Edited March 5, 2024
Xia Chengzhang was still awake when Xia Wan came back. He was crafting shoes in the living room. Upon hearing a noise, he looked up, a warm smile gracing his slightly weathered face, and he asked, “Back so soon?”
But just after saying one sentence, he lowered his head and coughed.
“Why was your cough getting worse?” Xia Wan hastily put down the things in his hands and walked over. He stopped when he was close to Xia Chengzhang, “Dad, why did you shave your hair?”
“It was getting hot,” Xia Chengzhang slowed down, saying with a smile, “I decided to have the same hairstyle as your Uncle Zhang.”
Xia Wan smiled and glanced around, “Where’s Aunt Sun? Didn’t we agree she would leave after I came home for the weekend?”
Xia Chengzhang casually set down his tools and said, “Just let her go.”
“But how can you manage without anyone around?” Xia Wan frowned.
“Was it any different before?” Xia Chengzhang said with a smile.
“But this time is different. I’m not with you all the time. What if you fall while going downstairs?” Xia Wan expressed concern.
“Why would I go downstairs as a cripple at night?” Xia Chengzhang smiled, reassuring him, “Besides, I don’t feel comfortable with her here.”
Xia Wan didn’t say anything else and stayed quiet. Once the humidifier was turned on and connected, a fine white mist came out, bringing some moisture to the air.
“Don’t be upset,” Xia Chengzhang comforted him, but couldn’t help but add, “Don’t spend money on these things. Your allowance is limited, and you need to buy brushes and paper.”
Xia Wan nodded, feeling a bit sad. In the past, he couldn’t financially support his parents and grandfather, so he relied on being affectionate and comforting. Even now, he still carried a deep sense of regret. Unconsciously, he transferred this regret and emotion to Xia Chengzhang.
“Dad, I had enough money,” Xia Wan sat down beside Xia Chengzhang and asked, “What did you have for dinner?”
“Noodles,” Xia Chengzhang smiled. “Uncle Zhang had dinner with me before heading back.”
“Well,” Xia Wan nodded, “Dad, when I earn enough money, I’ll find a new aunt for you.”
Aunt Sun was arranged by Xia Chenglin and Xia Yang, and she usually had an extremely arrogant attitude.
Xia Chengzhang didn’t mention it, and the previous owner didn’t think much about it. But now, Xia Wan realized that she was sent to take care of Xia Chengzhang as the second priority; the most crucial task was to monitor their father and son.
Xia Chengzhang smiled contentedly, sensing that Xia Wan was particularly understanding today. “Dad can wait, no need to rush,” he said.
He coughed a few more times as he spoke, the cough sounding deep, and a red flush appeared on his face.
Xia Wan couldn’t help but feel a bit concerned. “I’ll take you to the hospital tomorrow,” he said.
“No need,” Xia Chengzhang said, “Your Uncle Zhang already took me to the hospital today for my old bronchitis issue.”
“Aunt Sun didn’t go?” Xia Wan inquired. “Did you get into a fight with her today?”
Xia Chengzhang laughed, “I didn’t let her go with me.” ”
“Okay” Xia Wan nodded.
“Didn’t you mention having a nice boyfriend?” Xia Chengzhang inquired. “It’s been over a month, and it’s finally time to bring him home and introduce him to Dad.”
“OK,” Xia Wan laughed. They had been separated for over a month, but there was no need to inform Xia Chengzhang.
After all, he had effortlessly connected with someone new. “But he’s been a bit busy lately. I’ll bring him to show you when I have some free time; you’ll surely be pleased.”
Xia Wan was unusually sweet-tongued today, chatting more than usual. Unlike before when he would go straight to his room upon returning, Xia Chengzhang was also in a better mood.
“Go to sleep,” Xia Chengzhang gently rubbed Xia Wan’s hair. “You’ve had a long day.”
We’re sorry for MTLers or people who like using reading mode, but our translations keep getting stolen by aggregators so we’re going to bring back the copy protection. If you need to MTL please retype the gibberish parts.
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Back in his room, Xia Wan opened the folder given by Huo Yu. Inside were two documents, neatly sealed with Huo Yu’s signature.
He believed he was mentally prepared, yet as he held the two documents between his fingers, Xia Wan still sensed a slight warmth. After placing the items on the table, he instinctively and gently rubbed his fingertips over them.
Apart from the corresponding rights, obligations, and prices, there were no apparent differences in the other terms of the two documents.
After carefully reading through them, Xia Wan focused on the price terms of the two documents.
Even though both are fake relationships, there was still a significant price difference between the two copies – five times as much.
Xia Wan hesitated briefly and ultimately chose the “love copy” in front of him.
Even though the amount of money wasn’t substantial, by opting for the “love” copy, he wouldn’t have the obligation to stay at Huo Yu’s house from time to time, providing him with more freedom if it was just a fake love relationship.
While on the other hand if he goes with “Marriage” he would have to stay with Huo Yu and he will not be able to get out of this relationship.
He believed the money would be enough for him and Xia Chengzhang to temporarily distance themselves from the Xia family. As for the rest, he felt confident in earning it on his own.
Having made up his mind, Xia Wan placed the documents into his desk drawer and locked it for safety.
Throughout the night, Xia Chengzhang coughed continuously, with hardly any relief.
In his past life, Xia Wan had been unwell for his whole life. He has developed a keen sensitivity to various symptoms.
This time, he had a vague sense that something was off with Xia Chengzhang’s cough.
However, most of the senior experts at the hospital, especially those at the director level, wouldn’t be available for consultations on weekends.
He needed to get Xia Chengzhang checked. Xia Wan couldn’t help but consider taking him to the hospital for a thorough examination on a weekday before going to sleep.
It seemed like he hadn’t slept for long when the noise of pots and pans outside began to disturb him.
Xia Wan rubbed his eyes and opened them. He carefully listened to the sound. However, the distinct sound of Xia Chengzhang’s cough was noticeably absent.
With a cold face, he got up and dressed quickly. When he opened the door, he observed Aunt Sun’s back as she washed vegetables in the kitchen. The stainless steel basin made contact with the sink, creating a jingling sound.
“Auntie,” Xia Wan walked over and leaned against the kitchen door, “My dad didn’t sleep well last night, so please lower your voice.”
“There’s no need for complaints about my work,” Aunt Sun became more annoyed after hearing this, “Why don’t you try it yourself?”
“Would I need you if I tried?” Xia Wan said softly. “Do you usually talk to Xia Chenglin and Xia Yang like this?”
Aunt Sun remained silent, her eyes shooting a sidelong glance at Xia Wan, indicating her reluctance to respond.
The message in her eyes was crystal clear. She intensely disliked him, finding it absurd that he would even compare himself to Xia Yang and Xia Chenglin.
“What are you trying to say?” Xia Wan’s voice grew colder, and his brows and eyes sharpened.
Aunt Sun looked at him again, but this time a hint of doubt flickered in her eyes.
Relying on being arranged by Xia Chenglin, she has always acted superior.
Xia Wan used to feel a bit intimidated when facing her. Today, she couldn’t fathom what kind of change had come over him to make him more fierce.
Considering the money she gets from the Xia family, what right does Xia Wan have to display this attitude towards her?
However, since she was assigned to be here with a specific mission, she couldn’t afford to entirely offend Xia Wan.
“Fine, I’ll lower my voice,” she said impatiently and loudly.
“Can’t we handle this calmly?” Xia Wan struck the snake with a stick.
Aunt Sun abruptly turned off the faucet, her frustration evident. She expressed, “Serving a paralyzed man day in and day out is far more demanding than dealing with other families. The master’s family has never been this challenging before, yet a young person like you is so finicky!”
“Who do you think is paralyzed?” Xia Wan narrowed his eyes and took a step forward. “If you’re not satisfied, just leave. Do we need to keep you? See if I keep you or my father?”
With a height of 179 cm, Xia Wan didn’t appear significantly imposing in front of Huo Yu.
However, his stature held a dominating advantage over Aunt Sun. Particularly now, with his frosty expression and an aura of calm authority.
“Never mind, it’s my fault,” Aunt Sun wiped her hands on her apron, her tone softening a bit.
Until he finds a new caretaker, Xia Wan has no intention of dealing with this woman.
He snorted and stepped back. He leaned against the kitchen door.
From there, he observed Aunt Sun washing a handful of spinach in the dish bowl and a handful of fine noodles on the cooking table.
This again?
“Is there anything else besides this?” Xia Wan raised his chin questioningly.
“Eating noodles in the morning with vegetables and eggs. It’s nutritious and easy to digest,” Aunt Sun said.
“Dad had noodles just last night,” Xia Wan didn’t bother continuing the conversation. “From now on, all three meals should include a mix of meat and vegetables. My dad isn’t too demanding when he’s alone at home, but each meal must have two dishes. Got it?”
Xia Wan paused. “I’ll arrange for someone to install a camera later. My dad’s food, groceries, and supplies. I’ll check every night to make sure everything is in order.”
Aunt Sun opened her mouth, but Xia Wan didn’t let her speak. “Also, if the camera gets damaged, you’ll be responsible for the cost,” he asserted.
“Eh?” Aunt Sun couldn’t stop herself from asking, “Why?”
“My father is paralyzed; what harm can he cause?” Xia Wan scowled.
Aunt Sun clenched her teeth, holding back any further words in response.
“Now, start cooking,” Xia Wan instructed, giving her a stern look.
As he turned, Xia Wan’s eyes caught sight of Xia Chengzhang, who had opened the kitchen door and was now sitting in a wheelchair, his gaze fixed upon him.
Xia Wan paused and walked over, “Dad you wake up so early?”
“Yes,” Xia Chengzhang confirmed, signaling to Xia Wan to close the door.
“Why are you so angry with her?” Xia Chengzhang asked as soon as the door closed.
Before, Xia Chengzhang was concerned that Xia Wan’s personality might lead to him being mistreated. However, today, it seemed like Xia Chengzhang could feel reassured. So, even though he spoke in a scolding manner, there was a smile on his face.
“Dad,” Xia Wan knelt down, expressing, “Just because we don’t have much money doesn’t mean we can be bullied by anyone.”
Xia Chengzhang just touched his(XW) head and remained silent.
When the father and son emerged, the food was already laid out on the table. As anticipated, alongside the spinach noodles, two more dishes were present—one with meat and the other vegetarian.
After the meal, Xia Chengzhang resumed his work, while Xia Wan retreated to his room, finishing an unfinished painting and sharing it on his video account.
Once he completed his tasks and left the place, he noticed that Zhang Ruicheng, a long-time friend of Xia Chengzhang, was there again.
The two friends, who both had shaved heads, were engaged in a game of chess. Their faces showed a sense of joy and contentment, indicating that they were thoroughly enjoying their time together.
“Hey Wanwan, you are home today?” Zhang Ruicheng greeted him with a smile as soon as he spotted him.
Xia Wan smiled politely and said, “Hello, Uncle Zhang. Thank you for coming here to accompany my dad.”
Zhang Ruicheng was visibly surprised by Xia Wan’s transformation, and he commented, “Hey, this kid.” The remark hinted at a change in Xia Wan that caught his attention.
Zhang Ruicheng then chuckled and said, “We two old bachelors are spending our time together.”
Xia Wan joined in to watch the chess game and engage in lively conversation. As noon approached, another visitor arrived at the door – it was Xia Yang.
Holding a box of milk, Xia Yang shouted to Xia Chengzhang at the door, “Uncle, there’s a box of fruit downstairs. Let Wanwan come down and help me to carry it?”
Xia Yang’s request indicated that he had something to discuss with Xia Wan.
Xia Wan agreed, putting his phone in his pocket, and went downstairs with Xia Yang.
The weather was great as Xia Yang waited downstairs. He watched Xia Wan coming down in a simple T-shirt, the sun shining on his shoulders, making him look refreshed.
“Brother,” Xia Wan smiled, “Is there something on your mind?”
“Yeah,” Xia Yang leaned against the car and gazed at Xia Wan. It had been half a month since he last saw Xia Wan, and looking at him now brought about a peculiar feeling for some reason.
It seemed like Xia Wan had changed a lot. Not just how he looked, but also how he acted and the aura he gave off. It was almost like he turned into a prince. Like he was born to be a master.
“Did you visit Huo’s place with Huo Yu yesterday?” Xia Yang asked straightforwardly.
“Yes,” Xia Wan nodded, “Brother, you got the news really fast.”
Xia Yang looked at him with a half-smile that didn’t quite reach a full smile. “Aren’t you two moving quickly?”
“I don’t think so,” Xia Wan emphasized, “When you encounter the right person, seize the opportunity and hold on tightly.”
“Right time?” Xia Yang laughed, “There are moments when tears are inevitable.”
Xia Wan remained silent, seemingly impatient with such nonsensical words and arguments.
“Do you doubt me?” Xia Yang stopped pestering, “Sooner or later, Huo Yu will be forced to leave the country. What will you do then?”
“Who would force him to leave?” Xia Wan smiled, his expression carrying a hint of innocence. “I think Uncle Huo has a deep affection for him. He won’t be able to part with Huo Yu.”
Xia Yang sneered at Xia Wan, as though he believed he was naive. “Listen, you should apologize to Huo Lin while there’s still time.”
“What if I refuse to go?” Xia Wan asked in a hushed tone.
“Then don’t blame me for not caring about you and your dad anymore,” Xia Yang retorted. He took his phone out and tapped on a picture to show Xia Wan.
It was a diagnosis sheet for lung cancer, with Xia Chengzhang’s name on it.
Xia Wan stared at the diagnosis sheet for a while, feeling a little sore.
Seeing Xia Wan’s red eyes, Xia Yang earnestly advised, “Your dad missed the chance for surgery for this illness. If chemotherapy doesn’t work, he’ll need immunotherapy. Do you know how expensive that is? It costs tens of thousands each time, and your dad doesn’t have medical insurance…”
“Where did you get the report?” Xia Wan inquired. “Please send one to me.”
Even though Xia Yang hadn’t specified the source, Xia Wan could infer it was from Aunt Sun.
With a notification sound, the diagnosis sheet was passed to him, and Xia Wan clicked on it, meticulously reading through every word.
“You and Huo Yu are only in a relationship. Can he provide money for your father’s treatment? Are you willing to ask him for it? It might cause problems in your relationship,” Xia Yang insisted, seizing the opportunity. “Why not follow my advice and apologize to Huo Lin? I’ll give you the money your dad needs.”
Xia Wan remained silent, his gaze fixed on the chilling and heart-wrenching report.
At that moment, the two agreements that Huo Yu had given to him suddenly flashed before his eyes.
Oh no, so there is a lungs’ problem D:
Thank You for the new chapter ♡(˃͈ દ ˂͈ ༶ )
So I’m a little confused about these two agreements but, from what I understand:
One contract is an agreement that if Xia Wan falls in love with someone, he isn’t required to live with Hao Yu and may even be able to get a divorce(?) however he’ll be paid less.
So the other contract should be that Xia Wan isn’t allowed to get a divorce and must live with Hao Yu but will get paid substantially more, right?
The “love” one is dating (meaning he doesn’t have to live there), the “marriage” is for them to actually get a legal marriage certificate, I believe
Thanks for the chapter to
Before i only wished for the contract to not have a “cannot fall in love with” clause.
But i dont like this. SAFE PAPA XIA!!!
Save*
Kind of difficult to understand, but it sure is interesting (˘︶˘)
confuse of time skip. it was barely a week so how come it is a month then became half month?