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Sponsored chapter (1/5)
In the bedroom, the central water bed collapsed, resulting in water flooding the floor.
Qi Jue and the others, who had gathered to watch the scene, stared in astonishment at the collapsed water bed and then turned their gaze toward Lu Huan, their admiration evident.
The maintenance worker, who had been summoned to assess the situation, stood up from the bed, shook his head, and said, “I’m afraid nothing can be done. The valves have been dislodged.”
Everyone present exchanged incredulous glances at this revelation.
Lu Huan stood off to the side, his expression dark and troubled.
The bathroom door clicked open.
Yu Baihan emerged, clad in a bathrobe, following his shower. Taking in the group of people in the room and the wreckage of the waterbed, he inquired, “Is it beyond repair?”
The maintenance worker lowered his head, apologetic. “I’m not a specialist. A case like this might require the manufacturer’s intervention.”
Yu Baihan touched his nose and looked at Qi Jue, remorse evident in his eyes as he began, “I’m truly sorry, I…”
Qi Jue quickly interjected, “No need to apologize. It’s not your fault.”
His gaze shifted affectionately to Yu Baihan and then reproachfully to Lu Huan.
A shadow crossed Lu Huan’s eyes.
Yu Baihan, casting a brief glance at him, attempted to continue, “I mean, you mentioned—”
“Enough,” Lu Huan interrupted curtly.
As the maintenance worker exited swiftly, Qi Jue and his companions also withdrew outside the room. In the corridor, Lu Huan’s gaze fell, his tone casual. “Do we have a place to sleep?”
“In the lounge, there’s a sizable sofa that can be unfolded into a bed. We’ll arrange for bedding to be brought in, and both of you can sleep there.” Qi Jue hesitated, then added somewhat timidly, “Though it’s not quite as comfortable…”
A twitch of annoyance played across Lu Huan’s forehead. “Fine, let’s just use that.”
After twenty minutes, the sofa bed was properly arranged in the lounge.
Qi Jue guided the group out slowly, saying, “Get some rest. Good night, Lu Huan. Good night, Baihan.”
Standing beside the bed, Yu Baihan replied, “Good night, Wuxidixi.”
Once the others had departed, he turned his attention to Lu Huan, who was lounging on the sofa bed. The robe Lu Huan wore was slightly open at the collar, and he was engrossed in his phone without speaking.
Sliding beneath the quilt, Yu Baihan spoke comfortingly, “It’s alright; they already know we’re not the most conventional pair.”
The hand clutching the phone tightened.
Then it extended reluctantly, pulling up the quilt. The thick cover settled over his head, veiling the striking features of Yu Baihan’s face.
“Go to sleep.”
“Quit being such a demon.”
—
The next morning, when Yu Baihan rose, he observed a stillness in the vicinity. Only Lu Huan, now dressed and perched on the other end of the sofa bed, was absorbed in his phone.
Yu Baihan inquired, “Are Qi Jue and the others still sleeping?”
Without lifting his gaze, Lu Huan replied, “They’re awake, but they won’t approach as long as you’re here.”
The corridor leading from the bedrooms to the lounge provided an open view of the situation in the lounge. Just as Yu Baihan was about to ask “why,” he reconsidered and held back the question.
He lowered his head sheepishly and said, “They have quite complex minds.”
Finally, Lu Huan raised his eyes from the phone, a half-smile tugging at his lips as he glanced at Yu Baihan. “Don’t blame them.”
“…”
After Yu Baihan was up, the yacht once again resumed its lively atmosphere.
Today marked a workday, and the plan was to wrap up the meeting after breakfast.
The yacht had returned to its mooring from the previous day, and Fan Lin had arrived early in the morning, waiting on the shore. As the group disembarked from the yacht, Yu Baihan and Lu Huan bid their farewells at the pier.
“We’ll meet again next time,” Qi Jue called out, raising his hand in a wave.
Yu Baihan nodded with anticipation, while Lu Huan casually placed his hands in his trouser pockets, standing beside him and regarding Qi Jue with a detached gaze.
Qi Jue hesitated for a moment, then quickly added, “Brother Lu, don’t worry, none of us will discuss what happened last night.”
A faint warmth touched Lu Huan’s eyes.
In the next instant, another voice chimed in, “Absolutely! No one will ever know that Brother Lu managed to obliterate a brand-new water bed in just 20 minutes on the yacht last night!”
“…”
All eyes shifted collectively to the source of the voice.
Wen Lou seemed bewildered, “Huh? Did I say something wrong?”
Lu Huan’s lips twitched, and he turned away, heading off. Yu Baihan followed suit, but before departing, he glanced back, casting a meaningful look at Wen Lou:
Not only can you choose great songs, but you’re quite a talker too.
—
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.
Once they were inside the car, Fan Lin took the wheel and steered them toward the city.
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Mjc Olc mjeuta j uilwqrf bo tlw atgbeut atf gfjgnlfk wlggbg, j ajv qfgqifzfv. Qts vlv atf ybrr rffw wbgf ojaluefv joafg j vjs boo?
Vlifcmf gflucfv lcrlvf atf mjg, ktlif Te Djltjc bmmeqlfv tlwrfio klat tlr qtbcf. Hlc Oec wfrrjufv tlw, lcdelglcu jybea tlr bcilcf rmtfveif obg atf vjs, jr tf jlwfv ab pblc tlr eciemxs afjwwjafr lc atf ujwlcu rfrrlbc.
[Yu Baihan]: I can’t game today; I lost a game while trying to game with you.
[Qin Lun]:? Tongue twister?
[Yu Baihan]: Just focus on work.
After replying, he powered off his phone.
Coincidentally, he had planned to hand the USB flash drive over to Qin Lun today, having him attempt to decipher the program contained within it in reverse.
Yu Baihan nudged Lu Huan beside him, “Lu Huan.”
Lu Huan slowly opened his eyes and regarded him, “What’s the matter?”
With a small USB flash drive in hand, Yu Baihan extended it, “Here’s the ‘souvenir’ for Qin Lun. Why don’t you pass it to him?”
After a brief pause, the USB drive found its way into Lu Huan’s grip.
The dark casing emitted a cold, metallic gleam. Lu Huan lowered his gaze, quietly observing it for a moment, before handing it back to Yu Baihan.
“I’ll be heading to the company later; just give it to Qin Lun.”
Turning to Fan Lin, he instructed, “Drop him off and then take him to Qin Lun.”
“Yes, sir.”
—
Fan Lin delivered Lu Huan to the company and then turned back to take Yu Baihan to the Lu residence.
Nobody questioned the nature of the USB drive. If Lu Huan didn’t bring something up, their subordinates weren’t ones to pry.
Crossing the courtyard, they reached the area at the back.
At that moment, Qin Lun was engaged in conversation with a few others on the sidelines, a cigarette dangling from his lips. When Fan Lin beckoned, he glanced over, promptly stubbing out his cigarette. “What’s up?”
Fan Lin gestured sideways, signaling that Yu Baihan was here to meet him.
Acknowledging Fan Lin’s message, several others around greeted Yu Baihan warmly. “Why’s the young master here?”
“Just some matters to discuss with Qin Lun.”
After exchanging pleasantries, Yu Baihan drew Qin Lun aside. He handed over the USB flash drive, prompting a raised eyebrow from Qin Lun. “A souvenir?”
Yu Baihan clarified, “It contains a newly developed program set that, when connected to a computer, can penetrate the firewall. You can analyze it; if you can’t reverse-engineer it, aim to at least extract the technology.”
In essence, failure wasn’t an option.
Qin Lun’s initially casual demeanor shifted to seriousness. He furrowed his brows and accepted the drive. “Sure, I’ll take a look.”
Leaving the USB flash drive in Qin Lun’s capable hands for analysis, Yu Baihan headed back to the main house.
He changed into his pajamas and lay on the bed, engrossed in his phone.
His phone held several group photos he had taken yesterday, along with serene images of the bustling riverside along the Scenic River at night. Yu Baihan flicked through the images, eagerly anticipating sharing them on his social media.
As he opened WeChat, two messages caught his eye in the chat list:
[Pick Up Artist Master]
[Third Rank]
Yu Baihan: “…”
He froze for a moment, his gaze sweeping through his contacts list, still populated with a few members of the Si family’s extended branches. They lay there inconspicuously in a row, as if intentionally lurking.
Deciding to start afresh, Yu Baihan created a new account.
He only re-added a few people from his frequently used contacts: the Hardware Wholesalers and Qin Lun.
After setting up the new account, Yu Baihan posted a refreshed status on his social media. The post included a group photo from yesterday’s barbecue and a scenic night view.
[Got cravings for skewers!]: Gathered the gang for some epic skewer feasting! [Image] [image]
Qi Jue promptly gave it a thumbs up and initiated a private chat.
[Qi Jue]: Why the change in the account?
[Yu Er]: The old account wasn’t cutting it~ [blush]
An unruly faction was lurking there.
[Qi Jue]: Huh? Alright then.
[Qi Jue]: Oh, and one more thing, why isn’t Brother Lu in the photos you shared? [surprise hug to my little watermelon.jpg]
Yu Baihan turned his gaze to the photos.
The group shot was taken at a selfie angle, capturing the Hardware Wholesalers manning the skewers at the opposite end, the entire gang fitting into the frame.
Lu Huan was in relative proximity, savoring the grilled eggplant across from him.
[Yu Er]: Yep, the chopsticks on the left belong to Lu Huan. Oh, and throw in more emojis while you’re at it. [grinning]
[Qi Jue]: …
A slew of emojis rapidly flooded the screen.
Saving them with care, Yu Baihan closed WeChat, satisfied with the results.
—
Following their return from the yacht vacation, Lu Huan’s schedule became jam-packed.
Yu Baihan surmised that Lu Huan’s busyness was tied to the Qiongshan project. On his end, Qin Lun remained absent from the gaming scene for around five or six days as he delved into deciphering the contents of the eight-figure USB flash drive.
As Lu Huan refrained from engaging in their usual cosplay antics, Yu Baihan found himself without gaming companions.
Left to his own devices in the villa for nearly a week, Yu Baihan eventually couldn’t resist seeking out Lu Huan.
It was already half past eleven when he made his move, finding Lu Huan engrossed in work within the study.
The computer screen emitted a faint white glow, and the table was littered with documents.
Most likely due to prolonged eye strain, Lu Huan sported an unusual pair of glasses, resting atop his nose bridge, veiling his eyes and dark eyebrows.
Yu Baihan peered in from the doorway and asked, “Lu Huan, are you busy?”
Without lifting his gaze, Lu Huan replied, “If you need something, just tell me directly. No need for preliminary inquiries.”
Yu Baihan chuckled shyly, “I was thinking of going out for a little fun tomorrow.”
“An outing?”
“It’s not the usual kind of outing we have; it’s something healthy…”
Lu Huan’s brows knitted, “Si Baihan.”
The person at the door fell silent, then hesitated, saying, “Someone will accompany you tomorrow.”
In other words, Lu Huan approved of his plan and arranged a companion for him.
Yu Baihan offered his thanks, “Thank you, Mr. Lu.”
Lu Huan chuckled and said, “You’re welcome. It’s something for which you should be grateful.”
“……”
On the following day, Yu Baihan set out after having his lunch.
Accompanying him was Hua Wu, a close subordinate of Lu Huan. Hua Wu might have appeared delicate with his fair complexion, yet he was among the most capable of Lu Huan’s confidants. He also had a genuinely friendly smile.
As the two of them headed out, Hua Wu took the driver’s seat, asking cheerfully, “Master, where would you like to go?”
Yu Baihan rested his chin on his hand, pondering, “What do you think would be enjoyable?”
Hua Wu quipped, “An internet cafe?”
“…” Yu Baihan dropped his hand, turning to look at Hua Wu, and complimented, “You’ve got quite the sense of humor.”
Hua Wu’s candid smile spread, “The bros say the same.”
Ultimately, they decided to visit the bustling commercial district in the city center.
Yu Baihan’s wardrobe wasn’t particularly extensive, containing two pieces from the Si family and a few graciously provided by the Lu family. He intended to purchase a few items that day, either for keeping at Lu Huan’s company or in the car as backups.
This was to prevent him from feeling like he was wearing a plastic bag every time he donned Lu Huan’s clothing.
The commercial district boasted a vibrant atmosphere, featuring numerous shopping malls and plazas, each with its own unique character.
Hua Wu pointed towards the shopping mall situated in the heart of the district. “Master, do you want to head there? It’s owned by your Si family.”
Yu Baihan hesitated for a moment before responding, “Damn, I’d have to spend money for the benefit of the Si family!”
Turning his attention to the mall next door, he said, “Let’s go to this one.”
Unless the Si family’s shopping mall changes ownership one day, he might consider shopping there.
—
On the mall’s top floor, several high-end clothing stores were situated.
Hua Wu’s surprise was evident when he observed Yu Baihan selecting a few moderately priced garments.
Upon hearing Yu Baihan’s “ah” of realization followed by a shy admission of “I don’t have money,” Hua Wu’s expression took on a dreamy quality.
“Are you…” he began to ask, only to halt himself—after all, wasn’t this the pampered young master of the Si family?
The nearby clerk regarded them with a mix of emotions, causing Hua Wu to refrain from speaking further and instead offer, “Let me cover the cost for now.”
“That’s really embarrassing.” Yu Baihan continued his charade of bashfulness, adding, “Remember to tell Lu Huan for reimbursement.”
“……”
Later that afternoon, Lu Huan’s accounts would find themselves busily processing the incurred expenses.
Hua Wu held the shopping bags. His feelings were complicated and hard to articulate.
The young master exhibited audacity when spending his husband’s money, but the clothes he had chosen were not overly extravagant and were rather considerate.
Yet Hua Wu wondered whether Lu Huan, in their contracted marriage—no matter financially insignificant—was willing to spend money for the young master.
Unbeknownst to Yu Baihan, the thoughts running through Hua Wu’s mind were already myriad.
Stealing money from Si Yanting to support Lu Huan, and in return, Lu Huan diligently earned money to provide for him—wasn’t this a form of mutual pampering? How sweet it all seemed~
“Almost done, feeling hungry?” Yu Baihan stood by the escalator, addressing Hua Wu.
Snapping out of his reverie, Hua Wu responded, “I’m fine. If you’re hungry, let’s find something to eat.”
“In that case, let’s eat,” Yu Baihan decided. Spotting a familiar white-bearded icon, he beckoned, “Let’s go to this one!”
“……”
Ten minutes later, Hua Wu sat across from Yu Baihan, propping his forehead with his hand.
On the white table lay a hamburger and fried chicken combo, intended for two diners. Additionally, a seasonal limited-edition toy had been included.
Yu Baihan gave him a pat, saying, “Dig in. Lu Huan will still foot the bill, so there is no need to worry about going bankrupt. It’s my treat.”
Hua Wu felt his sanity slipping—did he need to ask his boss for permission to cover the cost of a 78.8 yuan meal?!?
“Allow me to treat you,” Hua Wu breathed deeply, anxious to forestall any further words from Yu Baihan. He lifted a glass of Coke. “Cheers to our friendship.”
Yu Baihan was touched. Raising his own glass, he clinked it with Hua Wu’s and even snapped a photo with his phone to commemorate the occasion. “Good brother.”
—
After devouring the hamburger and fried chicken meal, Yu Baihan returned home.
Having nothing much to occupy his time in the car, he decided to share a post on his social media.
[Yu Er]: Thanks for listening.
With you around, every season feels warm~[Image]
This was the latest trending phrase, fitting the sentiment perfectly.
Using a snapshot featuring him and his brother, he expressed gratitude for the treat of hamburgers and fried chicken.
After posting, he switched off his phone and reclined in the backseat, closing his eyes to rest.
—
During their casual outings, the associates of the Lu family usually dress in casual attire.
Just like today, Hua Wu accompanied Yu Baihan in a casual shirt.
When Qi Jue encountered Yu Baihan’s post on his social feed, he instinctively wanted to give it a thumbs-up. However, his hand halted in mid-air, and he abruptly withdrew his gesture—
The image displayed Yu Baihan showcasing a portion of Coca-Cola-flavored fried chicken with a person sitting opposite him.
Qi Jue enlarged the picture and scrutinized it, practically using a microscope. To his surprise, it really wasn’t Lu Huan!
Who was it, then? Who dared to share moments of happiness, warming all four seasons, with Brother Lu’s wife?
Qi Jue hastily withdrew and messaged Lu Huan, who responded after about ten minutes.
[Lu Huan]: Yes, busy. What’s the matter?
[Qi Jue]: Busy indeed; we’re all busy; please, continue being busy!
[Lu Huan]: Spit it out; don’t use lines from the Spring Festival Gala.
Seeing his typically businesslike tone, Qi Jue’s anxiety only grew! There was no need for a preamble—he would type as he thought.
[Qi Jue]: Just get busy. Your Baihan had dinner with another guy and even posted about it on Moments. But he has never posted anything on Moments with you! [Anxious foot stomp.jpg]
[Lu Huan]:?
[Qi Jue]: Yeah, me too, “?”
[Lu Huan]: What about his Moments?
Qi Jue, “…”
Turns out, Lu Huan’s “?” was indeed just a query.
Without further ado, Qi Jue took a screenshot of Yu Baihan’s post and sent it to Lu Huan.
[Qi Jue]: Nothing to worry about. [Screenshot]
[Qi Jue]: Wait, Baihan didn’t block you, did he?
[Eat melons.jpg]
[Grabbing popcorn.jpg]
[Analyzing calmly.jpg]
……
Meanwhile, on the other side of the phone, Lu Huan’s gaze was fixed on the screen.
Across from Yu Baihan sat Hua Wu, who wasn’t as adept as Qi Jue at conjuring up elaborate stories.
[Lu Huan]: No one has blocked anyone.
Having responded to the message, Lu Huan exited the chat.
Turning his attention to the obsidian night outside the window, he drummed his fingers lightly on the screen.
In a sudden realization, he discovered that he hadn’t actually added Yu Baihan on WeChat.
Author’s note:
Yu Baihan: New WeChat, convenient for me to surf!
Lu Huan: So the wave refers to the wave behind my back?
Yu Baihan: I can explain OvO
Uh oh, wifey forgot to exchange wechats with dear husband 😂
alsjshbssgvsvgs they have no business being this funny lmaoooo
Also, Qi Jue just eating melons on the sidelines lol he’s my spirit animal fr
Everyone needs a friend like Qi Jue.. 😂😂
For reaaaal, makes life more entertaining 😂
The misunderstandings just keep on happening 😆
Thanks for the chapter 💞
Wen Lao is going to be the death of me because of how funny he is… 🤣🤣