies!!! And, wow, Im excited to come back to Mumus POV! His thoughts and actions have always been more difficult to understand since were always viewing him through SXHs eyes, so this is a nice surprise! o(o)