The wooden beauty of Young Master Sheng(76-80)

Chapter 76: Can't Be Too Close


Jiang Chenchen really didn't move.


In a corner of the living room on this night, the two were so close that, facing each other, Sheng Mingsi's heart started beating violently again.


Jiang Chenchen looked at him, sensing that something was wrong. "Are you okay? Did I press too hard just now?"


Sheng Mingsi: ...


Closing his eyes, he suppressed his thoughts, let go of her hand, and then reached out to touch her face, gently pushing her away.


"It's too late, go to bed."


Jiang Chenchen leaned back a bit, intending to help him up. However, he sat up by himself, his tall figure sinking into the sofa, his face filled with weariness and helplessness.


Seeing this, Jiang Chenchen asked, "Did I do something wrong just now?"


"In the future, don't get too close to men." Sheng Mingsi stood up from the sofa, his expression becoming cold and distant.


"The cake can be eaten tomorrow. Go to sleep."


He had already stretched out his long legs, bypassed the living room, and went upstairs.


Jiang Chenchen looked at his departing figure, reflecting on her actions. Couldn't one be close to someone they considered family?


The next day, when Jiang Chenchen asked about this, Xia Changli didn't hold back and patted her head.


"You're really a little silly."


Teasing her a bit, Xia Changliexplained, "Even though you think of him as your family, he is still a man. Men and women are different, you know? Just like when you grow up, you can't get too close to your dad; there has to be a sense of propriety."


"Sense of propriety?"


"Physically, you have to restrain yourself a bit. You like him and want to be close to him, but you have to be mindful of your behavior. Don't get too close." Xia Changli explained, adding, "Especially with other men, you need to be cautious about maintaining a distance."


On this point, Jiang Chenchen indeed kept her distance from other men.


Jiang Chenchen silently took note.


"By the way, have you told Mr. Sheng about your last recording session?" Xia Changli asked.


"I told him."


Xia Changli nodded, thinking that if Jiang Chenchen spoke so calmly, Mr. Sheng shouldn't be as angry as last time.


"After this recording session, when you come back, it will almost be the New Year. Come back early."


New Year?


Jiang Chenchen recalled distant New Year memories: dressing in nice clothes, receiving red envelopes and New Year gifts from Mom and Dad.


She should also prepare New Year gifts for them, right?


After searching online, she found the most expressive gifts: hand-knitted scarves and sweaters.


Warm gifts for friends and family during the winter.


Thinking this was a good idea, she secretly bought some yarn and started knitting before the New Year, without letting them know.


Late at night, she was still knitting before her last recording session. She was determined, and the dark circles under her eyes became prominent.


Xia Changli helped her with a warm eye mask to relieve fatigue. She advised, "Don't overwork yourself studying. If you don't sleep well, your body won't handle it. Falling ill wouldn't be good."


Jiang Chenchen: "I can handle it."


She said it casually, but Xia Changli was puzzled.


Was she really not tired, or was she forcing herself?


Or was her endurance truly this strong?


Putting her thoughts aside, Xia Changli removed the hot towel. "Wait, don't get up. Let me put on a facial mask for you. It'll moisturize your skin, and you'll look better on the show."


Girls really cared about their appearance.


Xia Changli did, and so did Jiang Chenchen.


......


On the last day of the recording session, the night before her departure, Jiang Chenchen continued to knit, and the scarf was finished, but the sweater was still missing two sleeves.


Her speed was already quite fast, but there was still some work left.


She couldn't resist the urge to sleep and dozed off.


When she woke up, one sleeve of the sweater was completed.


But instead of sitting in a chair to knit, she was lying in bed asleep. Did she knit it in her dreams?


She didn't have time to think about it. She packed up the sweater, freshened up, changed into different clothes, and carried her suitcase downstairs.


Aunt Hua had prepared breakfast and invited Jiang Chenchen to eat.


Jiang Chenchen sat down to eat breakfast and asked, "Has Mr. Sheng gone to work yet?"


"He hasn't. Maybe he hasn't woken up yet." Aunt Hua handed her a cup of warm milk. "Mr. Sheng is busy every day and rarely sleeps in. He might be really tired this time."


Jiang Chenchen decided not to disturb him and finished her breakfast.


......


Sheng Mingsi checked the time in his office. It was about time for her flight to land.


Secretary An Ze brought in a cup of coffee and noticed that both of Sheng Mingsi's hands were covered in transparent bandages. Concerned, he asked, "Mr. Sheng, what happened to your hands?"


Sheng Mingsi raised an eyebrow, his gaze coldly piercing An Ze's. Alarmed, An Ze quickly took a step back, nervously saying, "Uh... nothing, I'll leave now."


"Go ahead."


An Ze hurriedly retreated.


Did he ask the wrong question? He almost scared the guy to death!


Did Mr. Sheng stay up all night doing cross-stitch?


The image was too horrifying; he quickly shook his head to dispel the thoughts.


Sheng Mingsi received a call from Wu Bi about the investigation into Zhan Chen.

Chapter 77: Sweet and Soft Makes People Compromise Easily

"Young Master Sheng, that person named Zhan Chen in Country A is quite easy to investigate. He controls the underground scene and is a big shot in the underworld, managing various industries such as gambling, real estate, and wineries. However, it's been a long time since anyone has seen him, and there are rumors about his health not being good."

"Two years ago, Zhan Chen had a major conflict with another underground group, causing a significant uproar that even caught the attention of the country's leaders. In the end, Zhan Chen seized the sole control of the underground and gradually whitewashed his image. His relationship with the leaders behind the scenes is also not simple."

Sheng Mingsi listened as Wu Bi reported, frowning, and asked, "A national person?"

Wu Bi replied, "Mixed-race from Country A."

Sheng Mingsi adjusted his chair, checked Zhan Chen on the computer, and found only one photo online. Zhan Chen was wearing a suit, looking slim, with pale almost sickly skin. His facial features were delicate, and his eyes resembled the brilliance of the moon, with a smirk on his lips that seemed eerie.

Wu Bi's voice continued, "Also, Young Master Sheng, the doctor who took Jiang Chenchen to Country A two years ago, despite having a family, had impure intentions. He was stabbed in the body abroad, dying in his apartment. Strangely, it wasn't a murder; it was a suicide by the doctor himself."

Sheng Mingsi kept his gaze on the computer's photo of Zhan Chen. "Suicide?"

Wu Bi was also puzzled. "It can only be suicide. He stabbed himself in the heart with a knife, holding the knife tightly in his hand."

As he spoke, he sent over all the relevant information about the incident.

Sheng Mingsi opened and examined the photos of the crime scene from two years ago. The images were still gruesome, but the act looked more like an action taken out of fear.

Combined with Jiang Chenchen's mention of fear, it could be the result of Zhan Chen's ruthless and threatening methods.

"He seems like a madman. Assign a few people to keep an eye on him. If he doesn't return to the country, it's fine, but report immediately if there's any sign of him coming back."

After giving orders, Sheng Mingsi hung up the phone and looked again at the photo of Zhan Chen.

His cold eyes darkened, and he closed the webpage.

...

This time, when Jiang Chenchen got off the plane, she ran into Lu Su at the airport.

Lu Su, seeing her, felt a bit awkward. The incident of chasing her after getting drunk last time was still embarrassing. However, he was also curious about the man who suddenly appeared. Who was he?

He seemed like a difficult and dignified person.

He wanted to walk over to Jiang Chenchen, but was surrounded by a crowd of fans, unable to break free.

Jiang Chenchen had experienced such scenes of fan worship before and quickly distanced herself. However, she didn't go far, and she could still hear the clicking sound of cameras. The lens was almost about to hit her face.

She looked over, and the person taking photos called out her name.

They became even more enthusiastic.

She didn't like the feeling of being chased and photographed. In the past, she might have thrown a punch at the camera, but now she simply walked faster. The photographer followed a few steps, breathing heavily, before giving up and putting down the camera, bending over to catch their breath.

"Darn it, this is like a split-style walking method, so fast!"

Jiang Chenchen walked out of the airport, got into the car, and her assistant, Lu Fang, looked unsurprised. "Look, you're not even a celebrity, and there are fans taking pictures of you!"

"Why are they taking pictures of me?"

"Because you're beautiful. In the entertainment industry, beauty is a significant driving force. There's a group of beauty lovers who only enjoy editing and shooting videos of beautiful women. Don't you know? After each episode airs, your personal edits generate quite a bit of content."

Lu Fang told her this, hoping that she would enter this circle. Moreover, she would find it much easier than others. The person Mr. Gu favored would be vigorously supported.

However, Jiang Chenchen had no response.

She didn't even respond after listening, just leaned against the car seat, looking out the window at the endless blue sky.

Lu Fang's expression was slightly unpleasant. Although this person was someone Mr. Gu wanted to promote, she was always unresponsive and impolite. Even the company's artists, who were lower-tier, wouldn't be so dismissive.

She felt short-sighted. In the future, entering this circle, she might miss out on some money.

At the filming location, Jiang Chenchen put down her suitcase and was about to go out when Zhan Mo silently walked in. She first showed a brilliant and cute smile, then said, "How have you been recently?"

Jiang Chenchen nodded in response.

Zhan Mo then approached a bit more, asking in a low voice, "How do you know Ye Xi?"

Jiang Chenchen thought for a moment. Should she start from the kick she gave him?

Seeing her not responding, Zhan Mo spoke with some resentment, "He's really a scumbag. We had a few dates, and then he stopped contacting me. Is that the same with you?"

Jiang Chenchen didn't understand.

"Scumbag?"

Zhan Mo lowered her voice, puffing her cheeks. "Indeed, a scumbag. A notorious playboy. Although I'm not willing to accept it, it's fine since I didn't suffer any losses after all."

She appeared invincible and adorable, but her words didn't match her appearance.

Jiang Chenchen felt the mockery in her words and chose not to engage.

"Hey hey hey, just kidding. Don't be angry!" After interacting with Jiang Chenchen a few times, Zhan Mo genuinely liked her. In this entertainment industry, it's not easy to speak the truth. In front of Jiang Chenchen, she could try to mix some honesty with jokes.

She quickly apologized, hugging Jiang Chenchen's arm, leaning on her shoulder, and blinking her eyes. "Love you, you know."

Jiang Chenchen looked at her, feeling like she had once again learned that sweet and soft voices easily made people compromise.

The last episode's recording location still revolved around seaside scenery—romantic walks, sea breezes, noon tacit cooperation, a couple's atmosphere, and then the night of talking all night, heart-moving topics.

As well as the next day's main recording, a masked ball with makeup, a confession, and a heart-moving kiss.

The program announcements were all sent out.

Zhan Mo took a sweet selfie, posted it on her Moments, and attached the announcement, visible only to Ye Xi.

Ye Xi, scrolling through Moments, saw it and quickly took a screenshot, sending it to the "Four Young Masters" group.

Shuai Brother who looked great: "Explosive news! Young Master Sheng, your wife is having a second affair!"

Then he posted the photo.

Chapter 78: Choosing the Dignity of a Boyfriend

The "Four Young Masters" group continued their chat.

Handsome Xi: "Heart-throbbing kiss! Is it the way I imagined it?! Young Master Sheng, what should we do? Your wife is about to be taken away!"

Handsome Xi: "No way, right? Among the four of us, Young Master Sheng is still a pure and innocent virgin, isn't he?"

He quickly typed out a string of words.

Zhao Shitian: "Xi Zi, when you're typing, make sure to check if there's an assassin's knife nearby."

Handsome Xi: "Joking, even with a knife at my neck, I've never been afraid!"

Ye Xi always enjoyed watching the excitement and wasn't afraid to flirt with danger.

The bigger the reaction, the more interesting he found it.

Unfortunately, in less than two minutes, he was begging for mercy in the group.

Because, his bank card was frozen.

A barrage of messages came through, and the situation seemed a bit intimidating.

As someone without real power, relying on his big brother's indulgence, he panicked!

He quickly called his big brother to report the situation, and his brother said, "Who told you to talk nonsense."

Ye Xi: ?! "Are you my brother or Young Master Sheng's brother?"

Ye Li: "I'm not anyone's brother. At this moment, you're not my little brother."

Ye Xi: ??

Sheng Mingsi opened the notice image and looked at it. His deep black eyes tightened, and the hand holding the phone clenched.

An Ze, standing on the side, felt the intense and oppressive atmosphere, wondering whether to hand over the documents or not.

"Put the documents down."

An Ze quickly relieved, "CEO Sheng, there's another meeting later..."

"I know, go out."

An Ze quickly exited the office.

Sheng Mingsi exited the group and, with his slender fingers, paused on the contact list at "Poor Student CC" for a moment before sliding to Gu Mingmei.

He dialed.

Gu Mingmei received a call from her little brother and was a bit puzzled. Who was this person calling her proactively?

Before she could say anything, the voice on the other end was cold and direct.

"Overturn the script. Create a character that no one would find appealing."

Gu Mingmei was puzzled for a moment before understanding his meaning.

But she pretended not to understand.

"Who? What script?"

"Do you need me to introduce a psychiatrist to you?"

"?! You brat, scolding without dirty words, huh!"

"I've said what I needed to say, that's it."

Sheng Mingsi hung up.

Gu Mingmei felt that her little brother was truly annoying! He used to be so sunny and bright when he was little, but as he grew up, he became more and more unlikeable.

But she still did as he instructed, called Lu Fang over, and gave some instructions.

Then she checked the program's schedule and instantly understood. Oh~ feeling jealous, huh~

...

Jiang Chenchen was a dedicated worker who followed the script's flow diligently. She was originally cool and aloof, not talkative, but now, with her character set, she became even more distant.

In the entertainment industry, most interactions were scripted for exposure and popularity, not genuine emotions.

Lu Su, an idol star, understood this well. He also knew that the submissive dog character wouldn't bring any benefits and would even lower fans' expectations.

So, as the recording progressed, the scripted couple completely broke up.

The atmosphere they worked hard to create in the makeup fashion show became the paradise for aesthetic enthusiasts.

Except for them, Jiao Weiyun and Nan Lu chose the dignity of a boyfriend. The two other pairs of female celebrities chose male civilians.

After the recording, the production team organized a pool party in the hot spring pool to celebrate.

The island was a bit chilly at night, and the hot spring pool was the most comfortable place to enjoy.

Jiang Chenchen didn't bring a swimsuit, and Zhan Mo quickly took out her own, saying, "Here, wear mine. It's new and hasn't been worn!"

While trying it on in the room, Zhan Mo stared at Jiang Chenchen with wide eyes. "Your figure is amazing! You've been hiding it!"

Jiang Chenchen didn't understand why she was making such a big deal out of it.

Zhan Mo sighed and patted her chest, feeling the gap between people.

Lu Fang rushed to buy a very conservative swimsuit overnight, following Young Master Sheng's instructions not to break the character until the last moment.

At the pool party, the most stunning appearance was Chen Fangman. She exuded an air of grace, coupled with her enchanting charm.

Her figure was impeccable, with long and slender legs.

Cute-type Zhan Mo looked a bit disadvantaged next to Chen Fangman, trying to avoid standing too close to her.

Chen Fangman walked towards Jiang Chenchen, swaying a red wine glass playfully, "You did choose the dignity of a boyfriend, abandoning the CP hype."

"Boyfriend?"

"Just pretend."

Chen Fangman smiled enchantingly and didn't delve deeper into the conversation.

"But I have to remind you, Jiao Ge is watching you. Be careful not to be eaten by him."

She leaned in and whispered this advice in Jiang Chenchen's ear.

Jiang Chenchen looked at Jiao Weiyun. He was indeed watching her, and when their eyes met, Jiao Weiyun smiled, holding a wine glass, and walked over.

This time, without the camera's filming, it was a private gathering, and everyone's behavior was more relaxed.

"Let me offer you a drink." Jiao Weiyun, with a confident and charming smile on his handsome face, handed her the wine glass. "I hope you won't refuse."

Jiang Chenchen didn't reach out to take it.

Chen Fangman, who was nearby, glanced at her disdainfully. This kind of reaction was so uninteresting, why bother?

Jiao Weiyun felt a bit annoyed but maintained a smile, looking at Jiang Chenchen. "At least give me some face at our first meeting. Don't be so unfriendly."

Difficult women were common, but rejecting someone outright from the beginning was rare.

He stood there, extending the wine glass, insisting that she take it.

Chapter 79: Almost Lost the First Kiss

However, the red wine glass in her hand was quickly taken by Zhan Momo silently.

Then Zhan Momo silently handed her the red wine glass in his hand, glanced at Jiao Weiyun, and said, "You drink mine."

Jiang Chencheng took the red wine glass handed to her, watching Zhan Momo silently drink the red wine in one gulp.

She smiled sweetly, "How about it? Isn't it generous and enjoyable?"

Being lively, generous, and joking, the production team and directors all laughed happily, "Of course, certainly."

Then everyone raised their glasses.

Only Jiao Weiyun's expression was somewhat unnatural. First, he was surprised, then he looked at Zhan Momo silently with a hint of mockery in his eyes.

Zhan Momo silently held an empty glass, tilted his head, and looked at him, "Hey, don't look at me like that. We've had rumored scandals, not good if it spreads."

Jiao Weiyun disdainfully looked at her, "Don't think too much. I'm not interested in you."

Zhan Momo silently took another glass of wine, took a sip, and then said, "Yes, after all, some men may look bright on the surface, but in reality, they're not that great."

After saying that, she tilted her head and smiled at Jiang Chenchen.

So Jiang Chenchen remembered the party where she mentioned Jiao Weiyun's impotence. What did that mean? She still didn't understand.

Speaking of this, the men from the production team were all energized.

Talking about scandals, who would believe there's nothing going on? Everyone's gaze also intentionally or unintentionally turned to Jiao Weiyun, and being accused like this was a significant blow to a man's dignity!

Not responding would be considered an acknowledgment!

Everyone stood there, and others gathered around, toasting and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Jiao Weiyun's face turned red, and he said, not very politely, "What nonsense are you talking about?"

"Oh dear, are you drunk? Did you add something to the wine you gave me?" Zhan Momo silently took two steps forward, swaying, and Jiang Chenchen reached out to support her.

Jiao Weiyun looked at her with a cold smile, "No one is interested in you."

"Who said that?" Zhan Momo silently blinked and waved to a non-celebrity elite, Zhuang Wengui. He walked over, and then she reached out, placed her hand on his shoulder, and kissed him on the lips. Zhuang Wengui blushed and then deepened the kiss, visibly shaken.

People around cheered and laughed.

Jiang Chenchen witnessed another kissing scene.

So passionate and casual.

She didn't know why, but suddenly felt her heart beating a bit faster.

But kissing lips is something done with a beloved, isn't Zhan Momo silently interested in Ye Xi? Isn't she interested in Zhuang Wengui just part of the variety show script?

Her mind felt a bit confused, unable to understand.

But she kept watching. Zhan Momo silently pushed away Zhuang Wengui, smiled, and said, "What, feeling moved?"

Jiang Chencheng shook her head, "No."

But Lu Su had been watching her all the time, even though he was a bit far away, he kept her in his eyes.

When would he be able to repay this lifesaving favor?

Chen Fangman was sipping wine lightly, watching all this, more exciting than during the recording.

Zhan Momo silently looked at the pale-faced person over there and laughed more happily, drank two more glasses of wine, then hooked Jiang Chenchen's hand and walked to the side of the hot spring pool.

"Come on, it's comfortable here~"

She drank a bit too much, feeling dizzy. Although she usually couldn't handle alcohol well, it was worse this time.

She looked back at Jiao Weiyun, wondering if that despicable person really added something to the red wine!

Jiao Weiyun showed a sinister smile for a moment, then disappeared.

She changed her expression, wanting to go forward, grab and scold him, but with a heavy head and light feet, she fell into the misty pool, pulling Jiang Chenchen in with her.

The weight of the two pressed down, splashing water high!

Generally, hot spring pools aren't very deep, but this hotel, belonging to a natural hot spring scenic area, had both deep and shallow water areas. They fell into the deep pool.

Zhan Momo silently knew how to swim, but this time, due to the dizziness from the drink, she fell into the water, unconsciously holding Jiang Chenchen's hand tightly.

Jiang Chenchen couldn't swim and struggled instinctively. However, in the water, she couldn't exert force, unable to shake off the hand holding her. The warm water surrounded her skin, giving a suffocating feeling.

She couldn't open her eyes; it felt dizzy.

At that moment of unconsciousness, she saw Sheng Mingsi reaching out to her, grabbing her hand, and rescuing her from this deep water.

His hair was wet, and water droplets fell from his cheek.

Drop by drop of transparent water, falling on her face, and in her heart.

He said, "Don't be afraid."

No longer afraid.

She closed her eyes.

Lu Su promptly pulled her out of the water, and Zhuang Wengui also saved Zhan Momo silently.

One was unconscious, the other fell asleep.

Chen Fangman brought a blanket, Zhuang Wengui covered Zhan Momo silently, then carried her to the room.

Jiang Chenchen lay on the ground, covered with half a blanket.

Lu Su anxiously performed chest compressions for her. Water droplets fell from his hair, completely soaked, and the chilly night wind blew. He exerted force, sweating all over, focused only on her.

Just wanting to save her!

Others reminded, "Artificial respiration! Quick!"

Jiao Weiyun stood aside, clenching his fists, this guy took the lead!

Saving a life is crucial.

Lu Su, with a pale face, hurriedly pinched her chin, took a deep breath, and leaned down.

The cold and chaotic breath fell but didn't come close.

The person below tilted her head and spit out the water she choked on.

Then started coughing.

Lu Su gently held her face, joyful yet nervous, "Are you okay?"

Jiang Chenchen looked at him dazedly, "Brother Asna..."

Lu Su had never seen her so fragile and soft. A protective desire rose, helped her up, hugged her, the post-fear emotions still in his mind, fortunately, she woke up.

Does this count as a favor?

A favor for saving a life.

Jiang Chenchen quickly woke up, found that it wasn't Sheng Mingsi, pushed him away, and left his embrace.

"Sorry."

The person in his arms quickly lost breath.

Lu Su was momentarily absent-minded, helped her up from the ground, and said calmly, "No need to apologize. We're even this time."

Jiang Chenchen looked at him, "Hmm."

"Are you really okay?" Chen Fangman asked beside her.

Jiang Chenchen nodded.

"Just a bit tired."

Chen Fangman supported her, "Okay, I'll take you back to the room."

Jiao Weiyun hurriedly approached, enthusiastically saying, "Or let me do it. You've had quite a bit to drink."

Chen Fangman glanced at him, "No need, I'm not drunk yet."

Then she supported Jiang Chenchen back to the hotel room.

When she was sent to her room, Chen Fangman didn't enter. Standing at the door, she raised her eyebrows, looking at her, "First kiss?"

"Huh?"

Chen Fangman had a look that saw through everything, and before leaving, she teased, "Although it's artificial respiration, your first kiss was almost gone."

Chapter 80: A Leap of Admiration

First kiss.

Although she didn't know and hadn't experienced it.

Just thinking about it felt a bit strange, causing her heart to inexplicably beat faster.

But how could artificial respiration be confused with a kiss? This was about saving a life.

After learning first aid, she could distinguish well and avoid misunderstandings.

She had learned chest compressions from Sheng Mingsi, and at that time, she had wanted to learn artificial respiration, but he had pushed her away.

Jiang Chenchen: ??

Today, thanks to Lu Su, she thought it was Sheng Mingsi who had saved her when she was in the water.

Was her subconscious wanting to see him?

Back then, she didn't know about death, but now, thinking back, she realized she had been so afraid of the day of death.

If she died, she wouldn't see the people she liked—Sheng Mingsi, Xia Changli, and Aunt Hua...

Jiang Chenchen entered the room, closed the door, and leaned against it, lost in thought for a long time.

At this moment, the person she most wanted to see was Sheng Mingsi. She wanted to talk to him, even if they didn't say anything, just hearing his voice would be good.

But at this time, he was busy.

She lowered her head and went to take a shower.

Picking up her phone and entering the bathroom, changing into new clothes, and turning on the shower, she opened the photos on her phone.

The solo shot of Sheng Mingsi she took, messy hair, pale and weak face, those sharp and cold eyes devoid of fierceness, looking fragile and soft.

He was sick.

She looked at it for a while, then put the phone aside and got into the bathtub.

After drinking half a glass of red wine, surrounded by the full tub of hot water, her whole body warmed up.

She comfortably closed her eyes, her mind filled with the face from the photo.

Really wanted to... make a call.

In the warm bath, feeling a bit sleepy, she almost fell asleep, but she didn't move.

Instead, the vibration of her phone woke her up from drowsiness.

She glanced over with her eyes, in the steam-filled bathroom, wiping away the mist on the screen, she excitedly stood up when she saw the phone number.

Hot water cascaded down from her body.

She answered the phone.

"Are you asleep?"

Sheng Mingsi's low and cold voice came through.

Hearing his voice, she immediately calmed down, as if she had found peace.

"No."

"What are you doing?"

"Taking a bath."

"..."

Sheng Mingsi paused for a moment, clearing his throat. Maybe it wasn't the right time.

"Then take your bath. There's nothing urgent. I'll hang up."

"Don't, I'm done washing. Wait for me, don't hang up."

Jiang Chenchen got out of the bathtub, placed the phone aside, and then wiped away the water droplets, putting on her clothes.

Sheng Mingsi: "..."

Why could he hear so clearly what was happening over there? Did she put the phone on speaker??

It was unimaginable what scene might be unfolding in the bathroom on the other side.

He put the phone down, got up, and poured himself a glass of water.

"Brother As!"

Jiang Chenchen took a towel and went out to dry her hair, calling three times before getting a response from the other side.

"Um."

Hearing his voice, Jiang Chenchen felt relieved. With lowered eyes, she softly said, "I want to go home."

There was a moment of silence on the other end.

"Now?"

"Yes, but my flight is tomorrow morning. However, it'll be tomorrow soon after I get some sleep."

Upon hearing her say this, Sheng Mingsi swallowed the words he was about to say.

"Then when you come back, I've bought fireworks. Let's celebrate the New Year together when you return."

"Fireworks?"

Suddenly filled with anticipation, she thought of celebrating the New Year with her family, setting off fireworks, and giving them the handmade gifts.

Thinking about it made her happy, and the joy brought a warm flow to her nasal cavity.

Blood, fresh blood, flowed from her nose, dripping onto her legs.

She called out softly and quickly put down the phone to grab some tissues to stop the nosebleed, but the blood quickly soaked through the tissues.

Hearing something wrong on the other end, Sheng Mingsi called out her name.

"What happened? What's going on!"

His voice tensed, sounding stern.

"Nosebleed."

Jiang Chenchen grabbed a lot of tissues to stop the nosebleed. "Can't stop the bleeding."

Seeing so much blood, she felt a bit dizzy and didn't know what to do.

Hearing this, Sheng Mingsi calmly and steadily instructed her, "Don't be afraid, I'll teach you what to do. Follow my instructions."

He added, "Don't talk, just listen to me and do as I say."

"Use your thumb and forefinger to gently pinch your nose, then sit down."

Jiang Chenchen was somewhat startled but followed his instructions, pinching her nose and sitting down.

"Tilt your head forward, maintain a level position to prevent blood from flowing backward."

"Press down on the nostrils. Don't lift your head at this point. I'll tell you when to lift it."

Sheng Mingsi calmly instructed her step by step. She wasn't panicked anymore, and when she finally lifted her head, there was no more bleeding. She wiped away the dried bloodstains with a clean cold water towel.

"Brother As, the nosebleed has stopped," Jiang Chenchen said with a slightly elevated tone, expressing a leap of admiration.

Sheng Mingsi breathed a sigh of relief. "That's good."

Just now, he was genuinely alarmed, but fortunately, she was okay.

"I don't know why I had a nosebleed?" Jiang Chenchen wondered.

Sheng Mingsi: "Did you bump into something? Or was the bathwater too hot?"

"Maybe I soaked in the bath for too long."

At that time, her mind was filled with thoughts of him, and then she fell into a deep sleep.

"Since that's the case, go to bed early," Sheng Mingsi said in a low voice, also closing his computer.

Preparing to hang up the phone and take a shower.

Jiang Chenchen on the other side responded with a soft "Um," with a slightly prolonged tone, indicating a question.

Sheng Mingsi's eyes slightly narrowed. "What's wrong?"

However, the call was ended with a good night, and obviously, she didn't hear his question.

After thinking for a moment, he considered that someone might be looking for her, and the knocking sound drew her attention.

But the problem was, it was so late, who could be looking for her?

He lowered his eyes, and a cold, intense black light flowed at the bottom of his pupils.

...

Jiang Chenchen heard a knock on the door and went to open it. To her surprise, Jiao Weiyun was standing outside.

Now, whenever she saw him, she thought of that phrase: "He's no good! He's impotent!"

Even though she didn't know what it meant, it felt brainwashing.

Jiao Weiyun's face was square and handsome, with a concerned expression. "Jiang Chenchen, are you okay? I felt a bit worried, so I came to check on you."

He glanced inside, as if asking if he could come in.

However, Jiang Chenchen completely missed this hint and had no intention of letting him into the room. In response to his question, she simply said, "I'm fine, thank you."

"But I heard that after near-drowning, there might not be an immediate reaction, but the body could still be damaged. So, I brought some medicine for you."

Jiao Weiyun gestured with the bag he was holding. "I went to the nearby hospital to inquire and got this medicine. I'll come in and show you how to take it."

Seeming well-intentioned, Jiang Chenchen then allowed him to enter the room.