《Secret Marriage:The Wolf And The Sheep》


 Chapter 1 - Introduction!

    A big Hello to all my old readers and new readers.


    To my old readers, Thank you for having stayed by my side through the previous books and I hope you like the new book that I present to you.


    To all the new readers, it would be nice meeting you and I hope you too enjoy the book as much as I have enjoyed detailing it.


    This novel is my participation in the web novel Spirity Awards so I hope all of you will be generous and drop your reviews and criticisms!


    a little side interaction from our main leads:


    Wolf:Author!You talk too much!Just start already!


    Xie Eun:(slapping him on the arm flirtatiously) let her talk why are you listening to another woman?You can only listen to me!"


    Wolf with besotted eyes, nodding his head. Yes, he only needed to listen to his sheep...


    An Accident 3rd October 2020


    It pains me to announce that I may have to put both my books on hold. At present I am not too sure but this is a possibility, so I take this chance to let you all know.


    The day before yesterday in the early morning hours of around 4 am, my family woke up to horrendous smoke inside our home. It was with God''s grace that my children and our family were able to escape unscathed from the fire.


    But our guest room caught fire, resulting in the destruction of our furniture, my laptop and many home appliances and the charring of our entire house due to smoke.


    I had these few chapters ready for a mass release in my stockpile but now they too are exhausted. As we now sort through the remains of everything that is left, I don''t know if I will be able to continue for now. I assure you that if either of the book is put on pause, I will definitely resume it as soon as possible

 Chapter 2 - You May Kiss The Bride

    "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."


    The voice of the officiating chaplain echoed in the otherwise silent church. For other than the bride and the groom, there were only three other people in attendance. The bride''s father who had walked down the aisle to hand the bride, the priest and an old housekeeper who had been playing soft music for the happy occasion.??


    The bride was dressed in a beautifully traditional ivory gown. The classic ball gown flowed and shimmered with intricate embroidery circling the entire hem and making the bride glow like an angel. Her fair face was covered with a thin veil of sheer fabric. The shy downturned eyes if the bride completed the beautiful picture as the handsome groom stood straight and proud in a white shirt and black suit.


    Turning to his bride, he softly brought the girl''s hand up and placed a soft kiss on her gloved fingertips of the hand where he had placed the wedding band. The wedding band was a simple platinum band with the initials of the couple entwined on it. The groom then turned to talk to the father of the bride who had now approached them with a happy and satisfied smile.


    "Now that the two of you are married, let us have a feast together to celebrate."


    The groom was tall and looked to be in his early twenties. The man''s usually twinkling green eyes were at present sombre. He looked towards his bride who had her face turned away and then at his father in law. With a slight nod of his head, he agreed, "Sir, let us have a feast but we do not have to go anywhere for it. A simple meal with family is akin to a feast."


    The father in law was pleased with his son in law''s answer and let out a boisterous laugh agreeing heartily before his laugh drifted into heavy coughing. Extending his hand, Wolf supported his father in law even as his heart ached for the old man. General Xie had once been his trainer. He was the picture of health and vitality. But he had been discovered with last stage lung cancer last year due to which he had taken an early retirement. It had been a year since he had seen his mentor and Wolf was shocked at how the man had changed physically.


    Wolf turned to look at his wife who had done nothing even as her father had a coughing fit. Shaking his head, he guided the man to sit on a bench to let him catch his breath while the man''s daughter continued to stand there like a statue.


    Once the man''s coughing fit had subsided, Wolf held the man''s hand before saying, "Today''s day has been extremely tiring for all of us. Let us celebrate tomorrow. This way we can even expand our today''s happiness to tomorrow. We will rest today."


    General Xie nodded his head gratefully towards his mentee who gave him face even now and let him have his dignity. With great difficulty, the man stood up and together the party of four walked towards the exit.


    A simple Jeep stood at the entrance of the church and a driver jumped off from his seat the moment he spotted the people coming out. He helped the General into the car while the housekeeper climbed into the passenger seat in the front. When the young bride would have gone around to sit in the car, her delicate wrist was held by her husband as he said tenderly, "My dear, our car is right there."


    The bride turned her head to where the man had pointed to see a silver car, decorated with balloons and a ''Just Married'' sticker, stood on the other side of the church building. Xie Eun shook her head at the cheesy thing and was about to refuse when she heard her father happily praise her husband, "Hehe well done Wolf. I knew I made the right choice for my daughter. You are just soft and romantic enough for her. Go, take your bride and spend some time with each other."


    Since her father had spoken, Xie Eun turned her head and climbed into the car her ''husband'' had prepared for their marriage.

 Chapter 3 - Put Me Down!

    Wolf glanced at his new wife with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. The circumstances of their marriage were not ideal but he felt that they could have a chance at building something strong. Bug it seemed he would have to face a hurdle first. His new wife refused to even look at his face.


    With one hand gripping the wheel, he used his other hand to run a finger across the back of her hand. It was more playful than sexual but Xie Eun retracted her hands as if scalded making Wolf''s smile widen. Silky tendrils of her long blonde hair fell across her face covering what little part of her face that was exposed by the veil. Gently tugging at a soft lock of her hair, Wolf smiled before teasing,"Can you even see where we are going? I am afraid that you would get lost if we were to stop somewhere and that you won''t even recognize your husband if you are lost as you are yet to even lift your eyes and look at me. I promise you I don''t look scary."??


    Xie Eun wanted to smile at the person''s teasing. But even as her lips twitched,she controlled them fiercely because he was right about one thing,she had not even seen her husband yet. Today''s marriage was a forced one. Her father had emotionally blackmailed into marrying one of his students and she had refused to even meet her future husband when he had arrived two days ago! And she refused to look at him even now!If she lost him,then so be it. It would be better that way. A small frown gathered on her forehead,she replied with a small voice,"I don''t care how you look and I don''t ant you to see me either. You can be the most beautiful man on earth and still I won''t be happy to marry you. It is better if we don''t know how the other person looks. It is not going to be a long marriage anyway."


    Wolf threw another glance at his new wife.The ink on their marriage certificate had et to dry and she was already talking about ending their marriage. Saying nothing to her claim o getting separated soon,Wolf continued to drive and soon they had stopped outside a hotel. They did not have to check in as he had already been staying here for the past two days. Walking around to the passenger side of the car,Wolf opened the door to help down his wife,who ignored his hand with a harrumph and flounced out of the car...only to almost trip and face plant herself into the stairs agter being caught in her dress'' train. Just as she would have hurt herself from the hard floor,a pait of hard arms wound around her waist and pulled her upright straight into a muscular chest.


    Terrified from the near fall,Xie Eun could almost feel her heart burst out of her throat. She stiffened when she felt the man''s closeness and his hand tightened around her waist. Clearing her throat, Xie Eun was about to thank him for saving her when she suddenly felt her feet leave the ground as she was carried over the steps. A small scream left her mouth, which was muffled by the veil, and her hands automatically wound themselves around his next to prevent herself from falling.


    This action of Xie Eun made her look like a shy new bride, causing everyone in the hotel to look at the newly wedded couple indulgently.


    In a small town like the one where the hotel was located in, everyone knew their neighbors and their business but because the bride''s face was covered and the groom was from out of state, everyone thought that the couple had eloped to get married here. They smiled at such young and passionate love. The older people reminisced while the younger ones hoped to find such a love in their future.


    It was only after they had entered the Hotel bedroom did Xie Eun come back to her senses and started to struggle. She had no intention of spending the wedding night together! in fact she had planned to ask for another room!


    But so be it.She had learnt giving commands at her father''s feet.Gathering her haughtiest voice she ordered the man,"Put me down."

 Chapter 4 - With Pleasure

    "Put me down!"


    Wolf heard the words she said or rather commanded and angled his head. One long black eyebrow rose and the ends of his thin lips lifted. "In a minute." He lazily replied.??


    Sliding her down slowly, Wolf held the girl carefully as he put her on his feet. But his arms still kept their place at her waist, searing the place where his hands we''re placed.


    Xie Eun felt scared as well as a strange current ran through her. in that moment, she felt her veil lift slowly. It had already been lifted past her thin and pink lips up to her nose when she lifted her hand and stopped it by placing it on top of her eyes. Frowning with her eyes covered, she protested,"I don''t want you to see me! and let me go."


    In a minute..just let me..."


    The first contact was a surprise to her and her eyes flew open. If she had been able to think,she would have screamed but she was too distracted by the warm lips that had arrogantly settled over hers. They coaxed and conquered and the hand that had raised to push him, clutched at the soft material of his suit jacket.


    His hand pressed in the center of her chin urging her to open and allow bid entry. She stirred in his arm that encircled her and slowly surrendered to the kiss that awakened in her a previously unknown hunger.Her toes curled and her other hand which had held the veil fell to her side.


    Wolf felt triumph course through him as she started to respond to his kiss. He knew his bride was young and innocent. She tasted of the sweetest wine he had ever imbibed. He felt an ache for her but he controlled himself so as not to startle her.He had to be careful otherwise she would push him away in a jiffy if she realized the liberties he took. He felt her soft curves fit against him beautifully, temptingly. He felt his lust rise higher and knew that it would turn into ache if he did not pull back in time. And he balked at the idea of touching her when she had not even seen his face yet. He would have to let he go untouched..for now. Slowly, his lips still clinging to hers, Wolf pulled back from the kiss. He wanted his bride fiercely. He wanted to lay her down and devour her, but that was not to be.


    As Wolf pulled back, the veil that covered Xie Eun''s eyes, fell over her face once again.


    Wolf slowly let her go out of his arms, needing to cool down his heated body. They had time to get to know each other before they could before intimate. He should have maintained his boundaries. But, for Wolf, it was his confession of love. He had fallen for this girl when she was just sixteen and him twenty but he had thought her to be an impossible dream.But that dream had been in his arms and he had almost lost control. He needed to woo his wife, gently and coaxingly. Because this marriage was something that made her angry, he knew. And he wouldn''t have agreed to it if his mentor had not told him the truth. The truth that this beautiful angel was unaware of and the truth that could potentially harm her.


    While, Wolf was lost in his world, Xie Eun brought a trembling hand to her slightly swollen lips. "Lord preserve her." This was not what she had expected just now.She had completely lost herself in madness!Her first kiss..lost just like that..Angrier at herself than that arrogant man, Xie Eun and turned and marched towards the window.


    Glaring at him,(Though it had no effect because it was hidden by the veil)Xie Eun pointed an accusing finger at him and said,"You shouldn''t have done that!"


    Deliberately misunderstanding her, Wolf raised an eyebrow and gave a slow smile saying flirtatiously,"You don''t want me to stop?I don''t mind restarting, my dear one"The handsome face of the man would have stolen any girl''s heart and made her swoon but it did not affect the bride because she couldn''t see it! However his voice had an immediate effect on her.It reminded of her favourite singer with the husky voice. Shaking her head sideways vigorously, to stop him from kissing her or to clear the cobwebs in her head, she didn''t know, Xie Eun ordered him to stay back.


    Greatly amused at his little sheep, Wolf turned around to walk to the closet to bring her a robe that she could comfortably change into but her next words stopped him short and stole the smile from his face,"I want an annulment."

 Chapter 5 - No Time For A Husband

    Wolf was at a loss. His wife of a few hours wanted an annulment already. He surreptitiously licked his lips, was she drunk? Hmm, he was aware his circumstances were not what one would call ideal but since she knew nothing about that, she should give him some reason.. Not that he could annul the marriage. He had already promised the General to protect his daughter all his life. And he wasn''t one to break his promises. So, casually,he asked,"Eun-a, Is there a reason for this?We have just married..And if you had an objection to the marriage, then why did you agree to it?Do you have an aversion to me or marriage in general?"


    Xie Eun felt at a loss. She had expected the man to be angry or aggressive not to calmly question her. Since he was being decent about it, Xie Eun decided that maybe she could explain herself. So she cleared her throat and explained, " I don''t know you so I can''t really have anything against you. However I do not understand how a grown man can marry a girl without even knowing her. But that is not my business. For me, I want to go around the world and not get married so soon!I am only eighteen!I have to study, roam the world, be wild!How can I get married so early in life?" By the end of her speech, Xie Eun''s pitch had turned agitated and angry making Wolf note her concern and think that this really was important to her. But he also felt a sense of relief course through him. He had wondered if she was in love with someone else maybe. That would be bad for all concerned parties.??


    Because Wolf was not able to see her face, he did not realize that,in fact,Xie Eun was lying. She did have someone in her heart but she thought that Wolf would be offended at this and did not want him to risk refusing in case he got angry. And she consoled herself, She wasn''t lying. She wanted all those things in life also but in reality she was just hiding her main reason.


    Leaning heavily against the wall,Wolf casually stated,"Eun-a,all you have done is given me a litany of your aspirations which in no way precludes having a husband.You can do all those thing even as you are married to me!"


    "No!I cannot!Any person would have expectations from a wife!And I won''t have time to fulfill those expectations!In short I willhave no time for a husband!For arguments like this so having a husband is out of the question.!"


    Realizing that the topic was agitating her,Wolf changed the question,"Then why did you agree to the marriage?"


    This question made Xie Eun all the more angry.She had not readily agreed to the marriage.She had fought and pleaded with her father.She had threatened and cried but it was useless.her father had given her an ultimatum,"Marry the man he chose or go away!"


    She knew he was dying and he knew that she wouldn''t be able to leave him so in the end she had succumbed,hoping that it would take her father atleast some time to find a man of his liking.Mayne until then she would be able to confess her feelings to the one she loved.But her father had announced her marriage the next day.She had refused to meet the man.This was because she knew that this man too must have been forced by her father! And she did not want to hate a random stranger.It was better they seperated without knowing each other to avoid any awkwardness in the future if they ever saw each other. And she wanted annulment and not a divorce!She wanted the love of her life to know that she was untouched.


    The kiss from a little while ago flashed in her mind but she shook her head and rejected the idea.She had not been a willing party in that."Liar" her mind screamed at her which she ignored.


    Drawing in a deep breath,"He blackmailed me.That is the truth plain and simple. He knew that once I knew of his sickness, I wouldn''t be able to refuse him. But he only made me promise to marry you not to remain married. I just need you to sign the annulment papers. Once he has..."


    As if suddenly realizing her own cold-blooded ness, Xie Eun frowned and closed her eyes against the tears that threatened to overflow and continued in a considerably miserable voice,"Once he is gone, I will register the annulment.." Wolf noticed her stiff posture and body language. And now he realized why the General had made him promise to be true to his daughter. Because he had known that she wouldn''t agree to a lifetime of promise but he would. And once he had made a promise, he would keep it. But, now was not the time to tell Xie Eun that he had promised to have and to hold her forever. She was his family now after all..

 Chapter 6 - Grumble Grumble

    "Eun-a, everything you want to do, you wish to do is still possible you know. I would never restrict you"


    Snorting,Xie Eun answered,"Ha!As if!And pigs will fly!Also,please stop calling me so intimately. We are nothing but strangers, Mr Wolf so please address me by my proper name."? ?


    As Wolf considered how to handle this problem, a rather loud grumbling sound echoed in the room causing the tense atmosphere to break and make Xie Eun let out an embarrasses groan. Xie Eun looked down at her stomach as if trying to reproach it.Her hunger had to strike at this time! Her stomach however paid no heed to her and growled once again making it clear that she was really hungry. Smiling a bit, Wolf came forward with a hand holding the robe,"Why don''t you freshen up. It is a wonder that you can even breathe with that heavy veil covering you. And I will order some food for you."


    "There is no need for this, Mr Wolf.I have nothing to discuss. Everything you try to say or do will only show you in a bad light. Please prepare the annulment papers unless my father has really misjudged you and you would like to hold me in this unwanted marriage against my wishes."


    Xie Eun had intended to anger and insult Wolf but he was simply amused and replied,"Eun-a you have a unique way of insulting someone but sadly I am not that easily angered. For now, I am not going to agree to anything so don''t waste your breath."


    With that, Wolf placed the robe in his hand on the nearby chair and made to move towards the exit. Angered that the man had refused her ''request'', Xie Eun made to attack him but once again trapped over her own feet and fell face forward, this time accidentally pushing Wolf to the bed and falling on top of him.


    Embarrassed beyond measure, she tried to get up but was already entangled in dress, veil and limbs. Finally, tired of being prodded in the back by her elbows, Wolf rolled over, being careful to not crush his wife under him even as a ripping sound echoed in the room.


    Xie Eun had clutched at Wolf''s shoulders and since the man had discarded his suit jacket in the car,his white shirt was now ripped apart at the sleeve and in his wife''s hands as he stood straight beside the bed.


    Shaking his head at her clumsiness.Wolf blew a breath and walked towards the door.At the last moment,the man turned back and said,"Eun-a,please rip of that veil before you tear down the hotel, sweetheart.And now calm your heart,I will see you tomorrow morning.Food will be here shortly."


    The sound of the door closing, made Xie Eun finally lift her head off the bed before hitting it in frustration. Her hands still clutched a piece of cloth and realizing what the material in her hand was, threw it away in disdain.


    Sitting up on the bed, Xie Eun ripped off her veil and her beautiful hair tumbled around her face. Her big brown doe eyes were narrowed in irritation and her mouth was set in a pout.


    Flicking her hair back, Xie Eun fell back on the bed, covering her face with her hands..


    She had wanted to prove that she was a modern independent woman of the world not a naive little girl like her father believed. But in the end she had only proved what a Klutz she was! After lamenting her self for a few minutes, Xie Eun got off the bed and decided to change out of the dress.


    She frowned at the robe that was laid on the chair and raised her nose, as if she would wear that. Walking towards the bathroom, she looked for another robe but found it used.. Wrinking her nose, Xie Eun realized that the room smelled of the man. She looked around and realised that this was that man''s bedroom. A few of his clothes, hung in the cupboard and the bathroom was full of his soap and after shave products.


    Harrumphing, Xie Eun stomped back to the room taking of her accessories on the way.It was only as her finger was stuck in a silky glove did she realise that she had not yet taken off her wedding ring..


    Taking the ring out of the gloved finger,she brought it up for considering but at that moment,there was a knock on the door and a voice sounded,"Madam,your dinner is here."


    Xie Eun hurriedly put the ring on her finger,the indec finger instead of it''s rightful place and cautiously went to answer the door incase this was some sort of a trap by that Wolf person to see her.


    A kindly woman stood at the door with a small tray of food in her hand.The fragrance assaulted her the minute the door was opened and Xie Eun forgot to take precautions against being seen and thanking the woman profusely,took the tray out of her hands.


    Her mouth watered and placing the yummy looking sweet and sour fish and fried fritters,her favorite, on the table,Xie Eun started to gobble up the food.

 Chapter 7 - Cheng Mo

    The server turned the corner of the hotel room and nodded at the young man who stood there patiently, letting him know the lass had accepted the food. Wolf paid the woman a hefty tip and went into the room next door.


    A man was sitting on the couch watching television and munching on popcorn as he watched a movie. Suddenly, he received a slap on the back of his head and almost jumped off the couch. Just as he would have cursed out loud, he looked up into the face of his Boss.??


    "Boss!You are back!Have you finished your business with the General?Did you need me for anything?"


    That was when the man noticed his boss''s torn shirt sleeve and he asked,"Boss!Your shirt is torn!"


    Wolf shook his head at the silly assistant and said sarcastically,"Oh!I didn''t know that!"


    Realising his boss was in a bad mood, the young man, Cheng Mo, kept quiet even as he wondered who would dare to tear his boss'' clothes.


    "Get me a shirt."


    Cheng Mo stood there and continued to stare stupidly at his boss making Wolf growl in irritation and say,"Cheng Mo!Since you have made the wonderful discovery that my shirt is torn please bring a replacement for me."


    "But Sir, your room is right next door.."


    Gritting his teeth, Wolf answered,"Yes. I know. But I want to wear a new shirt. So please go downstairs and buy one for me."


    Knowing that the boss would kill him if he did not go soon, Cheng Mo refrained from asking anymore questions and hurried out of the room.


    But his expression was as confused as ever. He had been working for boss for three years now but this was something new. He had turned into an eccentric fellow ever since he decided to come here. Usually Cheng Mo followed his boss everywhere but now, he had been relegated to this room for the last few days. And now he wanted him to go out and buy a shirt for him?


    Cheng Mi went down to the small hotel boutique that had clothes for both men and women and bought a plain white shirt for his boss. On his way out, he spotted a mask. It was from his favorite movie and looked like a real one so he decided to but it promptly. He would add it to his collection of the movie merchandise. Happy at having found something he liked Cheng Mo felt as if his trip to this small waterhole town was not wasted and happily went back to his room.


    As he walked back towards the room, Cheng Mo wondered who had the gall to touch his boss''/sleeve and then actually tear it..


    Cheng Mo wanted to ask where the person got the guts from. That person must definitely been a bull in the last life! His boss hated to be touched by men or women. In fact no one was even allowed to stand near him without his expression permission. He was called Wolf for a reason. He could pounce on you without warning and tear you apart piece by piece.


    Cheng Mo was lost in thought as he pondered this puzzle and knocked on the door. The moment the door was opened, the bag was taken out of his hands and his boss walked into the washroom with the bag in his hands. It was then Cheng No realized that his boss had also taken the mask inside.Oh Lord!If his boss thought that he had dared to buy something lks that for him, then he would definitely be killed. Cheng Mo sat on the ground cross legged and clutched at his hair. A minute later, his boss came out,dressed in a new, crisp white shirt. in his hand was the culprit that was going to have him killed."I am sorry sir.I meant to take it out of the bag but you took it before I could do anything.I bought this for myself."


    Cheng Mo tried to move ahead and take the mask out of his boss'' hand but he moved back his arm and stated nonchalantly,"Cheng Mo, did you really dare to use my card to make a personal purchase for yourself?"


    "N..No..No Boss.I..I mean, I meant to pay the money back Boss."


    Of course Cheng No had given no thought to this as it was a small purchase but at that moment, Cheng Mo also realized his own mistake and hence decided that he would indeed pay back the boss for all the small purchases he had inadvertently made using his boss''s money


    Seeing his assistant enlightened, Wolf smiled and said,"No need to pay me back for this because I will be keeping this. If you want more,then go and buy."


    Cheng Mo frowned in his heart as he wondered when his boss became a ''Batmano fan but kept his silence. There was only.this mask at the store! Having dressed up, Wolf casually made his way to the Hotel restaurant and had a hearty meal enjoying his wedding dinner by himself.


    After the meal, Wolf made his way to his own room.


    Xie Eun seemed to have forgotten that the room belonged to him. And he was not going to share a room with his assistant. Since the hotel was a small one, all other rooms were full and Wolf decided he had no other choice.


    The door to the room clicked open as soon as he pressed the key card and Wolf frowned. Xie Eun should have activated the manual chain lock for her protection at least. Though it wouldn''t have kept him out,at least it could have kept any other attacker away. As the door opened, Wolf thought of something and placing the mask on his face went inside.

 Chapter 8 - The Mask

    Xie Eun was in the middle of a wonderful dream. She dreamt that she was ready to get married and the person at the end of the aisle was someone she loved. Xie Eun happily stared at the mirror and looked herself over in her bridal dress.


    In the middle of this dream, Xue Eun moved in her sleep and her eyes blinked open. A terrified scream left her mouth and picking up the small ashtray on the side table, threw it at the figure she saw sitting on the chair. Wolf, would have been hit on the head if not for his quick reflexes.??


    His only thought as he sat there defending himself was,"What did I do?"


    Xie Eun was ready to let out another ear-piercing scream when Wolf rushed over and covered her mouth.."Eun-a why are you screaming?" Though his voice came out muffled from behind the mask, she recognized the voice of the man and her eyes widened. She started incredulously at the man and then tried to speak.


    Not understanding a word, Wolf frowned behind the mask and furrowed his brows,"What are you trying to say?"


    Xie Eun pointed at the hand that covered her mouth and scowled. Realizing that he was covering her mouth, Wolf pulled back his hand and apologised,"I am sorry. Actually you screamed so loudly that I was worried so I had to cover your mouth.."


    Ignoring the apology, Xie Eun pointed at the man''s masked face and said,"What are you doing here and why are you wearing that mask?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, Wolf pointed out the obvious, "This is my room. And you said that you did not wish to see my face so I was trying to respect your wished.."


    Incredulously,Xie Eun choked out,"By wearing the mask of one of the most dangerous and scary villains in history?"


    Wolf did not know anything about movies in Hollywood but he did know that his assistant also liked movies so maybe Xie Eun was saying the truth but,"It''s a Joker mask.Jokers are supposed to be funny..I am sorry for scaring you."


    Wolf wondered if he could do anything right with his bride. He felt like a broken record for saying sorry repeatedly. if any of his subordinates we''re to hear him they would probably fall off their chairs doubled over with laughter.


    But Xie Eun was not satisfied. She complained once again,"Well I did not want you to see me also. Why/and when did you return?Have you thought over the annulment?"


    When his wife refused to talk to him civilly, Wolf finally accepted the fact that his wife really was set on not having him and was full of complaints towards him. But he could be thick skinned and patient when he wished to be so he calmly replied,"But I have already seen your face before the marriage.Your father has pictures of you on his desk in his office."


    This gave Xie Eun a moment''s pause. This man had already sen her. This was not good. Why did her father have to love her so much? The reason she had wanted to avoid showing her face was actually dual. First was because she looked like her mother. This was both a blessing and a curse to her. Her mother had been a beauty queen with high cheekbones,cat-like eyes and delicate features. This beauty was actually a curse to Xie Eun because men had flocked to her beautiful face and figure since she turned sixteen. Some had even tried to take her forcefully when she had refused. Thankfully she had known how to defend herself from a young or she would have been ruined. She did not want her husband to be infatuated with her beauty. She was not vain in believing that he would fall for her beauty but she did not want to take chances. But what was done could not be undone. The second was to avoid any future entanglements. If they had never seen each other then there would be no awkwardness even if they ever came face to face. They would remain strangers


    "I see. And what about the annulment?Have you thought it over?"


    Before Wolf could answer, there was a knock on the door. Xie Eun frowned and turned her head to stare at it wondering who could it be.


    "It must be breakfast." Wolf got up from the chair and walked over to answer the door.


    Xie Eun was shocked at this. She turned her head to look at the bedside clock and realized that it was already 8.00 am. She had actually slept through her wedding night. When she had laid down on the bed last night she had expected to feel uncomfortable but instead she did not even know when she fell asleep.


    She could see that the man had removed his mask as he accepted the breakfast and turned her head away in case she accidentally caught a glimpse of him. She really did not want to see. Xie Eun understood that her stubbornness was ridiculous but she persisted telling herself that this was the only way to get out of this mess.


    She looked up to see that Wolf had pulled back his mask as he carried the tray of breakfast..The smell of food distracted her and she almost forgot to ask him her question as she stared at the tray. Xie Eun realised she was really hungry. But the man did not bring the tray to her and instead placed it on the small coffee table away from her..making her really sad..


    This sadness caused her to think back to her question and she asked sharply,"When did you come here?"


    Wolf, who was in the middle of emptying the tray answered casually,"Last night."

 Chapter 9 - Trip Too Much?

    "When did you come here?"


    With a lazy smile that his wife could not see, Wolf answers,"Last night when you were asleep." Having emptied the tray, Wolf gestured for her to eat the breakfast he had ordered for her. Being a glutton, Xie Eun temporarily put off the questions and climbed out of the bed still clad in her wedding dress. Thankfully, Xie Eun managed to walk a few steps to the table without any disasters and immediately attacked the plate of ham and egg sandwiches. Halfway through the meal, did she realise that the man had not joined her and remembered her manners. With her mouth full she invited him to eat to which he gently refused before saying,"I would like to freshen up first, if you don''t mind. I asked Aunty Su to bring over a change of your clothes since you did not seem comortable wearing the hotel''s clothes. I have placed the bag in the wardrobe. You can change into your clothes. Soon we have to go to see your father so I suggest that you prepare yourself to see me also. I don''t thing General Xie would appreciate me coming to see him wearing a ridiculous mask."Having said everything, Wolf collected his clothes from the cupboard and walked into the bathroom.??


    Xie Eun dutifully ate her eggs even as she pondered over this new problem. But soon her stomach started to protest and ache as she realised that she had eaten too much.


    Clutching at her stomach which was now aching, Xie Eun knocked on the door to the bathroom. But she heard no sound other than the shower running. So this time she banged forcefully, creating a ruckus.


    Worried that Xie Eun must be having an emergency, Wolf stopped the shower and tying a towel around his waist walked towards the door. But before he could open the door, Xie Eun was clutching the handle as she groaned,"Don''t come out without the mask."


    Shrugging his broad shoulders, he put one the mask and walked out to see Xie Eun standing there clutching her stomach.


    Xie Eun forgot her stomach ache as she came face to face or rather face to chest of her husband. Water droplets clung to the muscled pectoral''s and he looked like someone who had walked out of a playgirl magazine. But then her gaze moved over the rest, she could not help but giggle. With a small towel tied around his waist and water clinging to his body, he still had the Joker Mask on his face.


    Wolf,who had never had a good temper to begin with felt irritated at this and asked snappily,"Are you done watching?" He realised that he did not like wearing this mask and hated the line that his wife had drawn between them. His snarky tone brought back Xie Eun to her urgent need and pulling him out, she rushed into the restroom closing the door with a bang in Wolf''s face.


    Stalking to a nearby chair,Wolf sat himself on it without bothering to cover himself since his clothes were inside the bathroom.


    Xie Eun finished her business leisurely and walked out only to stop suddenly when she walked out and saw the still naked specimen sitting where she had been a few moments ago. Her eyes scanned admired the ripped body stopping for a moment at the scar on his side..going downwards.


    Abruptly her eyes jerked upwards as she realized that the man was naked underneath the towel and she almost saw..


    Shaking her head vigorously,Xie Eun closed her eyes with one hand and pointed at him with another stuttering,"Why are you sitting there..like that? You pervert!"


    Wolf,who had just been thoroughly ''checked out'' by his wife was amused as he silkily replied,"Yoy were the one touching me all over with your gaze..hso how does that make me a pervert. This is clearly a case of pot calling the kettle black."


    Xie Eun was incensed over this and marched forward to argue that since he was sitting there on display,it was natural for someone to look and it was his fault but before she could do that and verbally attack him,she tried over a corner of the bed and this time,Wolf was ready to catch her as she fell straight onto his lap..but was rewarded with a screech in the ear for his efforts!


    His ears were going to suffer at this rate he thought to himself.


    Xie Eun ,on the other hand was now frozen with her eyes tightly shut. She was used to tripping and falling so when she did not feel any hurt this she frowned before taking stock of her surroundings and realized that she had jumped from the hot soup onto the fire or rather onto the hot body she had just admired. Her fingers were spread on his bare waist and she could feel the muscles underneath them. Her fingers clenched automatically making Wolf feel electrocuted as his own fingers tightened on her forearms and his body jerked in response.


    Xie Eun felt hot all over and she could feel herself flushing as she wondered what to do next.


    However she did not have to wonder long because the next instant, she found herself under a hot and hard male body...

 Chapter 10 - Goodbye

    Xie Eun stared into the dark green eyes that glittered at her through the mask.For an absurd reason instead of worrying about their intimate pose, Xie Eun wondered what how green eyes would look like without the mask..would the be cold like jade or warm like tea..it was only when he settled even more firmly in the cradle of her thighs and she felt the hotness there that Xie Eun snapped back to reality and gulped. She realised the precarious position she was in and stittered,"What are you doing?You pervert! Let me go!"


    "First you create a ruckus when I am in the shower and force me to come out. Then your eyes cannot stop gazing my body and then you accuse me of being pervert. To top that, you then fall into my lap and randomly stroke my skin and you have the gall to call me a pervert!Eun-a, would you like me to give you a demonstration on perversion?I am sure you will find it quite enjoyable.Though Wolf was saying all this in a serious tone, his grin was as wode as a horse as he watched the change of expression on her face. It went from red to pale to red again with every heartbeat. Satisfied with her response, Wolf suddenly moved back and stood up, moving a bit away from the bed. He realized she was not the only one who was being teased.His member had also been expecting some action.Good thing he was not dressed, he would have to take a cold shower now..??


    Walking back, Wolf called over his shoulder," I''ll be going down in a few minutes to have some breakfast since you did not leave me any. Until then you can think about how you are going to avoid seeing my face when we reach your father''s home..With that the door to the bathroom closed, leaving a bemused Xie Eun still lying on the bed in shock..Her doe eyes even bigger than usual.


    "Escape."


    Xie Eun decided to escape before she had to go through the ordeal of going to her father''s home with the man. She could hide, she decided. He could not stay here indefinitely Her father knew her well and would know that she was rebelling.When she heard the sound of the shower running inside, Xie Eun jumped on the small bag of clothes he had placed on the side and checked out the contents. Satisfied that Aunty Su had packed a decent set of clothes, she made her way out of the cursed wedding dress finally and pulled on her jeans and top, ready to flee but before she could do that fur sound of the water stopped. Urgently, she went back to the breakfast table about to sit on the chair but remembering his naked state while he sat there, she changed her mind and grabbing the plate sat back on the bed.


    The ringtone of a phone sounded in the room and Xie Eun realised that she did not have her own phone...it was in the purse that she had given Aunty Su before the wedding..


    This time the man came out dressed, though he still had the same mask on. Did he shower with the mask on?Randomly a picture in her head popped up of the man standing naked under the shower with only the Joker mask..she could not help herself but giggled hysterically.


    Wolf on the other hand ignored the silly girl and answered the phone, Cheng Mo never called unless it was something he could not handle and he was right, the moment the phone answered, Cheng Mo burst out,"Sir,the Lei group are creating problems before signing the contract. They had agreed to the terms you set previously but the CEO is now demanding a higher price for the land acquisition as he claims he is getting a better offer.The legal department wants you to go there and talk to the unreasonable man."


    After the long winded up explanation, Cheng No received a single word in response,"En."


    Cheng Mo:".."


    Wolf then turned towards his wife who had her mouth full of bread as she tried to suppress her giggles.


    Walking around the bed tot he side she was sitting on he sat close next to her causing her giggles to stop and hiccups to start as she started at him wide eyed.


    Starting at her face softly, he explained,"Eun-a,you''ve been given a reprieve. I am sorry I will not be able to accompany you to your home. I will call and explain this to the General. But Eun-a not seeing my face is like burying your head in the sand..We are married and you are already an adult so you need to be a bit more rational. Please think this over.!"


    This caused Xie Eun to be offended and she scoffed,"I need to be rational?It is you and father who need to be rational!Where does logic state that you must marry someone against their wishes and then when they object to the relation, you tell me to be rational!This is not a romance novel(Author:it is!) where you can force a bride to stay married to you and then imagine she will fall for you!I, Xie Eun will never love you." (Author:Umm..you will actually...)


    Xie Eun stared at the man waiting for him to defend himself since he was also an accomplice to her father''s plan but the man took the wind out of her sails when he agreed,"Yes you are right. We must not expect you to be rational in such a situation. So I will bid you goodbye for now and we can discuss all this after a few days.whe you are in a mood to be rational.Goodbye."


    It was only after the door had closed behind the man did she realise that Wolf had actually agreed with her....

 Chapter 11 - Flowers

    Cheng Mo was about to knock on the door when it suddenly opened and he took a step back in fright. Because standing before him was his bkss who was wearing the mask that he had bought. The man paused for a moment, uttered,"Follow me." and then walked ahead swiftly. But Cheng Mo stood frozen in shock.


    And he had reasons to be shocked!??


    First, his boss was wearing the ''mask''!Naturally Cheng Mo had assumed that the boss had kept the mask to teach him a lesson but that seemed to not be the case.


    Secondly, and even more shocking was the fact that his boss was saying goodbye to someone in that shockingly gentle tone!The fact that there was someone in that room was alarming enough let alone saying soft words to said person!


    To say he was curious would be an understatement. His mind flashed back to last night when the boss had come in with his shirt torn.When he had not given any explanation(As if he ever had), Cheng Mo had consoled himself that his boss must have had a rare moment if clumsiness but now his mind was conjuring up some wild images. Unable to stop himself, Cheng Mo''s hand moved towards the door''s handle so that he could peep inside but before he could do that, Wolf had already turned back and was starting at him freezingly.


    Pulling his hand back as if scalded, Cheng Mo hurried his steps and went to where his boss was standing. It was very disconcerting to see his boss with that mask, making him blurt out,"Sir, are we going to be going like that?"


    Only after Cheng Mo''s question did Wolf realise that he was still wearing the disgusting mask.Taking it off in a swoop, Wolf almost threw the thing into the nearby trash can before stopping and then handing it to Cheng Mo, "keep it for me."


    Cheng Mo accepted the mask and the two men walked out. But Cheng Mo''s mind was once again working at the speed of light for he as sure now that he had entered a parallel universe. He surreptitiously pinched himself in case he was having weird dreams but his eyes had seen another unbelievable thing.


    His jewellery hating boss had a ring on his finger!Or more accurately a wedding band! As far as he knew, the boss had only come here to meet General Xie who was his mentor. Had the boss married the General?


    If Wolf had known his assistant''s wild thoughts he would have definitely given the man an evil glare. Cheng Mo thanked the fates that his boss was not really a mind reader. But then Wolf said something that almost made him fall over his feet,"Cheng, stop thinking so loudly and you are not dreaming so stop pinching yourself."


    Nodding as if he had springs in his neck, Cheng Mo focused his mind and followed his boss. But Wolf was intent on shocking him it seemed for instead of exciting the hotel, Wolf turned towards the small florist boutique tucked in the corner of the lobby.


    This time Cheng Mo tried to justify his action that maybe the boss wanted to go into florist business. He imagined their company logo which was the side profile of a Wolf with open jaws clamping a rose flower in the mouth and almost burst out laughing. To control himself, he looked around and then finally called out,"Boss!I''ll and bring the car around."


    Wold nodded curtly as he went inside to browse the flowers.


    A little while later, Wolf sat in the back of his limited edition Maybach while Cheng Mo drove towards the city. But instead of concentrating on the road Cheng Mo was more interested in his boss. He wondered if his real boss had been taken by aliens...Because his boss was really weird!Or rather more weird than usual. Though the man''s ice cold expression was the same, somehow Cheng No though he detected a hint of a smile on the man''s face. Cheng No was pretty sure he was hallucinating maybe because he had been inside that room too long.


    Finally, unable to bear Cheng Mo''s starting, Wolf snapped,"Just ask whatever you want to know."


    The question ready on the tip of his tongue, Cheng Mo blurted,"Did you buy the flowers?Which ones?And for whom?"


    Hearing the rapid-fire questions, Wolf looked up from his work at the man, his face an intriguing but scary veneer. If anyone else had dared to ask him that question they would have bee dead but not Cheng Mo. Assistant Cheng Mo was Wolf''s most trusted and loyal assistant. Over the last three years Wolf had come to consider Cheng Mo his friend and confidante so Wolf decided to explain himself. Anyways he would need Cheng Mo to protect Xie Eun in the future.


    "Yes I bought the flowers. A bouquet of Blue daisys and violet iris''. And I bought them for my wife!"


    "Screeeeeeechhhh!" The car jerked to a sudden halt in the middle of the road. Thankfully they were on a backroad which was largely deserted so there was no accident.


    Wolf who was thrown forward cursed while Cheng Mo jumped out of the car and sat down on the road cross legged.


    He was worried that he had finally lost his mind!What else could make the boss say something like that!

 Chapter 12 - The First Time We Met

    Wolf looked out of the car window at Cheng Mo and shook his head at the man''s antics. After a few minutes, Cheng Mo had gathered himself and he sat back into the car, starting it stiffly.


    In between driving,he kept glancing back at Wolf,confused and worried if he should satisfy his curiosity.Finally unable to control himself,he asked,"Why,When and How, Who,Why?"??


    Wolf,who had gotten back to work,looked up at the abrupt questions and raised an eyebrow.


    Shaking his head in ecasperatuon at his clueless boss, Cheng Mo explained,"Why did you get married suddenly?When did you get married and how did you get married?Who is the girl?Why did you choose those flowers?"


    "I chose blue daisies and iris because they symbolise purity and friendship.The girl you are asking about is Xie Eun, she is General''s daughter, We got married the way people normally do. Married yesterday and regarding why..That is a long story.."


    Since Wolf had answered all his questions, though,in reverse,Cheng Mo was satisfied for a few minutes. So the lady boss was called Xie Eun and she was the General''s daughter. Maybe that is why the boss had come here..to get married!


    The lady boas must be extremely beautiful...no his boss was not so vain as to fall for a beauty..but she must be special to have even been able to get those flowers -pure friendship, how cute of his boss!Cheng Mo suddenly felt proud of having a boss like that..


    But the why was yet to be answered. Clearing his throat, Cheng Mo asked,"I am all ears for listening to the long story.."


    Wolf looked up at Cheng No as he cocked his head to the side. Apparently, his assistant had forgotten himself in his thirst for information.In a silky voice, Wolf questioned his assistant,"Cheng, do I look like someone who likes to regale stories or be a storyteller?"


    (Author:Don''t worry Cheng Mo!I will tell the long story!"


    The temperature in the car seemed to suddenly fall below sub zero as Cheng Mo realized that he had over stepped his boss'' boundaries. Gulping, he muttered a,"No...if you told stories then the listeners would probably have nightmares..." but loudly cleared his throat and then concentrated on driving. What his boss had not told him he would find out, given some time! Cheng Mo''s eyes narrowed at the thought of doing some investigative work...all for the sake to serve his boss better of course.If he found about the lady boss and made her happy then boss would be happy automatically.Satisfied with his plan, Cheng Mo concentrated on the job at hand finally..


    After reviewing the work for a while, Wolf arrived at a decision and called the acquisition team in him company and gave out the orders and the plan to proceed.


    Finally, Wolf rotated his neck stretching out the kink and stiffness that had come from sleeping on the chair for a night.


    The stretching motion caused him to wince in pain as the muscles we''re loosened but that pain, unexpectedly brought a smile on his face. It seemed Xie Eun was bound to be a pain in his neck..literally..


    Wolf thought back to the first time he had met her and the resulting pain he had been in after that encounter..


    He was sixteen then.And a typical angry teenager.Or maybe more angier because he had been alone in the world and no one to vent to. General Xie had caught him stealing some gadgets and caught him by the scruff to question him and he had angrily retorted that he had two options to steal or sell drugs if he wanted to fill his stomach and he had chosen the lesser evil.Wolf had expected that he would be thrown into the jail and even been happy about it.After all there his belly would be full.everything else he could handle..But instead of handing him over to the police the man had brought him to his army station and thrown him into the kitchens,"Work hard and you will not have to worry about an empty stomach. And he had worked hard for a year.Wolf had learnt everything the head cook had to teach and was even able to make food for everyone in the camp. As a reward, the General had brought him back to his farm and let him roam free. A city rat like him had never seen so much greenery and so vast fields. He would wake up every morning and run amok the farms taking in everything.And then one fine day he came across her-Xie Eun..He would have missed seeing her but she saw him and called out to him,"Excuse me!Hey!Hey you, Brother tall!"


    Wolf had looked around to see where the shout was coming from but saw nobody.


    "Look up!" came the sound..


    And there he saw Xie Eun, hanging upside down with her knees bent around a tree branch, her hair in two pigtails swinging wildly as she waved at him. Amused at the girl, Wolf had ambled over to her and heard her greet him casually,"Hello, I am Xie Eun..Who are you?" Wolf had been too stumped to talk to someone who thought that talking like this was normal and not been able to say anything to the girl.


    When he continued to stare at her, Xie Eun had simply rolled her eyes at him and said,"Are you mute?I was just being polite.Can you please step forward for a minute?"


    Not thinking for a minute about the strangeness of the request he had stepped forward and the next minute, the girl had let go and landed on his shoulders with her arms around his neck...which had then in turn ruined his balance and caused him to fall face-first into the dirt with her safe on his back...


    That first impression of Xie Eun brought back a big smile in his face almost dazzling Cheng Mo who had casually looked up at that moment.

 Chapter 13 - Not Be Alone

    Just as Xie Eun was about to escape, a young boy was poised to knock on the door.Stepping back, she looked at him carefully and ascertaining that it was not her husband, she smiled at him and asked,"Yes?"


    The boy was bedazzled by the girl and almost forgot him purpose before the eyes of the man who had ordered the flowers flashed in front of him. No wonder the man had said that he should not take too long..Shuddering the boy pushed the bouquet of flowers into her hands and stepped back at a high speed. Once at a safe distance, the boy repeated the message he was supposed to give,"Miss, these flowers are from your husband for you.He asks that you see the card and keep the flowers if you want to get your wish.." The boy felt that it was a very cryptic message but related it word for word nonetheless before making his escape.??


    Xie Eun stared at the bouquet of flowers. She had received many types of flowers but never this color. She was intrigued as she thought about the meaning behingthese flowers. But she was now curious about the card and the message. It was true that she would have discarded the flowers on learning they were from their husband but he had attached a bait to it.To get her wish..her only wish at present that he could fulfill was giving her an annulment and so she decisively put the message envelope in her back pocket and the flowers in her hand before walking out of the lobby. She was about to ask the reception to book a car for her when she saw Aunt Su waving at her madly from her old camper van parked just outside the hotel.


    Shaking her head, she walked out of the hotel and straight and hopped straight into the van.


    Aunt Su observed Xie Eun for a while in silence and then sighed. Obviously the girl was still angry at being forced to wed.


    Keeping her silence on the matter, Aunt Subdrove towards the farm house. Only after they had reached and Xie Eun would have gone down did Aunt Su stop her and say,"Young Miss.Old master wants to talk to you."


    Xie Eun nodded quietly and walked into the house and straight into the study where she knew her father would be waiting for her.


    And there in the big chair sat General Xie. For a moment, Xie Eun froze as she realized just how much her father''s appearance had changed right in front of her eyes. The man who had always been a grand presence looked frail against the big chair. He had lost weight so much weight. All her anger at him seemed to disappear as she saw him. What was done was done.He had her well being in his heart and even though she did not agree with his actions she knew his heart.


    Running to him, she hugged him like she used to as a kid and placed a kiss on his forehead,"Daddy, I am sorry I was so cold to you these days.."


    General Xie patted his daughter''s hand and smiled in understanding."My Eun-a, I know your stubbornness and still love you.Dont you worry about your father.I know you were angry and you have every right to be. But now you are married and I want you to listen to me carefully.."


    Xie Eun did not want to talk about her marriage. As far as she was concerned, yesterday was all a play to pacify her father. Soon she would have her annulment with our her father knowing and that would be the end of it. Since the matter was resolved as far as she was concerned, she decided to be patient with her sick father and hear him out. She really had been too angry to do any thinking.


    So Xie Eun sat near her father''s feet and pouted up at him,"Daddy!I dont want to talk about all that. And talking will make you cough.I just want to be with my daddy.Let us keep the serious talk for another day."


    General Xie looked down at his daughter and patted her head. She was always like this when she wanted to escape talking just like the times she would commit some mischief and then act all cute to evade punishment. He looked at the legal papers in front of him, the one''s that had made him forcefully marry his own daughter and sighed,"All that could wait. Moments with his daughter were precious."


    As Xie Eun closed her eyes, General Xie looked down at his little girl. Soon, she would be orphaned.He had acted as her mother and father all her life. He had wished that he would be able to see her grow well but fate had other plans for him. He had no choice to hand her into someone''s care and Wolf, he knew was the best choice for his daughter. General Xie had never known what to do with a daughter but he had learnt...but Wolf was also like a son to him. By playing this card and forcing them to marry, he had actually created a family for his two most precious people in the world. So that when he finally left this world, they would both have each other..and not be alone..

 Chapter 14 - Her Husband

    After a while,Housekeeper Su entered the study,announcing that it was time for master''s rest and medicine.Not giving the General a chance to say anything, Xie Eun skipped to her room,intent in making plans for her future.She had relayed the matter of her marriage to a corner of her mind,all but forgotten since she had already considered the fact that her so called husband would agree to the annulment and so decided to continue making her plans for university.She would have to convince her father to move to the city because she could not leave him alone here.And her dreams lay towards the city.She also convinced herself that the medical care available in the city would be much better than here where there was a single doctor for every illness. But her happiness was cut short when she took the note out of her pocket and read it.He was willing to give her an annulment..but only after three years!And the dastardly coward man had left her with no way to contact him other than a stupid golden card! The note made these things clear and Xie Eun realized that she had shot herself in the foot.Now she really was married to a stranger and had no way of getting out of it until she was able to find him!Maybe she could steal the relative information from her father''s desk...


    Meanwhile,General Xie had been left staring pensively at the door.Housekeeper Su came forward to ask her master to come rest but he instead indicated for her to sit.??


    Housekeeper Su tried to protest indicating that General Xie needed to rest first but she knew the master could be stubborn when he wanted to be so she sat.


    General Xie seemed to be lost in thought before he took a deep breath and turned to look at her.


    "Housekeeper Su.You have been with us for as long as I can remember.When I came here with that little girl and still carrying the grief of my wife''s death,you took Xie Eun in hand and never let her feel motherless.You are like family to her.I know that you too have disagreed with my decision to marry her off but cough cough....."


    The general broke off in a fit of cough and his breath started to catch.Housekeeper Su rushed to his side and handed him he pump to ease his breath..Only after the coughing fit had stopped did General Xie try to speak again but Housekeeper Su cut him off and said,"Master.It doesn''t matter whether I agree or not. I know you have your reasons.My only objection was that she is too young and even now..her husband of not even a day has already left for the city...if only you had chosen the man she liked..."


    General Xie leaned back in his chair and gestured for Housefkeeper to sit again


    "Sit and don''t interrupt.I am giving you these papers for safekeeping.Take a look at them and you will know my reasons. Regarding the man that Xie Eun thinks is perfect for him, Housekeeper Su, you have to protect her. He will show his true colors soon enough.I can expose him right away but at present Xie Eun trusts him most and may be swayed by him.


    General Xie handed the papers to the perplexed Aunt who took them.He then slowly began,"Do not let anyone get their hands on these papers.Not even Xie Eun,at least until she does not get rid of the riff raff.Apart from this paper, there is a card inside.It belongs to Xie Eun''s husband.After..after I am dead call him to protect you because the vultures will surely descend."


    Speaking this much seemed to pull all of General Xie''s energy and he closed his eyes, trying to catch his breath.


    Housekeeper Su looked at the papers in her hand with trepidation as she started to read them..Though she did not understand the legal jargon much, what she did understand made her hair stand on end.Almost stuttering, she said,"Sir...this.."


    "Yes. This is the reason for the hasty marriage.I think..I know that Wolf is the best choice for her.Like you, Wilf also strongly protested this marriage sighting that Xie Eun was too young and had the right to choose for herself.I had to twist his arm to get him to agree grudgingly.And he will not return without being asked."


    This brought Aunt Su another shock,"What do you mean Sir?"


    "Wolf does not want a wife who would feel imprisoned with him which is why he has returned to the city.For now his name is enough to protect her once she goes there and you have to help her traverse these waters.Thus this card is for you.If there ever comes a time that you feel that you can not protect Xie Eun, you just have to show the card and help will reach you.


    Aunt Su looked down at the card in her hand and turned it around.She frowned at the blank piece..she guessed the card was expensive but there was nothing written on it.It was only the picture of a carved wolf.


    "Don''t be fooled. This really is a card. Wolf is well known in the city.As long as you possess this card, nobody would dare to cross you."


    Housekeeper Su out the papers and the card back into the envelope and pleaded,"Sir, please go and rest. All this can wait.Your health is more important.And please keep these with you.I am gratified that you think me so capable but Sir these things are..not something a servant like me can handle.Eun is making preparations to go to the city.I plead you to agree to go with her."


    General Xie, took hold of his walking stick and slowly walked out of the office.He knew he did not have much time left.Xie Eun would have to go to the city without him...

 Chapter 15 - The Real Wolf

    "Did you hear?The boss was on vacation and the Acquisition Department had to call the boss in to smoothen the negotiation.Since then the temperature on the top floor seems to be in sub zero degrees!" An erstwhile employee muttered this piece of gossip near the coffee machine.


    Another one added,"Yes!Even I heard my superior cribbing about how the acquisitions people had botched up and now everyone had to pay the price.."??


    The third person around the table though had her mind somewhere else and she interrupted the other two,"Hey..let those higher ups suffer the wrath of the big boss.I want to know of the first piece of news that the boss took a vacation is really true?I mean a workaholic like him!What did he do for the holidays?"


    The three interns squealed in subdued excitement and started to gossip,"Yes..what do you think he did during the vacation?And where did he go?We must ask Assistant Cheng!"


    "Ha!As if he would tell us!If he was such a blabbermouth the boss would have thrown him out by now!" The three looked at each other and then collectively towards the closed door.Assistant Cheng would be here anytime soon. Just then Cheng Mo entered the break room and was immediately surrounded by Wolf''s adoring fans.


    "Assistant Cheng",the first girl smiled at him,"Is it true?Did the boss really take a vacation?Or did he go on a business trip?Please tell us!We are only curious about Boss.You are the one who works closest to him..Please.."


    Cheng Mo looked at the expectant gazes and his smile widened.Casually he answered,"Gossiping at work?And you want to implicate me also?Fine I will tell you!Boss went to get married.And the acquisitions department interrupted his honeymoon so he is angry."


    The three girls almost fainted from shock and even those other people who had been evesdropping almost spit out their coffees..Cheng Mo laughed at their reactions,feeling justified over his own reactions now that he had seen the others and went to make some coffee for himself.


    It was only after a while that everyone realised that Cheng Mo had not answered their questions instead diverting them from the topic at hand.NAturally nobody believed that the boss would have gone to marry.It was not easy for any girl to marry the Wolf!


    City B was a few thousand kilometers away from the small rural area where Xie Eun lived and this she had no idea about the power of her new husband and how lucky she was that she had been treated so patiently.


    Wolf was a name that was eared by most in the city.His origins were unknown and what people did know was what little pieces they had been able to gather over the years. He had burst onto the business scene at the age of eighteen years when he had bought a small luxury hotel that had been going under,Once he had gained control,within a few months,the hotel started to turn in profits and by the age of twenty,Wolf had a chain of luxury hotels and resorts under the banner of Alpha Companies.After that,he started diversifying into different fields and in the next three years,he had made a dominant place for his company in IT,entertainment and art.The company''s debut on the stock market had been phenomenal and shook many existing companies.But all this had only garnered people''s respect!The reason for fear was something else.


    It was believed that one of the biggest underworld gangs had tried to exhort money from the up and coming businessman.But instead of gatting any money,the entire gang had been annihiliated.Nobody knew who had done it and there was no evidence pointing to Wolf so the next biggest gang tried to take advantage but was met with the same end.But this time there was a card near every dead member..A golden card with a wolf engraved on it...After that the card became a known sign of Wolf and no one dared to threaten or turn their attention towards the company. Small businesses which had been burdened by the gangs pledged their loyalty to Wolf as he had finished off the two biggest criminal activists in the city while the other small gangs were all scared and paid homage to the man lest he turn his attention to them.And so Wolf had become a revered name in the city.


    Adding in the fact that the man had no past identity and nobody knew where he came from or what he looked like was enough to leave intrigue among people. Though most of his employees had seen him,they tried to not remember him. Because it would only give them a sense of inferiority As if it was not enough that their CEO was probably youngest person in the company apart from interns, the fact that he was blindingly handsome was simply fate''s injustice to them.And anyways no one really wanted the CEO''s green eyes focused on them. Those eyes felt like laser beams making people shudder to even think about them.


    Cheng Mo was the known the only one in the company who would dare to even casually talk to the CEO..and most people felt that either Cheng Mo was really brave or really dumb that he had befriended the Wolf.


    Cheng Mo, who was peacefully drinking his coffee at his table,however was not worried about what the world thought of him. His only concern was to find more information about the lady boss.


    He had viewed so many women with the surname Xie from his SNS account that he felt as if he knew them all.


    Like boss, like assistant would have been apt at this moment. Because Wolf was at this moment also was displaying his own stalking tendencies as he browsed his wife''s SNS account. The frequent appearance of a man in the pictures made Wolf''s eyes narrow and glitter dangerously.So his dear wife was a good liar...

 Chapter 16 - Pervy Wife

    Wolf tapped his fingers against the table as he pondered over his own foolishness.Why he had to use his hacking skills for stalking his wife in name only was something he could only curse at.He had made himself drink vinegar on his own! The pictures he had seen were actually ones that had only been added to Eun-a''s SNS account and not really uploaded.They were what one would call her private thoughts and musings.He had thought to know more about her so that he could help her accomplish whatever she wanted.But this idea showed a side of her that he now craved to know while at the same time was unsure of.. Her public pictures showed simple selfies of her with various animals and landscapes around the farm that made him think of her from that time but her unpublished ones were just too much...they were pictures of a man and it was the same man..He could see that! And that man was someone close to heras they had been clicked maybe when they were walking because these pictures were random clicks here the subject did not seem aware..but the worse part was that none of the pictures showed the man''s face!If they had he would have found the man by now and received all his information.


    The pictures however changed his perceptive of his wife.At first the pictures were innocent but seemed to be getting more obsesses and...he guessed naughty was the word for them.??


    The first picture was of a man''s extended hand but the caption was what got to him."The hand that I want to hold forever..!" The hand that his wife wanted to hold onto was not his..The second picture was of a man''s back and the caption read,"The one I want to lean on forever.." There were many pictures of the man..Some even showed his lips only and the captions were just as intimate..The last picture was actually one that had caused his to almost explode and he even felt that he might have to bleach hi eyes to get over the disgusting image.It was the picture of the man''s a** encased in black denim.A close up at that!. Wolf was thankful that there was no caption there! His wife was a pervert!And that too over another man!(Author:Is the problem her being a pervert or her being over another man? Wolf: Her being pervy over another man ofcourse!I have a good a** if only she would care to see it!You better get her to me asap author! Author:"..")


    So she really had lied when he asked her if she had someone in her heart.That aspirations and those dreams that she had were a cover up to the truth.That she loved another man..And that person was not someone worth her.That he knew,could guess.And it wasn''t because of his own sense of superiority that he felt so but because General Xie had forced her to marry someone else.Him to be precise..


    The possibility that General Xie was not aware of this man''s existence was next to none.And if General Xie''s only motive had been Xie Eun''s safety then he could have simply extracted a promise from him to protect his daughter and son in law if he thought that the said son in law could keep her happy.But that was not the case.So this was the other danger that General Xie had warned him of.


    And this man was the reason that Xie Eun wanted an annulment. The fact that she had demanded an annulment and not a divorce was something that he had been suspiciuos about.So she wanted to tell her lover that she was pure even if she had married someone else?


    At this moment,he realised that he did not really know her. Once again he thought back to the few hours he had spent with her when she had jumped from that tree. The ''her'' from then had been bold and righteous while this one was cloaked in layers of mystery and even lies..She really had grown up..

 Chapter 17 - The Past And The Present

    "You can call me Eun-a or Anna.That is the Englise version of my name.You haven''t told me your name yet!I don''t think it is appropriate of you to carry me on your back and not even tell me your name.!"


    "Well I don''t want to carry you!You simply jumped on my back and are now forcing me to be your coolie!Your arms are actually choking me!",he had replied irritably. The girl had simply climbed on his back like a monkey and just wouldn''t let go!Instead of apologizing to him about hurting him and falling on top of him she had ordered him to carry her back.And now he had no idea how to get rid of her!And since he wanted to leave a good impression on General Xie,he could not do anything to get her off forcefully!He was in his village and if this country bumpkin complained then he would be really gone!??


    "Hey!"She hit him with her small fist on his back and continued,"I have no wish to be carried!It is just that I have hurt my ankle while climbing the tree or I would have come down my self."Her lips and voice trembled as she said the last word and Wolf felt guilt assail him.He hadn''t thought that the girl would be hurt and that was why was forcing him to carry her. But now he was scared that she would start crying and he would not know how to comfort her so he needed to distract her and thus said scathingly,"Why did you climb the tree if you don''t know how to climb down?And what would you have done if I had not come?Sit there the whole night?"


    Eun-a had scoffed at this and said,"I climbed the tree to rescue a kitten of course!Do you think I have a hobby of climbing trees?And I wouldn''t have had to stay the night!My father would have realized that I was missing!I never skip dinner!"


    Wolf who was tired of walking and carrying the girl paused for a breath and said,"Where is the kitten you rescued?"


    "It jumped down and ran away!",came the dejected reply in a small voice.


    Trying to control his sudden impulse to laugh,Wolf tugged her braid that fell over his shoulder and panted as he asked,"So you are telling me that you climbed the tree to rescue a kitten that did not need to be rescued and then got stuck there and had to be rescued yourself?"


    Knowing that she was being laughed at made Xie Eun angry and she would have hit him in the back again but her stomach had growled at that moment making her realize that she was really hungry..Feeling her stomach pange,Wolf,who had just plucked an apple a while back,stopped again and took it out.It was even snatched away before he could formally offer it to her.Biting into the crisp juicy apple,Xe Eun mumbled a ''thank you'' and ate up. As he carried her,Wolf noticed that her ankle,which was around his waist was already swollen. He did not know how far her house was so he thought of something and making her sit on a rock said,"I will go get some water rom the cold spring.The cold water will help inkeeping the swelling down..."


    Ofcourse he had not expected that when he came back the girl would already have been carried away by her father..He would have blamed her for not even thinking of him or thanking him but it was only later that General Xie had told him that he had found his daughter unconscious near the house..That is how he had known that the little girl he had saved was the daughter of the man he admired..


    Back to the present, Wolf closed the laptop on the table with a snap.Wolf leaned back in his chair and swiveled it around to look out of the floor to ceiling window.Looking at the vast city streched before him while he sat at the top,Wolf made a decision.Since,he had wavered from his original decision to simply marry her and then let her grow until he was needed,he would have to create some new circumstances.. First,he was emotionally involved and this would not do.It was too soon.. Xie Eun was going to be in his clutches soon.He just needed to be patient. He would help her grow and the manin the picture would be out of the picture soon. General Xie had chosen him for her and he would woo her so that she would choose him too.He wanted her to choose him as her forever. The man in the picture was the one in her heart even though she wore his ring..Since he already had legal rights he needed to get the right to love her and rule her heart also!


    Taking long strides out of the office,Wolf prepared to walk out and make the long journey back to the small village to work on earning the said rights when Cheng Mo blocked his way.Before he could snap at Cheng Mo for this,the man relayed the news,"Sir..General Xie has passed away."

 Chapter 18 - Two Years

    "Aaaaaa!" Xie Eun screamed as she tried to clutch at the pole behind the seat of the bus to regain her balance but it was a useless effort and she had soon fallen in a man''s lap. The man''s strong arms raised and supported Xie Eun by placing them on her waist.


    "Whew!" Xie Eun opened her eyes and glanced into the eyes of her savior as she muttered,"Yu Seok!What are you doing here?"??


    Yu Seok raised an eyebrow and muttered daily, serving as your seat as of now...Realising that she was sitting in her friend''s lap after the fall, she jumped off and stood back. Looking around she saw that all the seats in the bus were occupied and the only vacant seat was next to Seok.So, ordering the mild mannered man boldly, she said,"You!Move over."


    You Seok, who had buried himself back in his book, looked up impassively and asked,"Are you asking me?"


    Sigh!She uad forgotten that being bossy did not work on Yu Seok so she changed tactics and said,"Yu Seok..please move over so that I can not here!You know I am claustrophobic and can only sot on the aisle seat.Please?"


    She even blinked her long eyelashes at him trying to coax him much to the amusement of a little boy in the front seat who snickered loudly at this.


    Yu Seok, however was unmoved as he said,"You should have come earlier then.."


    "Yu Seok!You know I would have come earlier but I had some work!And I got delayed!And what are you even doing here in the bus."


    "I am here to dance on the bus!Of course I am here because I am travelling on this bus!"


    "I meant this bus goes to my small village so why are you going there?"


    Yu Seok who was trying to read and knew that the girl would not let him until she had her seat. Seeing that the other passengers were getting irritated with their loud noise, Yu Seok simply stood up and moved over to the window seat. He had not even fully moved when Xie Eun jumped and sat down without even a muttered thanks.


    Xie Eun grinned as she watched her, Yu Seok bury his nose back into his book.Actually, she had been dreading going back to her village alone. It had been almost two years since her father passed away and she had come back to the city to live with her maternal grandparents and attend university. She tunedher head to look at the handsome and quiet man next to her. Here she had found herself a trustworthy friend.Yu Seok was like yin to her yang.where she was flamboyant and loud, he was calm and quiet. Combined with his beautiful looks and mysterious personality, many girls I''m the university would flock to him but she was the one who had stumbled upon his secret and been anle to become friends with him.


    And since she knew his secret, she felt that it was fine even if he found her secret.


    Feeling her stare, Yu Seok turned his green gaze on her and looked questioning.


    Shaking her head, she simply cluted his bicep and said,"Thank you.."


    Ironically, he said,"Instead of thanking me, you should be cursing your dear would be fiance who had promised to go with you. Where is that man?"


    Xie Eun paused and wanted to explain that she had refused and asked him not to come but before she could do that the bus started and she almost slipped off her seat and would have fallen if Yu Seok''s hand had not clutched her arm to keep her steady.


    She looked up and realized that he had even done that instinctively knowing her propensity to fall..and was still continuing to read his book.Amused at how he always saved her Xie Eun once again continued to a rare at him.He really was drool worthy handsome. His chiseled jaws and straight nose made him look like an ancient hero who had walked straight out of a historical novel. Letting her imagination run wild, Xie Eun imagined that he would be a court officer I''m the ancient days..then shook her head, no no that would be too simple for him..he would have to be a court scholar..The most learned and wise man in the country...During the day he would be worshipped all the maids and even concubines for his looks and demeanor but in the night he would be passionate with his lover...a soldier in the king''s army..Shaking her head, Xie Eun thought to herself, it was her fantasy and here at least she could have made him had a female lover..but just because he was gay..she had made him gay in her imagination also!


    Disappointed at her own imagination,Xie Eun decided to close her eyes and sort her thoughts during this journey.With Yu Seok by her side, she did not need to worry about anything and could let her mind wander.Placing her head on his shoulders, she closed her eyes and thought of how to face things that she had been hiding from over these two years. Her stressed mind slowly relaxed and her last thought was of the green eyes that had glittered at her from behind the mask and even in sleep she could only marvel that she knew two people with green eyes and yet their gazes were so different...Of only she had opened her eyes at this moment, she would have seen the green eyes of the man next to her and seen for herself that they were not so different....

 Chapter 19 - Food!!

    As Xie Eun slept,myriad flashes of the past invaded her dreams.They were actually reflections of the reality that she had been avoiding thinking of over these two years.Life had changed so drastically for her...But there was only one constant in her life..The man had stood by her through these trying times and now was ready to take their relationship to the next step..They were going to be married soon.She knew that he was going to propose to her next week on her birthday and she knew that she wanted to accept the proposal. Hence, this sudden visit.She needed to pay respects to her father but she also needed to find her so called husband. He never had appeared in front of her after that fateful night of her father''s death.


    Xie Eun felt guilty to him even as she loathed him. She had no way of finding this person so she had to go back and ask the only other person who knew that she was married-Aunt Su..??


    This was another person that she felt guilty towards.Aunt Su had followed her to the city to take care of her.A person who had lived all her life in the small village had left everything and everyone she had known and come there for her..but she had hurt her and forced Aunt Su to abandon her because of her own silliness..She needed to apologize to her also. Ever since the last year when she had sent Aunt Su back, she had not even called to ask after her...Xie Eun felt like an ingrate after this and was even scowling at herself in her sleep..


    Yu Seok who had been observing the girl''s expressions, shook his head at her and wondered what kind of silly dreams she was having to have such expressions.


    The bus stopped outside a small food place and the driver announced,"You can buy food and use the restrooms here. The bus will be stopping for ten minutes before we continue the journey.And there will be no stops over the next four hours.."


    Most of the people who had been cramped during these two hours got off the bus in a hurry..The jostling and the murmurs woke Xie Eun and she could only blink in confusion as everyone scrambled to get off the bus..


    She turned her head and looked at her seat partner,"How long have I been sleeping?"


    You Seok made a show of looking at the time before saying sarcastically,"You mean to ask for how long have you been abusing me by using me as a pillow?Two hours.."


    Spying his angry expression, Xie Eun knew she needed to make her escape or Yu Seok would whine at her, she gave a big smile and said,"I want to eat food!Come on let''s go!"


    Xie Eun got into the line to first get off and then went into the small convenience store to buy as much food as she could. This was because she felt energized now.When she had taken the decision to come here, she had been under so much stress that she had been unable to sleep or eat..but with the sleep she had had on the bus, she felt fresh and energized.


    After taking her time to collect various bags of chips, biscuits and beverages, Xie Eun came out of the convenience store with two big bags in-hand and a sandwich in the other hand.She looked around and could not see the bus standing where it was. In a far corner, she spied Yu Seok leaning against the wall with his arms crossed and their bags against his legs.


    They had missed their bus!Ohhhh..


    Deciding to play safe, Xie Eun acted dumb and said,"Where is the bus?"


    Narrowing his eyes at her, Yu Seok answered sarcastically,"Xie Eun!The bus is right here. Don''t you see it?Come let us go and sit inside."With that Yu Seok mimed the actions of climbing a bus and sitting on a seat much to the amusement of Xie Eun who broke into giggles, causing Yu Seok to shake his head in exasperation.


    Finally, after catching her breath, Xie Eun took a bite of her sandwich and asked,"So?What do we do now?Wait for the next bus?But I think that comes tomorrow and this is the only bus on this route so we have to find a place to stay...hmm..ok,you wait here and I''ll be back.!"Xie Eun handed the bags in her hand to him and turned back towards the store..


    "Where are you going?", scowled Yu Seok who was at the end of his tether..where were they going to find a place to stay when there was nothing here?Xie Eun really knew how to take everything lightly!And did she


    Looking over her shoulder, she shouted back," To get more food of course!What if the place we find does not have good food?"


    With that, the foodie Xie Eun finished her sandwich and went inside to get more sustenance for herself and maybe Yu Seok also.


    With a blank expression,Wolf picked up the additional bags next to his feet and clicked a button on the small keyring and the sound of a car door unlocking echoed in the otherwise silent parking lot and placed their luggage in the trunk casually while the bags of chips in his hand went into the backseat.


    The owner of the car on the other hand sat in the bus with his bag clutched in his lap,cursing his boss in his heart.The bus driver had even offered to wait for Miss Xie to return but suddenly he was innocently following orders and tailing them had been put on the bus and his car taken over by the boss..As if he did not know that he was being subjected to this treatment because his boss wanted to woo Miss Xie and spend some alone time with her.

 Chapter 20 - What Would I Do Without You?

    Xie Eun walked back out with two steaming cups of noodles and a happy face.She decided to think of this trip as an adventure.Her university vacations were starting soon and she had planned to go on a small trip by herself.Unexpectedly, now that trip would be postponed so maybe this small trip back home could compensate for it. Outside, she looked around and unexpectedly, Yu Seok had also vanished along with their luggage.For a moment, she got worried wondering if she had entered some kind of horror movie where the main lead transmigrates into a parallel world..But before her imagination could take flight, the sound of a car''s horn reached her.Squinting her eyes, she peeked inside the car and her jaw dropped comically.How did he get a car and so soon.


    Rushing over to the car''s driver side, Xie Eun leaned near the window and whisper shouted,"Yu Seok..it is not right to steal cars even if we are desperate.Stealing is stealing!Do you want to become a thief!".??


    You Seok:".." He was being accused of stealing his own car...Glaring at her, Yu Seok pointed a long finger towards a small poster on the side of convenience store.,"Rental Cars Available Here."


    Reading the poster, Xie Eun smiled awkwardly before showering him with exaggerated praises,"Yu Seok is the best!What would I do without a friend like you?"


    As I''d run ran around the car to the passenger side, Yu Seok leaned over and opened the car door as the girl seemed to have forgotten both her hands were busy...


    Once seated, Yu Seok opened his fingers and counted off,"You would fall all over strangers, stub your toes, break your bones a hundred times a day, get lost in the boonies, .."


    Before Yu Seok could continue, he noticed her scowling at him.Shrugging he explained,"You asked about what you would do without me."


    Harrumphing, Xie Eun retorted,"And I would get to eat these noodles by myself!"


    Pushing a hot cup into his hand, Xie Eun started to slurp her noodles throwing scathing glances at the man while she cursed him in her heart.She dare not do it loudly or with his personality, he would throw her out of the car like useless junk.


    After finishing off the noodles, Yu Seok put the car in drive and started to drive towards the village.


    As soon as the car had turned out of the parking lot, a young teenage boy rushed out and tore off the poster, patting his pocket.This was the easiest money he had earned!


    Meanwhile, Xie Eun was oblivious to Yu Seok''s schemes and was leaning over the seat towards the back, looking for her favorite bag of chips.


    Yu Seok on the other hand could only repeatedly tell her to sit back and put on her seat belt but was ignored in favor of food..Finally, Yu Seok parked the car in the side of the road, pulled her back onto her seat forcefully and leanined over her to quickly fasten her seatbelt.


    This put the two people in the car really close and Xie Eun could only stare into his dark eyes with a shocked expression.


    Her only thought as she stared into his eyes was that they were really beautiful..and there were even few black specks in them....


    As Xie Eun continued to stare, Yu Seok worried that she had recognized him and regretted his actions. To distract her, he looked back and brought the entire bag of the assorted chips to the front.Immediately focusing on the food, Xie Eun fished out her favorite one''s from the bottom and started to munch on them happily.Finally seeing that the girl was settled, Yu Seoknstarted to drive again.


    Seeing his focused on driving, Xie Eun was amused and silently brought a chip to his lips, offering it to him. Surprised at her gesture, Yu Seoknopened his mouth and ate the chips, his warm lips touching her fingertips slightly.


    Xie Eun felt a small current pass through her fingers at this but dismissed it as friction and Yu Seok''s hands tightened on the wheel.


    Only after a while when Xie Eun had finished her chips and was licking the extra salt off her fingers that Yu Seok was unable to take it anymore and almost groaned out loud at the seductive image.He composed his thoughts before asking,"Are you going to tell me about your reasons for this sudden trip?Or am I going to only act as your chauffeur?"


    "Uh huh!I actually don''t know where to start but I could try...Fine.But you have to promise me not to be judgemental!And even if you feel Inam wrong then please keep your thoughts to yourself..


    You Seok could not help but shake his head," Xie Eun the fact that you are asking to not point your mistake means that you already know your mistake but do not wish to accept it. It is of no concern to me,what you do..so go ahead and talk..


    Pouting at being told that she was already in the wrong when he had not even heard her out made Xie Ein pause but then in reconsideration, Xie Ein nodded her head and began her story..


    "I ..I am going to find my husband...."


    Screeeech....the car came to a stop abruptly....

 Chapter 21 - Going To Propose

    You Seok had abruptly applied the brakes causing Xie Eun to almost be thrown forward despite the belt. Knowing how the girl sat, Yu Seok had already placed his arm across her collarbone to stop her being hurt.Slowly, he looked for a shoulder in the road and parked the car on the side,"What did you just say?"


    Xie Eun pouted and then pointedly looked at the hand that was laid across her body.Yu Seok seemed to have forgotten he had his hand on her!Even if he was gay, he should not be manhandling her!??


    Realizing the precocious position of his hand, Yu Seok snatched it back as if burnt and then continued to look questioningly at Xie Eun.


    Xie Eun looked at Yu Seok''s expression and herself in a dilemma.It was true that he had not trusted her with his secret and instead she had stumbled over it mistakenly and that did not mean that she could trust him..But she had known him for almost a year and a half and knew he could keep a secret. Most importantly, she felt restless and wanted to talk to someone...


    After the internal debate, Xie Eun nodded her head and pursed her lips finally coming to a decision..


    "Yu Seok, I am going to find my husband so that I can ask him for an annulment!You see..."


    And this way, she blurted out the entire story leading from her eighteenth birthday to her marriage and then subsequently father''s death. But she did not tell him what happened after that..Ofcourse he knew but instead of pointing out her half truth, he kept his own feeling aside and decided that maybe this was his chance to understand Xie Eun''s feelings. Over this period if time,he had gotten to know her well but even so, he did not understand why she loved that other man..the scum! For a person with a reasonable IQ she was marvelously dumb when it came to her so called fiance.


    Since she was looking at him expectantly, waiting for a reaction, he gave her one,"Okk..So you are married and you are engaged to two different men.Your ability to handle two relationships is..unique.."


    "Hey!Dont judge!I am not cheating anyone alright and just so you know, I am going there so that I can find my husband and ask him for an annulment."


    "Xie Eun, you are married to someone else but you live with another man on your weekends you spend time with him. And the other man is not aware that you are lawfully married.Your husband knows none of this and so he is also being lied to..You are hiding the truth from both the parties?How is that not cheating?What triggered this sudden decision to divorce anyways?You should have continued living the way you were..."


    Though he had tried to keep himself objective, Yu Seok knew that he had unintentionally pointed the the thorn in his heart.He was bound by his promise on one hand and his love for her on the other..If it were up to him, he would have given her her hearts desire as marry the other man. But that man really was a scum and had her well under control..


    In face he had never even been in a relationship with Xie Eun before her father''s death and Xie Eun would have realized his true intent had he not announced to the world that he was her fiance at her father''s funeral.The silly girl had felt gratitude towards the man when she realized that the person she had a crush on had come forward in her time if need.Not realizing that she would have lost decades of her family''s hard earned money to this man. Luckily General Xie was smarter and had locked all the funds in various trusts.This had however not stopped the man and he brought Xie Eun here and used her most vulnerable time to firmly establish herself in his heart is much so that she started to trust him blindly. The man even conspired against Aunt Su who had seen his true colors and she was pushed out of the house and back to the village...within six months.


    You Seok knew all this from Aunt Su who had informed him of everything before she returned to the village..And that is why Wolf had become Yu Seok-a university student with a cold attitude.Slowly and surely, he had become her friend and unlikenAunt Su who was direct and loud, he would make insidious and indirect remarks about her fiance.Over this time, he had collected so many proofs against that man but had been hesitant to show them to her.As he wondered whether he should reveal himself and tell her the truth, she gave him to answer to his question,"It''s sudden because..because Si Jun is going to propose to me next week and I want to say yes with my whole heart and a clear conscience!"


    Unaware that her words had caused many explosions to set off in Yu Seok''s mind, Xie Eun looked out of the window in embarrassment.She felt bad about Yu Seok''s reaction and even hurt that he would speaknsuch harsh words to her..Si Jun loved her and she loved him so what if she was married..It was a marriage in name only and she had given the person a chance to don''t on his own but he had let her down.Aunt Su was the only one who knew she was married and could tell her the whereabouts of her so called husband.


    On the other hand, Yu Seok had already reached his decision and Si Jun the thorn was going to be removed soon....from her side and his way to woo his wife..Time was now of essence...Soon the time to fulfill the objective of their marriage would be here.He needed to establish her firmly by his side by then..

 Chapter 22 - Musings

    It was late in the evening when the two people reached the village.Xie Eun''s trepidation had started to rise,the closer they got and she could almost feel herself hyperventilating. This was because she felt guilty. Guilty towards her father and towards Aunt Su.She knew in her heart that she had disappointed them.


    Her father had left this world with the understanding that she would be well cared for by Aunt Su and Wolf.In the end she had forced away Aunt Su and now she was going to get rid of that other person also.She glanced down at the ring on her index finger that had been there for two years.What a tangled mess everything was.? ?


    This ring,it was beautiful.But it did not matter how beautiful a cage was,it was still a cage. And she wanted to break out of the cage soon...


    Yu Seok was right.She had indeed been cheating and was accountable to both Wolf and Si Jing.


    Her heart ached for Si Jing though..He had been so patient with her through these trying years.She thought back to the last date they had.She could feel his desire for her and his hurt that she was not willing to trust him and give herself to him.Shamefully she had tried go explain that she felt shy and unsure. Though Si Jing said he understood her hesitance,she could see in his eyes that he did not believe her.Why did she move away whenever he tried to kiss her?Why could they hold hands and even hug but nothing more?The answer to this even she did not know how to give.


    Last week when they had been watching the romance comedy,Si Jing had tried to kiss her and she had jumped like a cat on a hot tin roof.


    But she had been unable to proceed and be intimate with him.It was all because of that Wolf!He had stolen her first kiss and then more but after her father died....She shuddered suddenly at the memory,causing Yu Seok to throw a sharp glance in her direction.


    That evening,she had sat in her room,wondering if she should call Si Jing. She had known him since she was sixteen and had fallen for him head over heels. He had come from the city to recover from an injury and they had met in the market accidentally. His elegance and alluring smile had pulled her in and unable to stop herself she had sort him out again,until they started to meet by a nearby lake,everyday for a month. It was then that Si Jing''s time to return had come. He was older than her and would be going to university soon so she could not even ask him to stay.But he had promised her that he would return during holidays and he had kept the promise.She had been over the moon..But soon their time to seperate had come again and this time,Xie Eun had been clear of her feelings unlike last time when she had only crushed at him.This time she knew she was in love..She had clicked a few of his pictures when he was unaware and kept them to remember him by. Once again he had promised to return..And once again he kept his promise but...this time everything had changed..she was married and her father was gone...


    She had known that he also liked her the way she did. He had even indicated to her that he would officially ask her out when she turned eighteen.It was why she had planned to go to the city for her higher studies...But all her dreams had been forcefully taken away...


    As for her so called husband,she had already told him that she wanted an annulment,and yet he insisted on being married to her..He had even threatened her after her father passed away..


    As the car slowed to a stop, Xi Eun was brought out of her past musings.


    She turned to look questioningly at Yu Seok who was already staring back at her."Why did you stop?"


    "Do you think I am some kind of a stalker?(Author:Yes yes)


    Xie Eun shook her head in confusion.Why ask a pointless question?


    "Then how do you expect me to know the way to your home?"


    "Oh.Umm you need to go straight...and then I will tell you the way.." She should have expected that!Butnhe could have just asked for directions instead of being sarcastic.Bad Yu Seok!Xie Ein would have scolded the man but before she could say anything more, her phone rang with a loud music indicating an incoming call..Xie Eun fished out her phone from her small waist purse and glanced at the phone...


    From a sideways glance, Yu Seok noticed the name on the screen and his hands tightened on the wheel.


    Unaware of all this, Xie Eun answered the phone with a sweet,"Hello Si Jing.How are you?"

 Chapter 23 - Memories

    Just as Xie Eun had answered her phone and would have heard the reply to her question, the otherwise smoothly driven car halted abruptly. And this time Yu Seok did not stop her from being thrown forward though she was not the one who suffered but her phone. Slipping from her hand, the phone fell first onto the dashboard and then after bouncing off it, straight over her foot, causing her to groan loudly as her toes throbbed.Glaring at Yu Seok for his sudden stopping, she felt even more aggrieved when she saw why he had stopped-to let a dog cross the road!It was sitting on the sidewalk staring at the car and did not even look like it would cross!


    Shaking her head in exasperation, Xie Eun massaged her toes with one hand and picked up her phone with the other.


    The person on the other hand could be heard shouting,"Hello?Hello?"


    Xie Eun winced as she put the phone to her ear and said,"Hello!Sorry Si Jing!The phone slipped from my hand."


    Whatever the other party said, Yu Seok could not hear but seeing the sudden change in her expression and the way her expression turned downcast, Yu Seok could just guess what happened.It seemed that Su Jing was getting impatient with Xie Eun.The fact that the man had used her grandmother to leak the fact that he was going to propose to her and instead of running into his arms,she ran back to the village must have made his desperate and uncertain of his position.


    Yu Seok glanced at Xie Eun who was reassuring her ''fiance'' that she would be back within two days.


    Xie Eun first glance of her childhood home made her feel nostalgic.Against the night sky the small house stood proud and aloof.This was her home and she could feel her heart be at peace as she looked at it. All through her teens,she had yearned to fly away from here and experience the world.And today when she finally returned after so long, she suddenly felt foolish for wanting to go from here.She never felt bad living in the city but standing here, she gained a little understanding of herself and her father.Shebwasnreally similar to her father in the aspect that she could roam the world but this wilderness and nature would be her home.


    Just as they would have entered the driveway, Xie Eun screamed,"Stop stop stop stop."


    Already used to her sudden outbursts, Yu Seok stopped the car slowly and watched as Xie Eun jumped out of the car.She knocked on the car''s trunk indicating for him to open it.


    Once opened, shenfoshed out her camera and ran forward. Standing in front of the car, Xie Eun brought the camera up to her face and slowly but adjusted the focus. The night faded and only the house remained the focus. Her eyes turned blurry as the many memories of the past rushed up, making her throat dry.She kept clicking the pictures repeatedly,hoping to capture this feeling of nostalgia.Her father was still here, she realised.Living in this house..in the many memories around it.And she had shunned him all this while chasing her dreams..A comforting hand was placed in her shoulder and she leaned against the strong chest at her back..Slowly, she brought down her camera and looked up at him.


    "Thank you." she whispered to him.His eyes seemed to understand her and the two people turned back to look at the house simultaneously...


    Both lost in their own memories.Xie Eun was reliving her glorious childhood and Wolf, the pain he had experienced when he had last come here..To pay his last respects to a man he looked up to as his father.And to see the woman he had married, hugging another man tightly as she cried over the loss of her father...He looked down at the top of her head which rested against him and sighed deeply..Everything had changed and yet nothing had changed..


    Of course Yu Seok may feel that noting had changed but someone who stood starting from a smaller bungalow could see the changes in the couple.


    Housekeeper Su had heard the sound of the car driving in and her eyes had widened when she saw Xie Eun get off the car.The little girl had turned even more beautiful as she lost her baby fat and grew more confident in herself.Housekeeper Su had been about to rush out when she remembered the humiliation that had been meted out to her at the hands of the young miss.This was indeed the ''young miss'' and not her little Eun-a..Housekeeper Su hardened her heart and was about to turn back when she glimpsed a man get off the car.She could feel her blood boil..How dare she bring that no good man here..Housekeeper Su had almost marched half way out of the house when she got a clear look at the man beside Xie Eun and stopped short..oh it was Sir..She saw the closeness between the two people and her heart felt as if a weight had been lifted off it..Old master had been right..His son in law could handle his daughter.Turning back, Housekeeper Su went back into her own little house relieved. She did not need to worry about them as the house was always kept clean and stocked at regular intervals.

 Chapter 24 - Misunderstanding

    As Xie Eun opened the door to her home, she expected to be met with a layer of dust and cobwebs..Yu Seok probably expected the same for he whispered,"Xie Eun?Do you have some gnomes living here who come to cleaneven when no one was living?"


    Actually Yu Seok knew it was Housekeeper Su who had maintained the house so well that no one could have guessed that the house had been empty for over a year.But he needed Xie Eun to acknowledge this as she was the one who had deeply hurt the lady.??


    As a husband it was his job to protect his wife but at the same time, he was her partner and had responsibility to make her realise her mistakes. As a matter-of-fact, even he failed to understand why she would believe that Housekeeper Su had committed thievery.As far as he knew, his Eun-a treated the housekeeper like a mother so which child would believe something like this?But Xie Eun had not only believed the lies she had even sent the lady back here. Sometimes he himself had to doubt his wife''s IQ!


    Touched at the way Aunt Su had taken care of her home, Xie Eun felt another pang of guilt.She had to go to Aunt Su tomorrow and explain everything...To distract herself, Xie Eun walked into the kitchen and checked it''s contents..Even the refrigerator was stocked with instant food...While Yu Seok brought their bags inside, Xie Eun took out a ready to eat mean and pushed it into the microwave.Yu Seok strolled inside and could already guess where his wife was.Following her path, he walked into the kitchen and leaned against the door,"I have placed your bags. Is there any hotel or inn, nearby?"


    Xie Eun who was staring at the microwave in anticipation almost ignored what he had but then his words registered and she shopped around to face him,"Yu Seok!You can bring your stuff in..There is no need to go anywhere.This is a big house.Bring everything inside fast and then we can eat and sleep."


    Yu Seok crossed his arms in front of him and frowned,"Xie Eun?Are you sure that you are a human?And not a panda?All you know is to eat and sleep?"


    Xie Eun batted her eyes at Yu Seok, not the least bit offended and easily replied,"Yu Seok?Do you know something?Let me give you some profound wisdom today,''You must always be yourself!But if you can be a Panda then you must always be a panda!That is how you live!So I am myself when I am taking pictures and the rest of the time I am a panda...who enjoys life to the fullest."


    With the serious way she gave that advice,Wolf wondered how her brain worked.But for now,he needed to point out something,"Will your fiance not mind if you stay with another man!I, for sure, would have minded.Something tells me that he would..That could be the only reason that you have yet to tell him that you have someone with you on this trip!"


    Just then the microwave dinged and Xie Eun quickly pulled out the food before placing it on the table and then concenrating on gobbljng up the rice.Only after she had taken a big bite, did she look up,"Of course he would.You are right.But the reason I am not telling him is that he would feel hurt not because he would feel jealous.Yu Seok even if he were to feel jealous I can just tell him that you are gay..!"


    Wolf who had just taken a sip of water almost spit it out and started to cough severely when he heard this...Finally after catching his breath,he placed the bottle of water on the table with a thump and glared at Xie Eun.In a dangerous voice, almost revealing his true character, he asked,"What do you mean by telling him that I am gay?Why are you so intent on lying?"


    Xie Eun felt the grimness around Yu Seok and realized her mistake immediately.She had inadvertently blurted out the fact that she knew of his secret..


    So now she needed to fess up..


    "Uhh..you don''t have to worry.I will not tell your secret to anyone.In fact I have known it for so long.Have I ever said anything?"


    Marching forward, Yu Seok leaned down a bit and glared at Xie Eun,"What do you mean?"


    Irritated and a bit scared, Xie Eun finally pushed him away and said,"Stop trying to intimide me!I was there at the hospital a year and a half ago, when your boyfriend brought you there....When he was asked if there was anyone who could sign the consent form for you, be said he was your family and signed!"


    You Seok:".."


    So since he was seriously injured and Cheng Mo had signed the form on his behalf, this wonderful girl had assumed...what the ****!He wondered who he should kill for this blunder!Her or Cheng Mo?"


    Cheng Mo who had been sleeping peacefully in his hotel room, woke up with a few sneezes and a twitchy nose....


    And Yu Seok stood in the kitchen if the Xie family and assessed his own situation...no wonder it had been easy to get close to her.She had assumed that he was a person interested in the same gender...Sigh!!!!What a mess!

 Chapter 25 - Alone

    Deciding he needed to clear up the misunderstanding, Yu Seok sat on the chair opposite to her and said,"Xie Eun..just because someone signed my form does not make them my lover!"


    Yu Seok,with a finger pointed at her said this and continued to glare at his wife.As if it was not enough that she was with someone else. It wasn''t enough that she refused to see his face but believing that he was interested in males was the height of his tolerance. He was tempted to just clutch her shoulders and shake her forcefully..Had he offended the fates somehow that he received such an ''understanding'' wife???


    Xie Eun may or may not know the truth but she had a strong sense of self protection. Since she could not explain how the other man had behaved anxiously, not like a common friend, then Yu Seoknwould understand.But what if she explained all this and it had a negative impact on their relationship?No no..she could not do that..so she nodded sagely and said,"Fine fine..don''t get so agitated.The food is getting cold.Eat up and then we need to rest.I will show you around tomorrow after I have visited Aunt Su.."


    With that Xie Eun concentrated on eating her fodd and ignored the man who could almost feel steam raising from his ears...Quietly, Yu Seok picked up the chopsticks and stabbed them at the meat as it it was something that had mortally offended him..How was he supposed to make her fall for him if she believed that he was gay?No one..no one was so good at putting a wrench on his plans other than his Eun-a.


    Even though Yu Seok continued to curse at Xie Eun in his heart, his tone was still of tolerance and pampering.It did not matter whether she believed him to be gay or even an alien, he was going to make her his....


    After their foos was cleared, Xie Eun,who hated doing dishes, ordered,"I cooked so you have to clean."


    Yu Seok narrowed his eyes at Xie Eun and still not over the blow he had received answered acidly, "You simply heated the food!That is not called cooking!"


    But his sentence was uttered to thin air, Xie Eun had already escaped the room as she shot behind her,"Why are you so lazy? There are only two bowls and two sets of chopsticks to clean!Even if I did not cook the food I heated it up!"


    But even though Xie Eun planned to take her bag and go to her own room, she found herself turning in the direction of her father''s study.That is where she had last seen him..sitting on that chair.Slowly opening the door of the study, Xie Ein felt her eyes fill up..Even the study was kept in the same way like her father used to like.Shencould almost feel he was still here and would return any moment..Walking over to the chair, Xie Eun sat in front of it and could not stop her tears from flowing..Sonmany things had happened since he left her and she could only roll with the flow...She had not even been given little time to grieve him and all the emotions bottled inside her made her feel that she would burst over.Finally, she could let go and cry over the loss of her father.She lay her head on the best ofthe chair and started to narrate everything that occurred to her father..the way she would do when he was here...She hiccuped in between sobs as she confessed everything that she had kept inside for so long.Wolf,who had followed Xie Eun gained a new understanding of his wife as he stood still-evesdropping.. Many doubts that he had were cleared as cleared heard this and he realized that Xie Eun may look clueless and bubbly without a care in the world but she was actually aware of all other scum around her..even if she was blind to scum number one!


    Yu Seok turned back and went into the kitchen to fetch a glass of water and then slowly walked back to the study...His own cold heart also felt grave when he thought of his mentor..kneeling behind Xie Eun, Yu Seok placed the glass of water on the table and patted the girl on the head.She turned her red eyes to him and in the next moment, had thrown her self into his arms crying even more wretchedly.Though Yu Seok felt pain for her and hated her tears, he did not ask her to stop crying. He simply held her in his arms and let her cry to her heart''s content. He may not know what it felt to lose your parent but he knew what it felt like to be surrounded by people physically but having your heart alone..


    The two people stayed there in each other''s arms for a while before Xie Eun''s sobs subsided...Still patting her head, Yu Seok picked up the glass and made her have a few sips of water, coaxing her the way he would a child...After having a few sips, Xie Eun, who was exhausted emotionally and physically, lay her head back on his chest and closed her eyes..

 Chapter 26 - Smart

    Xie Eun, who had exhausted herself, finally fell asleep in the safe haven of her husband''s arms. You Seok continued to sit there with her on his lap as he rearranged the events that happened over this time from her point of view...Getting close to her really had given him a new perspective...and cleared a few misunderstandings he had about her..As he had seen her traverse through life, musdling things here and there,he had realised that General Xie had been right in worrying for her.She was really clueless and innocent like a new born lamb..but now he knew..she was not clueless..just viewing the world through rose coloured glasses..She seemed to believe that if she kept her eyes closed to faults in people then those faults would go away...And the only person she seemed to believe in was Su Jing..For the rest of her newly acquired family, she only pretended to be clueless...


    Two Years Ago:??


    Xie Eun stared at the screen of her phone as she wondered if she should call him.Si Jing was her friend and she wanted to tell him about this farce of a marriage but she was not too sure of his reaction...Her own feeling for him were too susceptible and she had just started to believe he liked her in return. She could feel the way his eyes followed her. He had even hinted to the fact that he would give her a surprise once she turned eighteen and he returned from the overseas business trip and come to visit her... He should have returned to the xountry by now..She could call him on the pretext of asking after his health.Her thumb caressed over his name and she decided to call him..She heard the phone ring and almost lost her courage but shaking her head, she decided to be brave..However,before the phone could be answered, Aunt Su had rushed inside shouting,"Eun-a come fast...we need to take master to the hospital..He is having difficulty breathing..Jumping up from her bed, Xie Eun had raced down the stairs and together they ran to take her father to the hospital but even by then it was too late....Her father had already breathed his last.


    A few hours later, Xie Eun had stood in shock as she waited for the neighbors who were there to leave..Her father had already made the funeral arrangements and they did not need to do anything..The neighbors were worried about her and dared to ask Aunt Su of the girl could manage..The people in the village had seen her grow and we''re willing to stay by her side for a little while if the need be..Aunt Su tried to explain that her master had already made arrangements for someone but before she could elaborate, a tall young man had walked in and looking around found Xie Eun taking her straight into his arms...Everyone had been shocked and then come to their own conclusion that this was the arrangement that the General had made and left the home with a peace of mind that the little girl was well cared for..The next morning everyone who came to visit knew that the rumor that General Xie had left Xie Eun in the care of a man. Si Jing also shamefully sealed himself to her firmly when he stood by her in place of family and greeted the mourners...Aunt Su had wanted to protest the impropriety but did not want to turn her master''s funeral into a drama...Si Jing may have no sense of shame but she did..And Xie Eun could not be expected to be thinking rationally at such a time..


    When Aunt Su had seen Yu Seok standing among the people who had come to pay their respects, she cast an apologetic glance to him and explained the matters..Wolf who had become aware of the man''s presence in Xie Eun''s heart too had not said anything and kept his silence out of respect for General Xie...


    But his eyes had narrowed dangerously whenever he heard someone refer to Si Jing as Xie Eun''a fiance.....

 Chapter 27 - A Recollection

    Xie Eun stood staring out of the window her fingers clenched in front of her.Just yesterday her father had been sitting here and today he was no more in this world...His funeral had also been finished..Her eyes wanted to tear up but she had no idea how to let them out...Her day had passed in a haze with Si Jing, handling everything and everyone.She felt lost...


    Suddenly a pair of arms wound around her,holding her from behind.She turned around in the circle of his arms, assuming it was Si Jing and hugged him tightly....??


    The man patted her hair lightly,comforting her and whispered,"It will be alright Eun-a..Be strong..Your father is still here with you in spirit..He would have hated to see you cry!!!"


    Xie Eun stilled..It was not Si Jing.It was...Wolf..her husband..Her pliant body turned stiff letting him know that she had mistaken him for someone else. ."Wh..what are you doing here?"


    "Why would I not be here? I came to pay my respects to my father in law."


    His low voice caused a shiver to go through her body.Xie Eun unexpectedly felt a rush of danger and tried to escape the circle of his arms..but instead if loosening the hold, it seemed to tighten around her..


    "I..I have already asked for an annulment."


    "Ah..so you still remember that you are married?But little Euna, asking for an annulment is different from getting one...The ink on our marriage certificate is yet to dry and you already have a new fiance?Since that is the case, I have decided to not cooperate with you on this matter..Do you want to tell your dear fiance about how you were forcefully married?But you have kept yourself pure for him?So that he would know that even though you once belonged to another man, he is the only one who has you?Do you want to save your self for Si Jing?"


    Her eyes had blazed with each word that was mentioned and for the first time in twenty four hours, Xie Eun came to herself as she retorted,"Yes!Yes I want to give myself to the person I love..."She did not know what had happened to her then to reply so brazenly.


    The next minute, her mouth was covered with his.This was a kiss that was unlike the previous enticing and seductive one,this was pure punishment and a way of branding her ,telling her that he was only one who could claim her.


    When Wolf had finished his kiss, he looked deeply into her eyes, forcing her to stare at his glittering ones,"Xie Eun-a, you may be a modern person but I am not.My mentor''s last wish was that I marry you and I will honor it..I suggest you get rid of your fiance..!"


    Xie Eun felt the anger coursing through her.He dared to say this!Gritting her teeth, she said,"What about my wishes?Si Jing is not my fiance..it is only people who have overactive imaginations!And I can force the annulment without you!I will go to the court and tell them that we have not consummated our marriage!I will not accept you as my husband!"


    The next moment, Xie Eun had felt her back presses against the wall as Wolf leaned close to her and whispered,"Similarly, I can force you to consummate the marriage and then you can forget about the annulment!Be very clear Eun-a, as long as you are my wife, do not try to cheat me or threaten me..you will find the consequences not to your liking.Now, like you said,you have many aspirations and dreams.I told you that I will not obstruct your way.So I suggest that you start living those dreams after this.And if one of your dreams is Si Jing, then I won''t be stopping you from dreaming but I will make sure that he is able to visit you in dream only..after I am done with him.."


    Having said his piece, Wolf walked back the way he had come from and would have left when Xie Eun''s voice stopped him,"Fine!Will you consider a divorce?I think that should be acceptable to your pride!And if you don''t agree to that I will go for divorce by litigation!"


    After a best of silence, having successfully accomplished his mission of reenergising and taking her focus off her grief, Wolf gave a small smile and answered,"And how do you hope to do that my dear wife?You don''t know my name, how I look like and where your copy of the marriage certificate is?Are you going to to go to the courthouse and tell them that I want a divorce from a nameless person?They will lock you up in a mental institution!Take my suggestion and concentrate on your cameras and lenses..I will come for you when the time is..right..Goodbye."


    Yu Seok,who had fallen asleep with Xie Eun in his arms woke up from his recollection of the past and looked at the little girl who was presently drooling on him in her sleep and rubbed his eyes..He had thought that after that she would distance herself from Si Jing,at least to protect the man but instead the man was still stuck to her like a leech!And he even had more leeches sticking to her..He would have to take them off one by one...

 Chapter 28 - Housekeeper Su

    Xie Eun woke up feeling refreshed for the first time in a long while.She had expected to be overrun with feelings of guilt and sorrow in her first night here.But unexpectedly, she had slept through the night..She pushed away the blanket that draped her and tried to think how she has gotten here but had no recollection of that..She had been in her father''s study and crying...Realizing, that Yu Seok must have place her here, she felt a warmth flow through her heart.She was really lucky to have such a caring friend, she thought to herself once again.His care for her made her feel wistful..She had ''gained'' two brothers in recent years but they could not even be bothered to look at her..


    (Yu Seok:Author if you give Xue Eun brotherly feelings for me, I will kill you!" Author:Then you should have lived up to your name and preyed on the little lamb in your arms!I gave you a chance to sleep with her!Who asked you to be a gentleman?")??


    Xie Eun thought back to the big family she had gotten to know over these months..They were actually her maternal family.Her father''s parents had died young and he had been the only child while her mother''s family had been alienated with her father.Of course she came to know of this when her maternal grandmother came to the village to visit her the morning after her father''s death and pay her condolences.


    At first she had been overjoyed at the realization that she still had family..and accepted her grandmother''s invitation to live with their family with alacrity.She had planned to go to the city either way and having the chance to live in a big family was like a dream to her.And so Aunt Su and her had packed their bags and left for the city..


    However her illusion of family had shattered in the first week itself...


    At first, she had been warmly welcomed by her mother''s younger brother,his wife and their three children.She had been so happy to have two brother and a sister...but then she had slowly realized that their attitude..It was polite on the surface but they looked down at her....She did not understand why though..As she tried to mix in, it got even more and more difficult until she stumbled upon the truth as one of her ''brother'' who was coincidenfally a good friend of Si Jing had teased him for being engaged to a country bumpkin like her who would never fit in their high society.She heard him insult her from her looks to her tomboy attitude to her clumsiness .The disdain and contempt in that tone of voice had crushed her dreams of having a loving family..She had finally opened her eyes to her surroundings and slowly accepted the harsh reality..Thankfully Si Jing had defended her and claimed that she did not need to fit in his society as long as he liked her...at that moment, Si Jing had sealed his place in her heart and erased all doubts.If he had agreed with her brother, she would have been crushed...


    And this she had slowly started to distance herself from her toxic cousins and moved into the university dorm..Her grandmother and uncle had tried to stop her and coax her but she dare not tell them as they would feel guilty.So she had adamantly moved out with only one request..Let Aunt Su stay there..as a domestic help...After moving out of the house, Xie Eun would spend her weekends with Si Jing who would drive her around showing her different things in the city or going away to the outskirts of the city to see beautifull landscapes...and sometimes they would spend their evenings quietly at his house watching movies...It was at these moments that things would escalate inevitably end in arguments over her reluctance to be intimate with him..The first time this happened, she went back to her dorm cursing herself for what happened and that Wolf for being an obstruction in her way..Not once did she blame Si Jing..and inadvertently after a few days of calming down, Si Jing apologized to her and the matter was finished..But Xie Eun was worried the next weekend and this time when Si Jing planned to get together, Xie Eun excused herself claiming that she needed to visit Aunt Su..She really had been meaning to meet Aunt Su and thus had planned to give her a surprise and did not feel guilty over ditch Si Jing.


    But she was the one who had been surprised or rather shocked..because she had reached home just in time to see her ''sister'' try to slap Aunt Su.She had rushed forward to stop that and pushed the girl back harshly..Only then had she realized that the rest of the family was present and no one had tried to stop this.and all the other servants were also standing there watching everything...She turned to see the tears of humiliation in Aunt Su''s eyes and came to an awful realization...She thought that she had matured but even then she had been naive...these people who had no compassion for their own blood would not show the same to someone they deemed below them...Chances were that Aunt Su had suffered this treatment in the past also but been quiet for her sake..However before Xie Eun could open her mouth to reprimand her,the girl had turned her viciousness on her,"Here is the real thief!"

 Chapter 29 - Please Leave

    "Here comes the real thief!"


    Shocked at the sudden accusation, Xie Eun had stared at Yeona with rounded eyes giving her a chance to spout more nonsense,"See!This girl must be the one who wanted my necklace and that is why this old woman must have dared to steal it.They are both country bumpkins and must have thought that I wouldn''t realise!Otherwise no servant would dare to steal!??


    Yeona who had been pushed away marched forward, this time with the intention of slapping Xie Eun, however Aunt Su who had been taking the humiliation stepped forward to protect Xie Eun and pushed Yeona away even more forcefully!


    This caused Yeona to sprain her ankle and she screamed in an even more shrill voice,"Thieving and assault!I was going to let you be after a slap but not now!Mother!father!Call the Police!I will put this old woman behind the bars!


    The servants and Lu Yeona''s mother had rushed forward and slowly took the hysterical Yeona out of the room followed by her uncle.


    Xie Eun turned to her grandmother ready to demand an explanation but her grandmother ordered,"Lady Su, you have two options, you can pack your bags and leave now or you can be taken to the police station to be punished for your crime!"


    Hearing this Xie Eun was even more bewildered and stared at her grandmother..Aunt Su on the other hand stood with pride and announced,"I have no need to run!I have committed no crime and am not scared of the police!"


    This had made her grandmother even more angry as she had said,"Lady Su!You can deny it all you want but you have been caught red handed!That priceless bracelet was found in your room! And now you have even dared to hit my granddaughter!The only reason I am even giving you a chance to leave respectfully because Xie Eun..But let me tell you that from now on there is no place for you in my home!"


    Xie Eun had ran after her grandmother to explain and ask justice for Aunt Su.She knew that her aunt was not like this but her grandmother had refused to listen to her..Finally, in desperation, she had called Si Jing..and then followed his advice..


    Back to the present:


    Xie Eun stared down from her bedroom''s window to the small house off the property..where she had spent so much time with Aunt Su,eating the food she would make and plating games with her. ..She had been forced by circumstances to send Aunt Su back here..But it was not the circumstances that had forced her to not contact Aunt Su for so long but her own guilt.She had been guilty of not being strong enough to protect her loved ones..A tear slipped from her eye as she thought back to that phone call, and Si Jing''s voice echoed as if he was standing next to her


    "Honey..you must convince Aunt Su to leave the city at the soonest.."


    This has angered Xie Eun who had shot out,"But Why?Si Jing, aunt Su would never do anything like this!"


    "It doesn''t matter if she did or did not..if Yeona goes to the police, you are going to get dragged into this and get your reputation ruined.We are not yet an official couple and I will not be able to come forward to help you..You will be labeled a gold digger and other things.Please Xie Eun..please send Aunt Su back. Your grandmother must have already thought of this and thus gave this chance to you.."


    "So Aunt Su can just leave this house!Si Jing, Aunt Su and I get money from my trust every month..we don''t need charity..I can rent a house for her in the city..."


    "Xke Eun, it is too late now..Try to understand, Yeona is not targeting Aunt Su, she is using Aunt Su to smear your reputation.."


    Xie Eun tried to think of other ways to protect her aunt but everything seemed to be a waste..Finally, when she heard from the butler that Yeona had already called for the police, she asked the butler to send away Aunt Su even if he had to tell her that she believed that Aunt Su was the thief...She knew that if Aunt Su saw her like this, she would not leave..and implicate herself..But from that day onwards she became thick skinned..her cousins wanted to hurt her!She would pretend to be dumb..They wanted to humiliate her, she pretended to be useless...And slowly, once they realized that she was not even worthy of their bullying, they would back off and leave her alone...She would make Si Jing her family....Xie Eun turned back from the window and walked out of her room, intending to run to Aunt Su''s house however she had taken a step forward and smacked straight into a hard chest before almost bouncing off..She would have fallen on her ass if..Yu Seok had not grabbed her...


    Shaking his head, he asked her,"Where are you running off to now?"

 Chapter 30 - Aunty Su Is Not Here

    Xie Eun rubbed her nose and glared at Yu Seok.Why did she have to keep running into him...like literally!Her nose was going to be crooked if this continued!She hit his chest with a first and scowled,"Do you need to be so muscled?Everytime I bang into you I see stars!!"


    You Seok rolled his eyes at her and then pointed to her own chest as he said,"Would you like me to grow these so that they would be soft?"??


    Shocked at his explicit comments, Xie Eun screamed out,"Yu Se Ok!You pervert!How can you even say such things?"She crossed her arms over the parts he was looking at pointedly and scurried away like a squirrel..her ears and face red..


    Wolf, pushed his hands in his pocket and whistled softly.thinking that it was better to be labelled a pervert..so she thought he was ''gay'' hmm?He was a believer of action and had already decided to not make her try to change her opinion...He would take action and show her instead, how not-gay he was...


    Just then the sound of the main door banging closed could be heard echoing through the house and Xie Eun had raced towards Aunt Su''s house..


    She knocked on the door, ready to fall on her knees and beg for forgiveness but the door remained unopened..Desperately she knocked harder and shouted out for Aunt Su but still there was no reply.Just then, she heard the phone inside ringing and wondered if Aunt Su would answer that..but the phone also turned silent after ringing a few times...This made her wonder that maybe Aunt Su was not at home. And thus, she turned around and sat down on the porch, ready to wait for Aunt Su..About an hour later, Xie Eun, who was now sweating profusely under the sun, was about to give up, she spied someone walking down the road towards the house.Perking up she stood with her hands clasped in front of her but it was a young woman and not Aunt Su..


    The woman also seemed startled at seeing Xie Eun and muttered,"Hello..Does this house belong to Lady Su?"


    But instead of replying Xie Eun walked forward and threateningly asked,"Who are you and why do you have Aunt Su''s keys with you?"


    The woman was a little stsrtled by the fierce tone but soon smiled again,"Hello, I am a nurse at the General Hospital.Last night, Lady Su was admitted to our hospital...since she told me that she does not have any family here, I offered to bring some of her clothes and necessities back..You called her Aunt..are you related?Why were you sitting on the porch?"


    "Yes..we are related..I just came back last night and was waiting for Aunt Su to return..."


    The nurse nodded and then moved to go around Xie Eun to enter the house but Xie Eun stopped her,"You can give me the keys.I''ll take the things to Aunt Su.."


    The nurse''s fingers seemed to tighten around the keys as she smiled,"You must be tired miss.It is alright.You can freshen up and go see her..I have promised to bring back her things so I will do that."


    But I''d run refused to budge and was about to insist.The nurse could feel her temper losing and was about to attack Xie Eun when a cold voice sounded from behind,"What is going on here?"


    His eyes narrowed dangerously at the woman who stood in front of him..He had heard the entire exchange and could already guess that this woman was not some ordinary nurse..Her stance though appearing normal was actually ready to attack...And she would have attacked..if he had not interfered..


    The woman instantly put on a harassed expressions and explained,"Sir, the owner of this house is in the hospital and had asked me to bring her stuff but this lady here is obstructing my way.."


    Yu Seok smiled a bit and smoothly walked over and took the keys out of the woman''s hand."She is not obstructing your way.She is simply saying that she can fetch it.So thank you for your concern."


    The woman seemed to realize that she was outnumbered and harrumphing went on her way..


    "Yu Seok!Aunt Su is hurt!We need to rush.."


    You Seok calmly looked at Xie Eun and guided her back towards the main house.


    Meanwhile, the woman who had just turned back was observing this from a distance and observed the couple''s back. Once they were inside, she fished out her cell phone from her and made a call,"You said that there was just one old woman and one young woman!But the younger woman has a man with her!And that too someone dangerous!I warned you that I do not care about the pay but I want correct information!"


    After turning off the phone, the woman turned back and was about to walk off when she was greeted by another man..She almost attacked him but even before she could even reach him, the man had subdued the woman and her hands were tied behind the back..Her cell phone was snatched from her and she was unceremoniously thrown into the car. She struggled hard and questioned,"Who are you?Why are you kidnapping me?"


    The man gave a smile and said,"Hello!I am sorry to not have introduced myself.My name is Cheng Mo and you are coming with me because my boss wants to see you!"


    "How polite of you to introduce yourself!Untie me and I will show you how to fight like a man!"


    Cheng Mo was unperturbed as he walked towards the drivers seat and continued,"You may know how to fight like a man but you are a woman.Even if they are the likes of you.And I suggest you remember that you are a woman.It will help you when Wolf interrogates you."


    The demeanor of the woman changed at the mention of the name as she started to stutter, much to the amusement of Cheng Mo who always wondered why his softy boss made others feel so scared...

 Chapter 31 - A Change In Xie Eun

    Xie Eun sat in front of the mirror looking into the eyes that were once lively and full of hope. She cursed herself for being a fool before turning her eyes to look at the two masterpieces that hung before her.The dresses were the two options she had to wear tonight at her birthday ball..Or rather the birthday party that her beloved Si Jing had prepared for her.She looked at the two variations, trying to decide which was better.One of these was the dress that Si Jing had chosen for her.It was a custom made white, off shoulder dress with delicate pearl work and she knew, would make her look like an angel...That is what he said he wanted her to wear..


    The second was a flaming red dress..It would cover her from neck to bottom..until she moved..the slit on the side was high up to the top of her thighs..giving a tantalizing glimpse of her long beautifully tanned legs..Ignoring the tug at her heart, Xie Eun picked up the red dress and went into the dressing room..She had no wish to look like an angel tonight...She turned twenty today and Si Jing and her grandmother had both indicated that they would have a surprise for her..Fortunately for her and unfortunately for her grandmother,,Aunt Su had been able to collect evidence against them..Even as she prepard for the party,she hoped that her Si Jing was not involved in this.??


    Since returning from her home,she had been reluctant to participate in this party but Si Jing had been insistent...As she sat in the chair waiting for the stylist that Si Jing had arranged, she thought back to last week when she had just returned. Si Jing,the person whose every mood she knew like the back of her hand did not even realise the big difference in her.And she had kept quiet as she tried to come to terms with the truth of her relatives..Her father had had his reasons after all.And unlike the fact that she believed them to be his protectiveness,they were valid concerns..Her so called family had lost their chance and Si Jing had the final chance tonight to prove his loyalty.He had been talking big about his plans for tonight.How she would be the belle of the ball, and how he would be using this chance to introduce her to his parents and friends as the woman he loved..Her usually bright eyes seemed dull under the light as a knock sounded on the door.


    The stylist entered the room and bowed deeply,"Hello,miss Xie..You are really a beautiful lady.."The stylist fawned over her and chatted carelessly about the different styles and makeup which would suit her. Xie Eun closed her eyes and concentrated on tonight''s upcoming performance letting the stylist''s voice play on as background music..


    The stylist was a pleasant looking lady in her forties.In actual fact,she had once been someone who used to dress up famour celebrities but she had once offended a famous lady and thus been barred from working in the entertainment industry.She was an honest and talented person who had been forced to make a meagre living.She looked at the beautiful face in front of her and could only marvel..It wouldn''t matter if she did not put on any makeup on the woman,she would look glamorous naturally..But,she would have looked prettier in the white dress, Mrs He felt.She had seen the dress being carried out of here by the housekeeper...This dress made her look like a Queen and the other one would make her look innocent like an angel..


    But inarguably both the dresses failed in terms of beauty in front of the woman..Giving the final touches to the girl''s high cheekbones,Mrs He stepped back..She was pleased that she had not lost her touch and she hoped that Master Wolf was not disappointed..When she had been offered to dress someone up in the high society and the price offered,she had hesitated.But when she headd of the name Wolf,she had been delighted at the opportunity.The name Wolf worked two ways-If the person was barred by Wolf then he would notfind employment ever again but for a person Wolf invited to work, no opportunities would be left..And the man had even told her that if she did well then she could be hired permanently..


    When the young girl opened her glittering eyes,Mrs He who had worked with so many beauties felt her breath catch..So beautiful..But Mrs He also felt regret and could not stop asking,"Miss,please forgive my impudence but that white dress would have looked just as good on you..or even better..and it would have gone well with your innocent aura..then why would you choose this one.You look really beautiful in it but it gives off a dangerous vibe.."


    Xie Eun smiled a little and looked at herself in the mirror..amazed at her own transformation..Yes that would have been the perfect dress for meeting her future in laws.. but tonight,she needed to teach someone about her true persona..Just because she had been emotionally weak,they thought that they could treat her like a door mat and step on her anytime they wished...Well soon they would learn their lesson..


    Xie Eun''s eyes met Mrs He''s in the mirror and she said,"That dress was a gift from my fiance,Mrs He..And he had a specific style in mind for me.He even hired a stylist to dress me up..The stylist is downstairs and I have hired a model for the stylist to show their talent.So..if I like the look they created, I might just change...after all..it is my birthday ball..Mrs He, you are an expert in this field.Why don''t you come along and help me judge.."

 Chapter 32 - Your Husband

    Mrs He was extremely curious about this..She recognized the tone of bitterness from the girl''s voice and wondered if she had been hurt by something her boyfriend had done and felt hurt so she decided not to wear his gift..But Mrs He also felt a bit of disapproval for the girl..a goft was given with love so even if the lovers had a tiff, the feelings behind the gift should be respected...Mrs He, however did not show any of this on her face and nodded her head in agreement.She had learned her lesson the last time she had opened her mouth to give her opinion and offended a powerful figure.


    The two people walked out of the room, and once again Mrs He was amazed at the gracefulness of this young girl..??


    (Yu Seok:She really does know how to be graceful..I wonder if I should be offended or complimented that she is so clumsy around me!)


    After a knock on another door, Xie Eun stood back and waited.Mrs He saw another older lady open the door and after giving her a nod, the woman turned to Miss Xie and said,"The stylist is gone..but Eun-a, the model is almost in tears.."


    Xie Eun fisted her hands at the side and slowly walked in followed by Mrs He who was now even more curious..and almost threw up when she saw the make up....


    Without remembering to control her expression,Mrs He squeaked out,"What is this?"


    While the dress itself had been beautiful and the model also,the make up was terrible..Instead of a natural or slightly bold makeup that should have been used to accentuate the features of the wearer, the make up was rather gothic and clumsy.The face of the model had been turned to a paler color and her eyes highlighted with thick black eyeliner..while the blush...It made the poor model look like clown..The professional Mrs He was unable to take this in and almost itched to bring out her makeup remover and wipe thebperson clean..


    Xie Eun kept staring at the model expressionlessly as she absorbed the truth..so Si Jing had wanted her to look like this...How sweet he had been when he asked her to let the stylist do his work and dress her up..He had forgotten that sheay be from the countryside but she was a photography student...She had a decent sense if aesthetics.


    Xie Eun turned to Mrs He and said softly,"Mrs He, I hope you don''t mind redoing this person''s make up.She has a shoot soon and it seems the stylist earlier was not good enough"


    Snorting,Mrs He whk had come to her own conclusion,nodded and remarked,"Yes..This girl is pretty and thebstylist has turned her into a ghost!Not good enough?I would call them incompetent and tasteless!"


    The model and Mrs He were guided out to amother room by Aunt Su while Xie Eun stared ahead vacantly.She wondered whatnwould have happened to her pride and dignity if her eyes had not been forcefully opened last week..


    Aunt Su came back into the room and saw the look in her girl''s eyes.She went to her and placed a light hand on her shoulders.


    Xie Eun turned to look at her and she could see that the child wanted to cry but was holding her tears in..She wanted to reassure her but knew that a few kind words would make Xie Eun break down..So she simply said,"Eun-a,now you know the truth behind everything.You can choose to go or not go."


    Xie Eun looked at Aunt Su with determination in her eyes,"No Aunt Su,I want to see this to the bitter end.Thank you for making all the preparations."


    Aunt Su gave a shake of her head and said,"You know in your heart that all these preparations and plans are not my ability.Euna,you can keep your head buried in sand no longer.You came to me with the intention of finding your husband for a divorce.Youbhave seen for yourself that there is no reasom for you to divorce.The rest is in your hands. Take this."


    Aunt Su pressed the card into Xie Eun''s hand. This card was the one that Xie Eun had thrown away in a fit of anger after her father passed away..Xie Eun looked down at the card and silently acknowledged what Aunt Su said.


    After tonight, another obstacle awaited her.She had to talk to her husband..and work on getting a divorcr..this time not for Si Jing and her so called relationship but for herself..She wanted to distance herself and runaway from here.She wanted no reminders of her past foolish self. The reason her father had forced them to marry would. I longer be required after tonight so she her husband could let go of her comfortable without guilt towards her father..


    Quietly, she put the card in her beaded purse and walked walked out, ready to attend the ball.

 Chapter 33 - Si Jing

    Si Jing stood in the huge study room of the Lu family home.His tall figure and proud features reflected their arrogance as he stood in front of the matriarch of the family..The old lady and the young man seemed to have been in a staring match which was finally won by the man..as the lady looked away..


    Seeing this sign of weakness,Si Jing narrowed his eyes and stated,"Madam,you will have what you wish soon..I have done what I promised and today when Xie Eun has turned twenty,you will have what you have craved.So is it really necessary to go to this extent to try and humiliate her?"??


    The old woman,Xie Eun''s grandmother, looked at Si Jing intently as she commented,"Si Jing?Have you really fallen for the country girl?Dont you know that when you crush someone,you do it in a way that they cannot rise back and bite you?You are really trying your best to spare her..what do you think will happen.She will forgive your betrayal and you will be able to live happily?You must know that Yeona likes you..why are you then sparing thoughts for this person who is nothing more than a tool?It won''t change the fact that you did indeed cheat her..."


    Irritated,Si Jing shook his head and said,"I am not in love with her but it is human decency to pity her..You have coveted what she does not even know she possesses and used me for so many years to get to her.I have known her for long and she does not have a malicious bone in her body!Now that you are getting what you wanted,there is no need for all this drama!And Yeona is someone I am not even interested in hating let alone liking.So it would be better of you set your sights elsewhere.."


    The old woman cocked her head and nodded slightly,giving in,"Fine.After tomorrow,there is no need for the girl to be involved with our family.You can make whatever arrangements you wish."


    Having achieved his goal, Si Jing nodded and went out of the library,missing the slightly malicious expression on the older lady''s face.She would have nothing to do with them because she would cease to live.And she was going to blame Si Jing for everything..


    Si Jing went back to his car and sat there for a while..He was the ''prince'' of Si Industries but no one knew that under the glamorous life,there was a lot of struggle one had to do and compromises one had to make..Sometimes even forgoing their own morals. After tonight,he knew he would have a difficult time getting Xie Eun to trust him again..She may actually start to hate him but he truly did love her.He had not really started out with the intention of falling for her but her naivete and innocence pulled him in. The girls he had known all his life were nothing but poor flames in front of her fire.They wanted the prince but not the man..and Xie Eun had loved him as the man he was,without any expectation or demands.


    SI Jing vowed that after tonight, he would protect her from harm''s way..in any way he could and then one day..maybe one day she would forgive him and really be his fiance and his wife.


    She had been behaving strangely these days and sometimes he felt that she could see what was in his heart and could sense his betrayal.But he knew that this was just his own anxiety.


    Si Jing looked our of the car and saw that the guests had started to arrive and felt the guilt in his heart almost strangle him at the thought of the humiliation she was going to face..


    So many years ago, Mrs Lu had asked him to go to that town on the pretext of resting after his injury.All she had asked of him was that he befriend Xie Eun and tell her about the girl. In return,shebwould help his father cover the business losses that had almostndestroyed their family.When hebhad understood that Xie Eun was Mrs Lu''s maternal grand daughter,the daughter of her own deceased daughter, he had assumed that the lady wanted to know more about her granddaughter.It was only when he overheard the conversation between the old lady Lu and her son CEO Lu did he realize what they were after. By then it had been too late.Xie Eun had already fallen onto their clutches and so had his father.Over the last two years he has worked hard to rescue his father and their business in the end had succeeded and was no longer dependent on the Lu companies but the price forhis was one that Xie Eun would have to pay..


    He looked at the sky as it gradually turned dark and closed his eyes as a tear escaped..but suddenly his eyes snapped open..No..he had to protect her..atleastnfrom the humiliation today..otherwise she would never be able to raise her head again in society...Starting the car,he turned raced out of the parking,with only ine clear intention,making Xie Eun miss the ball tonight.

 Chapter 34 - The Ball Begins

    The ball room at the Yu Ting hotel flowed with guests as a soft orchestra played on the side.Professionals and businessmen from many walks mingled together.Tonight was the announcement of the next heir to the Lu Industries and most people looked forward to it.The old businessmen who particularly sat around a small table on the side..These businessmen who were placed on the side were actually the main people one needed to be concerned about when joining the board of directors.The old fogeys were like tigers protecting the throne...


    Si Jing observed these people from the corner of his eyes as he was flocked around by people who wanted to hug his thigh.Thes old fogeys were also the reason why Xie Eun would have to suffer the humiliation tonight..So that these people would look down on her and support Yeona wholeheartedly.Si Jing looked at the time and wondered for the hundredth time where Xie Eun was..He had bribed the security to let him know of her arrival immediately. She had left before he could reach her and all his cals had gone unanswered.He had even left her a voicemail asking her to not come to the ball tonight. He crossed his fingers and hoped against hope that she had heard his message and was not going to come.A sneer graced his face when he saw Lu Yeona come to sit on a table near the men with her thron gof friends.It was time for Yeona to put up a show.


    The old businessmen had all been friends since the start of Lu Enterprises.They had been the first investors for Old man Lu when he had said that he wanted to establish his own business by making higher quality shows for their sportsmen and their army officers..the two categories that greatly benefitted the country at their own cost...They had witnessed the immense success of Lu enterprises under the guidance of their friend..But they were also witnessing the slow downfall of the company under the leadership of the Old Lady Lu. Her arrogance and refusal to change with the changing times had offended many potential business partners and clients.


    They too would have left the Lu Enterprises to hang in the sun if it had not been for the memory of their old friend.They were even skeptical anout the new heir.


    Lu Yeona had already made a name for herself in the modelling world.It was also known that she had been groomed to take over the industries but she had been under the tutelage of her grandmother and some industry insiders had told them about how the girl was even more arrogant than Old lady Lu.


    Just then, a few fawning voices fell in their ears.The we''re a few simpering misses who were congratulating Lu Yeona.The old men almost snorted at that but their expressions changed when they heard the girl''s reply,"There is no need to pass wishes so early in the evening when the heir has not even been declared."


    Each of them nodded in approval at the girl''s modesty and thought maybe with the new blood entering the company,the Lu Enterprises would shine bright again..It was an open secret among the high society that Old Man Lu had left everything to his granddaughter in his will but the child still showed humility and not arrogance was something noteworthy..


    Yeona noticed their expressions from the corner of her eye and was satisfied that her little drama had worked...Now the only thing left was to make Xie Eun show her true face..that of a silly village girl..


    Si Jing felt a chilling focused gaze on his back making him wonder who was staring at him..but on turning around he could not see anyone..Just then Old Lady Lu walked upto him and though her face was smiling,her cold eyes seemed to ask one question,"Where is Xie Eun?"


    Steeling himself to ignore the woman,he pretended to not notice her and looked towards a group of approaching businessmen..However a little commotion at the door caused everyone to turn towards the ornate door...that were closed a moment ago..


    An older man walked in with a young and beautiful woman..The woman was temptation incarnate and everyone could feelt their breath catch.Women felt a sear of jealousy course through them at the red jewels that glittered at the woman''s ears and the wayer beauty allured not just the attention of the men but even the women..Every man could only stare at the woman and wonder if their teenage dream girl had come to life...


    Only Si Jing and and the membered of the Lu family recognized the woman and wore a confused expression.But apart from confusion,there was another emotion coursing through him...jealousy..Why was his girl on the arm of another man?And her eyes had swept over him but not stopped for even a split second..Why?The girl whose eyes used to light up when he entered the room had ignored him like he was non existent..He wanted to march forward and questionn her but only then noticed the identity of the old man..Stopping in shock, he turned his gaze to Old Lady Lu and saw the glowering face staring at the two people.The trance that the entire ballroom had abruplty fallen into broke when the two people started to walk in..

 Chapter 35 - The Ball Begins (2)

    As the two people walked in,the other guests started to mutter amongst themselves..about the identity of the beauty.Many men tried to guess that the beauty was nothing more than an arm candy or trophy girlfriend of the old man but those who knew the man also knew that the man was devoted to his wife..Lawyer Wen Zhao was an old balding man who had the laugh lines around his face. His rotund body and the open smile made him look like a lovely grandfather character from a children''s book.But behind the jovialness was a sharp mind.He could already guess what was going on in everyone''s mind..This granddaughter of Old Man Lu was really a stunner..His first thought on seeing her had been that it was a pity he had not kept in touch with the General son in law of old man Lu..if he had, he would have coaches his grandson to snatch such a beauty and have a pretty granddaughter in law..But because of his own stupidity, his grandson lost and now this little angel was married..But in the next moment his heart lightened as he thought that he could at least introduce her as his God grand daughter...After all she was the daughter of his God daughter..


    Looking up a little,as the girl was taller than him,he joked,"I don''t think I have ever been stared at so much..Look even those old people that I a going to introduce you to are there looking our way..Should I tease them a bit and take you away ,leave them hanging in curiosity?"


    He noticed that though the little girl looked confident a delicate natural blush had reddened her cheeks..He thought how rare it was to see a girl blush these days and decided to not tease her and his friends.


    The old men were all staring at the girl but unlike the others their thoughts were not dirty or amorous.In fact each of them felt that the girl looked familiar but they could not place her.In their long lives they had met so many people but this girl was young so even of they had seen her it should be recent..Just then Lawyer Wen grinned at everyone and said,"This is my God granddaughter Xie Eun..Xie Eun this is everyone.."


    It was only after the name and relation was mentioned that the felt their memories jog..Almost in unison they all glanced at where old Lady Lu stood and then to their grinning friend who had insisted that each of them be present tonight.. They would have ignored Old lady Lu bit not their friend..It seemed he really did have a purpose for tonight..They had all forgotten that old Man Lu had two granddaughters-A daughter''s daughter and a son''s daughter...Lu Yeona was the paternal granddaughter while Xie Eun the maternal...And Lawyer Wen had not forgotten....Well well well..Since Lawyer Wen was the one who had drafted all their wills and was privy to all their family secrets...he was also the one who had drafted the will that was to be read today...


    And everyone who knew Lawyer Wen could tell that he loathed Old Lady Lu with a vengeance...


    Xie Eun greeted the businessmen with a small modest smile..


    The other guests who had been trying to get to know the identity of the girl,were all shocked when she was introduced as the big lawyer''s God granddaughter. Most of them did not understand the connection of this person to the Lu''s and were only planning on how to approach the girl..Old lady Lu was the first one to approach the table and would have attacked Xie Eun directly.If she had not been aware of the other eyes following her.With a thin smile she greeted the two people,"Lawyer Wen,my granddaughter is very innocent really!She has come to her own party with an outsider.Really, Xie Eun, even if you are from a small town, you must know that you can come to the ball since you are family.You should have told me, I would have sent an invitation to your dorms and you wouldn''t have to sneak in here..You almost gave everyone here a wrong impression of yourself and Lawyer Wang...Why come with some outsider when you can just ask your family?And why are you wearing such overly bright clothes?"


    Though it sounded like Grandma Lu was simply concerned for her and thus scolding her, the others listening in had been told about her identity,her personality had been pointed out as someone desperate to attend the ball that they would even latch onto an old man and claim a relation with him..The other thing that was lointed out was that as per the fashion these days,most people wore nude and pastel colours and Xie Eun was the only one who wore bright red like a Phoenix..With a few words,Grandma Lu had turned the image of the beauty to a desperate villager..

 Chapter 36 - The Ball Begins-Si Jing Left

    While the gossips fired, all the old men at the table were offended and narrowed their eyes at the old woman..Wen Zhao also could not believe his ears..What was wrong with this woman?She clearly knew that her words could cause harm but she was still saying them in that tone.Before he could speak up, however, Xie Eun spoke up.Her lips trembled a bit and she complained,"Grandma..How can you bear to scold me like this on my birthday?You all are my family and yet no one bothered to wish me!And then when you see me you scold me..And grandfather Wen not some random stranger.You know I went to my late father''s home last week and there was some unfinished property matters that I had to handle and Grandfather helped me a lot.You even forgot to invite me to this ball but I never blamed you!Because I knew that you are old and it must have slipped your mind.You don''t have to blame yourself..Brother Si Jing sent the invitation to me a few days ago!I just happened to meet Grandfather Wen on my way inside and so we came together.."


    Xie Eun suddenly felt that she should be awarded an Oscar for tonight''s performance..She xould literally see the smoke coming out of her dear grandmother''s ears.Just like her grandmother had made a picture of her, she too had done the same...The rich people hated their poor country relatives the most as they felt that these poor people would latch onto themselves..But just like her grandmother,in a single stroke she had managed to tell everyone that she may be a villager but she was not poor and that she was an orphan who only wanted the Lu family to acknowledge her..By adding the little fact that Su Jing had given her an invitation, she had directly sowed seeds of discord between her two enemies as well as told everyone that she was personally acquainted with the young prince.However her eyes when connected with Si Jing were cold and harsh..??


    Embarassed and insulted,Old Lady Lu retreated with a silent glare and Xie Eun turned back to the old grandfathers and thanked them as they enthusiastically wished her.


    Lawyer Wen and Xie Eun seamlessly mingled with the group as everyone peppered Xie Eun with questions about her life in the rural area.Xie Eun regaled them with stories of her childhood antics and her warm personality and open smile, made everyone beam at her.Every guest who had wanted to get close to the groups of these stoic businessmen could hardly believe their eyes as they doted on a girl.These men were known to be business sharks were really behaving their age and treating the girl like a granddaughter.


    The person who was fuming the most however was Lu Yeona who couldn''t believe that her performance had gone to waste.


    How did everything go wrong?


    On the other hand,Si Jing who had been trying to get close to Xie Eun but was always called away finally made it within a meter distance but was then stopped by another man.The man was no one he knew so he tried to walk around but his path kept getting obstructed..Realizing that he was intentionally being stopped,Si Jing finally looked carefuly at the man and coldly asked him,"What do you want?"


    The man simply smiled and answered,"I just want to relay a message,Sir.Let me quote it,"Si Jing,you had two years.You lost your chance.Step back and save yourself now."


    It was avctlear warning as well as a threat.Si Jing may not know the sender but in that moment he realised why all the Lu family''s plans had failed during these years.There was someone protecting Xie Eun from the shadows.And Xie Eun who had been unaware until now, knew all this..


    Si Jing realized in that moment that he had already lost Xie Eun.He had seen an anxiety in her eyes when she had returned from her hometown but he had chalked it up to her own nervousness..And now he had lost his only chance.He had reassured himself that he would explain after everything had passed but now, that would not be a possibility..With one last look at Xie Eun, Si Jing turned around and left the ball..


    When surrounded by enemies,it was better to retreat and then attack.He did not know who was the person that was standing behind Xie Eun so he could not find the enemy, for now.But he would come back,step by step into Xie Eun''s life because he knew she loved him and she would love him again..

 Chapter 37 - The Heiress

    Xie Eun felt a restlessness invade her as she realized that Si Jing was no longer in the ballroom.Tonight was not about revenge but about showing everyone their rightful place.And she needed to see Si Jing shown his place also.She had treated him like her moon while he had..


    Before, Xie Sun could lament for longer, however,a small clinking of glass could be heard over the microphone and an emcee appeared on the small stage at the front.Xie Eun raised her brows when she saw the emcee and could not help but shake her head.So her dear cousin had been reduced to this position???


    Lawyer Wen and the others also glanced curiously at the stage but only Lawyer Wen had an interested expression on his face as if he was looking forward to the drama that was about to unfold.


    Xie Eun''s hands, which were placed in her lap clenched as she realized that the moment had come when she would be breaking ties with this new family.She glanced coldly as Grandmother Lu walked onto the stage with the help of her beloved Granddaughter Yeona.Many people clapped even before the old woman had a chance to say anything and Xie Eun felt like she was going to puke after seeing the extent to which people would fawn iver anyone with money.


    Soon the room quietened,as the old woman began,"Thank you everyone for joining in today''s celebration.Most of you have worked closely with Lu Enterprises which is close to my heart.My late husband established this company with his blood and sweat and seeing a new generation join in would have made him so proud.Tonight,I have a special announcement to make.As most of our business partners knew, my husband was one of the few revolutionaries that stood for the equal rights of women in out country.He wanted our daughters and granddaughters to live equally.And even in his death,he has shown by example that every woman has the right to inherit.Tonight,let me announce to the world my husband''s will..In his will,he has transferred a little percentage of the company''s shares to our son who is the Vice President in our company.My grandsons have inherited a certain portion of this also but the majority of the shares were left in a trust managed by an independent board of directors consisting of our close friends and old acquaintences.,to be handed over to our granddaughter when she is of age..And it makes me so proud that Yeona is going to be of age soon so she is set to take over her shares and responsibilities.And now I would like to invite the representative of board of directors to make a speech about this new development.."


    The end of this speech was alsoet by a thunderous applause.


    Usually, Chaiman Zhao would make a speech on their behalf as most of them did not like to talk at private functions.They had taken this responsibility out of care for their friend and now that it was time to hand over, they would happily fulfill their dead comrade''s wishes.But a clear look of understanding passed between Chairman Zhao and Lawyer Wen and thus the latter stood up to walk to the stage on their behest.Grandmother Lu''s smile turned stiff when she saw the person who was walking up and she had to force herself to remain smiling.


    Lawyer Wen walked leisurely to the stage and then walked to the podium without looking at the other three people there.He gave a natural smile to the audience before he began,"Good evening my dear guests.I can see that all of you agree with the late President''s view that women should have an equal place when in comes to inheriting.Now what I am about to say may actually make you want rain curses,first at me and then at my old pal..As Chairwoman Lu said,he reallt did leave most of his shares to hos granddaughter and I am the one who wrote his will.But let me tell you I strongly advised him to not wirte such a will and we were at loggerheads for several days after that.But eventually he had his way and I was forced to write this iron clad will..."


    Lawyer Wen paused for a moment as he saw the reactions of those present ,before he continued,"Yes,I sound like I am against this concept of equal women''s right,don''t I?"


    Most of the audience could feel a stir in the sir after this..This was because Lawyer Wen''s wife was one of the most respected woman right lawyers in the country.Lady Wen had a hand in the amendment of so many laws in the country and her husband making such a speech was unexpected...


    Seeing that everyone was appropriately shocked, Lawyer Wen continued,"Yes..I can see the question in your eyes.The reason I was so against this will were not the contents itself but the conditions Old man Lu placed to inherit the Lu enterprises.Condition which may just shock you all."


    The silence that followed this announcement was huge as everybody realized that this moment was going to change something important in history.The air turned anticipatory as Lawyer Wen opened his mouth to continue the speech.

 Chapter 38 - Young And Misled

    No one in the crowd dared to murmur a word as Lawyer When opened his mouth..But they were only left in a cliff hanger for a longer while as Lawyer When continued,"But anyone who knew Old Man Lu would understand his conditions and maybe even support them..Old man Lu, not many of you are aware of this was actually married twice..and sadly for him, he lost his first wife and his only daughter to the same cause..childbirth. His first wife died because of lack of proper medical skills during the early days but his daughter died in spite of those.Old man Lu blamed himself for his daughter''s death..She died because she gave birth at a late age and her body was unable to take the stress as it was already weakened due to his daughter''s workaholic habits..which were because of him by the way as he planned to leave the Lu Enterprises to her..."


    A pause and then,"To prevent history from repeating itself, Old man Lu could only add a stipulation in his will that could ensure that the next generation would not be so callous."??


    Everyone could not help but think about these conditions and their nature.What could a condition say that would protect someone from death..Many people pondered if the will tipulated that the heir must notnhave any children in the future.But if such was the nature then that would be cruelty.And if Lu Yeona agreed to such conditions then what would that make her.


    Before Lawyer Wen could continue however,Old Lady Lu interrupted and calmly redirected the conversation,"Laywer Wen has indeed stated the truth about my husband''s will but let us not think of the past.We have gathered here today for a happy occasion and we should be celebrating that..The terms started in the will have been fulfilled and met.So Lu Enterprises can proudly present it''s new heir!"


    Lawyer Wen glanced at Old Lady Lu in amusement and then continued,"Yes yes,we are here for a special occassion so I have also prepared a gift!Ladies and gentlemen,let me present to you the new heiress of Lu enterprises and Old Man Lu''s elder grand daughter-Xie Eun."


    The moment he said these words, everyone froze and they could only stare in silence.Xie Eun?Who was this person and where did this granddaughter come from.Everyone in the city knew that Lu Yeona was the only daughter of the Lu family..Only the older businessmen came out of their stupor and began to clap heartily.They were actually pleased with what their friend had announced because they had onserved her and could see that she was a modest and young woman..compared to Lu Yeona who they were unsure of because of the rumors that they had heard about her.


    The groups claps woke everyone up and they started to clap too in spite of their confusion..But many people were smart and began to understand that this must be the daughter of the late CEO Lu An..Old Man Lu''s daughter''s daughter..


    As Xie Eun stood and started to walk towards the stage, Old lady Lu had forcefully taken the microphone off the podium and said sharply,"Lawyer Wen..you are seriously mistaken!And you must not make such an announcement even if it is nothing but a prank!Lawyer Wen,that is not how a gift works!"


    Though the words were said chidingly,the tone was clear which caused the applause to abruptly quiet down.


    At this moment,Xie Eun had walked over to the podium and with a microphone jn he hand, she asked in a small voice,"Why, Grandmother?Why would my inheriting be a prank?Am I not the rightful granddaughter of the family?"


    Thisbwas the first time that everyone had a clear look at the angel who now stood on the stage.Her looks had already captivated the crowds and now her sweet voice put them in a trance..The Lu family had indeed kept their treasured granddaughter hidden.She was so beautiful and pure looking that a person would be even scared to touch her lest she become soiled..


    On the stage, old Lady Lu had changednher expression and turned to Xie Eun and said just as softly into the microphone,"Xie Eun, my child, it is easy to be lured by power and money.I understand that you arenyoung and from a small village so you might crave these things but you must not be goaded into betraying your family by our enemies..We brought you here two years ago because you were orphaned and had no family.Yes it is my fault that I was busy with business and could not teach you the right morals.And Yeona,your sister, would give all this to you in a jiffy if that is your desire but itnis jot just money.There are millions of people working in our company and their livelihoods are at stake.You are not even studying business but are an Arts student..How will you carry such a heavy burden on your shoulders? Remember this one teaching that Grandmother is going to tell you,"Money and power are not enough to succeed,you need to work hard.Yeona is the rightful heir to the shares of the Lu Enterprises and I hope you will not dispute her right and be an ingrate to our kindness.You are young and easily misled so we must overlook this matter this time.."

 Chapter 39 - At Stake

    Everyone in the ballroom agreed as they heard the words Elder Lu had to say.Owning the shares of Lu Enterprises may sound like a dream come true but it came with many responsibilities.And from the Lady Lu''s words, it was clear that the beautiful girl had no training in business and she had been living on the Lu family''s charity.Some older people tried to think of the news of the daughter of Old man Lu in the past but all they could think of was that the girl had disappeared suddenly from the business scene..So it was because she had died...she must have married some poor man otherwise why would she leave business?


    Xie Eun stood on the stage, listening to her grandmother the last person she had wanted to believe would betray her and her eyes glittered.This woman had showered her with sweet words for the last two years.She had coaxed her again and again to spend the Lu family''s money and live a luxurious life.But she was lucky that her upbringing was such that she had refrained and spent only the money she received from her father''s investments.It was sparse but it covered her and Aunt Su''s expenses .That was enough...if this grandmother had only asked her to sign away these papers,she would have done that but they used her innocence and her truet against her and for that they would have to pay a price!Her grandmother was right in one aspect though,she knew nothing of business..But she was well prepared for tonight at least.? ?


    "Grandmother, I may be young but I am no one''s fool.Yeona and I are the same age and while she has been modelling in the last two years,I have been studying business in the National University for the past two years.And Inwould like you to enlighten me on how I would be an ingrate by claiming what was rightfully left to me?And what is this about your kindness that I am hearing?What have you done for your orphaned granddaughter that you had not met for eighteen years?Grandfather left the will open for both of us.She and I were both unaware of the terms.But you knew the truth did you not?That I already met the conditions of the will!"


    "And responsibility towards millions?I would like to know what Lu Yeona has done for the Lu Enterprises that would help the company regain its lost footing in the international market?"


    Every word that Xie Eun spoke resounded in the ballroom as the guests slowly realised that they had unknowingly become witness to a battle for Lu Enterprises'' heir..But many of the buainessmen agreed with Xie Eun''s words.Lu Enterprises was indeed a prey waiting to be swallowed by the sharks.Whoever the next CEO would be,they would have a tough battle to make it stand to it''s past glory.And this battle would turn intona blood bath if such internal fighting was discovered.Until now, most of the people had stayed because of the board of trustees but if an inexperienced person were to take the mantle then it would be a disaster for them and a feast for their competitors.In such a case,however they were inclined to support Lu Yeona because she had the backing of Old Lady Lu who was experienced in business.But what happened next shocked everyone and all the guests already started to make plans on how to suck upto Xie Eun..


    While all this was going on,Xie Eun had walked over to a nearby projector that had been playing the slides of Lu family''s achievements and handed a pen drive.Her voice then resonated in the ballroom,"Tomorrow,I will take my rightful place as the heir of Lu Enterprises and this is what I will bring with me."


    With that,the ballroom turned dark and a single spotlight shone on the screen..People whinunderstood legal jargon all swarmed forward to read and felt their breaths collectively stop..It was an agreement between Alpha Companies and Miss Xie Eun.It stated that after Miss Xie took over the company shares, Lu Enterprises would receive a 100 billion dollar investment from Alpha Companies and Miss Xie would receive apprentice training from the Wolf himself after she had completed her education.In the interim, the Alpha Group would appoint a temporary CEO for Lu Enterprises. The control of the company shares will remain with Miss Xie while the profits will be shared equally.


    These details were enough to make anyone''s head roll back but the last sentence made people almost faint.At the end of five years, Lu Enterprises would need to return only the investment left out after adjusting the profits.


    The businessmen all looked at Xie Eun with a different respect now.Until now,they had been amused by the little girl''s play for trying to rise above her station but now...just what was this girl capable that the notoriously reclusive Wolf agreed to such terms.How did a hunter suddenly become so benevolent..was he feeding the prey to make it fatter?But if that was the case,why were all the conditions in Miss Xie''s favor?

 Chapter 40 - A Little Mad

    While everyone stood gaping at the projector screen, Xie Eun observed the crowd.She thought that the amount of investment was what had shocked the people and was still unaware of the power of her husband''s name.But in her heart, she felt extremely thankful for this man''s support.He had helped her without asking for anything in return.Her heart was filled with gratitude for this man who was her husband.Her father had indeed had her best interests at heart while she had been blind to Si Jing and his motives...


    Though,deep in her heart, she was thinking all this, her expression was serene and poised.She was carefully observing her grandmother''s disbelieving reaction and thus was almost pushed off the stage by Lu Yeona.If, Lawyer Wen who had walked to her had not held her hand at the end moment,she would have definitely fallen off the stage and broken a few bones..??


    Lu Yeona''s sudden attack shook everyone out of their stupor and everyone started to whisper amongst themselves.Some wondered the authenticity of the signature while the others marveled at the swift attack of the new heiress.Some felt pity for Yeona while many wonen whohad been bullied felt satisfaction at this woman''s downfall..However, Yeona on the other hand seemed to have turned a little crazy as she shouted,"You little country sl** bumpkin!Who do you think you are?You should have died with your parents!Grandma thought that you are innocent and brought you here but you are a cunning little girl!First you seduced Si Jing and now you are using your beauty to tie up with Alpha Group of Companies!You think you are smart?CEO Wolf will swallow the entire Lu Enterprises and spit you out like a bone!My family has worked hard for twenty years!It was not so that a loser like you could take it!I don''t know what viles you have been using to seduce males and make them give you money.First,it was Si Jing who bought this dress and then this!Knowing CEO Wolf''s reputayion,he wouldn''t choose a bi*** like you so either this is fake orbyou must have slept with some subordinate that helped you dupe the esteemed C EO!And you say you are the rightful heir!That adds another man to the list!Because I know Si Jing is not married to you and neither would a man like CEO Wolf would accept you.....But to claim the shares,you have to be married before you turn twenty!And you turned twenty today while I time twenty day after tomorrow!I am the rightful heir to Lu Enterprises!"


    By the end of the rant, Lu Yeona''s shrill voice echoed through the ballroom.Her brother finally succeeded in dragging her away.Her image as a gentle and proud noblewoman had been dragged into the mud becausee of her impulsive.Both siblings could only glare at Xie Eun as they left.Slowly, old lady Lu,deliberately and slowly placed her microphone on the side and walked over to where Xie Eun and Lawyer Wen stood.."Xie Eun,I don''t know what sort of crooked story this man has told you but I know one thing,I will not take what happened tonight silently.You will have to pay a heavy price.I''ll make sure that you pay my Yeona back for this humiliation..And I would definitely be interested in knowing how you fulfill the conditions of the will tomorrow!Xie Eun,I have treated you too well until now but you have attacked me!And not you will know what the consequences are for my enemies!"


    As the Lu family walked off the stage,the celebration was left midway. A Public Relations head then walked onto thenstage and tried to handle the matters,urging the people to not think of business and enjoy the party tonight.


    Soon, under the skillful urging of the woman,the people started to mingle again..But the current could be felt thoroughly under the surface.Many people could hardly wait to get out and get a confirmation about this news.The others were trying to get closer to Xie Eun so that they xould grasp this opportunity, to get close to Wolf..But she was protected by the circle of the old businessmen who wanted to protect the child.However as a few people were allowed to mingle with her,she noticed that everyone wanted to know about Wolf...As the pattern emerged, Xie Eun slowly realized the these people''s reaction was not because of the investment but because of the name.She could not help but wonder about this man..Finally after sometime, Xie Eun felt weary of looking at the fake smiles of these fake people and thus faking a tired look for herself,she excused herself..Xie Eun slowly walked towards the cloakroom to collect her coat as she walked outside.She was finally alone in this world and needed to accept it. Her father,Si Jing and her so called new family,everyone had left her.Aunt Su would also be leaving soon since her sister was unwell..Xie Eun truly felt lost as she walked towards the doors.And in this moment she realized the extent to which she had come to rely on Si Jing.

 Chapter 41 - Panic In Alpha Companies

    "lalallall"


    The mobile phone on the bedside table rang loudly jolting the man sleeping on the bed to fall off and groan.Rubbing his eyes, Cheng Mo looked at the phone, while cursing the caller.Grumpily, he answered,"Yes?"??


    The caller was the Department Head of the legal team in the Alpha Group and but he was scared to even relay the message.So he stutteringly said,"Assistant Cheng, there is an emergency regarding the boss.We, that is, the Public Relations and Legal department are already handling it but we feel that it would be better to give you a heads up."


    On the thirteenth floor,in a conference room,of the Alpha Companies, a few employees stood straight even though their faces showed that they had been dragged out of the bed at an Ungodly hour.They had been working nonstop for an hour and an array of discarded black coffee cups spread on the side were testament to their hard work.


    They were all cursing the country bumpkin who had dared to use their boss'' name to make a powerplay for her company.A couple of hours ago, their cell phones had started to ring and they had been harassed by the journalists from entertainment and finance industry had bombarded them with question regarding their CEO having accepted a female student..At first everyone had believed this to be a prank but daring not to take chances they had started to make enquiries and the truth of the matter had come out.A village girl and distant relative named Xie Eun had tried to claim the shares of Lu Enterprises by using their boss'' name.Having gained clarity of the matter from Chairwoman Lu herself,and understanding the hint that the Lu family were not to be associated with such a person,the Public Relation department had carefully constructed a denial and contacted the legal department to take action against this individual. They were very clear on their course of action that the person needed to be prosecuted on forgery and fraud charges so that no one would dare to use their CEO''s name in vain.The statements were about to be sent out when they received the picture of the papers that the girl had used..The department head,Attorney Lee had also already had the papers prepared to sue the offender for a few million but then he had glanced at the papers.In shock, he had asked them to stop them from sending anything out.


    Attorney Lee was one of the few people who knew what the CEO''s signature looked like.Most transactions were handles and signed by the department heads with their Power of Attorneys but certain things required the CEO''s signatures.


    These signatures matched their CEO too much and this Attorney Lee felt it would be prudent to confirm everything before making any rash statements.Unknown to him,this one moment had actually saved the livelihoods of all the people present in this room.


    Everyone stared as Attorny Lee explained the entire situation to their only point of contact with CEO Wolf-Assistant Cheng.


    Cheng Mo,got into a comfortable position as he sat with his elbows on his knees and listened to the long winded explanation.After having heard the story and the preparations, Cheng Mo pitied them as all their hard work would have to be discarded now..But, with a sadistic smile on his face, he thought happily to himself,"This is what it means to have an eccentric boss!He could have let them know of his plan to help Miss Xie but he did not and now these peoplewoyld have to suffer.But now,it was time to look at their faces as he gave them a shock.Taking the phone off from his ear, Cheng Mo disconnected the call.


    Attorney Lee,on the other end,heard the dial tone in his ear and stared disbelievingly at the phone.What did Assistant Cheng me a by hanging up on them?


    Attorney Lee could feel himself panicking at the thought that maybe Assistant Cheng was going to complain to the CEO about their incompetence and thus he almost ordered the others to go ahead with the statement.But just then, Attorney Lee''s phone started to ring with an incoming video call and he answered immediately.Seeing that Assistant Cheng Mo had made a video call everyone tried to scramble in front of the camera so that the Assistant would recognize them and their hard work but instead of doing that, Assistant Cheng Mo laughed at them and asked,"Are you all not interested in working at the Alpha Companies anymore?"


    This statement caused almost everyone to freeze in shock much to the amusement of Cheng Mo who actually wanted to watch this..Sardonically he contiued,"Change your statements and acknowledge the agreement.Whatever you have written, write the opposite of it.Work on suppressing any negative news about Miss Xie.The more you praise Miss Xie, ,expect more good luck in the future."


    Everyone in the room stood stock still as the heard the disbelieving words uttered by Assistant Cheng...


    Cheng Mo glanced at the faces of his colleagues and nodded in satisfaction at their proper shocked response..before disconnecting the call and climbing back onto his bed to get a peaceful sleep.


    But,alas,sleep was a far away dream for him,because the moment his eyes close,"lalalalllll".His phone rang again..

 Chapter 42 - Kidnap Her

    Without glancing at the caller id, Cheng Mo barked into the phone,"What?" and then promptly fell off the bed again when he heard the boss'' voice.By the time he had regained his senses andtuttered out a "Bbbboss", the phone had been disconnected.He stared at the blank screen of his phone and thought that this was Karma..He had laughed at his colleagues for having to work overnight and disconnected the call on them so now he would have to work overnight and listen to the disconnected tone.Pulling at his hair, he groaned and got off the floor to freshen up ..Which prestigious person had lost their common sense and decided to kidnap the lady boss, he did not know.But once his boss was done with avenging his wife from that person, the kidnapper was going to suffer at his hands for robbing him of his precious sleep..Rascals..Sleep stealers..


    A couple of hours ago:??


    As Xie Eun walked towards the cloakroom, she was lost in thought about the people she would have to confront tomorrow. There was especially one person she wanted to find and ask a few things.She had seen him leave tonight and knowing him,he would be ready to come back soon..That was Si Jing''s style..if there was a problem, be could not solve, then he dropped it and stepped back before coming back to it in a little while.She had seen him do this many times in the past and she had seen him do this today when she became a problem to him..


    As Xie Eun was lost in thought,she failed to realize that the eyes of a nefarious person were focused on her.She stepped to the small alcove and handed her token to collect her coat but instead of being given the coat,she was pulled into the cloak room and a medicated handkerchief covered her mouth and nose.Xie Ein tried to struggle but she had already inhaled the chloroform and could only struggle a bit before she went unconscious. Immediately putting the woman into a service trolley, a man and a woman,dressed in the hotel staff uniform,made their way to a food delivery truck parked at the back of the hotel and placed the woman there before carefully closing the door.


    The hotel was known for its high tech security and so the shadow body guards had been waiting outside for Xie Eun to return.It was only after the party had started to wind down and the lady had yet to come out did they start to wonder and went in to check.To their astonishment,they were told that Miss Xie had already left..Hurriedly ,the head guard raced to the security toom,knowing full well that the cctv surveillance would have been tampered with..


    The guard felt his soul fly away when he saw that it was indeed true and hacked into the files to check if there was any record of the deleted surveillance.Using his top notch skills, he found the delivery truck and checked the time stamp on the cameras.Luckily, the hotel was in the middle of the city and the delivery truck could not have speeded out of the city so he ordered his subordinates to check into the city streets'' cameras looking for the delivery truck..They may be able to keep their lives,if they could rescue madam otherwise they were dead..


    Dreading what was to come,he tool out his cell phone and made the call..


    The call was answered on the first ring as the man knew these guards were there for his wife''s protection..When the guard communicated the news of Miss Xie''s kidnapping,the man could actually feel the ice storm from the phone..Hurriedly, he disclosed that they had already discovered the kidnappers and were trying to follow their route.


    The man uttered a single sentence at the end of the guard''s monologue but the grown man who had fought various thugs could only meekly nod when he heard,"A single scratch on her and your team will suffer the same a hundred times.."


    Meanwhile,the effect of the mild medicine started to wear off.Xie Eun tried to move but she realised that she had been tied tightly..Realising the car was still moving,Xie Eun took a deep breath and tried to pay attention tonher surroundings.It was then she heard the conversation happening in the car as a man barked into the phone,"We have already kidnapped her. You said only to kidnap her and roughen her up a bit to give a scare but now you want us to hold onto her until tomorrow?We can try but you will have to pay is extra..And my boys like fresh meat so if you leave the dogs to guard the meat,don''t expect the meat to remain intact.You understand what I mean?"


    The man laughed loudly at whatever the other person said on the phone,but Xie Eun felt her stomack roll at the evilness in the laughter and when the man repeated the answer he had recieved,Xie Eun wanted to throw up and she earnestly started to formulate an eacape plan..


    "Our employers are generous this time!They said that we can enjoy all the meat we want!!Haahha"

 Chapter 43 - Kidnapped

    Xie Eun felt fear course through her after she heard the kidnapper''s words..Did these people hate her so much.She tried to get her hands out of the binding but they were tied tightly and the rope chafed against her wrists.


    Even as she tried to make as little movement as possible, she heard the conversation between the two kidnappers.??


    "Don''t be a fool.She looks like someone powerful.There must be a reason that someone wants to kidnap her.Kidnapping is fine but if you and your boys harm her,someone may come back for revenge."


    "I don''t think she is anyone powerful.She walked in with an old man.I saw her.So maybe she is his mistress and no man will come to avenge his mistress.Suxh a beauty!Why should we not have her?"


    The man''s voice grated on her ears and Xie Eun cursed the fates that she had to wear a dress..She was no damsel in distress and had to escape from here before these people reached their location.She promised herself that she would kick the man''s nuts into his stomach if any man who tried to get close to her.She was a tomboy since childhood and her father had trained her well in physical self defence..But if these kidnappers reached the hideout then she would have to fight extra scum!


    Xie Eun twisted herself into a pretzel, thanking that the stupid people had thrown her in the back instead of the seat and slowly took off the high heels on her feet.The silly pointed thing could atleast be used for something other than torturing her feet..


    Once the heeled shoe was in her hand,she got to work on cutting the rope binding her..and just as she felt the rope give way, she could also feel the car coming to a slow stop..


    Xie Eun felt her heart drop at the thought of fighting a few men while wearing such a dress but she narrowed her eyes and concentrated on creating a strategy while she untied her legs.She looked at the delicate wrist watch on her hand and realized that it had been more than an hour since she had been kidnapped..


    She lay back in her original position with the shoe still clutched in her hand as she readied to attack her kidnappers the moment they opened the doors.But the two people simply left the car..After a few minutes when nobody opened the door of the van,Xie Eun carefully raised her head and peeped out of the car..They were evidently ourside some warehouse and the two people were walking inside.It seemed they were confident that she would still be unconscious.On the front seat,she spied the waiter uniform that the kidnaoper had been wearing and then she looked at the surroundings.More than the people there she was looking for cameras to check if her escape would be noticed by anyone.Once she had confirmed that there were no traps and hidden cameras, she raised herself and picked up the uniform and her small beaded bag from the dashboard, before trying to open the door.Luck was on her side and the kidnappers had not locked the doors. Clutching the uniform in one hand and her shoes in the other, Xie Eun made a run for the small metal gate..


    Pebbles and stones hurt her foot but she dare not stop..But the gate was locked..Looking around,Xie Eun spied a tree that had a single branch that extended over the high walls..But she could not climb the tree in the dress.


    Using brute strength,Xie Eun urgently ripped the lower skirt of the dress and then tugged on the uniform pants. Then picking up her makeshift weapon,she started to climb the tree..


    It had been a few years since Xie Eun had climbed trees and other than being out of practice she realized that she had miscalculated the height of the tree branch..


    However she gritted her teeth and climbed higher and higher.She had almost reached her goal when she heard the sounds of men running around and shouting..She cursed and almost lost her balance but then tried to calm herself.They would not look for her over here.The kidnaooers in face would not even thing to look-up at the tree.Since it was dark, she had the cover of night and could slowly slither out...


    Like a little cat,she clung to the branch as the kidnappes opened the gates and rushed out of the warehouse looking for her..Fools!The lot of them!Xie Eun decided that she would out wait them and then once they were back after looking for her, she would jump down out of the warehouse..However in the next moment,she almost gave away herself as she heard a slithering sound..."hissssssssss"

 Chapter 44 - Help Me

    Xie Eun stared at the snake that was angrily hissing at her and then the reptiles on the ground.Why?Why did she have such rotten luck..


    "Mr Snake?", she whispered.." See those people down there?They are really dangerous so I have to borrow this tree branch for a while.But it is only for a little time.I promise to leave you alone after that.I am not trying to take over your home..Could you please let me be?Pretty please..I''d rather not fall into the hands of those people!Do you know they are slime!Worst than a sna..I mean calling them a snake would be an insult to your esteemed race..."??


    (Author:My FL is talking to a snake!Xie Eun?Hello?Do you think it can understand you?Snakes cannot hear since they do not have ears.. forget understanding!")


    The snake,however paid no attention to her and simply slithered away onto another branch much to her relief...Just then one of the goons had returned and as he went to inform their people about the disappearance, he spied a shiny discarded cloth near the tree trunk.Narrowing his eyes, the goon went into the warehouse without giving a reaction and then came out with a pair of binoculars.He scanned the surroundings and grinned when he realized that their prey was hiding in their own yard.He kept down the binoculars and turned around to make the calls to his fellows and summon them back.They would teach this bi*** a lesson soon..


    The man then took out his gun and aimed it at the spot that the snake had just vacated..


    Xie Eun who had just breathed a sigh of relief when the bullet whizzed by her face almost fell off the tree in terror and many aplinters entered her palms as she tried to regain her balance..She looked at the place where the bullet had come from and saw a greasy goon with chipped fromt teeth grinning at her,his gun pointed straight at her.His message was clear that either she come down or he would shoot her..Xie Eun pretended to be shaky as she narrowed her eyes at the make of the gun..She could tell thatbit was one if the latest models and mostly accurate.She calculated whether she could take her chances and throw her shoe at him or her purse...But then another ten men raced inside and Xie Eun knew that she was now toast.By the time she got off the tree on the other side if the wall,they would have surrounded her..Guess she would have to go for a Plan B..


    Slowly,Xie Eun jumped down from the branch and onto her knees.Her palms were full of splinters, bleeding and stinging while her knees were bruised..


    The moment she was back on her feet, the man who had kidnapped her walled forward and pointed a gun to her head and slapped her across the cheek,"You bi***!No wonder the young master wanted us to subdue you!A rich man like him would want little delicate flowers!Not a cat that climbed trees!Don''t worry!After tonight you will not even be able to walk straightly let alone climb a tree."


    Xie Eun took another blow to her heart as she realised that it was Si Jing who wanted to ruin her and arranged these trash men..Her heart which he had already broken,hurt even kore as she thought how much he hated her.She wanted to hold him and ask whatbshe had done to deserve such treatment..


    Another filthy man touched her arm, jolting her back to the present and she reacted with instinct.In the next moment, the man was on the ground and his gun in her hand.She pointed the gun around and slowly moved back..


    The kidnapper laughed atbger and said,"Little girl!Do you even know how to use that thing?Come here quietly and we will be gentle with you, maybe.Or else.."


    In answer to this threat, Xie Eun unlocked the safety on the gun and fired an empty shot near the kidnapper''s feet.The fools did not know that she had grown up amid guns and rifles..Keeping her gun raised, Xie Eun slowly moved a bit back and with her gun still pointed at them, she bent and picked up the beaded bag that she had discarded to keep her hands free for climbing the tree. She was going to use this chance to escape..She was already calculating the distance and manoeuvre to reach the gates when one of the men''s eyes moved a bit to the left.Immediately recognizing the threat that there was someone behind her,Xie Eun turned quickly but it was already too late and a man struck her on the forehead with a thin metal pipe,causing her to keel over and collapse.Rushing forward the man pulled out the gun from her hand and another(the one whose gun she had snatched) kicked her in the stomach violently as he vowed to be the first to ruin her.Just as he was about to wrap his hand around her hair to drag her inside,another man pointed at something on the ground and every person moved a few steps back in fright.Because the bag in her hand had opened with her fall and near Xie Eun, lay a black and gold visiting card with a wolf on it..But even as they planned to escape,they were too late..

 Chapter 45 - Authors Note..

    Hello everyone.There is not going to be an update today but will be doing a double update for tomorrow to make up for this!I am sorry for disappointing you..


    Many of my awesome readers have also asked me about my other book ''Stroke of Love'' so to clarify that I am in the middle of changing a few things in that as the story is not going in the direction I wanted it to.Thank you for your patience..??


    Until then, I ask you to do something for me!Please vote for the cover of this book on a scale of 1-10..


    This cover was not my first choice so I am not too sure of it!Also if you have a better cover idea, please do send it to me on my Instagram -@authorhark


    Looking forward to your scores..


    Also please leave your reviews and ratings so that I can do better!


    Thank you

 Chapter 46 - Ttttttrouble

    As the light glittered off the card, all the goons took a step back in fear.Who amongst them had not heard of this sign and symbol?Would a normal person have such a card lying about?The one who had forced her down, tried to explain away this as coincidence,"It cccould be any visiting card...The person who wanted her kidnapped said that she was no one important!"


    But they dare not take any chances..These people were not part of any gangs and had come together only because of need for money.??


    Another man walked away slowly and said,"Forget using her.That card will get us killed if it is discovered that we were the kidnappers.We have done our job and receive the money..Lets forget about using her.She needs to stay missing until tomorrow night. so we can just tie her up..Because if she really is protected by wolf..then we will be dead tonight..Lets just run away."


    The youngest man in the group was excited about the possibility of having a woman against her wishes.He was barely nineteen and this was his first time.He was thus not paying attention to the discussions and already salivating at the possibility of having such a beautiful woman.With his eyes full of lust,greed and dirty intentions,he went and stretched his hand to touch,but just then a small arrow pierced into his hand making him scream out loud turning the attention of the others towards him..All the men could see the death flash in front of their eyes and they got a good look at their junior screaming in agony


    In the next moment,the entire warehouse was surrounded by uniformed men wearing black masks and armed with guns,all pointed at the group..Some of the men tried to back away and claim that they had no relation to this incident but everyone was simply pushed to stand facing a wall with their hands raised.In the next instant,a man came forward and called out the names of these men one buy one.When the first name was called out, the man believed that he was going to be let go but then the masked man started to read the crimes he had committeed ranging from theft, smuggling, ra** and murder..once the entire listt had been read, the man was shot in the head without another word..It was like they had been summoned to judgement day..Seeing this each of the man started to tremble in their boots and some even wet themselves...They may have escaped the punishment by law,but they would not be able tonescape tonight,for they knew their crimes..Just then,some of them noticed a man walk past from the corner of their eyes and they knew that Wolf himself had come to rescue the girl.They thought of this as their chance to escape and tried to make a deal,"We can tell you who wanted to harm her,if you spare us.Those people even wanted us to ruin her.Please please let us go.We are only trying to make a living.The girls enmity is not with us but with those that gave us money.Please spare us."


    The sounds coming from the back indicated that the man had paused his steps to listen to them so they took encouragement from this and tried to make up wild stories to get themselves rescued.Listening to their noise, the man comtinued to walk towards the girl that lay prone on the ground..Bending down,he checked her pulse and then gestured to her security guard to make call to the doctor to be ready..She had suffered..


    His cold eyes then turned to the boy who was writhing in agony on the side.The arrow was a special device of torture.It used the human body as a conductor and passed electric current at regular intervals,giving the brain gradual shocks.The arrow had been embedded in the boy''s hand for a few minutes now and already he could feel his snesory organs going numb..When Wolf walked over to him, he felt as if he was seeing the devil himself.The man was dressed in a long black trench coat staring down at him with a bloodthirsty look in his eyes.In a voice that was just as deadly as it was melodious,the man stared down and ordered,"Let this boy live..He will be the witness to today''s lesson.Everyone seems to have forgotten that they are not to mess with my people.The others, they have no useful information so you all know what to do..


    Wolf then stepped forward and crushed the hand that had his arrow embedded in it under his heeled shoe making he man scream even more.The poisoned arrow coupled with the shattering of the boy''s hand''s bones would make sure that he would never be able to use his hand..


    Once he had made himself clear,he deliberately walked back and picked Xie Eun up in his arms walking back to the car silently.


    Once the car had departed,all that could be heard behind were begs of mercy and screams as punishment was meted out.

 Chapter 47 - Kill Them Again

    Cheng Mo assisted the doctor into the mansion and guided him to sit in the chair.The doctor was a man in his fiftiesbwhonhad been dragged out of sleep but he sat there quietly.This was the third time the doctor had been summoned to this mansion.But he knew the taciturn owner and dared not complain.The doctor tried to rethink as to his tool bag trying to confirm that he had placed all the required medicines in his bag before rushing here. Tentatively he looked at Assistant Cheng and asked,"CEO has not yet arrived.And the last two times, he had already listed his injuries on the phone.Can you. not call him again and ask?Is he even more gravely injured than last time?"


    Cheng Mo could see that the doctor was genuinely worried about the boss'' injuries and thus tried ton explain,"It is not the CEO who is injured but someone even more powerful than him.Doctor, this time you will have to do better than your best also.."??


    The doctor was less reassured by Cheng Mo''s words and even more perplexed.Who was this person that was even more powerful than CEO Wolf? The doctor tried to guess in his mind wondering if it was the president of their country or maybe a visiting diplomat..


    Just then Cheng Mo rushed to open the door and the doctor also jumped to his feet.Buthe was shocked when he saw the CEO carrying in a bleeding woman..The woman''s face was covered woth blood and she was dressed haphazardly in a man''s pants and glittery top.Within a moment,he looked up and saw the CEO rushing upwards towards a room.The room upstairs was actually an operation toom that CEO Wolf kept for his personal use.


    Seeing that the CEO and Assistant Cheng were already halfway up the stairs, the doctor snapped back to reality and rushed after them.He dare not slack since Assistant Mo had specifically mentioned that this person was more important than CEO Wolf.


    When the doctor saw the bloodied face of the woman,he could not help but be amazed.Even in such a vulnerable position,the woman had an ethereal quality to her.He was an old man who had thought himself immune to beauty but now he realized the true meaning of beauty.


    Just as the doctor was starting he felt a chill in his back. Once again snapping back to reality, Doctor Ma wondered if he had lost the will to live.He was actually dilly dallying instead of taking care of the patient.He got to work immediately.Seeing the doctor was being professional again, Wolf turned around and went out.


    Wolf stood at the end of the corridor staring out.Cheng Mo looked at the man''s back as he stood near the medical room.He wondered what the boss would do to punish the ones eho had orchestrated this entire scene tonight.It was clear that someone had wanted her to not be able to reach the lawyer''s offices tomorrow.


    From what he understood,if Xie Eun is unable to reach thevoffice and sign the papers tomorrow, she would lose the right to inherit.Because the conditions of the will were such, they had to be extra careful.But who would have thought that the opposition would be even more nefarious..


    Just then thr door opened and the doctor walked out. Adter seeing the young woman''s injuries,he felt pity for her..


    Walking over to Cheng Mo,he explained,"The patient is in a medical sleep now.She woke up when I was checking her head injuries..The metal pipe caused damage to the forehead and the patient needed stitches.I have prescribed an ointment that can be used after the initial wound has settled.This was it will not scar.She needed overnight supervision and will have to be woken every few hours.Other than that, she seemed to be uncomfortable in the abdomen area.After checking, I found a shoe print in her stomach as if someone had kicked her viciously.Luckily there were no internal injuries but the young miss will definitely face pain in sitting for the next few days.Her hands and knees have wiid splinters in them.I have disinfected the area and bandaged the hands.Please see that it does not get wet and change the bandage regularly so that it does not get infected."As the doctor liste Xie Eun''s hurt,he could feel the temperature dropping in the corner of the corridor.Having done his job,the doctor made his way out followed by Cheng Mo.Finally,when they had reached the car,the doctor was unable to stop himself and asked,"Assistant Cheng.Who is the young lady?You said she was even more powerful than your boss.and she is even hurt so badly.."


    "She is the lady boss..and someone will have to pay for the bruises she has had dearly..dont you worry doctor."


    The doctor said nothing as he got into the car.He was stunned.Indeed the woman was more powerful than CEO Wolf..She had power over the CEO''s heart..

 Chapter 48 - Hating And Loving

    Xie Eun was experiencing a nightmare. She felt as if all the bones in her body were breaking as she ran away from monsters.In the dream she spied Si Jing and felt hope rise as she ran to him, and when she had jumped into his arms, believing he would protect her,Si Jing turned around and handed her to the monsters.Xie Eun felt a scream leave her throat at the betrayal and it was this hoarse scream that woke her up..A faint light glowed in a corner of the room as Xie Eun opened her eyes and looked around.For a moment, her eyes adjusted to the light and she wondered where she was.As consciousness slowly came back, the memories rushed back and she sat up with a jerk.The sudden movement caused her to hiss in pain and fall back on the bed.Lying back down,she stared at the ceiling as she tried to assess the damages to her body.She could recognise from the smell that she was in a hospital and wondered who had refused her.She onew that she had been rescued because she had been half conscious when she felt someone lifting her and rushing her.


    Her throat was parched and aching because of the recent scream. She looked around and spied a cup bottle of water near the bed..It was within reach but she had no strength to move,so she just lay there quietly with her eyes closed..Her hands were bandaged or she would have clenched them tightly.A rush of fierce hatred coursed through her as she thought of the conversation between the kidnappers.She realised that love could really turn into hate in a split second.She had loved Si Jing with all her heart and now she hated the man with the same heart.The heart that had once overflowed with love now overflowed with hate..??


    Just then the door opened and she spied the silhoutte of a man.In an instant,she recognised the man..He was her husband...She could not see his face because of the light shining from behind him but she was very familiar with his built.And she knew that he would have been the only person able to rescue her tonight from the goons hired by Si Jing.


    In the last week,she had understood that her husband was a rich man in the city.Her father it seemed had the forethought to marry her to someone who would not covet her wealth.She knew that he was the CEO of a big company and did not need to be married to her.He had done that out of respect for her father.Wolf had even lent her so much money so that she could take over her position easily and without much opposition.Xie Eun knew she was indebted to this man for all he had done for her now and even in the past two years.She tried to clear her throat to thank him but no voice came out of her mouth.Her throat felt even more dry as the man walked in.She followed his silhouette as he closed the door and walked in towards her with the grace of a panther..Her heart thindered when he stepped close enough to the bed that he was touching it.His hand extended and Xie Eun had to curb the urge to move away from the hand.She closed her eyes tightly,not wanting to know how and where he would touch her.But the man only pressed a button in the side of her bed and the back of the bed was gently lifted upwards..When she was in a relatively sitting position,the man picked up thee water bottle and slowly brought it to her dried lips.Staring at the glittering green eyes,Xie Eun opened her mouth and slowly sipped the water from the straw.


    The two sets of eyes stared at each other as if the world around them had faded.Once she had some water in her,Wolf placed the bottle back on the table and turned on a little lamp by the bedside.The sudden light, though mild caused a momentary blindness in Xie Eun who closed her eyes..The moment her eyes opened though,she lookednup fiercely at the ma in fromt of her ad was stunned....

 Chapter 49 - Thank The Heavens

    The moment she looked up, Xie Eun''s first thought was,"Thank the Heavens" followed by a stunned silence.She thanked the heavens that she was not drinking water or she would have spat it out.Because standing in front of her was her husband, wearing the mask of another Super Villain,''Death Vader.''Good thing it had been dark when he entered otherwise after the nightmare, she would have thought that she was going crazy.Maybe this Wolf person had some affinity for villainous characters...If it had been earlier,she would have categorized him for being a villain but now she understood one thing-A hero''s face could hide the biggest villain..Like Si Jing..


    Seeing the stunned look on her face, Wolf wondered if he had maybe forgotten to wear his mask.He surreptitiously checked to see and the mask was in it''s place..He still did not know that he was wearing a villain mask..Had he known that, Cheng Mo would have been fried(yes fried and not fired) the next morning..He had simply asked Cheng Mo to bring him a few masks that would cover his face.Seeing her stunned look, Wolf concluded that it was actually better than last time when she had screamed out..Maybe this character was her favorite so she was dazed..The reason why he had asked Cheng Mo to get him the masks was because that he had discovered that his wife liked action movies like his Assistant.After the assorted masks that Cheng Mo had brought, this seemed the simplest,so he thought that this one would be suitable.??


    Finally,when Xie Eun could not stop staring,Wolf calmly walked forward and with a finger under her eyes, checked if they were dilated or not.Assuring himself that she was not suffering from any severe concussion, he extended his hand and lifted the loose top that he had put on her.


    Reacting quickly,Xie Eun placed her hand on his to stop the upward movement of her shirt and asked shiveringly,"Wh..what are you doing?"


    Glittering green,wild eyes met the timid brown eyes from behind the mask as the two once again engaged in a staring match.


    Finally,Wolf sighed and muttered,"Eun-a?Your stomach is bruised severely and needs to be applied medicine,multiple times in a day.."


    Xie Eun wanted to protest as she remembered the painful kick she had received and say that she could apply the medicine herself but having read her thoughts,Wolf pointedly looked at her hands which were placed over his.Both were covered in thick white bandages..She stared at the white bandaged hands placed on the tanned large hand..Such beautiful hands the man had..she got side tracked as she lookedbat them intently .Just then,she felt a brush of his finger against her bare stomach where the top had slipped up and she realized that..That she was pressing his hand onto her stomach!!


    Quickly lifting her hands as if scalded, she looked away awkwardly and tried to think of something to say..


    Meanwhile,Wolf looked at the little girl and slowly lifted the shirt.Taking a tube of ointment,he slowly spread the cold gel onto her tightly clenched stomach,where the boot prints were visible.He was able to do this calmly now but when he had first seen the prints,he had been so angry that the ittle mercy he had ordered his people to show was taken back..Those people were even now being tortured before they would be killed.


    Xie Eun felt a current pass through her as the man slowly applied the cold medicine.This was the first time some man was touching her stomach..like this..So gently and caressingy.She could not help but clench her stomach wherever she felt his fingers.She could not help but stare at his dark hand against her pale skin. She finally breathed a sigh of relief when he lifted away his fingers and pulled the top back in it''s place.


    She wanted to thank him, for helping her, and for rescuing her but her words were stuck in her throat..Shebhad so many questions to ask,"How did he know the truth about Si Jing?Why did he not tell her?Why did he have to protect her from behind the scenes.Why did he accept her as his student?So many things to say and ask but not knowing where to begin,she simply followed him with her eyes as he placed the ointment back..It was only as he reached the door to leave, did Xie Eun realize that she had been keeping mum and he would be gone soon.So she called out to him,"Wolf...??"

 Chapter 50 - Holding Hands For Eternity

    "Wolf?"


    The small child like voice, stopped Wolf in his tracks.This was the first time he had heard his name from her lips.And he felt a sweet and bitter taste in his mouth..Whenever she called the name his parents had given him, she did so with great confidence and entitlement but the name that he had received due to his circumstances as a teenager, she called so timidly. He wanted her to always call him the way she did Yu Seok and this was why he had chosen to not reveal himself.Or she would never share her feelings with him..He had earned her trust as Yu Seok, her friend and now he wanted her love and trust as her husband.??


    Wolf shook his head at his own ironic thoughts.He wanted love and trust on the basis case identity..He could guess how angry she would be when she discovered the truth but he would look for a suitable time and tell her so that she would not hate him too much..(Author:Wolf, lies are lies..just reveal yourself now and woo her like a man! Wolf:Author-nim? Are you the ML or me?I know how to catch my prey..I mean court my female!You just be careful that nobody else reveals my truth to her or else...)


    He turned and went back to the bed..When Xie Eun did not look up again or say anything else,he wondered if he had hallucinated her calling him.Unable to stop himself,he placed a gentle finger under her chin and lifted her face..The tears glistening in her eyes almost brought him to his knees.His frown behind the mask turned fierce and his voice when he talked again came out harsh and rough."Why are you crying?"


    This tone startled Xie Eun and she looked up..Finally meeting the eyes of the man,she brought herself together and said,"I want to know everything.Will you tell me?"


    Wolf cocked his head at that and pulling the chair near the bed,he sat on it languidly..It seemed the time had come to teach her."What is it that you want to know?"


    Xie Eun felt uncomfortablenall over as she feltbtge mans eyes look at her piercingly.She had only now realized that those eyes had an XRay like quality to them.As if this man could see everything in your heart.She realised that he knoew of her lies and yet he had tolerated them and she wanted to know "Why?" But she dare not ask that question,"Why did father force me t marry you?Why does my grandmother hate me?Did father know about this will?Why did he not tell me anything?And what happens now after this will has been done with?Inwant to know everything.."


    Wolf smiled at the girl who was speaking nervously and slowly lifter her bandaged hands in his own..Seeing her hands in his,"Xie Eun stuttered to a stop and widened her eyes at Wolf,not sure what to say. She wanted to know if she had angered the man with her blabber or her questions but the silly mask got in the way!


    Irritatedbat not being able to look and judge his expression,Xie Eun snapped,"And why are toy wearing a mask?Are you very ugly?Dont worry even if you havena few scars on your face,I won''t mind looking!But do I really have to look at Death Vader when I am talking?It is very disturbing!And why are you obsessed with villains?If you really want to wear a mask can you wear something like Zorro?Or a similar one like the handsome Lee Joon Gi is wearing in the Goryeo romance show!?Or even batman is better than this!With the super villains you have on ,I fear seeing Lord Voldemor with no nose or maybe some such character!


    Wolf:".."


    That was a rather drastic change in topic...Uhh..with the difficult questions she had put forth, Wolf had been wondering how to distract her but she seemed to have drastically distracted herself...Well..He was used to her ways as Yu Seok but as his Wolf persona, he was at a loss at what to do so he just sat there holding her hands while Xie Eun continued to frown at him..It was only after a few minutes of silence that Xie Eun realised that he was still holding her hands and thought that she needed to remind him to let go of her hand because he seemed to have forgotten he was holding it...She had an inkling that if she let him hold her hands,he would keep on holding them till eternity...

 Chapter 51 - Happy Anniversary

    When Xie Eun tried to pull her hand back from his grasp, Wolf came out of his reverie and reluctantly let them go."Eun-a..You will have answers to all your questions but you need to be patient.Your father did not know of the will for long.In fact he found about it a few days before he passed away.Now,you need to rest for the coming morning. You were kidnapped to prevent you from reaching Lawyer Wen.The people who ordered the kidnapping know that their plan had succeeded and no one has yet to know that you have been rescued.You need all your strength to face them tomorrow..Rest well for now."


    Xie Eun could not help but feel helpless and angry to some extent.She had been foolish but it did not mean that she needed to be kept in the dark.If she had known about Si Jing, she would not have made such a fool of herself.Snorting,she angrily bit out,"I want to hear everything now!If father and you had known everything in advance then why did no one warn me about Si Jing or about my maternal grandmother? Why keep an eye on me and those people in the dark instead of warning me.Is that not because father and you tooknmenforba fool that could be easily manipulated?What is the difference between you and Si Jing?He also thought that it was easy to manipulate me..it is why he played with my feelings for so long.He used my feelings for him like a weapon and weilded it against me slowly and carefully.My love for him was nothing but a tool..."? ?


    The temperature in the room dropped slowly as the tears in Xie Eun''s eyes flowed down her cheeks. It was only as Xie Eun looked up that she realised what she had said..She had actually confessed to her legal husband that she loved another man.She could feel her skin scalding as his burning eyes stared at her.He had to know that she was dating another man but knowing and listening to your wife cry over another man were two different things...


    Carefully, she lifted ger wet eyelashes and looked at him..Even though ahe could not see his expressions behind the mask she feltbas if this death vader mask must resemble his angry face the most.The next words he spoke had no trace of his earlier gentleness..They were icy and spoken through clenched teeth,making Xie Eun realise that she had really said the wrong things to the wrong person.


    "A woman experiencing puppy love has negative IQ.I had heard that saying before but you have proved it to me.All the clues were in from of you but you chose to ignore them.In the many years that you two have known each other, has Si Jing once introduced you to his friends?or whenever you went out with him, did he ever take you where anyone would know him?Orncomento your dorms where anyone could recognise him?No!But you were a blind fool and you have the gall to blame me!Do you think I enjoyed the time when my people reported that my wife was spending time with another man?Tell me Eun-a,would you have believed me if I had come to you?In face even when the oroof was laid in your way,you still wanted to give Si Jing a last chance.Isn''t that what calling the model was all about?But now since you know the truth,let me warn you Eun-a that from now on,you are my wife. Up until now, I have fulfilled the promise between your father and myself but from now on you are the one who is going to pay all yoyr debts.Out marriage which was on hold for the last two years had now come into effect.."


    Xie Eun felt a weird thrill and tradition course through her at this declaration.She wanted to protest that even though Si Jimg was out of the picture, all her other reasons we''re still valid and she still wanted a divorce.But he was right, she needed to pay him back for all he had done for her..She took a deep breath and was about to explain herself but her lips were the caught by his in a deep kiss..


    His hands framedbher face as he relentlesslt kissed her..Starting out a little rough,soon his kiss turned gentle and coaxing, making Xie Eun feel lost and dazed..Unable to control her body''s response,her hands which had moved to his shoulders to push him back curled into fists clutching at him while her mind turned to mush.


    Meanwhile,Wolf was very satisfied with his own distracting technique and slowly moved his lips towards her ears. In a whisper soft tone,he then said,"Happy marriage anniversary to us,my little lamb." In a daze, Xie Eun nodded and wished him back.


    Wolf was long gone by the time Xie Eun came out of her trance.

 Chapter 52 - A Mystery

    As Xie Eun lay on the bed staring at the ceiling,she wondered when the man had raised his mask.She did not know why but she always dropped her guard in front of him.Wondering on the mystery of the man that was her husband,Xie Eun quickly fell asleep.Meanwhile, Wolf worked through the night to orchestrate the events that would happen in the next few hours,while the people who had incurred the wrath of the man planned happily their steps after their impending success.


    Old Lady Lu and Yeona sat at the breakfast table in the Lu mansion. The others sitting were quietly eating their breakfast unaware of the glint in the old woman and her granddaughter''s eyes. Old Lady Lu and Yeona were over the moon that today that silly chit would not be able to come to the Lawyer''s office.As per the terms of will,if she did not come forward to claim her right,the stocks and shares would naturally be passed onto the next heir.Naturally with the fate she must have faced last night,it would be a wonder if she was even alive..In fact even if she was alive after those dirty men were done with her,Xie Eun may not have any will to live.After all she had been double betrayed by her love Si Jing.??


    And even if the girl was thick skinned enough to show her face in public and continue to live,no man would accept such used goods. Plus she had received the call from the Alpha Group of Companies a few hours ago to clarify the matter regarding Xie Eun and this proved that the contract that she had shown at the party was a fake one.Alpha Group was not one to let go of a someone who had used their name easily.She was going to be sued within an inch of her life!A small smirk graced the woman''s face at the impending doom of her own grand daughter. She checked her dummy phone,the one that she had been using to contact the kidnappers.She had asked the men to click some pictures of Xie Eun in action with them so that those old coots who were trustees would know and be disgusted.. Satisfied with the breakfast,Old Lady Lu gingerly wiped her lips on a napkin and stood up. Yeona followed suit and the two women left the room without turning back taking away the air of oppression with them..But as they left the room,they missed a pair of eyes that followed their path with hatred..


    At Lawyer Wen''s office:


    It was 10.00 am and Lawyer Wen had already been at work for a few hours. His secretary entered with a perfunctory knock on the door and placed a cup of tea in front of the man.The table was scattered with papers everywhere and the lawyer himself looked like he had been in a battle She wondered what was the identity of the person coming in today.She had never seen her boss so frazzled.In fact all the employees had been strictly told to behave themselves to the highest standard.They had even been warned about the none disclosure agreements they had signed when they started working here.The secretary somehow felt that this had to be related to the visit from the girl who had come to the office two days ago.


    The girl had come in without an appointment but insisted on waiting for the boss..Xie Eun,she knew the name now..It had been trending as the hottest news since last night.She looked at the case files and helped with the tidying up,organising the papers effectively.After a few minutes,Lawyer Wen had automatically picked up the cup and almost spit out the drink he had sipped,before roaring,"Why is my blackbcoffee replaced with tea?"


    The secretary innocently blinked her eyes and said,"Because grandma called and warned us against giving you any coffee!"


    The old man deflated like a balloon after his grand daughter cum secretary pointed out,that his wife had ordered so.He rubbed his forehead and sighed tiredly.He was too old for this. He looked at Shan Shan who was unable to control her curiosity and was reading the legal papers spread in front of her.Sigh!Shan Shan was under training to take over the firm so it was a good thing that she would learn from this complicated case..But she was too young and impulsive and he feared that her animosity towards Yeona may make her spill the beans..


    Maybe it was time to test his Shan Shan.But before the old lawyer could say anything,Wen Shan blew out a curse uncaring of her grandfather''s sensibilities and said,"What kind of a fuc*** up will is this?Is it even legally valid?"

 Chapter 53 - Shan Shan

    Shan Shan glared at her grandfather incredulously.She had even forgotten her place as his secretary and was now glaring at him.It really was a crazy will and she was amazed that her grandfather had drafted it.


    She looked at her grandfather,who was smiling at her and was about to say more but he cut her off."The will is perfectly legal, child and let me remind you that it is not your place to judge the client''s wishes.Shan Shan, sit here and listen to this.Moving on this is going to be the most difficult case and my last case.In fact, if handled wrongly, it can have my license cancelled and my life''s work and reputation will be sent down the drain. I will not get into details.The client had his own reasons for making the will as he did..So we will discuss the present.Shan Shan,the will concerns people you know so please keep the prejudice out. At present, there are two contender who have fulfilled the conditions of the will.By that I mean the two most absurd and important conditions.The first one being that to legally inherit the shares, they must be married by their twentieth birthday and they must bring something meaningful to the company. If both are legally eligible then the trust created will have the final decision. And that is what is today''s meeting is all about.But Old man Lu had not expected to pass away soon after he created this will.He had thought that when he passed away,his friends would pay respect to him and make a just decision.But it has been eighteen years since the man passed away and now Chairwoman Lu''s network and roots within the people in the trust are as much powerful as that man if not more powerful..??


    So now the trust is in a dilemma. Now this is where I can be implicated.The old man must have told his wife about his will and soon after she started planning to put Lu Yeona on the throne of Lu Enterprises.It also did not help that General Xie who was Old Man Lu''s son in law had moved to a small village after his wife passed away. All would have been fine,if both the girls had not known the condition of the will and then the property would have been divided equally.But a few years ago I came to know that Lu Yeona knew the will''s contents.It was at your seventeenth birthday party when you and Lu Yeona had the showdown and she said something..That gave me a pause and after pondering a bit,I broke my ethics for the first time in my career and decided to tell General Xie..Old man Lu wanted the will to be fair,but Chairwoman Lu had misused his trust to place her chosen person on the chair.Last year when I went to have a talk with General Xie,I came to know that he had already passed away a few weeks of receiving the information.I had no way of finding out if General Xie had used the information I sent so I gave up on it,leaving it to fate.But then Xie Eun came the day before yesterday."


    Shan Shan heard her grandfather''s voice and realized the severity of the matter.The fact that her grandfather had broken his code of ethics meant that this matter was very important him. She wanted to burst out that the dumb b****,Yeona had no business inheriting Lu Enterprises but knew that this was not the time to say anything..But another thing was clear,grandfather did not want Lu Yeona to inherit as well.So she tentatively asked,"Then is Lu Yeona going to inherit?Are you worried that once she ascends,she will creates problems for you?But General Xie is already dead.Are you feeling bad for the other girl because she lost out?Is that why you took her to the ball last night?Did she come to know something and came to you for help?"


    Shan Shan felt bad for the girl who had come here.She had been a sweet girl who had sat there patiently without making a scene. But when she looked up from her musings,she saw her grandfather grinning happily and he then continued,"All this hard work is to ensure that Lu Enterprises makes a smooth transition into Xie Eun''s hands...I never could have expected that General Xie was a man of such means. Shan Shan saw her grandfather rubbing his hands in anticipation and knew something big was going to take place...

 Chapter 54 - A Good Show

    Lawyer Wen rubbed his hands and grinned in anticipation.He then cast another look at his secretary cum granddaughter and explained,"In normal circumstances, the winner would be Lu Yeona.She has been modelling for a few years and has her own brand reputation.She also comes with the backing of chairwoman Lu and a few investors.Her upbringing is perfect and so is her education.When compared to Xie Eun, her upbringing has nothing to do with business, her education is focused in liberal arts with a minor in business management.She comes from a small village and has no network to speak of..As Shan Shan listed the points, she felt that her grandfather was right.The girl Xie Eun did not have much when compared to Lu Yeona..


    But her grandfather was sure that Lu Enterprises was going to be transferred to Lu Yeona..Why???


    Lawyer Wen then explained,"Ha!I had the same feeling when I''d run approached me the other day.It was a lost cause.I planned to say a few words of consolation and send her on the way but then she showed me the files....The old man then handed another open file to Shan Shan and said,"Read this agreement.This will does not require Xie Eun to have the right upbringing or education..It asks for a husband and what you can bring into the corporation.And Xie Eun has the trump card!The girl has been married for two years and even if we keep aside the much needed capital for Lu Enterprises, the tie up is enough to not just raise back the Lu Enterprises to it''s former glory but take it even higher."


    Shan Shan was also amazed as she went through the contract that was made in entirely one party''s favor.And it was even signed by the famous reclusive CEO..Shan Shan shook her head and asked in amazement,"How did a village girl comebinto contact with such a predominant figure?No one in the trust is going to dare take the old woman''s side and risk offending CEO Wolf''s person.Because it would mean offending him directly!Grandfather how did that simple girl achieve that feat?"


    Lawyer Wen could only resignedly answer,"I have no idea but I know that today''s win belong to Xie Eun so Shan Shan,be prepared.We may even have the respected CEO Wolf visit us.I have already received a call from his lawyers that they are going to confirm Miss Xie''s identity as his apprentice this afternoon.They are waiting for the go ahead of the CEO.This means that the news is going to be released when all the trustees are here..Until now, they are not too sure of they should believe the agreement but the timing of the press conference of Alpha Companies is clearly to warn everyone..


    Shan Shan grinned at this and then suddenly pleaded in front of her grandfather,"Please let me sit in on today''s meeting,Sir! Please!I want to see that uppity back stabbing bi*** fall on her face!Please grandpa,am I or am I not your favorite granddaughter?"


    Lawyer Wen looked at his granddaughter who was in her twenties but behaving like a child and murdered,"Shan Shan you are my only granddaughter!Rest of your cousins and siblings are all males.."


    "Yes Yes...grandfather is right!Inam your only granddaughter.Pretty please grandfather?"


    The girl had inherited his wife''s eyes and he could never say no to her so he agreed but then added sternly,"But you will behave seriously and with decorum!Take the notes throughout the meeting..!"


    "Yes yes!Thank you grandfather!" With that Shan Shan raced out of the office and immediately started to work on her computer so that she would have no pending work at the time of the upcoming show..


    A few minutes later, the receptionist guided Xie Eun who had come alone into the office waiting area.Seeing Xie Eun, Shan Shan who had been reserved last time shed that gloss and warmly welcomed the girl.She extended her hands to clutch at Xie Eun to congratulate her and then when the girl winced,Shan Shan checked her out and muttered her concern for the scratched hands as if they had been friends for years.She hissed and sympathetically muttered,"What happened?How did you get the scratches?"


    Xie Eun felt a little wary of the over friendly Shan Shan so she replied with narrowed eyes,"I was bored so I climbed a tree to have a conversation with a snake!"


    Xie Eun had expected Shan Shan to retreat and look at her as if she was mad but the girl just grinned and said,"Really?That is so cool!You know to climb trees and you know how to talk to snakes?Will you teach me?Uhh..not talking to snakes they are kind of slimy but I would love to learn to climb trees!I am a city girl you see so I never had a chance to learn!But I think it would be cool..."


    Xie Eun:".."

 Chapter 55 - Conversing With A Snake..

    Before the stunned Xie Eun could give a reply to Shan Shan,the door opened once again and Chairwoman Lu and Yeona walked in. With Xie Eun''s back facing the door,the two did not realize that the other woman was Xie Eun. Out of respect for an elder,Shan Shan stood up and welcomed,"Aunt Lu,Miss Lu..Welcome."


    The older woman nodded in return but Lu Yeona simply snorted and said scathingly,"This is all you are worth,Wen Shan..Are you trying to shirk your duties as a secretary by not bowing at ninety degrees?Have you forgotten that you are in the office and not at a social gathering?Oh!You must have forgotten since you are not invited for social gatherings anymore.such a pity reallly.."??


    Shan Shan clenched her hands into fists and tried to remind herself that she was supposed to be polite and not bash the client''s..Xie Eun on the other hand heard the gloating voice of her dear cousin and knew that there was a history between this girl and her.And obviously, Lu Yeona had been the winner... Standing up slowly, Xie Eun turned around and looked at the two people who she had tried so hard to please. She had even sent her Aunt Su away from her to pacify this woman..


    Xie Eun saw the look on Shan Shan''s face and started casually,"Miss Wen,the topic we were talking about?Snakes?You must teach me how to tolerate such a species in the office.You even welcomed this mixed breed of viper bit**** into the office with a straight face."


    All three women in the office turned to look at Xie Eun in shock..Old lady Lu was shocked at the insult,Lu Yeona angered and Shan Shan gratified..No one other than her family stood up for her and today this stranger had been so kind.She understood that there was enmity between these two but Mis Xie still did not need to say anything on her behalf..


    Before Shan Shan could thank Xie Eun, Lu Yeona broke out,"What are you doing here?You should have been dead!"


    Before Yeona could blurt anything serious,Lady Lu pinched her arm making the girl wince.The gesture was not unnoticed by Shan Shan who now had the answer to why there were so many scrapes on Xie Eun''s hands..It seems the girl had been attacked and somehow escaped while this pair had no idea of their failure.


    Xie Eun smiled a catlike smile and said,"If wishing someone dead could gwt you killed then you should have died a thousand times by now at the very least, cousin."


    Shan Shan(in her heart):I found myself a new idol!!She felt like dancing to her favorite BTS Song titled Idol which she did in her mind (Woah oh ooh oh,woah oh oo ooo)


    (ARMY Author raises her head and dances along to Idol)


    Chairwoman Lu was much more experienced in hiding her reactions and though her mind worried about their failure, her expression showed a calmness as she spoke,"I never knew you to have such sharp claws,Xie Eun.You may wish Yeona dead but she has never meant you harm.Wenthought you were a simple orphaned girl without family so we brought you here to the city.We have helped you so much without asking for anything in return but we did not expect to be stanbed in the back.Child,showing such unruly behavior and trying to snatch something that does not belong to you from someone who rightfully deserves it,does not suit General Xie''s daughter.We never thought you wiuld turn out to be so cunning and greedy."


    Xie Eun could only stare at the woman in front of her in amazement.Chairwoman should have been a movie actor..She wasna great actress..Maybe she could play Cruela or Maleficent in it''s remake...Her dear grandmother may not beat Angelina Jolie in terms of looks but the required viciousness was definitely there...Xie Eun almost burst out laughing as she imagined her grandmother dressed as Maleficent...Controlling her laughter, she seriously replied to her grandmother,"You are mistaken grandmother.By the thousand wishes for her death,I did not include myself.These wishes must be from the ones she bullied..Me?O want my cousin to live and I want to see her fail, that wasy I would pay back what I owe you..You too have wanted me to fail repeatedly,haven''t you?And the claws?Oh I always had the claws.I kept them sheathed because I was giving you face.But you apared me no consideration so I owe you nothing else.And if we are talking about rights,then if you had truly believed in Yeona''s right, you would not have gone to such lengths to make get me out of the picture..."

 Chapter 56 - Corporate Lawyers

    Before the war of words could go on, more people entered the office.At the sight of the four people standing there in what was apparently stand off, the old men ignored the tension, greeted old chairwoman Lu and then nodded at the other three girls in the room. Shan Shan finally recovered from her shock and gracefully guided all the guests into the small conference room on the other side of the floor.Soon another man was guided onto the floor and arrogantly introduced himself to Shan Shan as the corporate lawyer of Lu Yeona. Coolly,Shan Shan guided the man into the room as well.She then looked at Xie Eun who had not made her way into the conference room in question. Shan Shan wondered that maybe Xie Eun was eeling nervous.She could estimate that they were almost the same age and felt that she would be nervous too.She was about to go forward and encourage her but just then another man walked in..Shan Shan almost squealed when she saw the man.He was so much older but so handsome..He was her God of Law!"The Shark!" was here.Dressed in a dark grey British suit,he walked in nonchalantly and gave a small smile to Shan Shan by way of greeting and introduced himself."Hello.My name is Neil Long.I am here to represent Miss Xie Eun."


    Shan Shan gulped and reminded herself to breathe as she pointed out to the girl who had just turned around on hearing her name!The slight glimpse of the wedding ring on the man''s hand brought her back from dreamland as she reminded herself that such a beautiful man was already taken. So this was the reason that Xie Eun had not gone in..Maybe grandfather was mistaken and XIe Eun was not some village girl..She had just the right connections all of whom were on top of the food chain.It was not easy to get Neil Long of Lance Inc from country C to support her..??


    Xie Eun was also dazed as the man walked towards her.He really was beautiful..But the fleeting teenage thought was soon curbed and Xie Eun pasted a small smile on her face and went forward to introduce herself.


    "Hello,Mr Long.Thank you for coming forward to help me."


    Neil Long smiled and said,"It is no trouble. After all you are a student of one of the best and most sort after businessmen in this country.I like to collect favors.Thanks to you,he will owe me one."


    Xie Eun did nit know how to reply to this one.She,for one, owed Wolf multiple favors which she will have to repay someday.Neil Long could see that his client was uncomfortable with the talk so he turend to the secretary and spoke,"Miss Wen?Why don''t you guide us to the conference room?"


    Shan Shan was stunned to hear her name from her God''s mouth and unthinkingly widened her eyes and asked,"Sir,hhhow do you kniw my name?"


    Neil Long gave an amused smirk at this and replied nonchalantly," Clairvoyance."


    Shan Shan kept blinking blankly,until Xie Eun softly stepped to her side and slowly whispered,"Your Identity Card.."


    The soft whisper woke Shan Shan from her stupification as she realised that her God knew her name because of her Id!"


    Clearing her throat awkwardly,she led the two people into the conference room and then speeded away lest she embarass herself anymore.She wondered maybe she had dropped her brains somewhere today...She could swear she was a smart woman.. most of the time..


    When Xie Eun had failed to make an appearance after everyone entered,old chairwoman Lu once again underestimated her felt that the girl was overreaching herself...But then she entered with the biggest international corporate lawyer and suddenly everything and every plan they had made seemed to disintegrate in front of her.Soon ,lawyer Wen entered the meeting room followed by Shan Shan who was clutching a notepad to her chest as if her life depended on it. Deciding that aggression was the only way that could get her what she wanted, Chairwoman Lu opened her mouth but before she could say anything more than Hello, Lawyer Wen spun around and turned on the big projector screen..It showed the live news stream of Alpha Group Of Companies and their legal department head standing there greeting the media..

 Chapter 57 - More Curiosity

    The big projector screen was displaying a live broadcast of the press conference where the current person was addressing the media before inviting them to answer the questions.Every person today who had come with doubts regarding Xie Eun felt themselves pale when they heard the answers given by the man on the stage. The first question he was asked was to confirm the rumors that had been circulating since last night about a certain someone.Though the reporters did not take any names, it was clear that they were questioning her claims.After all she was a nobody from nowhere. For this the man clearly answered that indeed Miss Xie was a person full of potential and had been personally handpicked by their CEO to be his student.He also clarified the other parts of the agreement without being asked, that they would be investing in Lu Enterprises for her to learn..When reporters questioned if this was CEO Wolf''s way of getting a firm hold over the independent Lu Enterprises, the person scoffed at this and scathingly replied asking in return if their CEO needed to use such underhanded means ti acquire a company that was apparently on it''s last leg. Throughout the conference, she and Wolf were shown to have a professional relationship even as the person somehow indirectly warned them to not pester her as she was just a student.Ultimately, the man finished the small conference, with a clear warning that anyone who opposed or harassed Miss Xie would be harassing the CEO..So it was clear that after today there should be no news about Miss Xie..


    Xie Eun could only stare at a small wall on the side as the press conference continued.She already knew what was going to be said.Just as shebwas lost in her own thoughts,she felt someone tap against her hand.She turned her head to see that Neil Long was looking at her while the rest were staring at the conference.Feeling a bit perturbed that she wasn''t aware that she was being observed, she looked at the man with a questioning gaze."Miss Xie?Why do you look upset?Your husband has opened the gates for Lu Enterprises for you so anyone who was gaining such wealth would be happy.You look like you have been sentenced to a long imprisonment.."


    Xie Eun felt her heart ache as this observation.For the common man,it was a dream come true.But for her this inheritance was coming at the cost of her dreams.If not for the letter that her father had left her which she found last week, she would have happily given these people all the money in spite of their devious plans.She looked at the man and somehow felt like blurting out everything.Maybe that was a quality of a lawyer...since this person was a stranger maybe she could just say what was on her mind..."Is it not an imprisonment?All I wanted to do was click photographs and see the world through my lens.But now I am being chained to an office chair.".Neil Long smiled and could see a glimpse of his brother and sister in law in the girl.His brother too had been forced to gove up his dreams.. while her eyes were like Alicia''s determined and yet innocent..so he offered,"Why not see it as a break?When you successfully take this over then your husband has already offered to put someone to manage it.If I know Wolf,then that man will not let you give up your dreams."


    Neil Long''s words brought about another wave of curiosity in Xie Eun unstable heart about her husband...What kind of a man was her husband that he commanded the respect of such known and esteemed figureheads...


    Old Lady Lu and Yeona glanced at the two people whispering and felt fire course through their veins.Just where had they gone wrong and let this girl develop such a powerful network?No not a powerful network..more like a big thigh.CEO Wolf''s big thigh to be precise..


    As the conference closed, all the trustees and even the old chairwoman were clear on one thing,"Xie Eun had the full support of the most powerful man in the country. Chairwoman Lu wondered if she would have to ask someone else for help..Shebcoyld only think of one family that would be able to help her.When it came to power and money,only the old, top tier families could compete with CEO Wolf and she knew of only one such family.But they would not help her for free.So for now, she had to suspend this transfer at any cost until she had the chips to bargain with them

 Chapter 58 - A Fierce Debate

    Once the press conference was finished, while the internet was in an uproar, everyone in the meeting room was deathly silent.Lawyer When indicated to Shan Shan to brighter the lights and then cleared his throat."Ladies and Gentlemen.We all know the purpose of this meeting.When you signed on as trustees, you agreed to adhere to the wishes of the late Chairman Lu.His shares have been handled by the trust for almost eighteen years and now it is time to hand them over to the rightful owner.We are for now very clear on the two main conditions of the willLet me assure you that the will itself cannot be contested according to the law..But if any of the parties are not satisfied with the decision of the trustees, you may contest that and pursue the matter, though all legal expenses will be borne by the initiator."


    "Now, as we all know, Chairman Lu was a man with foresight and to prevent anyone from cheating in the will, he later added some hidden conditions to the will.Let me explain them one by one, First, the beneficiary must have been married for over a year at the time of the claim.Secondly,the trustees must not be indebted in any way to either parties,if that is the case then we will have to invite independent court receivers to help us handle this business.Third,in case both parties satisfy the conditions, then and only then the shares may be divided as stated,35 percent of the amount of shares is to be given to the person who has brought in more to the company and 25 percent to the other beneficiary.The remaining is to be sold in the market at the current market price and the proceeds will be passed into the Government Charity Organisations.


    Once Lawyer When was finished detailing this,theblawyer representing the Lu''s spoke up," Here is the marriage certificate submitted by Miss Lu,she has clearly been married for a year.So we naturally fulfill all the conditions, the hidden one''s included.I request the trustees to be fair and not force us to go to the court.The trustees were in a dilemma because they could see the clear warning in Chairwoman Lu''s eyes but the warning issue by CEO Wolf''s lackey was just as powerful and resounding.It would be better if the two parties involved solved it amongst themselves.When they had agreed to be the trustees, they had not expected their old friend''s will to be so complicated.


    When no man spoke up, Chairwoman Lu began,"I understand that in terms of money, Xie Eun girl has more options as evidenced by Lawyer Wen.We can already guess where his vote is going to go given the fact that he waited for the press conference.But in terms of brand image,my Yeona has already made a brand reputation for herself in the last three years.Money can be borrowed in business but brand and image need time to build which Yeona can offer..I don''t know how this girl came to know of my husband''s will and she suddenly up and married some upstart.If you will see Yeona is married to the second heir of the Gu Industrues.They are a moneyed family and will not try to snatch control of the Lu Enterprises from Yeona but will render support."


    again,silence reigned in the room until Neil Long brought his hands together to clap slowly for the old lady''s speech. He then smiled languidly and continued, " But let me update you on some facts.Miss When?Would you please pass this file to the honored Mrs Lu?" Shan Shan hurriedly stood up and taking the fill passed it to the old lady who only looked at her own lawyer refusing to accept it.The lawyer stood up to take the file and when he read the contents,his own breath whooshed out..He looked up at the old woman and muttered,"Mam, Miss Xie had been married for two years.."


    The woman scoffed at this and said,"What nonsense!She had been here in this place for the last two years.In this country you need to be eighteen to get married and General Xie passed away two days after her birthday!So how is that possible?And since then I have made sure that.."


    The woman stopped abruptly as she realize that she had been about to blurt out the fact that Si Jing had been keeping her on a string so that she would not really marry someone else.


    Xie Eun smiled and finished the sentence that the chairwoman did not,"you have made sure that I do not get into a relationship with anyone else?Isnt that why you collaborated with young master Si Jing? But your plan failed miserably,grandmother!And I am sure you are curious about the hows and the whys of it..."


    A never before seen sinister smile graced Xie Eun''s face at this...

 Chapter 59 - A Lamb?Ha!

    As Xie Eun''s words reverbated through the silent room,shocked I''m drawn breaths could be heard.The old and upright businessmen could hardly believe that the old chairwoman would stoop to such lengths to place Yeona on the top. Both the girls were her granddaughters and yet she would mercilessly hurt one to give success to the other.Shan Shan turned to look at Yeona and could not help but sneer.This woman had so many tricks up her sleeves. She only knew how to win with her cunningness.Others may not know the truth, but she could detect the hurt that Young Master Si must have left her with..What a despicable man he was..he had seemed so decent and respectable in the past.Shan Shan could only lament that, not all outwardly beautiful people were also beautiful on the inside. After giving everyone a moment to collect their thoughts, Xie Eun grimly continued,"You thought to suppress me and defeat me by using love.But it was love that also saved me.My father was dying and did not wish to leave me alone in the world so he got me married so that I would still have family when he was gone.Today,in fact,is my second marriage anniversary. When the lot of you came to our house,I always wondered why my father did not consider you my family. Why he told me nothing of you.I guess, he was clear on the definition of what constitutes a family. So chairwoman Lu,I have been married much longer than your precious granddaughter...And brand reputation?I wonder how much of a reputation she would have once the fact that she is married is made known.Many brands have strict regulations regarding the relationship status of their ambassadors.If this news is leaked, you can forget getting a litigation, you will be busy paying contract breach fee..and the so called reputation will be dirtier than dirt..A business needs capital to stay in business and goodwill to last long.A fleeting and cheap branding is merely for show and not long lasting.I,on the other hand have brought the much required capital to a presently flailing Lu Enterprises.The name commanded by the Alpha Group of Companies is enough to have all the banks and financial institutions give us loans if we need and all our partners and suppliers who have abandoned us will be lining up at our door.The only drawbackthat I can see is that I have yet to finish my fomal education.I would have asked old chairwoman who is more experienced to guide me but I can see that she would rather not.Anyways, the company is in such straits under her leadership and not really doing that well,so..."


    Leaving that sentence unfinished, Xie Eun sat back and stared down at the fuming women..The first person to clap for her was Neil Long, followed by Shan Shan and then the rest.She had made valid points and was clearly aware of her own shortcomings as well as her own strong points.And she could give as good as she got.The older men also felt a glimpse of their old comrade in her.In business,it was not enough to have all this.One should also be able to retaliate well in case of an attack...Yes,old chairwoman Lu had made some bad decisions and risky ventures but who did not do that in business.However,she had also protected the business well these years.Her fierceness had kept the competitors who would have swallowed them when their comrade passed away.Xie Eun had come across as a naive and demure girl to them,last night.But now,they could see that it would be a good decision to pass the stocks in her name.


    Lawyer Wen, after the round of applause, cleared his throat and pointedly looked at Lu Yeona."Miss Lu,would you like to add anything to influence the trustee''s decision?"


    Lu Yeona could only fume and glare at the people before she stood up from her chair,snatched a few papers from the lawyer and left the office in a huff.


    Neil Long leaned back in his chair and looked at the little girl.Wolf told him to come save his little lamb..but this one..ha!Poor Wolf...he had found a She-Wolf in sheep''s clothing...

 Chapter 60 - Her Husband And Food

    Xie Eun left Lawyer Wen''s office soon after the trustees decided in her favor.Her ''grandmother'' had stared at her with such hatred that Xie Eun felt saddened and hurt by this.Why did she not deserve the same consideration and love as her grand daughter? Xie Eun walked out of the office and got into the car that her husband had arranged for her,leaving the formalities of the transfer in Neil Long''s hands. Leaning back in her seat,she quietly stared at the scenery outside,seeing nothing. The car soon reached the underground parking of the Trimaje Apartments. Xie Eun alighted and entered the private elevator that took her to the top floor of the building. Still in a daze,she had yet to even realize that she had been brought back to the place where she had left in the morning,instead of her dorms.


    It was only as she had entered the place did she realize what she had done.Turning back,she pressed the button for the elevator but it did not turn up.Frowning,Xie Eun cursed the button and turned back.She wanted to be alone for a while. It was only then she realized that she really was alone in this house.Yes,her husband was a busy man and he would not be sitting at his home waiting for her. Suddenly,she felt curious about her husband''s ho,e and looked around curiously. Though he lived here,she could see this place was not homey. The dark furniture looked like it was never used and there were no pictures or even paintings adorning the walls.It was an entirely black and white. She suddenly felt sad for this person,her husband,who lacked color in his home.There was nothing worse than a home that screamed interior designer. As she was looking around,she failed to notice the small coffee table in the corner.In a single misstep,she got her foot stuck and with a small scream fell onto the black leather couch..Her scraped hands and bruised stomach screamed in agony while her poor toe which had been stubbed,throbbed painfully.Unable to move,Xie Eun simply lay there and closed her eyes. She had almost fallen asleep when she heard the sound of a phone ringing throughout the house. Groggily rubbing her eyes, she stared at the ringing phone on the table as if it was alien being or maybe it would stop ringing if she stared hard enough.And it did stop,making her pleased with herself. She was about to fall back on the couch but that thing started to ring again. It was not her home so she could not answer it..But..what if it was something urgent?Maybe she could pretend to be a maid and takena message.So, she picked up the phone and oressed a button before meekly answering with a "hello?"


    The voice that greeted her almost made her drop her phone..Her husband really did have a powerful voice...it was...so smooth and deep like honey..shaking away her fanciful thoughts,Xie Eun continued to be meek,"Yes?"


    Wolf,on the other end of the phone,felt his lips curve a bit.He had only said,"It''s me" and she recognized him.Stopping his lips from curving too much, he answered, "It is already lunch time.Have you eaten anything and have you taken your medicine?"


    It was only at the mention of food that Xie Eun realized that she was starving.She had not eaten anything since....since ever!She had taken only small bites last night and then this morning also,she had been in such a hurry she had not even dared to think of food.The aunty in the morning had tried to make her eat but she had been too worried.Just then she heard a small nosie from the other end and realised that her husband was still on the phone so ahe cleared her throat embarassedly and said,"Uhh..I will order some takeout and then have the medicine..."


    Wolf shook his head and said,"No need.There is egg congee in the rice cooker and fish head soup in the bowl.They should be hot.Have them and then eat your medicine.."


    Xie Eun,having heard that there was food,had already thrown the phone and was running around like a headless chicken looking for the kitchen....

 Chapter 61 - A Ghost

    The atmosphere in the big conference room at Alpha Group Of Companies was bad.The marketing and financial team had been asked to create a lucratibe proposal to present to the Lu Enterprises, and smoothly make it their partner.The Public relations team had already done their job and now it was their turn.But due to the short notice, no one had been prepared..and without any brainstorming, they had to come up with half baked ideas So that both the companies would make profits. As they filed into the conference room, with their half done proposals and shivering feet,they were all cursing in the inside.Today could be the day they would be fired..The employees had barely sat down when the CEO entered the room followed by Assistant Cheng Mo.


    The temperature in the room turned colder and seeing his grim face knew that there was no turning back now..Wolf sat back in.his chair and stared at the nervous faces.What was the point of having employees when they could not even come up with a feasible plan?He, in fact already had a plan in place but wanted his people to use this chance to prove themselves. As the lights dimmed and a power point presentation started,the door to the conference room suddenly opened and a lean man stumbled in.All eye turned to the door and some people even cringed as the assistant to the Vice President walked in.Seeing,that he was the center of everyone''s attention,and feeling the mix of accusatory and pitying gazes,the man bowed low towards the boss and said,"Please forgive me,sir..I...it was lunch time and I am diabetic so I could not miss my meal..I thought I would be able to return on time but the meal at the cafeteria was not yet ready..I am sorry Sir!I am so sorry.I will not repeat this sir.."


    The young assistant could feel his knees knocking together as he waited for his boss to reply.Most people pitied the man.He should have skipped the meeting if he was late.Now he was going to get a scolding among everyone and soul the boss'' mood with his tardiness.


    Wolf steepled his fingers together and raised his brows,"So if next time I kept the meeting at lunch time, you will be skipping your meal to make it on time?"


    The Assistant:''''.."


    Cheng Mo flelt pity for the young man and was about to intervene when the CEO suddenly extended his hand towards him,"Cheng Mo,order the kitchens to deliver boxed lunch to everyone.If they work on empty stomachs, they might just not perform their best...The senior management and all the employees were all shocked at this and even the assistant who was late and had been planning to almost kneel on the floor almost collapsed in shock But what he did next was even more shocking.While everyone waited for the meal to arrive, the CEO took out his cell phone and made a call...


    Most of the people did not even know he owned a cell phone.Nobody had ever been him with one.It was a known fact that any information or communication for the CEO could only be done via Assistant Cheng.


    To everyone''s horror,they then saw a slight amile on the boss''s face and the few senior managers who sat closest to Wolf,felt themselves turn pale.They subconsciously looked at wach other when the heard the CEO ask someone if they had lunch?And he even went on to list the dishes that would be warm..They wondered if their boss had been abducted by aliens and this was a clone.Another manager wondered if the sip of liquid courage he had taken before coming had caused hom to hallucinate in the middle of the day..


    Cheng Mo was the only one who saw this scene and thought, the boss was forcing everyone to eat such sweet dog food...They would never be normal again..


    As everyone in the conference room, those who could eavesdrop and those who could only see the expressions of their boss continued to saty in shock,Xie Eun had discovered the food at home.It was only after she had stuffed a few bites did she realize that she had thrown the phone mid-conversation and ran back to the living area. Picking up the phone,she mumbled into it with her mouth full,"I found the food.It is very delicious.Please thank the chef on my behalf.If I ever get a chance Inwould love to eat more of his food."


    Though, Xie Eun had said all this with her mouth full, Wolf understood every word and answered,"I am glad that you approve of my cooking.You can tell me what you would like to eat later.I will make it for you."


    Xie Eun:".."


    Managers:".." Their boss knew how to cook?And he even offered to make something?Who had such an iron cast stomach that they could order their boss to cook food for them?


    Xie Eun had no idea what to reply and felt geraelf blush as she heard the man''s languidbvoice so she changed the topic.."Have you had lunch?"


    Though the question was a diversion tactic, it made Wolf happy enough that she was concerned about him that he subconsciously gave a anall genuine smile making wveryone firmly believe that their CEO had been replaced by a ghost..."

 Chapter 62 - A Moment Of Peace

    As Xie Eun carried her big bowl of food around the living area, she thought back to the conversation she just had. She chewed the food slowly and realized that this was the first time someone had cooked a neal for her other than Aunt Su..Usually she ate at the University cafeteria these days..How considerate...She was a horrible cook, the kind that would burn down the kitchen if she had to boil water, so she had always hoped that her husband would be a good chef....because she was the best at eating...


    After finishing her food,Xie Eun lay back on the couch staring up blankly..Finally, she sighed and got up to go to the room that had been given to her.Climbing the stairs two at a time, she rushed up and changed into a soft tshirt and denim shorts that Wolf had provided for her.It was only after she came out of the bathroom did she spy the cell phone on the side table..Picking up the phone that had been placed on her bedside table in the morning, she pressed the button to turn it back on.She had seen the numerous text messages and missed calls of the man she loathed and thus had switched off the dam* thing before going to the meeting.As the phone switched on, she was greeted by a picture of their joining hands that she had once clicked.She opened the picture gallery in her phone,intending to delete the picture and opened the folder where she had stored his pics over the years.But seeing the love with which she had clicked, her fingers paused.Her thumb rubbed the place where his jaw was on the screen. She felt a dull ache when she thought of his deception..She had fought against her father for him..if only he had told her once,she would have willingly signed over everything..


    Huffing,she opened her wechat and deleted the chat without reading any of his messages.She did not want to hear any explanations that would only cause her heart to ache more for him...She had read in a book that first loves never ended well and Si Jing had proved the theory..As soon as the chat was deleted, her heart would not soften with his fake words.Just then her phone started to ring.Seeing the name flashing on it,Xie Eun was tempted to throw away her phone.Declining the call,she immediately put his name on the blacklist.But seeing his name had already made her anxious and the little peace she had gained, evaporated.Just then her phone rang again with an unknown number..She declined that too suspecting it was him again and switched off her phone before throwing it away on the bed and going out in a huff.She felt closed in all of a sudden..She wanted to get out of this house but the private elevator would not come!She marched back to the main door and decided to look for the key card.And to her astonishment, it was right there taped to the door with her name written on a note and stuck next to it.


    It was not there earlier!Atleast she thought there wasn''t...She read the dark and bold handwriting on the note that simply said,"Eun-a, this is your keycard."


    Cocking her head to the side, Xie Eun suddenly decided to visit the Alpha Group of Companies.She needed to see her husband.It took a generous man to leave his house keys to a virtual stranger,even if they were married. As she happily went out,she thought that the man her father had chosen was really exceptional.Once again she could not help but compare her faceless husband to Si Jing who had known her for so many years but had not once talked about giving her a set of her own keys for his house.Realizing that the direction of her thoughts had once again shifted in the wrong direction,she forcefully reminded herself that Si Jing had never been in a relationship with her so naturally he would not have this kind of consideration.


    She successfully hailed a cab and gave the man the address of the company.It was only as she alighted and was about to march in,did she realize her attire was too casual and inappropriate.She felt herself falter.She could not go in like this..She would not make another person feel ashamed of her...Maybe she could wait for a while and when most of the employees had left she could request them to let her in.Deciding that would be best, Xie Eun looked around and decided that the case style restaurant opposite the building would be the best place to wait and watch.


    Inside the small cafe,she found a small table near the window and ordered an iced coffee for herself. Her iced coffee arrived within minutes and just as she was about to sip it, a shadow fell across her table making her look up..

 Chapter 63 - A Disgusting Smell

    The tall glass of Iced coffee,soothed Xie Eun''s nerves and she could feel herself salivate as she looked at it.It looked really delicious.She promised herself that she would go and ask for the CEO after she had this tasty treat.Just as she was about to take a sip, a shadow fell across the table. Frowning, she looked up and was stunned to see Si Jing standing in front of her...Immediately all the peaceful feelings evaporated and her body stiffened while her eyes turned hostile. But the next moment, she composed herself and calmly turned her head away to take a sip of her coffee, ignoring the man in front of her. It was as if they were strangers. This behaviour of hers caused Si Jing to feel pain in his heart.She used to light up like a Christmas tree when she saw him in the past.But today she behaved as if she had seen something disgusting and smelly.(Author:So you have some self awareness, Young Master Su?).


    In a soft voice,filled with pain,Si Jing called out,"Xie Eun, please, at least listen to me.Give me a chance to explain.Please." Saying so, he tried to sit opposite her but lacked the courage to.


    Finally, Xie Eun lifted her calm and indifferent eyes to him and said casually,"Who are you?"


    Si Jing clenched his fingers into fists at her tone and frowned,"Dam* it Xie Eun!Please stop pretending with me and give me a chance.O am the man you have loved for so many years.We...we are sweetheart since out school days..Please Xie Eun. Look, I know initially I was with you on Chairwoman Lu''s orders but over time as I got to know you I fell for you.And at first I really thought that she wanted me to care for you.It was only later when you had already come here that I came to know about their nefarious plans..By then..by then I had already fallen for you and I thought that I should let them succeed.The Si Group Companies have enough money to support us for life. So you can even give up those shares and we can just live together peacefully. Xie Eun..please say something..please."


    Xie Eun still did not look at the man and casually sat sipping her coffee and starting outside..In desperation, Si Jing walked even more closer and grabbed her wrist.This caused Xie Eun to now turn her glare at him.


    In an icy voice,she said,"Young Master Si.I have given you enough face by letting you stand here and prattle.Please stay within your limits and keep your hands to yourself or I will be forced to take it off me with force..I don''t care for your reasons but the end result.And the end result is that I have already become the major stockholder of Lu Enterprises."


    The hand on her wrist loosened and he said unbelievably,"No...that can''t be.Xie Eun to gain the right to inherit,you had to be married.And you love me so you cannot be married to anyone else!"


    By the end of conversation, So Jing''s voice had risen higher causing the others around to look awkwardly at them.Xie Eun, however, remained calm and said,"So you can pretend to prepare a proposal, you can pretend to love me but I cannot marry someone else.Master So, you need to look for a dictionary and search the meaning of love.If you had really liked me you would have told me the truth when you realized.And even if I were to ignore everything and believe that you had the intention to marry me after all this then you would have not set me up for humiliation yesterday.Do you think I don''t know the dress that you had sent was a fake and the make up artist was ''amazing''..Wasnt he?That is your idea of love?Then thanks but no thanks,you can keep this love for yourself.".


    Si Jing could not believe that the girl he had fallen for was really married so he sat there and said,"Fine.Di you really think that I don''t know you?Even if you have chosen to go against Lu Enterprises, I will stand by you.Let me see which man you have married.I know that you wouldn''t have married for real and all this husband bullshi* is fake.You want revenge on me, then do it directly Xie Eun.Don''t try to pretend that you never loved me because I will not believe that."

 Chapter 64 - Egg Sandwich

    While Si Jing tried to talk his way out of the mess he had made, another person was also doing his best to clarify himself. Poor Cheng No, who was being stared at by Wolf wanted to go and hide somewhere.He had no answer to the Boss''s question.His boss had been unreasonable with him since returning and now he knew why..But he was not to be blamed.When he had come to know about Miss Xie, being the lady boss, he had wanted to support the boss.So when he coincidentally saw the lady in the hospital, he praised the boss well so that she would know that he was a good man!How was he to guess that lady boss would mistake him to be the boss''..Eww..he couldn''t even imagine that kind of a relationship with his boss and the lady boss...Did she want him dead?


    As a result of this, Cheng Mo could only hand his head and take his punishment..He was pretty sure that he was going to be sent to some third world country to work on some rotten project. He only hoped that there would be toilet paper wherever he was sent.....


    Before the boss could give his verdict, the notification for the next meeting sounded on his computer tablet and he said,"Sir, we have a meeting with the foreign investors regarding the joint hotel venture.It would take us about an hour to drive there so, we should leave now.."


    Wolf,who had been lost in thought about Xie Eun and how she had mistaken because of those words by Cheng Mo, was brought back to the present. He narrowed his eyes and warned,"You just extended the waiting period to receive your punishment."


    Cheng Mo gulped and raced to open the door for the Boss before following him out.Usually, the employees we''re leaving at this hour and so Wolf preferred to use his private elevator that took him directly to the car park.However, when they walked out, there were technicians working on the machine and he was told that there was a slight technical problem with the elevator..Shaking his head, Wolf took the elevator that took him to the Company''s reception and lobby while Cheng Mo called the driver to get the car at the main entrance.It was rare that the CEO came amongst the normal employees so most of them simply stood in their place and stared.Wolf could feel their stares and was about to turn around and anrl at a few of them when his gaze fell on the figure in the opposite cafeteria..What was Eun-a doing here?And then his gaze fell on the man sitting opposite her and he narrowed his eyes in displeasure...He was about to March out and snatch her but then controlled himself..His jealousy was his to guard. If she still wanted that scumbag, then he could only doubt her IQ..But the next moment, Wolf breathed out and almost clapped for her when his girl dumped the glass of coffee in her hand on the schmuck''s head..He walked out of the building at a slow pace observing her as she pointed at the now dripping pig and scolded him.


    On the other side of the glass in the cafeteria:


    When Si Jing was unable to get any answer from Xie Eun he could feel his ego rise and his anger climb higher.No one had ever dared to behave with him like this!He had hundreds of girls throwing themselves at him every day and yet he had lowered himself for her.And she dared to ignore him when he had been so patiently with her.Flaring up, he accused in a high voice,"Is it because you wanted money that you were willing to marry anyone?I told you that I have enough money then why would you marry just anyone?If it is money you want just name your price and I will give it to you."


    In the next moment, Si Jing found himself dripping with ice and coffee.As he sat there shocked, Xie Eun had stood up and said,"My money, young master Si.Let me remind you that your company is where it is because of the money invested by my grandmother.She paid you to take care of me so you are the one who sold himself for money.I only discovered your real care so I dumped you!And now your inflated ego thinks that how dare she dump me so you are trying to get me back!"


    As the things that happened had caused everyone to turn disdainful glances and Xie Eun, they soon turned those to the disgusting man.The waitress hurried over to clear the commotion and Xie Eun handed her a card, ordering,"Bill me for an iced coffee and an egg sandwich.Also add 50 percent for tip and I will be paying for everyone''s meal that we disturbed just now because of some scum.The waitress understood that whoever this person was,she was not simple.She dared to pay for all the tables in such a pricey restaurant.She hurried back to swipe the card.


    Si Jing seemed to have come out of his stupor and in a sudden change of personality, he became gentle from aggressive as he said,"Xie Eun, I know you are angry.And you have every right to be but remember you can only love me."


    Xie Eun rolled her eyes at the dramatic and picking up the egg sandwich from the nearby table apologetically as she said,"Please don''t mind.I have already ordered another sandwich for you, Sir." And then the egg sandwich was sitting on Si Jing''s head...much to the amusement of the restaurant''s other patrons...

 Chapter 65 - Kidnapped The Boss

    Wolf casually walked out of the building with his eyes fixed on Xie Eun.However his blank expression stayed the same so that no one could guess where he was going or what he was saying.But inside he was very pleased when he saw the egg sandwich scene.Before he could move however, Xie Eun had already walked out of the door of the cafe and was frowning.She looked around as if looking for someone when the annoying man followed her out and caught her wrist. The people in the streets whispered and laughed as the saw the ridiculous looking man trying to coax a girl.When Xie Eun tried to take back her wrist(again), his hold tightened causing her to feel the pain.Instinctively, she caught hold of Si Jin''s other hand and pressed an acupuncture point,causing him to go down and leave her hand due to the pain.When he realized how he had not, Wolf could see the aggression in Si Jing''s stance.


    Wolf narrowed his eyes and was about to go and intervene, when suddenly his eyes met hers and he realized that she might have recognized him and his own deception will be revealed. (Author:Hehe...now you know that you must tell her everything before you are decorated with a chicken or fish sandwich..)Before he could think of something however, Xie Eun shouted his name,"Yu Seok!", waved her hands at him and  crossed the street at a run.And the moment her feet touched the sidewalk, she screamed,"hubby!" and jumped into his arms, kissing him directly on the lips.Her small hands spread themselves on his cheek and her body almost smashed into his.Instictively,Wolf''s hand went onto her waist first to catch her and then hold her in place..His widened eyes looked at her closed ones and just as he was happily going to deepen the kiss, she moved back a bit, stopped and stared at him wide eyed. Without giving another look to Wolf, she turned to look at Si Jing who had finally stopped following her and hailed a passing cab.As luck would have it, the cab stopped and grasping Wolf by the wrist, she got into the cab..


    This scene however caused an uproar in the Alpha Group of Companies.When Cheng Mo, who had gone a bit away to attend a call, came back, he returned to see everyone in the lobby and many employees outside frozen in shock..He wondered if he had entered some drama where everyone was frozen by a fairy but the magic did not work on the main protagonist(which would be him)..But then he realized that there was one person missing..Where was the Boss?Seeing the boss'' car outside, he shrugged his shoulders and assumed that boss was already in the car..


    It was only when Cheng Mo started to walk out did people hurriedly start to whisper.


    "Did you see that?"


    "She called him hubby."


    "The girl looked like a little student.."


    "Did you see her face?I couldn''t..it happened so suddenly.."


    "I thought the boss would throw her off.But instead he just meekly followed her..."


    The whispers gave Cheng Mo a bad feeling and he asked the security guard near the door,"Did something happen?"


    The stupified guard nodded his head and turned his wide and blank eyes to Cheng Mo and said,"Assistant Cheng.I think the boss has been kidnapped.You see, the boss was walking out towards his car when a young girl suddenly called out hubby to him and jumped into his arms and then kissed him.She then grabbed the boss'' hand and got into a cab..


    The boss was kidnapped?Ha!Cheng Mo took out his phone and called the boss.The only way their boss could be kidnapped was if he wanted it.And the only woman who could kidnap the boss was the Lady boss...Cheng Mo closed his eyes in a prayer as the caller tune sounded because he knew that disturbing the boss was going to result him in an even worst punishment but the clients were waiting....But the miss was a step ahead of him and declined his call before switching it off..Facing such treatment from his once workaholic boss, Cheng Mo could do nothing but lament this empire''s future...

 Chapter 66 - I Am Sorry

    As the cab drove away, Xie Eun''s hand still held his and she sat back in the cab and closed her eyes.It was only after a few minutes and deep breaths, that she glanced at Yu Seok and cast him an apologetic look.."Sorry for the assault!But you have no idea,how you have saved me today.And I am really sorry for jumping on you like that and kissing you out of the blue.I did not mean to..but I had no option..Yu Seok,that man has gone crazy!I am really really sorry for kissing you!Why are you not saying anything?Look,please don''t mind alright.."


    But Yu Seok''s attention was focused on her hand that held his wrist.Just then the phone started to ring but the call was declined and Yu Seok looked at Xie Eun with narrowed eyes..The atmosphere seemed to have turned weird and Xie Eun felt even more guilty for attacking him like that!Why did she have to make such a dramatic move..Before she could feel even more awkward the cab driver cleared his throat,and said,"I think miss,the boy is sunned.I can understand that.If a beautiful girl like yourself were to suddenly to kiss me when I was young I would have lost my senses for a while too..No man would feel offended to receive a kiss from such a beautiful fairy.I think once he comes back to his senses,he will kowtow to you for bestowing him with a kiss."


    It was only as the cab driver continued to.um..console her did Xie Eun realize what she had done!She felt herself turn red like a tomato..Her mind was in a whirl and her thoughts raced,"Had she made Yu Seok betray his partner?Was Yu Seok really shocked because that he had been kissed by a girl for the first time!Did he hate her for forcing herself on him?" From this tangent,her mind drifted even more as she wondered if her breath was smelly.Or what if he did not like her taste.And then the little devil in her rolled her eyes and ordered her to let it go.It wasn''t like she liked Yu Seok and needed him to like her.They were friends and they had simply touched lips..but still Xie Eun could feel herself flush..Had she lost her mind because of the betrayal that Si Jing had dealt her?


    Her eyes widened in thought and she shook her head to herself.While Xie Eun was lost in thoughts, Yu Seok abruptly ordered the cab driver to stop the car..


    Once the car had come to a stop, Yu Seok alighted from the taxi and rushed into a store.Xie Eun frowned as she saw him racing into the pharmacy and wondered if he had gone in to buy some mints.She pouted in anger that he would do this to her and was about to rush after him when he came back with a brown paper bag in his hand.Once inside, he tore open the bag and tenderly applied some ointment on her wrist where clear finger marks in red could be seen.As he applied the medicine carefully and with concentration, Xie Eun had a niggling feeling if deja vu but she could not pin point on anything the reason for it but she felt touched and then looking at the tick in his jaw, she realized that ae was angry but not over the kiss but that she was hurt.Her throat ached as she suppressed her tears.She was so lucky...Her hand wanted to move hold his but before her fingers could touch him the can driver cleared his throat and said,"It is really wonderful to see kids these days caring for each other.In my days, I have seen so many lovers whether arguing or making out but this boy''s deed has touched me most...I am going to share this with my wife..She looks forward to listening about my days since she cannot go out herself but today she will be happy with what I have to tell her.That is what we men should do.Think of our women and do something for them.Anyone can speak words but we must speak with our actions.Thank you to both of you for today.Now,you haven''t told me where you want to go.Tell me and this ride is on me.Alright?"


    Xie Eun, nodded her head with a polite,"Thank you", but was at a loss where to go so Yu Seok mentioned an address to the cab driver and then sat back. Slowly, he looked at Xie Eun and with her hand still in his apologized, "Xie Eun, I am so sorry for not protecting you well enough."


    (Later that night, a few people knocked on the door of a small broken home in a poverty stricken area.When an older man opened the door, the voice of your coughing could be heard in the background.The people who outside stood in black suits bowed to the man scaring him, but politely said,"Mr Kang?"When the old man nodded they extended a gold and black card and said,"We are here to request you to move to the City Hospital.A private room has been booked for your wife''s treatment and out company will be bearing the costs.If you are wondering about the reason then you must know,"we must speak with actions.My boss would like to thank you for your kindness.The old man looked at the wolf imprinted card in his hand with moist eyes and smiled,"The Buddha had blessed his family today.His wife would be able to recover..)

 Chapter 67 - A Human Pillow

    Yu Seok took her to a small bungalow near the hills.It was far enough that there was not much traffic but near enough to the university that conveyance to and fro would not be a problem.Xie Eun looked at the small picturesque garden and the cozy place..She could hardly believe that such a comfy place belonged to a taciturn man like him.Guiding her in,he led her into the small,living room and offered to get her some coffee.She turned from observing the home to Yu Seok and looked up at him with her big doe eyes."Yu Seok?How come you have such a warm and snug house?"


    You Seok pause mid way and answers,"This was done by someone else."


    Actually, this house had been prepared by Aunt Su on his orders.He had planned to give it to her tonight but when he had seen her hesitate in giving her the name of his apartment, he had brought her here.


    "Yu Seok?I don''t want coffee.I want to get drunk tonight."


    Yu Seok paused in his way to the kitchen and turned to look at her."Haven''t you hurt yourself enough over him?"


    Xie Eun turned her head away and explained,"Yu Seok,I..I dont want to hurt myself but I want to forget about my pain.Please?You are the only one I can trust now."


    After a few bottles of beer,Xie Eun''s face had turned red and her cheeks were flushed.Unable to stand still she squinted around and went to observe Yu Seok who was now in the kitchen.Seeing the man standing near the stove, she stumbled and raced and jumped over his back.Her legs wound around his waist and her arms went around his neck.She rubbed her nose against his neck and purred like a kitten.Yu Seok placed his hands under her knees to support her before carrying her back to the living room and putting her back on the couch.Holding her face, he brought a small egg fritter near her mouth and ordered,"Eat."


    Xie Eun however shook her head and placed it on his shoulder and whispered,"Yu Seok.You have such broad shoulders!So comfortable!And you are such and outstanding man.Why could I have not fallen for someone like you?Why did I have to love that scum?"


    Yu Seok let her rant and tried to unwind her vice-like arms from his neck.But Xie Eun had no intention of letting him go.She clung to him like a koala bear and when she still did not feel comfortable,the climbed into his lap like a feline pet. Yu Seok felt a himself stiffen and almost groaned.This girl was like a cat who like to wriggle in his lap.Ans the consequences of this would be him in a cold shower for a long while.....He should have found a female security guard who could have acted as her friend.Then he would not have to suffer such fate.Did he really have to listen to hie own wife prattle about another man when she was doing her best to tease him?But,thankfully,Xie Eun had mercy on him and soon changed the topic thereafter..Picking up a fork from the small coffee table,she stabbed at an egg fritter that Yu Seok had tried to feed her and put it into her mouth.The egg made her think of the egg sandwich that she had thrown on his head and her eyes started to water.She stabbed viciously at another fritter and once again more tears fell from her eyes." If only I had met you first..Even if you are not into me atleast I would not have hurt myself like thiss.or maybe If I had fallen for my husband then...you know Yu Seok..he is also a nice man.My father chose well I think.But I don''t want to be close to Wolf.I always wanted to marry a man I would love and who would love me back.But I am a responsibility to him.A promise he needs to fulfill.And I don''t want to be that.Yu Seok..I don''t have my phone with me and I am staying here tonight,do you think my husband would worry about me?Do you think he would even realize that I am not home..I think he would because he is a good man.But what about me?Does he not deserve the same care as he has shown me?But I don''t even know where he is and what he is doing.He will always have my gratitude but what if everytime I see him, I will always think of that Si Jing?Yu Seok, I think..no,i fear that I have given all of my loveee to that basta** and I have nothing to offer but my loyalty and gratitude.Do you think that will be enough for Wolf?


    You Seok patted her head,running his fingers through her silky hair and consoled her,"Eun-a, you can never be a responsibility.Any man would feel blessed to have you.It doesn''t matter if you have given away all your love...I have enough for the both of us.I am happy if you only remain my friend but don''t make me someone you are obliged to.Someone you have to pay back.Your happiness is what makes everything worth it "...As Yu Seok said this,he stilled.He had exposed himself..He looked at her to winder if she had caught on but Xie Eun''s eyes were closed and she had fallen asleep against him..Closing his eyes, Yu Seok shook his head.She had made a habit of using him like a human pillow...Sigh...

 Chapter 68 - Already Married

    Si Jing watched shocked as the girl who had dated him for so many years but only ever held hands or hugged in private had jumped into the arms of a strange man and kissed him.He had conveniently forgotten that he was he one that had insisted in keeping everything a secret when she had first agreed to be with him which had actually caused Xie Eun to suppress her real self and inhibit herself, slowly retreating into her shell.It was only as his security guard came to him slowly and pointed out the fact that people were staring that he came back to reality.At that moment,his phone started to ring and on checking the ID,he realized that the call was from Chairwoman Lu.


    Answering the call,he heard the message and with a curt,"hmm.I''ll be there and left the scene."The reason he had come to the cafe,forgotten. He had heard the news this morning and been shocked to know that Xie Eun had indeed become the most coveted CEO''s student.Amazed at this,he had thought to convince her later and introduce himself as her fiance to CEO Wolf first. But he had been denied entry and even when he had claimed that he was his student''s fiance,the security guards had not budged and insisted that he bring his fiance along. Si Jing cursed in his heart.If only Xie Eun had told him earlier of her acquaintance with CEO Wolf,he would have already kicked that old woman and her granddaughter to the curb. And he and Xie Eun could have been together happily. It was only as he reached home and his parents wrinkled their noses at him did he realize how horrible he smelled. Once again, he frowned at Xie Eun''s odd behaviour and started to discard his clothes,getting ready to meet those women again.


    Lu Yeona had already smashed the things in her grandmother''s office and was now directing her wrath at the poor employees in Lu Enterprises.That Neil Long had ground them and this stupid lawyer into dirt.And her grandmother,who had assured her that their plan was fool-proof had been able to do nothing but sit there quietly.


    And soon her next target was here.The moment Si Jing was escorted into the office by the assistant, Yeona threw a file at his feet.He looked down but made no movement to pick it up.Instead, he simply turned to the Chairwoman and greeted her with a polite nod. In a then sardonic tone, he continued,"It seems today''s meeting did not go as planned by the Chairwoman.But I have already played my part.You wanted Xie Eun to be distracted till her twentieth birthday and I did my part in exchange for the help you gave my company.Now chairwoman Lu, our transaction is finished and I have no interest in setting up a new scheme.So, let this be the last time that you summon me."


    Lu Yeona scoffed at this and walked up to him nose to nose,"No it is not.You failed your task!You had one job!To keep her occupied with you!But she made a fool out of you!Xie Eun has been married for two years!You haven''t just failed.You failed miserably!"


    In a moment, Si Jing felt anger course through him. In a harsh voice, he asked,"What nonsense are you spouting?"


    But then, it was Chairwoman Lu who interrupted,"As it happens, Si Jing, Yeona is telling the truth.Xie Eun was married the day after she turned eighteen.I have always kept an eye on her but Indid not expect this.But I don''t blame you for this.That girl had us all fooled.So now I want to know your opinion.Do you still want her?Or not?"


    Actually old lady Lu was asking him if he wanted to teach her a lesson or break her up with her husband..Si Jing thought back to the scene from this afternoon.She had humiliated him and he had taken it silently assuming that he was the one at fault.But she had played him?Whatever he had done,he had reasons but she had toyed with his heart..The scene of her running into the arms of another man flashed in his head and he felt the rage in his heart.How daring of her to think she could make a fool out of him!But, he looked at the old woman.What did she get from this.They had already lost today, he could already guess that from the office''s state.This woman was not someone who would do anything out of the good of her heart."What do you gain from this?"


    Lady Lu simply smiled viciously and detailed her plan...

 Chapter 69 - A Vow

    Xie Eun woke up with a splitting headache and an urge to just to fall back and fall asleep again.For a few moments,she wondered where she was as she looked around at the unfamiliar surroundings and then recalling the events of yesterday, she remembered who she had abused.She touched her nose unabashedly and thought to herself, about how patient Yu Seok was.He had taken all her tantrums yesterday and even held her when she had been vomiting her guts out.She was really lucky to have a friend like that.Getting up slowly, she made her way to the washroom and after freshening up she realized a practical problem.She needed to go to the university to change her major from photography and she needed to find a place to stay.Her dorm rooms had been paid for earlier by Si Jing on his insistence!At the time she had tried to protest that she had some money of her own but he had refused to listen and even told her that he wanted to do this because be considered her his wife.What a bunch of rotten eggs!


    After her brain had fully woken up, Xie Eun realized that she needed to go back to Wolf''s apartment.He could have waited for her in the night.A niggle of guilt crept into her that she was doing wrong by her huaband...Nidding to herself, she decided to have a firm talk with him instead of just speculating by herself.


    A little while later:


    Xie Eun crept into the house, using her key card, like a thief sneaked into the Queen''s vault.Closing the door,she found another note stuck on the door,"Have your breakfast before you go."


    As she saw this,she realized that maybe he did not even know that she spent the night elsewhere.But the next line proved her wrong as it continued,"The papers for your course transfer are prepared for you to submit.Also, please keep your phone with you and I would like you to meet me tonight at the Kingston Hotel, room no, 1103.A talk is long overdue."


    Xie Eun had an ominous feeling in her heart as she read the note.Her husband had been understanding until now.Even when she had hidden the matters regarding Si Jing.But now she had changed and was free of those shackles, so he must be expecting her to behave like a wife.And she....Xie Eun realized that she was not averse to getting to know her husband anymore.In fact she was even more and more curious.The more she came to know about him the more he sounded like a mystery that she would love to solve.


    Finally, at six in the evening, Xie Eun who had been running around all day,took a deep breath as she tued the towel around herself.She had just finished a bath and currently stood in front of the huge wardrobe that her husband had ordered for her.The massive room had everything from formal suits to dresses to belts and accessories and even shoes.They were all color coded and looked scary as hell to her.She had looked up the hotel he mentioned and knew that it required their patrons to be dressed formally so she picked up a simple black jumpsuit with a studded collar that covered her front and back but had a small gap at the sides of the hips.This gap flashed a bit of tender white skin with every step of the wearer tempting the observer to see but not touch.The chauffeur would be here to pick her up soon so Xie Eun davbed a bit of lip gloss and tied her hair in a loose knot.Looking at herself in the mirror, she was satisfied that she looked cure but unknown to her she looked a perfect mixture of alluring innocence and hot seduction. On her way there,she reminded herself to behave and get to know her husband. she decided that she would ask him to discard the mask so that they could get to know each other..It was befitting that they get to know each other all over again.


    The car stopped outside the beautiful hotel but before Xie Eun could admire the beauty, she was escorted to a VIP room.As she entered the room, she noticed that the room was dimly lit and and entire room was filled with a slight jasmine smell as a small candle''s light flickered in the middle of the table.The setting was just as romantic as it was beautiful and Xie Eun was amazed...

 Chapter 70 - Let Us Date

    Xie Eun looked around curiously at the dimly lit room.The atmosphere was sweet, mysterious and romantic.Xie Eun felt butterflies in her stomach and felt glad that she had dressed up and put on make up.She realized that she would finally have a chance to see her husband.Like a bird who had been released from captivity and who was eager to fly in the sky, she felt that the shackles that bound her to Si Jing had been broken and now she could live freely.


    She looked forward to getting to know the man that was her husband..In this past week, she had seen his capability and the respect he commanded among not just his peers but even the elders.Who was this person and why did her father choose him?


    The man who stood in the corner of the room could see her clearly and after observing her a bit,walked forward and extended his hand to Xie Eun.The girl looked too beautiful tonight..Her lightly colored peach lips made him want to kiss them.He told himself to be patient even as his body reacted to her presence.From today onwards, his plan to woo her was going to be put in place.And a deception that may or may not prove to be worth the risk would begin.Listening to her last night had made him realize that there were things that Xie Eun had envisioned in a partner and in her relationship and she felt that due to the nature of their marriage, she would never be able to get those things.She maybe a tomboy by actions but her heart was like that of a little girl. So, the pretence of being a senior that started out as a need to protect her and be her friend would now have to continue so that he could woo her.He just hoped that his plan did not backfire.He could continue being just her friend but the misunderstanding she had about his sexual orientation made it near impossible for him to be intimate with her  But as he looked at her bright eyes, he realized that it did not matter whether she came to know now or a bit later because she was going to feel betrayed and would definitely close him off whether as Yu Seok of as Wolf.So he could only do his best to make her fall for him before the truth could be revealed..


    Xie Eun placed her cold hand in his warm one.His fingers closed around her slowly and lightly but she felt a jolt run through her at the touch.She wondered if maybe she had contracted a heart disease...It had been beating rather violently and now it kept jolting and threatening to burst out of her chest.He walked her toward the table in the middle and pulling a chair out for her, helped her sit. In a normal environment, this gesture would have been felt pretentious but now it just showed the man''s care.Xie Eun finally gathered her courage to look up and see the man''s face and felt her jaw drop.His face was still covered with a mask.It was a Zorro one to be precise. It covered the side of his face and forehead, making his wyes seem all the more dangerous.Realizing,that she was foolishly starting at his face, Xie Eun published and pointed out,"Umm,you don''t need to wear that.I.. I was plain dumb in the past but now that is not the case.."


    A wolfish smile graced his face as he leaned back in his chair and said,"Eun-a, you requested I cover my face and I fulfilled the request.But when the mask comes off is going to be my decision.Let this be your first lesson as my student, never be the first to state your terms when beginning a negotiation."


    Xie Eun narrowed her eyes and snapped,"Well,I had no idea our marriage was a negotiation!"


    Immediately she regretted her outburst but the words were already uttered.


    "So you do believe that we are married?"


    "I..uhh..I"


    She was saved from answering by the server who then knocked on the door and soon the table was laden with fragrant soup and dimsums.Her mouth watering, Xie Eun reacted instinctively and the moment her dishes were served, she got busy eating, much to the amusement of Wolf.He ate slowly and watched her take pleasure in eating her food.she was totally uninhibited when she ate..So busy was he that he even forgot about eating the food on his plate.


    It was only after Xie Eun had almost finished her soup, that she glanced up at her husband to find his eyes staring at her lips. Consciously, she dabbed her lips with a napkin and cleared her throat. "I hope you don''t mind.I actually eat a lot but do not gain weight because of my metabolism.My father always said that I could eat him out of house.."


    Wolf, however continued to stare at Xie Eun making her feel self conscious which in return caused her to turn more awkward and babble,"I wanted to thank you actually.You have been doing so much for me behind the scenes and I have been so ignorant. I can only imagine the humiliations Inwould have faced if you had not intervened last week and made the truth known to me. I used to think I was pretty worldly and knowledgeable but these people have shown me that just because you like someone,doesn''t mean they are likeable people.So thank you..I don''t even know whether I will be able to ever repay you..but.."


    Before Xie Eun could continue, Wolf interrupted her and the words he said made Xie Eun''s eyes widen in sheer disbelief. She wondered if she had misheard the man in front of her so she cleared her throat and asked,"What did you just say?"


    "I said,''Date me.Like going out and getting to know each other and doing other similar things.''"

 Chapter 71 - A Date?

    "A date?"


    Xie Eun felt really dumb when she repeated herself but she could not help it.Usually a person dated with the intention to get to know each other so that they could eventually marry and live a life together They were already married and her husband wanted to date her??So, did that mean they would doing everything backwards?She looked at the amused masked man in front of her and suddenly felt a sense of deja vu, as if she knew him from somewhere. Shaking her head, she protested, "There is no need.We are already married.We can get to know each other just like this.."


    "Really?Do we really get to know each other Eun-a?Will you not keep thinking about the past?No..as I said we will start dating and then go from there.We are married by law but we are not husband and wife.You even hesitate to take my name from those delectable lips of yours so how will you get to know me.Let me propose an arrangement, " A few formal dates, where the two of us can get to know each other fully and intimately.I can promise you that I will not cross any lines.And I want you to be serious when you take this chance. Because, once you are mine, I won''t let you go until I possess you heart, body and soul."


    Xie Eun could not help but feel goosebumps all over her as he finished his sentence.Why did it feel as though he already had possession of her?Unable to think of a suitable come back she frowned as she thought a reply but before she could do anything, Wolf pressed a small remote button on the side of the table and stood up, coming towards her chair.Xie Eun only looked up as he came to a stand near her chair.The music was slow and seductive and with the man''s gaze raking over her, she felt electrified. In a daze, she could only look at his hands and sit there.Finally after a moment of charged silence, he asked,"Eun-a, dance with me?"


    Nodding her head obediently, she once again placed her hand in his and he led her to the small alcove in the room.His other hand spanned her waist and came to rest on her waist.As they began to sway to the music, Xie Eun could feel her nervousness increase and the hand on her waist felt scorching..As a result if this, she stumbled a bit, stepping on the man''s leather hand crafted shoes.She looked down ready to apologize and felt pity for the shoes but not the owner or the toes that had suffered under her feet.But before she could apologise, she stumbled once more almost causing a grave injury on Wolf''s foot.As a result, she was then pulled even closely into his chest and their bodies stuck to each other leaving no space between the couple.Her fingers rubbed against his shoulders which we now covered by only a thin black shirt since he had discarded the jacket earlier.She could feel the strength in themabd she could feel his hard chest against her softness.But as the music changed,so did her daze.What was she doing ?But then Wolf''s fingers slowly sneaked into the small openings at the jumpsuit''s side causing her to almost jump.His slightly rough fingers wriggled against her skin making her have difficulty in breathing.She could feel as his entire palm slid into the hole in the side and slowly settled there marking it''s ownership.His other hand, which had held hers until now slowly but surely moved tot he other side and creeped in.She placed her own hand on his shoulder and clutched tightly to support herself or stop him,she did not know.


    Both of his hands seemed to have settled on her bare skin and as his face came closer to hers, she closed her eyes anticipating his kiss and dreading it. But instead of kissing her lips like he wanted to(like she wanted him to)Wlk placed a small peck on the side and then whispered in her ear,"Eun-a, What will you call me?"


    Xie Eun could not even understand her own head,so how would she understanding the question so she asked confused,"huh?".Her eyes we''re focused on his mask that covered his face and she wanted to rip off the thing.Her hand slowly lifted from his shoulder, intending to throw it away but just as her hand would have touched his face, he caught her wrist and brought it close to his lips, placing a small peck on the inside.Every touch of his lips was like a mark of branding to Xie Eun.Slowly, he whispered,"Eun-a call me hubby.I want you to address me like that."


    In a trance, she repeated,"H..hubby.."


    And with a pleased smile, Wolf stole the word from her lips, sealing their lips together.


    Xie Eun''s mind was in a whirl and her arms wound around his neck as she raised her self on the tips of her toes unconsciously trying to get closer to him..His hands slowly moved downwards and pulled him closer.Her quick response and warm body ignited a fire within him and the more he got the greedier he was.When she clutched him,he gave a small nip on her lips, wanting her to grant him entry.When she opened her mouth, he sucked on her lips and explored her mouth with his tongue, engaging her to participate In this ritual of making love.His hands moved even lower and only when he felt her quiver, did her release her, slowly, his lips still clinging to hers not wanting to let go.Slowly he moved back and looked at her..She looked like a piece of art that had come to life.His Goddess of Love.

 Chapter 72 - Move In Together

    Xie Eun felt her face flush as she peeped at the man who held her in his arms.Her dewy eyes and swollen lips gave the impression that she had just been ravished.Feeling shy,Xie Eun turned around in Wolf''s arms and tried to escape his arms but the moment she tried to do this,Wolf pulled her back to him.His chest now against her back and his chin on her shoulders.She could feel his hot breath against the side of her neck and the his hands spread against her stomach made her feel hot all over. "Eun-a,don''t run away from me.The more you run,the more I want to hold you.So don''t run.Come let us finish our dinner.".Slowly his arms and then his body moved away from her and Xie Eun felt almost bereft at the loss of his warmth.Unable to understand this feeling or rather,not wanting to acknowledge it, she quietly let him guide her to the seat without saying anything.Another button was pressed and within minutes, servers walked in with a cart full of delicacies.For the first time in her life, Xie Eun did not forget everything at the sight of food.In fact if someone were to ask her what she ate for dinner, she would be totally blank.


    Wolf, on the other hand was extremely pleased with his wife''s reaction.It proved to him that she was at least affected by him.He thoroughly enjoyed her befuddled look that he was responsible for putting on her face. Carefully, he cut a piece of steak for her and raised it near her mouth.Xie Eun''s eyes shot to his at this gesture and automatically she took the bite offered. He kept on feeding her from his plate until she was too full to even think of anything. Only when she adamantly refused his coaxing looks, did he relent..


    As the time to leave approached, Xie Eun realized that the butterflies in her run.y we''re back to business and her stomach was fluttering too much.Her mind started to whirl and she wondered what he would do once they were home..(She did not seem to realize that she already considered his place, her home..)Even as she tried to think of ways to get out of this fix, Wolf pulled back her chair and once they were ready to move out, his hand settled naturally on her waist-his little finger slipping inside the cut out design.This made Xie Eun hyper aware of his nearness while at the same time, she felt a warmth pass through her at his possessive gesture.Her face started to blush and she decided to try and distract herself..To accomplish this task she started to recite the names of all the action figures in her heart.Kt was only as they reached the car, did inspiration strike and she started to stammer," Umm,I have to stay at the dormitory tonight.I have already applied for a change of programs and I will be leaving the dorms soon so I think it will be easier to just stay there tonight.That way i can save time and finish the procedures as soon as possible."


    Wolf,after helping her into the car and listening to her, was almost tempted to call out on her lie but decided to leave her some face.He knew that the procedures for transferring programs had already been concluded.Usually a University did not allow students to change courses mid term but since he was the one who had voiced for her, they would not have dared to say no.And naturally when they were done, he was the first person to receive the news. But, just because he let her have some face, did not mean he would let her off. So as soon as he started the car, he asked her,"Then are you going to move into our home once you have cancelled your dormitory?You have been in the guest bedroom until now.I guess I should ask the housekeeper to make some space for you in the master bedroom so that you can store your things.I''ll also send someone to pick you up tomorrow.What time do you think you will be able to finish packing and move home?"


    Her plan had backfired!Xie Eun widened her eyes and tried to peer at the man in the dark interiors of the can,who had already began to plan how to help her in making a move from the dorm to his home.She had just been avoided going into his house for tonight so how did they get on the topic of having her move there permanently?She shook her head, to deny his plans and to clear her head before protesting,"No, I..I have already made other arrangements.And you are the one who said we must begin dating so how can you expect use to date while we are living in the same house?That would be too soon!"


    It was only then she realised how ridiculous she was being.And how vehemently she had declined his suggestion of moving in together.And when the man failed to reply, she started to analyse everything and wondered if she had really offended him.Theu had already been married for two years.His patience with her must already be to the maximum and she was being even more dense.


    Xie Eun cursed herself for being ten kinds of fools and opened her mouth to explain some more but before any words could come out of her mouth, the car jerked to an abrupt halt, throwing her against the back of the seat with some force.Finally, accepting the fact that he was angry, Xie Eun was about to request him to be more understanding but before she could say anything, her mouth was caught in another kiss.

 Chapter 73 - Xie Eun Strikes

    His kiss was gentle and seductive.It pulled her in making her want more even as her inner self tried to protest it.His lips were gentle and as they ribbed slowly against her own, they created a fire in her that she could not even think of.She was tempted to scoot closer to him.Before her hands could move to clamp on him, her eyes snapped open.Xie Eun woke up with a jerk and looked around to see that she was still in her dormitory. She wiped her sweaty brow and realized that she had been dreaming.Her face was moist and flushed while she could feel her fingers were clenched and wanting to find into him.She had in fact been reliving his kiss from last night when he had dropped her at the dorm last night.She had such a dream after so long.She used to dream of his kisses when she had newly shifted here.And she used to feel guilty towards So Jing after every dream.But now, with that feeling of guilt gone, Xie zeun could only feel the spark of desire towards him.But she felt aggrieved at what happened after the kiss.While she had lost all her brain cells, he had calmly replied,"Very well.I will wait for when you are ready to move in.And now Xie Eun,wish me goodbye and go to your room like a good girl.And obediently she had repeated,"goodbye." And was about to get out of the car when he stopped her and kissed her again.He whispered against her lips,"Eun-a?what did I tell you to call me?I can do this all night.If you do not wish me, then I will keep kissing you."He had once again taken her mouth softly until she had lost all reason.It was only after being kissed senseless a few times did she remember his request and stammered out a,"Goodnight hubby." And ran out of the car as if she was a squirrel whose tail was on fire.


    Xie Eun patted her cheeks a few times to bring down her embarrassment from last night and raced to the washroom to freshen up.She had already packed away everything yesterday and now only needed to sign the vacancy form and transfer the advance money back to Si Jing. She looked at the bank card in her hand which already had the money for the last two years and the rest of which was going to be transferred. Just then, her phone''s reminder sounded and she looked at screen to see the message.Good thing she had set a reminder!She had totally forgotten that she had agreed to see Miss When today.The woman had called yesterday and asked her to meet.Xie Eun had planned to refuse her but unable to say no, she had agreed to the meeting.Deciding there was enough time to get ready, Xie Eun freshened up and picked up her luggage to walk out of the dormitory.She was really thankful that the other two dormitory mates were not around and her even stayed absent lsst night.In fact if they had not been so disgusting, she would have even missed them..Glad that she would not have to meet them before leaving, Xie Eun gave a big smile to herself and walked towards the door, only to be met by dumb and dumber-her two dormitory mates.They stood at the door with their arms crossed and she could already see that they were prepared to ''send her off.''


    And lo behold, behind them stood students from the entire building, who had come to watch the show plus Lu Yeona..For a minute she wondered what Yeona was doing here and how she was commented to the girls.But the next moment,her now not so slow brain provided the answer.No wonder they seemed to make things so difficult for her from the very beginning.She had assumed that they had a problem with her being from the country but it seemed that they were Yeona''s minions..Sigh!They really had her surrounded these past years.They actually left nothing to chance.But they had only not expected that her father had already made a move to counter attack all their moves.


    Shaking her head, she pulled her luggage bag out of the door, and said,"Excuse me,please."


    These three people were naturally out to make trouble and ignoring her request, simply stared at her and snickered.When they refused, Xie Eun nodded her head and said,"I see you don''t understand polite language.Naturally,you are so dumb that you cannot help it.So bit****, get out of my way."


    Saying so, Xie Eun simply pulled her luggage bag in front of her and the wheels of the bag, ''accidentally'' rolled over the two roommates feet, causing them to shriek in pain and jump back.


    The first girl, screamed, accusing,"Xie Eun!How can you be so impolite to attack is like this? Even if you are moving out, we have lived together for two years and we have helped you so much in navigating through the city life!And now that you have a big thigh to hild,you are attacking us!".


    Xie Eun almost rolled her eyes at this and answered,"Would you like to tell me how you have helped me in the past?Would that be when you tore my final assignment papers a day before they were due to submit and I had to stay overnight to work on them?Or the time when you threw your bubble tea on my camera before I could go to the digital photography classes.I have numerous examples of the ways in which you have helped me so let us not get into that!And now if you wish to continue being able to stand in the fiture, I suggest that you get out of my way."


    Throughout this, Xie Eun paid no mind to Yeona who could only fume in the back.

 Chapter 74 - A Boy

    The two girls almost scurried away but then one look at Yeona and their hearts tightened and they tried to stay firm.But Xie Eun had already achieved an opening and a chink in their armor so she calmly pushed them aside and walked over to Yeona."Cousin?Are you here to create another scene?did you nit have enough yesterday?All these people who are gathered here are only my fellow students.And even if they are here to watch a good show, do you really think they are going to form an opinion about me based on what you have to say?And even if they do, I need to care about their opinion for any such thing to matter."


    Those people who could hear Xie Eun felt embarrassed at this point.It was true, they had only come to watch a good show.Who had not sen the news these last few days.Even if Xie Eun''s face had not been shown clearly, those who knew her would recognize her.And they had been living in the same building as this beauty..In the last two gears, the girl had been quiet and unassuming  so for her to have trouble now, naturally meant that it was because she had suddenly become an heiress.So, once they had been caught out, they did not dare stay and be looked down upon.Seeing the students who had been gathered by them, disperse so easily after a few words from Xie Eun made Lu Yeona even more mad and she pointed a finger at Xie Eun,"Do you really think that just because you have found a big thigh to hold onto, you can do whatever you want?It is only as long as you keep.your legs open that he will let you do what you wish!And what about your dear husband then?A man I have never seen around you?Do you really think a village hillybilly is a match for us?Do you really think you have won?Xie Eun,you have really made a big mistake by trying to mess with us.You should have taken this chance to escape but you challenged us and now you will pay the price.!"


    Xie Eun had calmly listened to Lu Yeona and her attempt to insult her and once the girl was finished, she started,"Cousin Yeona,you need to apologize."


    Snorting, Yeona stated,"As if I would apologize to a lowly creature like you."


    Xie Eun shook her head and said,"Not to me.Your crass words show your own true face and not mine so you have failed miserably in your attempt to insult me.I do wonder which backer of yours discarded you because you would not sleep with him?But, then again,it is none of my business.."


    Unable to take the same insult she had flinged at Xie Eun, Lu Yeona raised her hand with the intention of teaching Xie Eun a lesson but the latter caught a hold of her wrist and twisted it mercilessly,causing Lu Yeona to shout in pain. While Lu Yeona almost howled in pain, Xie Eun continued nonchalantly,"As I was saying , you need to apologize.But not to me. Somewhere there is a tree,working tirelessly to create oxygen so that you can breathe. You need to apologize to that tree!That is how much of a shameful creature you are."Having said her piece, Xie Eun pushed away Lu Yeona and walked out of the building while Yeona could only curse at Xie Eun, after she understood the slur.


    Outside, Xie Eun got into the taxi that she had booked and gave an address to the restaurant where she was to meet Miss Wen Shan. On the way, she wondered the practical problem of her living arrangements that she had assured her husband,we''re taken care of.She opened her phone and checked many hotels near the university where she could stay temporarily. After shortlisting a few, she was satisfied and then got to look at the advertisements in the university forum for students who would like room mates or paying guests.Since it was the middle of the term, finding a place would be really difficult..but she realised that it was not just difficult but almost impossible.The posting that were fitting her budget housed 3-4 people in a small apartment.While the ones she was liking, were way too over the limit.Having made a habit of being frugal, Xie Eun did not wish to spend so much money on some temporary place..Still she shortlisted a few with the intention of checking them out at a later date.By the time the taxi reached the small cafe, Xie Eun had solved her thoughts to a large extent.


    Inside the cafe, only a single table was occupied.The woman who occupied it wore a simple three piece red comored suit and was elegantly sipping her coffee. Any onlooker would feel compelled to stare when they saw such a beauty with so much grace and elegance..But this illusion was shattered when a young girl in a baggy t shirt and jeans walked into the cafe,dragging a luggage bag behind her.


    Crushing her image of elegance and superiority, Miss Wen Shan waved from her seat and called out,"Anna, I am here!"


    The bright smile and cheerful wave from this completely stranger, chased away the slight slump in her shoulder because if the earlier drama and she returned the greeting with a big smile of her own.


    Shan Shan, on the other hand had just looked at the clothes that Xie Eun was wearing and almost gaped, her mouth falling open comically.


    Forgetting her original purpose of the meeting, she commented,"Anna!How can you wear such clothes and still look like a beautiful girl?If I were to wear such clothes I would definitely end up looking like a weird boy.."

 Chapter 75 - Danger

    Xie Eun looked down at her clothes and then the beautifully dressed woman.Wryly , she rebutted"And if Inwere to dress up like you then I would look like a little girl playing dress up.Miss Wen, you look beautiful as well."


    Instead of denying the true compliment, Shan Shan accepted it gracefully with a "Thank you." and pointed to the opposite chair,indicating for Xie Eun to have a seat Only as she sat, did Shan Shan notice the luggage she was pulling behind and remembered her purpose.Getting back to business, she began,"Thank you so much for your time.I hope you did not mind that I used the anglo version of your name..I specially like the name Anna.It reminds me of someone."


    Xie Eun politely shook her head,indicating that she indeed did not mind being referred to as Anna. Once Shan Shan had affirmed this she continued, "Anyway, you left the meeting but that day but Neil Long discovered something later.Once everything has been transferred in your name, there are certain other conditions that you accept when you become the beneficiary.Anyway, these points are not just important but also not totally legal.However, the will is already registered so it makes them legal.First I want to apologise to you for this mistaken and assure you that we will do our best to correct it.In fact my grandfather was so shocked when this clause was pointed out by Neil Long that he almost fainted. See, the thing is, at present we are still investigating how this happened and who did it,but for now you must know that the original will has been tampered with."


    Xie Eun,who had been listening with patience albeit a bit confised, felt a chill when she heard this.What..what do you mean by saying that the will has been tampered with?"


    Shan Shan,took out a folder from the file and opened it to a few pages, pointing out,"Do you see these clauses?They were never dictated in the original will.Nor were they there in the drafted will.That means that the will your grandfather and my grandfather approved was a bit different that what they signed and registered eventually.Unfortunately, we checked with the courts and this tampered will is true and the one registered."


    Xie Eun read the clauses of the will a few times before blinking and asking,"You mean these classes we''re added before the final will was made?But who could do that?Lu Yeona and I must be too young and Chairwoman Lu would not have known about this....and even if she did, she could have directly convinced my grandfather instead of going the underhanded way.."


    Shan Shan shook her head and explained,"But Chairwoman Lu is the only suspect in this case.We are trying to find the paralegal who drafted this but she has already left the company for a few years and it would be like finding a needle in a stack of hay.We also cannot publicize this to find her ,as something like this would cause an uproar and put a blemish on our company.This has also created a hot mess for us because if the paralegal has accepted bribe once then chances are that she has accepted bribes more than once.We are in the process of checking all other wills drafted during that time.Thankfully my grandfather maintains a record or else.Anyways I am here to promise you that we will do our best to compensate you and I hope you will not sue us when though you deserve to..."


    Xie Eun could see how worried Shan Shan was but after reading the clauses again and again, she did not see how this was so panic causing..so she shook her head and said,"There is no need.So what if the money is passed to someone else in the event of something untoward happening?"


    Shan Shan who had been expecting Anna to panic could only shake her head as she said,"You are way too innocent!This clause means that if something were to fallen to you within a year of you inheriting then everything, including what you have contributed will be given back to the trust and eventually to the other party if they fulfil the requirements.This means, Anna, as soon as you became the owner of Lu Enterprises,your life was in danger. Is there anyone who would put such an insidious plan in place,other than Chairwoman Lu?This was her back up plan!The reason why she was so sure that Lu Enterprises will eventually land in her hands!I actually meant to warn you to move out of your dorm and to a safe place, the address of which your grandmother would not know.Itnis better no one knows.And if you can permit, then we would like to hire a few body guards for your protection.They will be discreet If course.Are you going to move in with your husband?Because he would need protection too.Our firm will naturally bear all the costs. Anna?You are not saying anything?Are you not satisfied?Look we can have discuss more if you are not satisfied with the arrangements but I hope you understand our position.My grandfather''s license will not only be removed but his life''s work will be wasted."


    Xie Eun who was in shock at this finally regained her senses and said,"I...You do not have to worry.I will take care of this.Please do not worry about me suing you.No one else knows whether these clauses we''re part of the original will or not so your grandfather''s reputation must be safe.Thank you for informing me.You could have kept me in the dark and I wouldn''t have been wiser.If I do need any help, Inwill let you know.And now I have another appointment so please excuse me."

 Chapter 76 - Living Together

    Xie Eun made her way to the taxi at the fastest speed.This was not news she needed early in the morning!She had not expected her ''grandmother'' to be so..If she was truly the one responsive for the changes in the will, then she was too cunning.And dangerous.It meant she was willing to sacrifice someone''s life even then.Because there was no other way for that clause to come into effect.


    Xie Eun shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts.She could feel her self getting paranoid at this stage.Thankfully, she reached the place she wanted to be to.As Shan Shan had pointed out everything, Shan Shan had given up the idea of staying in a hotel for the time being.It wouldn''t be safe. So she decided a safe place for herself and paying the driver, opened the Small gate to enter.


    Meanwhile , At Alpha Group,


    "Sir, the guards you appointed have sent in the report.It seems there was a small fight at the dormitory involving Miss Lu and Miss Xie as well as two of her dorm mates.But Miss Xie showed them their place and the girls will not dare to provoke Miss Xie again.


    Miss Xie then went to see Miss When and after they discussed...Before the man could continue to give his report, the person sitting on the opposite chakr, interrupted," We do not need to keep an eye on Miss Xie. we only asked you to keep an eye in her surroundings in case there is a threat."


    The man hurriedly nodded at this curt command and realized his mistake.He had assumed that the CEO would want to keep an eye on his wife while the danger was just as an excuse.But he had been cleared of those ideas today.Good thing he had taken this risk in advance and not let it fester and make a mistake later..Their team of security guards had just been hired and they were still finding their way.They were well aware that the previous team had been fired suddenly and viciously so that none of the members were able to return to the city.Cheng Mo looked at the security agent who needed to know the threat but had been kept in the dark, and sighed.He just hoped this one did not make a blunder and relax his security.Once the Security agent had left, Cheng Mo,got up from his own chair and walked into the CEO''s office to report the agent''s findings..After giving his summary, Cheng Mo had only one question,"Where will the lady Boss be living now?I don''t thonk she had made another arrangement..".Cheng Mo wanted to actually tell his boss that he should ask his wife to stay with him.But since he could not say so directly, he was hinting at it.When the boss gave no reply, he continued,"Should I tell her guards to let us know which hotel she eventually decided on?Then we can send a warning to the hotel to take good care of Madam?" Wolf paused in his work as he listened to this suggestion and then continued to read,"No need to invade her privacy.I will contact her directly."


    That said, Wolf was back to marking the changes he wanted in the file while Cheng Mo stood still wanting to add some advice.He really wanted to know how his experienced boss was going to talk the lady boss into moving in with him. When Cheng Mo failed to move, Wolf looked up and said conversationally, "I remember that your penalty for the misunderstanding is still due.Are you waiting here to tell me if you have a preference?"


    Cheng Mo: ".."


    Just then, a cell phone started to ring.Cheng Mo, who was about to apologize and scurry away suddenly wanted to gained some more confidence and began to dawdle!Because he recognized the ringtone! It was different from the boss'' default one!It meant that this call was from Miss Xie to the boss'' alter ego-Yu Seok!Very slowly, he started to move back.Wolf noticed his assistant''s antics but ignored him,directly answering the call.


    "Hello?"


    The other side could not be heard but when he heard the boss'' reply, Cheng Mo wanted to kneel on the floor and ask his boss what he had done!Here he was thinking of ways to get the lady boss to move in with him and The boss was a step ahead.


    The sheep was walking into the wolf''s den on her own!How was that made possible?His boss, who had never interacted with any woman had successfully lured Mrs Boss into his home!That too of her own accord!


    The more Cheng No heard the more aghast he grew..After a short break, the boss first said,"The key code of the door is ****."


    He then said,"What do you want to eat?"


    While Cheng Mo stood in shock, Wolf had already finished the call with,"Go inside and get comfortable now.I''ll be back in about 30 minutes and then make you something to eat.Until then there are some prawn chips in the pantry..."As Wolf spoke, he had already left his seat


    Before Wolf could walk out of the office, Cheng Mo stuttered out,"Boss...is lady boss moving in with you?Should I tell the security staff to back off whenever you are with her?"


    Wolf paused mid-step before saying,"Assistant Cheng? Curiosity kills the cat.Also, the punishment you had to take for causing the misunderstanding?I''ve put it on hold..for now..."


    With that, Wolf strode out of the office without looking back.Cheng Mo could barely collect his thoughts after his boss had threatened as well as forgiven him in a single breath..It was true that a man in love had no IQ at all..Finally Cheng No accepted the fact that he should stop feeling surprised at his boss'' capabilities...

 Chapter 77 - Living Together (2)

    Xie Eun stood outside the house that Yu Seok had brought her to.She knew she should go to the place where her husband stayed but her heart beat a little faster at such a thought and she felt nervous.But as she stood here,after speaking to Yu Seok,she felt a bit guilty.He had already made himself clear that they should try to date seriously from now on.He had not once brought up her past with Si Jing. And now she was going to live with another man...


    In a dilemma,she entered the house and placed her luggage at the side before looking for the chips that Yu Seok had told her about.Tearing open the package,she munched on a few and pondered some more.She could tell Wolf about Yu Seok being gay,maybe then he wouldn''t mind...But that would also mean breaking Yu Seok''s trust and she did not want to do that..Finally,Xie EUn was struck with a ''bright'' idea.She took out her cell phone and started to type a message..But she could not find Wolf''s number..She remembered she had saved it when Aunt Su had pestered her so much..Taking out her contacts she started to check her list,maybe she had misspelled..but starting from W,she could not find anything.It was only after she had scrolled half way up did she find Wolf''s number.The name in the list made her blush..She had not expected a man would do something so silly...but he really had changed his own name from Wolf to ''hubby'' in her phone and he had even added a kiss emoticon there! The name and the emoticon made her think of the way he had coaxed her into calling him hubby and her face started to blush a bright red. Still blushing and munching furiously on the chips,she typed out a message,"Hello.I have moved out of the dormitory and am currently living with a friend.." As she was wondering what more to write,the phone in her hand started to ring and she almost dropped it when she saw the name flashing..She did not want to talk to him..no she wanted to talk to him..Finally,"H..Hello?"


    "Eun-a."


    A shiver raced down her spine when she heard the voice.Why did the guy sound like he had just gotten out of bed...He made even her name sound so seductive.


    "Yes?"


    "Eun-a..Have you moved out of the dorms?"


    Xie Eun nodded her head and then realizing that he could not see her,she said,"Yes.I am living with a friend for now.."


    "Eun-a..move in with me.Why do you have to stay with a friend?"


    "No no no no..I mean we are just..we have just begun to date and then moving in together...would be too sudden.."


    When there was no reply from the other side, Xie Eun wondered if Wolf could already guess that she had moved in with a male friend...She needed to gauge his reaction and feeling unsure about why it was so important to her that he did not feel bad, she asserted,"Hubby!You said we are going to be dating!Let me tell you that if you do not arrange some really astounding dates, I will not go out with you.Only after we have been on a few dates at least will I consider moving in with you..."


    Wolf smiled a small smile when he got his wife to say what he wanted her to say and then unanimously answered,"Very well..Keep your weekend free.We are going out on a date.."


    With that he finished the call and got out of the car back to his Yu Seok personality.Opening the trunk of the car, Yu Seok collected the groceries that he had bought at the supermarket and walked towards his home...where his wife was waiting for him...


    Meanwhile, Xie Eun was bust checking for dementia symptoms on her phone because she had most certainly decided to avoid her husband for a few days and not even twenty four hours had passed and she had already set a date with him..Her brain had stopped functioning...and she even needed to check her heart condition since it was beating so irritably these days...


    A naughty voice in her head whispered that she knew the reason her heart was acting up.Xie Eun ignored the voice and since she did not find any other symptoms of dementia in herself, she types out another word...or rather her traitorous fingers did.."CEO Wolf.."


    But before the internet could come up with something, she heard the door open and quickly hid the search.She turned around to see Yu Seok entering with a few bagful of groceries...She rushed to him and taking the bags out of his hands, she said,"Thank you so much!You are a saviour! Please cook up something really fast!I am so hungry!"


    Ignoring her extended hands, Yu Seok walked towards the kitchen and got to work.Xie Eun followed him , still pestering him about food choices..Finally, Yu Seok threw a stare at her way clearly indicating that she needed to go out if she wanted some food..so she quietly went back out of  the kitchen with a pout on her face. This was the reason, he decided.Wolf loved to see both sides of Xie Eun.One where he could see her blush and stutter and the other where he could see her be bossy and cute..Now he just needed to bring these two together..


    Withing a few minutes, Wolf had whipped up a stir fry vegetable and chicken egg fried rice dish.The aroma was so tantalising that Xie Eun almost jumped at the dish..But instead of placing it in front of her, Yu Seok sat next to her and picking up the chopstick fed some to her...She looked a bit dazed at this because Wolf had also done something so similar.

 Chapter 78 - Challenge

    Xie Eun stared at the hand that was extended to feed her and then at Yu Seok who had suddenly taken the initiative to feed her. Seeing her confusion, Yu Seok simply cast her hands a look full of disdain and remarked,"You little brat!Are you sure that you are all grown up?Who soils their hands so badly when eating chips.They are disturbingly red!And then you''re here to eat my food!You need to be scolded like a little girl..and reminded to wash your hands.."It was only then Xie Eun glanced at her fingers which were all sticky from the excess salt and spices on the chips and her expression cleared...so that is why this person with obsessive cleanliness disorder had taken to feeding her.Her expression cleared and the niggling feeling in her heart was pushed to the back of her mind.Well, if he was so irritated, then she could help him a bit..so she purposely brought her hand to her mouth and licked her fingers clean..His distasteful expression gave her even more pleasure and to tease him some more, she placed her other hand right near his lips and said, "This is the best part of eating the chips!You don''t know what you are missing out on Yu Seok!Since you are such a cleanliness freak, you wouldn''t know!This is your chance, I can offer you to lick my fingers to get a better tastes after all you have made such delicious food for me...Here, try try.."


    Cue Eun grinned challengingly at Yu Seok wanting to pull his chain.She was perfectly sure he would simply swat away at her hand with a distasteful face but to her horror he actually took her fingers in his mouth...


    Taking a hold of her worst, Yu Seok took her finger in his mouth and his tongue swirled around her finger, licking and then even sucking! She could only stare in horror as he gave this treatment to all her fingers and licked each clean with a nip at the end...She had not expected that...And that action of his made her wonder what his tongue would feel like on other parts....She wanted to slap herself for her dirty thoughts!All this had to be because of Wolf and the seduction spell he had cast in her.She looked at Yu Seok who was not calmly eating his own food and then at her hand which was still stuck in mid air.Pointing to her own hand with her other which was slightly glistening because of his mouth, she asked,"Wh..why did you do that?"


    Yu Seok, took his time chewing the food in his mouth before he answered,"You are the one who challenged me.Insimoly took you up on it.Why are you looking at me as if I am the one who is responsible for this?"


    "Bbbb..but I did not expect you to take me up on this challenge!"


    Without a pause in eating, Yu Seok replied,"Yes I know.It is why I took you up on it."


    My goodness.Yu Seok was really scary.Xie Eun decided.She had always thought that he was a cleanliness freak and even a germophobic, but here he was, licking her fingers just because she had challenged him...


    Leaving her chair, Xie Eun ran to the wash basin and thoroughly washed her hands.She could feed herself!With clean hands, Xie Eun then grabbed the chopstickes and started to get some from the bowl...That was when she noticed that there were only two pieced of chicken left in the bowl..Shencalculqted how much she had but she was really hungry and deciding to leave these for Yu Seok but the moment he extended his hand, she stopped his chopsticks with her own and grabbed the two pieces like a little kid stealing candy.Yu Seok cast her a look but said nothing and finished up his plate, before going to clean.Xie Eun also followed suit and then like a little puppy, she walked behind him..It was only then that she noticed that he was wearing a formal suit.And he had been wearing a suit even when she had met him outside Alpha Companies...


    Narrowing her eyes, she said,"Yu Seok?Are you already working somewhere?Then what about your studies...You must have only one year left..."


    Yu Seok raised an eyebrow at the sudden mention of his studies and answered nonchalantly,"I had extra credits.I skippedbthiabyear and sat for the finals directly..As of now, I have already graduated.."


    Xie Eun was amazed at this.Yu Seok was a business major who was also doing a minor in photography.Since he was her senior, she knew that his course work would be greater than her.She had thought that he wouldn''t be able to help her with her studies now that she had changed majors but she only now came to know that he had skipped an a year..That meant,that he would not be in college with her anymore!


    Worriedly,she asked, "have you given your lecture notes to anyone?If not, can I have them?Please tell me you haven''t given them to anyone!If you have then you are the one who has to get me notes!Yu Seok I really need those..!"


    Without a word, Yu Seok walked over to a small table at the side and brought out a USB.


    "Here are all the notes for you.With a dumb person like you, I already knew that these would be needed.And now that you have solved these matters, you need to buck up and study.If you need any help, you can mark it and ask me later or study them altogether and ask me in the weekend..


    Happily grabbing the USB from Yu Seok, she hugged his for a minute with an excited " Thank You!You are the best friend ever!Inwont even take issue with you for calling me dumb!"


    In her excitement, Xie Eun who was actually hoping while clutching the USB to her chest, lost her balance and fell straight into Yu Seok''s arms!"

 Chapter 79 - A Dark Past

    Yu Seok caught Xie Eun who had fallen directly into his arms with his hands on her waist.Suddenly, Xie Eun who had been hopping felt her nose pressed into a hard chest..once again she felt as if the fragrance was familiar to her somehow so she sniffed deeply. This caused Yu Seok to stiffen and comment,"Xie Eun?Are you still hungry?Is that why you are sniffing at me?Let me tell you that a little of the food smell may be clinging to me but I am not edible."


    Xie Eun felt embarrassed at being caught at something so awkward moved back and replied without meeting his eyes, explained,"It''s not that..Just..just that your after shave is really nice."Slowly moving out of his arms, she thought of a distraction,"Yu Seok, you finished you education early and that too from such a top tier university, your parents must be really proud of you!"


    Yu Seok stilled at this and Xie Eun who still stood close to him, felt this..She saw the bleakness flash in his eyes before it was covered again with indifference.When Yu Seok would have turned away without answering, Xie Eun caught hold of his hand. Holding his large hands in hers, she simply said,"Yu Seok, I am proud of you!And I am especially grateful that you accepted me as your friend.."


    Her sincere expression and clear eyes without pity or judgement, softened his heart and using his other hand to cup her face, he said,"I am glad to have you as a friend.If my master was here, he would have said something like this.."


    She was truly General Xie''s daughter.And if he had been here, he too would have been proud if Xie Eun..


    Xie Eun smiled and asked,"Your master?Is he the one who brought you up?"


    This time, Yu Seok did not stiffen up and kept himself composed,"Xue Eun,I was brought up in the streets.There was no one at home to bring me up..From the time I was eight and woke up near a dumpster to the time I turned sixteen, I had no one to take care of me.My master found me at sixteen and he was the one who taught me how to read and write.He made me the man I am today..And if he was alive, he would have definitely been proud."


    All this was said mechanically and without any emotion but Xie Eun could sense the pain.A young boy..and no one around.No wonder he was so obsessed with cleanliness.She wanted to cry for him and his childhood but knew that be would be insulted at this..And she wanted to ask more..about his life before he turned eight years but his closed off expression already warned her that he would only clam up more if she probed. She could already guess that he was already regretting telling her so much..So she cleared her throat, turned around towards the sofa where her laptop bag was placed with her luggage and said,"You were a really brave boy Yu Seok..You deserve everything in life...


    With her back facing him, Xie Eun plugged in the USB and continued,"Are you going back to work?I have kept you away for a long while.You can go..Thank you for the lunch.We can eat out tonight.It will be my treat to celebrate your success.Or if you are busy, we can even plan another day..."


    Even though Xie Eun tried to keep her voice steady, Yu Seok heard the slight tremble and could feel her tears through her voice.Her pain for him was like a balm to his soul.He had always known, from the first time he met her and she ordered him to carry her, that she had a big heart.And now as she cried silent tears for him, he knew that he was right.He wanted tincinsole her.Even though she cried for his past, for which he had never shed tears, he was pained to see her cry. He did not know why he suddenly brought up the past.He was not one to think about it.Maybe, subconsciously he had wanted to test her or maybe he had wanted her to know about him.He wanted to tell her, she was just like her father but he knew that he could not say that..So unable to say anythin, he slowly went to her and bending a bit, placed a small peck on the crown of her head before saying,"We''ll celebrate at home tonight...I''ll take a rain check for today.."


    Xie Eun nodded her head, saying nothing and soon she heard the found of the door opening and closing. The both of them failed to realize that it had not even been a day yet they both believed this to be their home...Because in reality, they were each other''s home..


    It was only after she was sure that he was gone, did she keep aside the laptop, pick up a cushion and hugging it to her chest, started to cry. The silent tears that had flowed down her cheeks now turned into sobs.She cried for the little lonely boy and she cried for the boy who had finally found a father figure and then lost him again.She had always felt that she was pitiful for not having a mother.Always longed for a mother but today she realized that she had been lucky to have her father...there were so many people who had never had anyone.Finally after a heavy bout of crying, Xie Eun pledged to herself that she would never abandon Yu Seok..and if any one dared to hurt him, she would personally go and break their legs! She decided, she needed to meet Yu Seok''s boyfriend formally, as soon as possible to check if he was trustworthy..but then she thought of her own ''terrific'' character judgement techniques and shook her head...Finally she decided to ask her husband for help.He was a known businessman and his judgement would be good.And they had begun dating.Maybe after this weekend, she will ask Wolf to go on a double date with Yu Seok and his partner so that Wolf could see the man.She would not let her friend suffer anymore.Having come up with an ideal solution, Xie Eun modded to herself, wiped her tears and started to study.

 Chapter 80 - The Date Night

    Xie Eun stared at the sparse occupants of her wardrobe.It had been a few days since she had moved in with Yu Seok and all her stuff had managed to fit inside this small room.It was already Friday afternoon and she was tempted to take up Yu Seok''s offer to help her study and cancel her date with Wolf. But then that would mean that she was scared. And even if she was,she did not have to show any weakness in front of her opponent.Yes, she had decided to treat Wolf as her opponent..Why they were on opposing sides,she had no idea yet. She frowned at the empty bag and then,muttered,"What does he mean to carry an overall bag and prepare for two nights? How did their date turn into a weekend getaway? Plus the audacity of the man! When she had asked about what clothes to bring along,he had really dared to reply,"Birthday Suit"!


    A shiver raced through her(she refused to believe it was excitement) and she wondered if he planned to really make her his wife..Harrumphing,she wondered if she should pack her pyjamas only!That would teach him about not answering all her questions! Yes!She was going to pack her pyjamas and ruin all his plans. Opening the lower drawer,she pulled out shorts with various logos of batman,spider-man and other superheroes and threw then into the small bag along with a few random tank tops..As a safety measure,she packed away a set of Jeans and top!That was the extent of it!She was not taking anything else!She wondered if she should leave a note for Yu Seok.He had been working overtime these days at his new job and they''d hardly had time to do more than say a passing hello to each other every morning. Writing a quick note,telling him that she would be back Sunday,Xue Eun placed her bag next to the door and then raced back into her room.The driver would be here any minute to pick her up and she was still at a loss on what to wear tonight...Once again she was tempted to take out something casual and show him what he meant by not telling her where they were going but then thought better of it..From what she understood,he would not mind but she could be embarrassed..


    Picking up a simple black jeggings with an over-sized,of shoulder pink top,Xie Eun tied her hair in a ponytail at the base of her neck and applied some lipstick.It was only as she finished applying that the door bell rang. Picking up her cell phone, she walked to the door. The driver stood in a white uniform with a gift box and handed it to her the moment she opened the door."Madam,this is for you from the boss."


    Xie Eun was hesitant to take anything from Wolf but she could also not give him face by refusing to accept.She took the box carefully and thanked the driver.The driver bowed and said,"Madam,you can pass your luggage to me.."


    Nodding,Xi Eun passed the bag before saying,"Thank you.I will be out in a minute."


    Xie Eun carried the box,which was big but not too heavy and thought to herself that if it was something tacky or expensive,then she would return it to Wolf tonight.He may have an abundance of wealth but she did not need such things.But to her surprise,there was a book of postcards in it! The pictures in the cards were so beautiful and mesmerizing!It was water but the timings and sunlight had been used beautifully to capture a sunrise,a sunset a moon-rise and even a time when you could see both the sun and the moon at the same time..She wondered how much time the photographer must have spent to get the picture at exactly the right moment.A pang of longing went through her at the thought. She could see that these pictures had been taken with a roll camera than a digital one and all of them were so beautiful..She caressed the surface of every picture and thought that Wolf really knew her well..she would really cherish this..At the end was a short note,"This is the location of out date tonight..."


    Smiling a wide smile,Xie Eun placed the postcard book into her cupboard and raced out of the house and into the car.She had something to look forward to ..She had never been on a ship and the views in the pictures had been so mesmerizing that she could hardly wait to see it for herself.


    Her eyes shined as she looked out of the car window.Soon,they had reached the dockyard and her eyes widened at the sight of the boat that awaited her..No,calling it a boat would be an insult to it!It was actually a cruise! A young woman in black uniform,bowed to her and helped her up the plank to the ship..Xie Eun looked around at the beautifully decorated deck in amazement.The hostess then passed on a small booklet,"Madam,these are the amenities that are at your beck and call during your stay here. Your room cabin is on the upper deck while the swimming pool is on the lower deck. The crew cabins are all on the lower decks and you can use the phone line and dial zero in case you need anything.. Dinner will be served in a few minutes on the upper deck."


    The hostess guided Xie Eun to the upper deck where a table was decorated with flowers and ribbons.Instead of sitting on the chair,Xie Eun walked over to the railing,enjoying the gentle rocking of the yacht and the sound of the waves as they crashed against the shore..She closed her eyes and breathed in the salty air,marveling at this once in a life time chance.She stared at the dark ocean in front on her and a smile played on her lips.This smile however froze in place when she felt a presence at her back.Before she could turn back,a hard chest hugged her back and two arms came around her and the hands were placed on hers on the railing..A slightly rough chin was placed on her bared shoulder and a warm breath fell on her neck...

 Chapter 81 - My Love For You

    Xie Eun''s heart started to falter as she felt surrounded by his scent. His slight stubble scraped across his shoulder and when he said nothing, Xie Eun also kept her silence.After a while, her heart slowly started to calm down and she could concentrate again.She realized that they had started to move away from the port.


    She looked out into the dark night looking for a topic to talk about but nothing would come to mind.Before she could say anything, Wolf said,"Eun-a, you smell beautiful..i missed you this week."


    Unable to say anything, all Xie Eun could do was hum in response. Wolf rubbed his nose at the place where her neck met her shoulders and gave it a small peck, causing a shudder to run through her and goosebumps to break out on her skin.


    Finally, Xie Eun found a topic in her numb mind finally and said,"Th..thank you for the postcards.They are really beautiful."


    "Are they?"


    For a moment, Xie Eun wondered if he had even seen the gift or if he had simply asked his secretary to get her a gift..At this thought,she felt anger course through her..But his next words dispelled it and her doubts


    "Those photos are the photographers visions.He has clicked them in the middle of this sea.That is where we are going.But Eun-a I want to see the ocean from your eyes not some professional photographer''s.Will you show me?"


    Xie Eun felt confused at this and tried to turn her head to look at him but that move simply made him cuddle more into her neck so that she had to tilt he head to the other side to give him more space."What do you mean?"


    "Eun-a,your night is for me.Today and tomorrow.These will be our time to get to know each other.But during the day, you will have your privacy and time.Consider it a mini vacation. A calm before the storm.Once you are back you will have to handle your studies and training with me. Plus the hassle of the Lu''s.. So this weekend is for you."


    While Xie Eun absorbed his words, his hands slowly started to move up her arms..Slowly, his hands settled on her stomach and the little distance between them closed. He placed a small peck on the side of her jaw as he continued,"But you just have to say the word and Ineill make everything disappear. Then you can simply focus on your dream of being a photographer."


    Tempting.Xie Eun decided that Wolf was temptation reincarnate.Be it the way he was tempting her to surrender with his kisses or the offer he laid to get rid of everything for her.


    Xie Eun''s slightly stiff body slowly started to relax and lean back into his embrace.Her mind had slowly started to accept his protection and laid down the defensive stance.


    In a voice that had turned husky without her knowledge, Xie Eun said,"No..it is enough that you are willing to teach me everything.I want to face these difficulties.Only then can I call myself General Xie''s daughter proudly."With a hesitant pause, she answered,"And be able to stand by you equally.."


    She felt his body stiffen against her when she said this.And then his arms tightened around her for a moment before loosening again. She did not know how he felt about her claim but she knew in her heart that this was true.Throughout her relationship with Si Jing, she had been unconsciously made to feel as if she was not worthy enough.And so she had learnt from her mistake...Oh, she knew she was worthy enough but to shut some mouths, a person needed power of their own.She could only rely on her husband''s glory for a while.


    "A hundred of me are not worthy of you, my beautiful innocent wife.But, Inpromise you this, whatever your heart''s desire will be, I will fulfill it.In return I just want you to accept my love and care..Hmm?"


    Touched with his sweet words, Xie Eun nodded slowly, but then asked another question that was burning her inside."Wolf?What if you fall for someone?Will you abandon me then?Or discard me ruthlessly the way you discard your enemies."


    In a sudden move, Wolf jerled her around and she looked into the fiery green eyes surrounded by a silver mask and he looked back at her brave but insecure ones..Cupping her face, Wolf placed a tender kiss on her forehead before proclaiming,"Eun-a, my heart already belongs to you.No one, not even you can make me fall out of love with you. Whatevet you do is right for memIf you choose to be with me so be it.If you choose to love another man, I might go berserk but I will let you go.My love for you is only to make you happy."


    Tears started to flow from Xie Eun''s eyes as his words settled in her heart.How had such a man fallen for a silly girl like her, she would never know.But she would forever cherish this person.Even if she was scared now that she would never love him, her heard that thundered against her assured her that she already cared for him.Raising up on her tiptoes,for the first time, it was Xie Eun who slowly pressed her lips to his. Her own hands, went to his face, her palm rubbing against his warm face while her fingers against his cold mask.Her hands slowly wrapped around his neck and then the two people were not in passion. Rubbing their lips against each other, their tongues spelt until finally Wolf moved back and broke the kiss.Picking her up bridal style, he walked towards the master bedroom his eyes never leaving hers..

 Chapter 82 - A Night Together.

    As Wolf carried her, Xie Eun felt a strange calmness in her heart. She had believed that she was scared of intimacy. Every time, Si Jing had tried to get close to her, she had been terrified and retreated.So much so that she had started to plan their outings in such a way that they would not have the chance to get too close.


    But this seemed to prove her wrong.She looked at his face and her fingers caressed the edge of Wolf''s mask.His eyes turned darker as he looked at her. She wanted to see him.The man behind this mask.She already knew his face a bit. From the outline of his well defined jaw and the slightly pointed high nose. And yet she wanted to see his face..She was about to remove the mask when he entered the bedroom and brought her down.Within a moment,her wrist was in his hand and his eyes blazed,"Not yet.."


    Xie Eun frowned at this reply..Did he have some hideous scar on his face that he was worried about her being scared of?But she was not so vain..Also,she was ready to be with him and he was not showing her his face..New doubts started to creep into her heart. Did he have something to hide?Was he worried about her recognizing him when they were outside and discovering his real self?Then another thought struck her..Was he worried about his own safety?Did he think she would harm him.She knew from her little research that not many people had seen Wolf''s face.It was said,he had many enemies..no no no.She heeded to clear all his doubts and hers.She was about to open her mouth and question him when..


    Wolf shook his head,as he read her thoughts on her expressive face.They had been doing great until her brain started to overwork..Time to get back on track.He would not be able to answer her questions honestly so it was better to not answer them..Pushing her against the door,he moved into her body and raised her chin so that she would look at him and pressed his lips against hers hungrily.


    She inhaled harshly and her hands wound around him again a bit shakily.Her nails dug into his neck sharply causing him to growl in response and turn more aggressive.He sucked her bottom lip into his mouth,his hands roving her body.They moved over her back and buttocks before slowly sneaking into the tip to caress her bare skin.His thumbs caressed the side of her breasts and his hips moved closer between her legs, until I''d run could feel the faint outline if his hard need..Finally after a long long time,when they were both dizzy with need and arousal,Wolf moved a bit and joined their foreheads while creating distance between their lower bodies.The two people breathed in each other''s air and stayed like that, panting harshly, wanting more.


    Slowly,Wolf pecked his way to her bare shoulder and placed a small bite there, sucking and licking,leaving a few small love bites all over her shoulder..


    "Eun-a..",he breathed her name.."I want you...so much"


    Xie Eun who was lost in the daze felt anthril course through her and her response was to try and get closer to him...Her response stroked the fire in him and Wolf had to use all his strength to control himself.


    "But now is not the time...I want us to be together only when I have your heart.Only then will you be mine.I don''t want you regretting our time together.And I don''t want to have another man''s shadow when we are finally together.."


    Sharply,he moved away from her and turned his back,"Escape while you can...Eun-a.Go outside and give me some time to cool down.Then I will join you for dinner."


    Xie Eun silently moved away from the door and followed his border in a daze.Only as the fresh air caressed her face did she wake up and realize that what he said was true. She had wanted to be even closer to him but if they had crossed their boundaries tonight then she would have regretted it later.And he had been right..She had compared her body''s response to him and Si Jing. .Her body, however, reminded her that it would have been worth the regrets..Xie Eun felt alive from his kisses..As if she had clicked her best picture up to today.As if she had taken a countless shots of black coffee.


    Wolf on the other hand threw away his clothes and mask and walked into the small shower stall in the room.As the cold water flowed over him, he cursed himself for being so weak when in front of her.He had no control over himself..


    Xie Eun, on the other hand, wondered what was wrong with her.Wolf was essentially a stranger but her body reacted to him so strongly.Shenhad believed that she had been unable to be intimate with Si Jing because she believed herself to be a married woman.Was it the same logic now?She was able to respond to Wolf because he was her husband?


    She looked down at the mark his teeth had left on her shoulder and analysed her body''s response to him..Hmm..not really.She could accept that she was heavily attracted to him.He was actually an expert at seduction.


    Soon after, Wolf joined her for dinner and a flurry of servers entered one after another.


    Unity, Xie Eun felt shy and awkward so she avoided looking at him and finished her dinner quietly, looking down at her own plate all the while.Even as Wolf offered her small pieces of meat, she took the bites saintly with whenever downturned.The moment the main course was finished, she escaped the deck and ran into the room..Searching for her nightwear haphazardly through the bag, she dropped her jeans and scrambled to put on her clothes. Once fresh , she jumped into the bed and tried to sleep.Her mind insisted in revisiting the earlier events but she ruthlessly controlled it and forced her self to sleep.She had almost fallen asleep when the dorr suddenly opened.Xie Eun had no knowledge of the slight opening or the person walking inside..It was only after an arm landed on her stomach and she was pulled into a hard body, did Xie Eun startle awake and blinked up..Seeing the person who was her husband so up close, her heart went wild and she asked stupidly,"Ehat are you doing here?"


    "Sleeping?"


    "umm...didn''t you say that you would wait for me to fall for you before we....".


    Wolf smiled and answered," Yes...which is why we are only going to sleep tonight.I want you to know me, my touch and my smell..So that even when we part after these two days, you would feel me..."


    With that, Wolf laid his head on the pillow and moved over so that her back was stuck to his chest and they were spooning.Xie Eun''s sleep seemed to have evaluated and she felt as if she was sitting in a burning furnace.Her body was flushed and her face red and her heartbeat uneven..There was no way she could sleep like this.It would have been better to have consummated their relationship than just try to sleep like this..She could feel the heat of his bare skin penetrating the thin cotton of her night shirt..and all her feeling of arousal started to rise back.She resolutely shook her head and closed her eyes, denying her body the satisfaction it craved. Finally, after laying stiffly in his arms, Xie Eun fell asleep.Wolf felt the moment her body had relaxed and discarding the mask, let his guard down to sleep..This was his dream.Just being to hold her like this.He hoped that she would like his surprise tomorrow.After their time together came to an end, he would reveal himself to her.He had already given her clues and knew that she would out them together soon enough..Finall, Wolf to fell into a deep sleep with plans for tomorrow still running through his mind...


    But time has a unique method of his own.Man can plan but he cannot control time..As the first morning rays entered the cabin and the small love coccoon, Wolf would realize that not everything could be controlled and some thing never went according to one''s plan no matter how foolproof the planner was.


    Xie Eun stretched her hands as she felt the light hit her face.Her closed eyes narrowed and shrunk away from the penetrating light.As she would have moved away, she felt a heaviness across her waist and the events of last night, rushed through her mind..

 Chapter 83 - Photographs

    As Xie Eun opened her eyes,she realized that a heavy arm was thrown across her waist.She felt a blush rise to her cheeks as she saw the location of the hand...It was placed just under positionher breasts...How did she even sleep in such a ? Slowly, another thought struck her, did he sleep with his mask on?Maybe she could see his face..even if he had a mask on, she could at least look more closely.She had only ever seen this man''s face in shadows..Slowly, she tried to move her head so that she could see without jolting him into waking up. Ever so slowly, she started to move but she had not moved even a few degrees when a husky voice whispered,"Awake?"


    With that, the owner of the voice tightened his arm and threw a leg over her hips capturing her and pulling her closer into his body. Something kept poking into her but even as Xie Eun tried to ignore it, she felt an answering rush in her body.


    "Eun-a..It is still early..let''s sleep in a bit more.."


    Xie Eun tried to move away a bit from the lower parts but his grip on her had been too tight...


    He nuzzled into her neck and Xie Eun could only endure this silently.Finally, she fell asleep once again and missed the golden opportunity of seeing her husban''s face.


    When she woke next, the sun was already high in the sky and her husband was no where to be found.Rubbing her eyes, she freshened up and slowly walked outside.The same hostess from last night greeted her in the upper deck. Xie Eun was shocked at the sudden appearance of someone as she had totally forgotten that they were not alone in this big ship.


    "Good morning madam.The breakfast has been laid out for you. We will be reaching our observing point in a little while where you will be to see and observe dolphins..Your camera equipment is all placed in the inbuilt shelf there and should you need anything more you can tell us..and we will arrange it for you.."


    Hearing the words camera equipment, Xie Eun realized what Wolf had mentioned about wanting to fulfill her dreams.She stated to the shelf and was amazed at the attention to detail. There were spot meters, extra flash lights, the old fashioned reel and polaroid camera, as well as the latest Dslr and Mirrorless camera.


    Grabbing her favourite DSLR, she forgot her breakfast and raced to the railing of the deck.


    Focusing from the frame, she looked at the vast expanse of sea and finally saw a focal point for her picture.Her fingers caressed the familiar shape of the camera lovingly as she immersed herself in taking pictures she found fascinating.Since this was her first time at the ocean, she had no intention of missing all this.The stewardess smiled at the young lady''s enthusiasm and slowly moved back.She had served many rich girls as part of various crews but this was the first time that she had seen someone so genuinely happy to enjoy the ocean. She had been instructed to not disturb the miss until Miss Xie Was ready so she quietly waited in the lower pantry area..


    Only after a while,when Xie Eun had her fill of photos, did Xie Eun turned away from the railing. But instead of keeping away her camera, she started to click pictures of the interior of the ship..She was tempted to call Yu Seok and tell him that she had fulfilled her wish of clicking the pictures at the ocean while he still had to take pictures in the sky. She remembered in their discussion last year, how she had raced over having a chance to click the ocean pictures and now she had the chance.She was perfectly satisfied with her shots and was already planning on taking more..It was only then she realized that her phone was still inside the master bedroom.


    Humming to herself happily, Xie Eun, opened the door to the room and then almost dropped the camera in her hand.There,beyond the frosted glass she could see a man''s naked silhouette in the shower with his back to the door..Her throat dried and she thought that the scenery inside was even better than the one outside....


    Lifting the camera automatically, she focused on the glass that was a bit steamed and set the focus on the water...a series of clicks sounded and just as her camera would have focused downwards, the man turned abruptly and something untoward came into the lens'' view. That was when Xie Eun realised what she had done and her eyes snapped upward...


    No no no no..she had been caught red handed!She could just feel his gaze on her, burning her through the glass..


    "Xie Eun, you lusty fool"..she cursed herself..


    What were you thinking to do this?Wolf got you a camera so that you could fulfill your passion not so that you could click porn! Oh...gosh oh gosh.."


    While she was having her internal monologue,the sound of the water running stopped and she could hear the sound of the door opening...


    Languidly, she heard the man, walk out and ask her,"What are you doing here in the middle of the day?"


    His question fired her up and she defensively snapped back at him,"I came to get my phone?But why are you here, sh showering at this time?"


    Sensing that this was her chance to go on the offensive and defend her actions, Xie Eun turned around to attack him but the next moment her words caught in her throat and she quickly slapped a hand on her eyes..but the image of that thing was burnt into her memory.."Why are you not wearing your clothes yet?"


    "I was about to but you turned around unable to contain your curiosity about me...."


    "Hmpf!Who is curious about you?I just turned back by mistake.And now I am going out!I will take my camera later...


    She turned around and as her hand went to the door, another hand stopped the door and a low timber whispered in her ear..." not so soon..do you think it is so easy to take advantage of me and then run...what about the show you just enjoyed?Hmm?Do I not get a return favour?


    "Rrreturn favor?What do you mean?"


    "I mean, we are all modern believers of gender equality and you just enjoyed starting at my bodybwhilenI was showering.So, my Eun-a,why don''t you let me also have a good time.."


    This good for nothing was actually teasing her.He was the one who had put on the show so why should she return the favor.Narrowing her eyes, she glared at the hand that blocked her way and decided to teach her husband a lesson..


    He wanted a show did he?She would show him what happens to boys who dared to bully her.She lifted her heel, with the intention of attacking his instep but before she could do that, the camera was snatched from her hand and she had been hauled back onto the bed...


    She was then attacked by the man''s fingers that tockled her all over her neck, making her giggle like a little child..How did he guess that she was ticklish, she had no idea but after enduring for so long, she relented and lay defeated face down on the bed..panting from being short of breath..


    Acquiescing her defeat, Wolf placed a small peck on the back of her neck and whispered,"Good girl..now, I have laid down the clothes for you on the couch,why don''t you choose something from that for now? You will be reaching the area to see the dolphins soon...you can watch them while I can watch you...." The last two words were said in an erotic whisper causing Xie Eun''s imagination to go wild.


    By the time she had regained her senses, Wolf had already clothed himself walked out of the door..Getting up from the bed, the first thing she did was to check if he had deleted the pictures she had taken and he had not..Yes!Fine,since he had not deleted his own pictures,she would give him a chance. Xie Eun turned to the couch to see for herself,the clothes he had chosen and realized that she had fallen into a trap!


    Never would she wear such clothes...Thebfirst option was a supposed to be a two piece bikini she felt...of the few pieces of orange triangle could be called that..the second option was a one piece that would cover her modestly but...it was white in colour would most certainly turn see through when wet....She finally settled on the third piece which was also a one piece but it was more like threads had been sewn together..

 Chapter 84 - Pleasure

    Narrowing her eyes,Xie Eun chose the modest white swim suit and marched outside.Unfortunately,there was no one to see her ire or for her to vent her frustrations on. The swimsuit was covered by a sarong that she had found stashed in the cupboard.Since her kind husband had arranged the clothing for her,she would not shy away from using it.


    A little while later,the hostess was back with a few snacks and offering them to Xie Eun,explained,"Madam,we are now in the middle of the ocean.Soon you will be able to observe the dolphins.You can go to the east side to observe them..Also,arrangements have been made for you to swim so once you are done,would you like to cool off for a while in the water?"


    Snorting,Xie Eun could now very well guess her husband''s motive in wanting her to swim.She had started to assume he was a gentleman but after meeting him a few times she realized that,he was a wolf who wanted nothing more than to devour her.She thought of the many times he had assaulted her senses to go into overload, and was sure she would not dare to think of him like that now! So he wanted her to wear those kinds of clothes for him,did he?She would teach him a lesson very soon..She just needed to make sure that his eyes were on her...Barely containing the devious smirk on her face,she nodded and said,"Yes..Once I am done here,I would like to go for a swim.."


    The hostess bowed and retreated once again..Xie Eun munched on the shrimp dumplings and drank the chilled soy milk as she made her way to the eastern fence.There, almost travelling along the ship were a pair of dolphins coming up in the air to breathe at a few second intervals..Her face lit up at these wonders of nature that lived in water but needed air to breathe..


    After watching them for a few moments,excitedly,she turned on her flash and started to take multiple quick shots, each capturing every moment..so that they would look like a moving shot when one looked at slides one by one..Since they were in the direct light of the sun,she was thankful that the flash was available or she would have been able to have only silhouettes of them..Her eyes narrowed as an idea struck her and she changed the settings of the camera a bit before starting to click again..


    Once she had enough pictures,she turned around happily and started checking the shots she had taken.She looked at the picture of the dolphin that looked like an illusion due to the effects of the sunlight and water''s reflection,almost like a mirage and felt content.This picture was brilliant.She could even use these for her final submissions..Her happy smile froze when she realized that she could not use it as she would not be sitting for those assignments..Before her mood could turn melancholy,however, the hostess carried another camera for Xie Eun and held it out respectfully.."Madam,Sir would like your opinion on these pictures.."


    Her eyebrows moved upwards and carefully placing the camera on the side,she took the one that the hostess held out.Curiosity turned to surprise and then to pleasure as she viewed the pictures on the camera..Nobody had clicked her pictures ever.Her father had not been much interested in cameras and would at most occasionally pose for her while Si Jing..no need to even think of that..


    Her eyes shined and she looked around to see the vantage point from which he had clicked the pictures but no one was there..The pictures made her beautiful and she wanted to keep them..They ranged from her popping those shrimps into her mouth to her pleasure when she first saw the dolphins with her hair and sarong billowing in the air and then her concentration as she clicked those pictures..She could not stop smiling and hugged the camera to her chest.


    The hostess who had caught only a glimpse of the camera screen,caught the unbridled happiness and felt a happiness herself.Forgetting her role,she smiled and commented,"Madam,the photos just show how much Sir loves you..You are really lucky.."


    Her almost envious comment brought Xie Eun back to herself and she silently agreed with a nod and a smile.."Please take this camera back to your boss and say I am very pleased.Also pass him the message that he might find something interesting at the swimming area.."


    With that Xie Eun walked to the lower deck towards the swimming pool..she looked around and once she was sure that no one was around, she discarded the saying, revealing the one piece white bikini..The swimming pool which was built on the lower deck was a lot cooler because of the shade that was cast over it..Even the surrounding area was cooler,so instead of jumping straight into the water, Xie Eun walked over to one of the lounge chairs and lay down..So, her husband wanted to watch her in these bikinis, eh?Then she would show him the full potential of this man made wonder.


    Stretching her long legs in front of her, Xie Eun closed her eyes.Covertly,she waited for her target to arrive and opened her eyes a bit to check all vantage points from where he could observe her.Once she had locked onto the fee places, she waited patiently to begin her show.After a few minutes, when Wolf had yet to come, Xie Eun frowned, starting to feel impatient. Another idea struck her and she picked up her phone before clicking a picture of her legs and sending them to him with the caption,"Aren''t you curious which one I chose?"

 Chapter 85 - Temptation

    Wolf, who has already received her summons almost dropped the satellite phone in his hand when he received the picture on his cell phone...his eyes widened and he abruptly spoke some nonsense into the phone before rushing out of the small office that he had made for himself.Just what was the girl up to?Immediately, he barked the order to the hostess that no staff was allowed to go towardsthe swimming deck..


    Going to the top deck, he looked down and his breath caught in his throat at the sight of the gorgeous woman that was his wife.The white bikini fit her oerfectly,showing off her delicate curves and shoulders.Her legs which were usually covered in jeans, were toned and almost glistening in the sun..


    Xie Eun, even with her eyes closed felt the heated stare of the person on her body.Her fish had taken the bait...Getting up slowly, she looked around and immediately locked onto her target.He stood there with the sun shining in his face.Though she could see nothing but his shape from far, she kept looking at him directly, challenging him to take off his eyes from her after this.


    Every pore oozing a sexy laziness, she tied her hair on top of her head picked up something from the side table.


    Wolf, had always been immune to beauty.He had seen so many beauties throw themselves away for some money that he had become slowly impervious to it...But this..was different..This was his wife, the woman he loved and he soon realised the woman who was going to be responsible for his death!He had no idea that she could be such a tease!He had for her here to tease her so that she would be more comfortable with him physically but she was giving back as good as she got.The show she was putting up made his throat go dry and he almost wondered if he was going to embarrass himself like a teenager.


    He could feel his eyes burning every image of hers into his mind...The way she grabbed the tube of sunscreen before slowly starting to apply on her legs, and then over her own body...once she had covered her skin that was bare to the eye, her hands slowly pulled down one side on the string and moved inside and then the other..baring nothing but hinting at so much...


    Xie Eun, who had only planned to out on the show was almost at a loss now.She could still feel his gaze burning into her.His desire almost burned her alive also..She could feel her body''s corresponding response to him and was now at a loss on what to do.She had already used the entire scene she had watched in the movie..By now, like the hero in the movie, Wolf should have left to relieve his frustrations....but she could see that he still stood frozen..Had she somehow offended him into being so angry that he could not move..She dare not turn back and look now...And she had to finish what she started or it would look like a failure..


    Spying the swimming pool, she decided that she could jump into it...After all that was usually the purpose of applying so much sunscreen.Standing up, still pretending to be the confident and teasing beauty, Xie Eun walked her way to the pool and jumped straight in. The splash of the water and the figure that disappeared underneath it, made Wolf''s dazed eyes turn to normal..He looked down at himself and decided he would need to shower...again..Why did he feel as of he was a masochist who wanted to inflict self punishment.With the show she had just confidently put up, he could simply match down there and carry her up to the bed...She was as much seduced as he was..But since she wanted to show off to him, he would give her a better chance..Jogging towards the lower deck, he spied Xie Eun taking a leisurely swim in the water and then the sarong that covered her on the side of the lounge....So hso wife wanted to be a tease?He would let her tease him some more.Xie Eun who was lost in her world at the thought that she had succeeded, now that she did not see Wolf at his point was feeling really smug.


    But soon the smugness would be lost, when she would come out of the water and realise her sarong had been stolen...


    After soaking leisurely for about thirty minutes, Xie Eun, climbed out of the water slowly. Taking the towel laid on the table nearby, she started to first dry herself and then her hair.It was only as she reached the lounge chair,did she realize that her sarong was nowhere to be found.She turned around but it was really nowhere.Feeling flustered, Xie Eun looked around and her eyes met her husband''s..Immediately her arms covered her breasts which were exposed to his gaze as the material had turned transparent and her eyes turned downcast.She felt too shy and wanted to turn back but she knew that the back exposed as much if not more skin that the front...and had no courage to do so.She also seemed to realize another fact..apart from the swimming trunks and a mask, her husband had nothing on his body....


    Her body turned feverish and she tried to curb the urge to run and hide...She could hear his footsteps as he walked towards her and soon, she could see his chest pretty clearly..She gulped and almost wished she was the type that could pass out from lack of her air..Too bad her constitution was not prone to fainting.His hand boldly held hers, the one that covered her and slowly pulled it down to her side...

 Chapter 86 - Abandoned

    The whirring of the rotor blades of the helicopter as it flew away from the ship, brought Xie Eun back to herself.Looking at the wrap that now stuck to her wet body, she straightened her back and went towards the other side of the ship where her room was located.She felt..abandoned,she realized.Knowing that he was not here anymore,was disturbing to her..The scenic views suddenly seemed boring.She wandered aimlessly on the ship...The hostess who was following quietly also felt pity for the young miss..She tried to console her,"Madam,you are young.The two of you will have more chances in the future to spend more time together.Please don''t be sad.Sir prepared so much to make you happy.I am sure he is also very saddened to leave you here. We are going to be docking at an island tonight and then start back tomorrow.Since you are interested in photography,Sir had specially made arrangements for you to be able to click the sunset today and sunrise tomorrow.Please cheer up."


    Xie Eun looked at the hostess who was trying hard to cheer her up and gave a small smile to the lady.."I am fine..Just a little tired due to the heat.And I would like to rest a while and then I will be fine..Also,please instruct the captain to turn back.I will not be staying at the island tonight..As you said,we have a long life to live together..so this sunrise,we will see together in the future.."


    Xie Eun entered the room and suddenly could smell his cologne in the air..He had seemingly, just had a shower before coming to her...She threw herself on the bed,snatched a pillow that smelled like him and punched it a few times!How dare he abandon her on their first date! See if she was not going to make him beg for their next date! Just then her phone beeped and her face showed a mixed expression between pleasure and disdain.She would be teased mercilessly by Yu Seok if he were to see her like this! Wolf had just messaged her to stop pouting and change out of her wet clothes..Standing up,she made sure that she had not soaked the bed and then got out of the sarong...As she thing slowly slid down her arms,her cheeks started to flush as she thought of how it was put on her.


    Thirty Minutes ago:


    Xie Eun,tried to cover herself but was well aware of how exposed she was to Wolf''s gaze.Her eyes darted around to look for a hiding spot but found none.As he came close to her,he pulled her hand down slowly and his other hand wound around her waist pulling her close to his bare skin..She could feel his heat and the ache that had just settled started to burn again.."


    She blinked up her innocent eyes at him,and for the first time really witnessed the desire for her that he kept leashed..It was primitive and hedonistic..She wanted to tell him that she was ready to be his,wanted to be him but before she could utter a word,her mouth was stolen in a kiss..After a few minutes of taking her breath away,Wolf moved back and placed small kisses on her cheeks,upturned nose,forehead and her closed eyes...This gesture was like a butterfly sitting on her and she opened her eyes in confusion..In his hand he held her sarong..Slowly he lifted her arm and pulled up the sleeves and then slowly moved to her back and helped with the other sleeve..His hand slid under her hair at the base of her neck and pulled her hair out of the cloth,his fingers leaving goosebumps in their wake..Moving aside her hair,he placed a small peck there and then put his hands around her,pulling the two sash together to tie the wrap..Instead of moving back,his hands settled there and his mouth came near her ear,"Eun-a...I am going to keep a record of what you did today..You will have to pay so much more you little naughty kitten.But tonight,I will have to leave you here...untouched.."


    It took a few moments for Xie Eun to understand what Wolf was saying..Her eyes opened and a frown graced her face as she tried to look at him..


    Without waiting for her to ask,he explained,"Someone is trying to sabotage the Company by spreading rumors and agitating the employees,share holders,out government partners and media..Handling one at a time,is easy enough but with so many people riled up,it is getting difficult for my staff..They people in the mix are important enough that I will need to be involved..I am sorry my love..but I promise I will be back soon.."


    Xie Eun''s suddenly wanted to grab him and stop him from going.Her hands which were loosely at the side almost clutched at his..But her pride had raised her head at this moment and she refused to be clingy.Since he wanted to go, he could go..So she told him so."Alright.I understand that you are in a hurry..So are we turning back now?"


    Before she could say anything, she had heard the sounds of the helicopter and received her answer.Angrily, she was about to push back his arms when they retreated on their own,"Come,see me off.."


    With that,he had already gone towards the master bedroom while Xie Eun stood there without looking at his receding back.She firmly believed that emergency exits on dates should be allowed only to medical and military personnel not to businessmen!It was only after a few minutes that her anger calmed down and she tried to think where she had been shown the helipad was and raced there..By the time she reached, Wolf was wearing a simple doctor''s mask and sunglasses in his face, clad in a grey formal suit.She could not see any of his facial features but still she felt as if he was pleased that she really had come to see him off.Unable to show him any of her anger, she ran to him and placed a small peck on his mask covered cheek."Take care."


    His hands grazed at her waist and patting her hair affectionately, Wolf got into the helicopter..

 Chapter 87 - Dark Night

    "Thud Thud."


    The weak but clear sound echoed in the darkness. Sounds like this would be common anywhere but not here and most certainly not at this hour. it was the midnight hour. The place was eerie enough at this time without the sound echoing through the place. After all this was a graveyard.


    At the foot of the Mountain, guarded by a simple fence was one of the most quiet and peaceful graveyards in the country. It''s remote location prevented people from visiting during the day so a night visit was almost impossible.


    Wolf narrowed his eyes at the sound. It was a good thing that he was not scared and had a strong heart not was he a believer of ghosts or he would have fainted by now as the sound was followed by muffled voices. A flight of fancy, made him imagine that maybe it was time for vampires to rise and heay get to witness it.


    Unknown to him, his own green eyes that glittered in the dark night like jewels and his pale face and dark clothes had actually made someone believe that he was a vampire.Cheng Mo gulped as his boss stared at the old woman who was talking to a grave...No no no,that thought was too creepy, he decided and amended himself, the woman who had knocked on the tomb and was talking to someone behind it. They had known that Old chairwoman Lu would not sit quietly and so had kept an eye on her surreptitiously. It was better to prevent than regret later.Ever since, the most had known that the missus'' life was in danger, he had been over working the guards..He had even taken her to the middle of the ocean so that no one would be able to attack her.


    And as expected, the old woman had already paid an assasin to murder her granddaughter. At this point the old woma should have sat back and waited for the news from the assasin but here she was out again. And this time it was even more serious.


    Because the number she had called had been untraceable.


    This afternoon, when he had received their commander''s call to inform him of the fact that lady Lu was contacting someone and that person was not traced, he had not panicked but started to use the boss'' military contacts to get more details.But they too had called back and refused to say anything other than that of the boss wanted more information, he would have to contact them himself...This in itself was even more stranger so Cheng Mo had wasted no time in contacting the boss. On Wild''s orders, they had kept a close eye on Lady Lu and here she was finally exposing herself.


    Cheng Mo was curious to know what she was discussing but dare not call out to his boss.They were at a distance where they could hear nothing clearly but he know his boss could lip read and it would be lethal to break his concentration.


    Wolf narrowed his eyes to slits when he understood what the lady was saying.The old woman was really good it seemed and he had done well not to underestimate her.She was actually threatening someone to help her.


    The other party also felt angered at the lady''s attitude and rudely cut her off before offering,"I will pass on your pleas and message to the masters.But what they decide is not in my hands.And now please don''t waste my time..Also the master has one thing to say,''Once this favor is done, please considered your debt paid in full.The Yoo family will then have nothing to do with you."


    The old woman nodded in acceptance and walked away from the tomb without a backward glance., a smug smile on her face.


    The other man also departed while Wolf''s men who were scattered around the graveyard, followed their targets.However, soon the second guard reported that they had lost the man they were tracking.Wolf nodded and asked them to retreat.Whoever the old woman had implored for help had not yet taken any action so there was no need to follow them...But Wolf slowly walked to the small tomb.It looks like that of a child.He studied it carefully wondering if there really was someone buried in there or it was a ruse to meet agents.From the conversation, he had already gleaned that the old woman''s helper was an ancient family who were rich enough and old that they were not known to many.Such familiess had retreated to protect themselves but their money and power was immense. The Yoo family was one of the old prestigious families..It seemed a child of this family was buried here and the old woman had done something for the family or maybe the child so the family owed the woman a favor...


    It was time to find more about this formidable woman, Wolf decided..How was she able to make contacts with them and then sustain that contact for years on end...Because this child seemed to have been buried here for more than ten years...


    Turning to Cheng Mo, he ordered,"Leave the Yoo family alone for now.We don''t want to invite unnecessary trouble.Dig into the chairwoman''s past and see of you can find a connection between her and the child buried here.Tell our military contacts that we are willing to cooperate with them on the condition that this time no information is hidden.If I am not satisfied with what they have to tell then all contracts will stand cancelled and I will personally make sure that they do not get better contracts.


    With that, he turned around to leave the place when a new problem faced him.Cheng Mo hesitantly told him,"Sir, Miss Xie has refused to stay away and insisted to return.The captain has slowed their return but even then they will be reaching the shore by dawn tomorrow.Would you like to return to the ship or await her at the shore?"

 Chapter 88 - Suspicion

    Xie Eun walked into the house early in the morning.She felt hungry but she had no desire to eat so she simply stomped in and throwing away the bag in her hand, fell face first onto the couch. Suddenly her head raised as a sweet fragrance assaulted her senses, and she opened her tired and sore eyes..


    Yu Seok was home and cooking something tasty!Rolling around on the couch, she called out, "Yu Seeeeeeeok!" (In a song song voice) and shouted,"Whatever you are making, make for me also!"


    Wolf, who was inside shook his head at the girl and continued to make the sweet porridge..He had barely reached and thrown away his own clothes, when he had heard her enter the house.Just how much had she urged the captain that he had brought her back so soon!


    Seeing the porridge done, he poured the breakfast into two bowls and carried them on a tray outside.


    However, he almost dropped the tray when he got a look at her.Xie Eun who was lazing on the couch with a sulk, noticed this and cursed loudly,"Idiot!Rascal!Bast***!"


    You Seok raised an eyebrow at her vehement greeting and remarked,"Well, that is a unique was of saying hello and thank you.."


    Pouting,she glared up at him and snorted before replying,"Hello!I was not talking to you!I was cursing that...that horrible man who is my husband!"


    Yu Seok:".."


    (Author:You wonder what you did?I am not going to tell you!How does it feel to be cursed to your face when you don''t even know what you have done to deserve it?


    YS: "..")


    Yu Seok who was an expert of the human mind but understood nothing of the human heart, specially that of his wife, tentatively asked," Umm, why are you so angry?"


    He,of course, knew that he had abandoned her in the middle of the date but she had been perfectly fine when he left..then why did she have panda like dark circles now and a grumpy Scrooge like expression?


    Xie Eun squinted at Yu Seok with a sour expression but said nothing as she picked up her bowl and started to drink quietly.


    How was she supposed to explain that she was grumpy from lack of sleep and sexual frustration!Twenty years!Twenty years of her life and she had been a stranger to physical desire and temptation and that mam had destroyed everything so easily!And again she had been sleeping alone for more that ten years but one night, one night of sleeping in his arms and she had started feeling lonely on her own in that huge bed! She wondered if he had drugged her with something to intoxicate her senses...Of course she could only curse him and not confess that she was already missing him and thus could not sleep well.


    This time, Yu Seok wisely refrained from asking anything and quietly ate his won food while opening his laptop to start on some of his own work..


    Xie Eun, who had been lost in thought, suddenly thought of something and looked up to ask him something when her gaze fell on something that made her eyes narrow...She blinked and rubbed her eyes wondering if she was hallucinating but no..Actually there were two things that has caught her eye...First, there wee peculiar scratch marks on Yu Seok''s neck...The kind that we''re left in the heat of the moment...And secondly,she had spied a suit jacket hanging on a hanger in Yu Seok''s room..a jacket very similar to the one that Wolf had been wearing when he left yesterday..It was the reason why she had rubbed her eyes because for a moment, she had imagined that Wolf had been standing there..


    Her eyes jerked back to Yu Seok who was absorbed in working and looked carefully at the fingers that were tapping away on the laptop.. Suddenly many past events started to knock around in her head but before she could put them together, Yu Seok felt her stare and looked up suddenly.Their eyes met and when he saw her observing him in a daze, he clicked his fingers in front of her eyes teased,"Are you done studying me?I know I am beautiful but if you stare too much, then your eyes will hurt..."


    Having her concentration broken, Xie Eun shook her head and scoffed back,"Who wants to look at you?A nerd like you is really hard on the eyes.I was just wondering how to tell you that you need to get cosmetic surgery for your extra long and crooked nose!"


    Having said her piece, Xie Eun stood up and went to her room to sell off her imagination..What was she thinking?Wolf and Yu Seok were two different people.Wolf''s eyes when they looked at her dark with possessiveness and desire while Yu Seok looked at her with tenderness and sometimes amusement. Wolf, was someone who wanted to pamper her while Yu Seok was always teasing her..Yu Seok was her friend who was always there for her and someone she liked only platonic while with her husband she had some explosive chemistry.Yu Seok was like the chocolate boy next door while Wolf was dark and dangerous the kind that made your heart race..It was the weekend and she had been out on a date so it was natural that maybe Yu Seok had also been out with his partner and she was overthinking things..but there were too many coincidences.seeing him outside the Alpha companies, his green eyes..


    With such thoughts, Xie Eun after having endured a sleepless night drifted off to sleep..She dreamt of his kisses and the way he touched her..She dreamt of what it would be like when they would be together..She dreamt of how his body would feel when she touched it...Her dreams had been going well until suddenly they changed and the one who was touching and even licking her and the one who was being fondled became Yu Seok.Xie Eun woke up with a jerk as if she had experienced a nightmare.Just when did she start having such thoughts about Yu Seok! Had she turned promiscuous and was now going to be attracted to every male?, Her hormones must have gone haywire after being dominant for so long..


    Her mind was however in a whirl and she felt guilty for having such thoughts.She was especially thankful that Yu Seok or for that matter Wolf could not read her mind or she would have been done for..


    She walked over to the windows and drawing aside the curtain, she looked out to realize that she had almost slept the day away and soon it was going to be evening. Her eyes suddenly found a figure in the garden and she realized that Yu Seok was doing his daily exercise.She had observed that every wbening, Yu Seok would go to the small garden outside the home and exercised.He would do push ups and pull ups on the handle bars that had been installed as well as other exercises. In the last, she would not pay attention to him but now she found it difficult to turn her eyes away from him. The white t shirt that he was wearing was plastered to his body, showing his well-defined muscles and his hair was wet with sweat and falling over his forehead..This time, the niggling feeling got worse and Xie Eun could not ignore it anymore.Her instincts were screaming that something was very fishy..Why did she suddenly start to desire two men?


    Slowly, she walked back to the living room and took out the camera that she had brought with her..Walking back to her room, she brought it to her eyes and focused the lens on the man and clicked a few close up shots..She the arched towards her work desk and plugged the memory chip into her laptop..Slowly, she opened the pictures of Wolf that she had taken when he was in the shower.She minimized it and then opened the picture of Yu Seok..but before she could do a side by side comparison, there was a knock on the door and Yu Seok called out,"Xie Eun, if you are awake, let us go out for dinner.My treat to you is pending.Tell me what you want to eat and we will make a reservation."


    Her heart in her throat and fearing that Yu Seok would suddenly enter, Xie Eun snapped her laptop closed hurriedly and rushed out to open the door.


    Yu Seok looked at her when the door was opened and his eyes flashed hot for a moment before it was curbed but this time Xie Eun had caught the flash and her suspicion was even more firm..

 Chapter 89 - A Calm Before The Storm

    Xie Eun walked to the closet and took out a dress to go to dinner with Yu Seok.Her mind was in a whirl.She glanced at the laptop on the table, her fingers itching to check but she calmed herself down and slowly got dressed.She will know soon enough.If not now, then in a couple of hours when they returned. Ready within a few minutes, Xie Eun walked out of the door to see that Yu Seok had yet to come out of his room.Her eyes scanned the living area restlessly.As if looking for a hint that she was wrong or right...The door soon opened and Xie Eun''s eyes flashed right last him, trying to look at the place where she had earlier seen the suit jacket.But that place was also empty.


    Yu Seok raised his eyebrows at her,trying to peep into his room and a smug look entered his eyes.Finally the girl had started paying attention to her surroundings.Of course how soom she discovered everything was upto her.He estimated he had about two days at most to come clean..Clearing his throat,he touched Xie Eun''s arm bringing her back to the present and said,"Good girl.You have dressed up!Since it is a celebration we are going to a good place.


    Yu Seok took her to a high end restaurant which was famous for it''s romantic and fairy tale like atmosphere.If it had been a few hours earlier,Xie Eun would have thought nothing of of it but suddenly,everything he did took on a different meaning..The host guided them inside and they were given a small table near the alcove.Since Yu Seok had made the reservations,Xie Eun guessed he must have asked for some privacy. Xie Eun kept staring at the man who sat opposite her, her mind in a whirl..His mannerisms were also a lot like Wolf..It was only the look in his eyes that kept making her doubt his identity.


    Smiling thinly at the thought that she had been deceived again, Xie Eun picked up the glass of water and slowly dipped at it. Deciding to question him in a round about way, and see if he would lie, she asked him,"Yu Seok?Why did you enroll in this university, for your last two years?Wouldn''t it have been better to continue wherever you were studying earlier?"


    Even as she questioned him, she did not have any hope of receiving a straight or an honest answer. So she was pretty shocked when he casually said,"Because you were here."


    Though the answer was the truth, Xie Eun had trouble judging anything because it was said so casually that it could even be a sarcastic remark..But he was at least not coming up with any excuses..Maybe she should question him directly.He could deny or accept..and she would be free of agonizing over this.Just as she was about to open her mouth to question him, a familiar figure caught her eye.Her eyes turned to the man who had just walked in with a beautiful woman in his arms..Si Jing. Suddenly, Xie Eun lost her idea to question him and started out of the window listlessly..Soon her eyes moved between Si Jing and Yu Seok, comparing the two men..If Yu Seok was really Wolf then she wondered who was the bigger jerk..Did her forehead have any labels that said,"Come and make a fool out of me?"


    Even as her fiery temper rose and her eyes ignited with fire, Xie Eun kept quiet.The waiter then tried to hand her the menu.With a single glance, she randomly pointed out at some of the most expensive dishes and stared at Yu Seok with narrowed eyes.


    Yu Seok could feel her continuous suspicious stare but paid no attention to it. He could already guess what was going on in that brain of hers.After all he had purposely hanged the jacket there and left the door of his room slightly ajar.


    His reason was simple.This weekend they had become more intimate.If he simply came clean with her, she would forgive him and firmly place him back in the friend box.He needed her to see him as Wolf first and then Yu Seok.He wanted to be both her husband and friend, in that order...


    He shook his head inwardly as he saw her trying to contemplate over this problem.All she needed to do was look at their marriage certificate and she would have her answer..


    "Xie Eun, you are quiet today.."


    Xie Eun looked up at him and realized that she was indeed behaving a bit oddly.


    So she shook her head and answered,"I am just thinking over something.."


    Just then, soft music started to play and a beautiful woman came onto the small podium at the front with a microphone in her hand.


    With a big smile at the restaurant''s patrons, she spoke into the microphone,"Ladies and Gentlemen, A very warm welcome to you all.As you know, our restaurant is a haven for out couples.Other than giving you a place to enjoy yourselves, we would also like to add some fun to your experience.So today we have come up with a new couple challenge!It is going to test your food knowledge as well as add some sweetness to your relation!So are you all ready to taste some desserts?"


    A small round of applause followed the emcee''s introduction.After which,she continued,"All the beautiful girls out here..do you love sweets?Because I always crave them but if I were to eat as many as I crave I would need to be fit into a truck to move about.."


    Laughter rang about around the room and many girls were nodding along playfully agreeing that indeed eating sweets and maintaining a figure were indeed a dilemma..


    Having stirred the audience up,the skillful emcee then raised a small curtain and announced,"Welcome to our Dessert Tasting Challenge! To celebrate this restaurant''s one year of being here,our chef has prepared a few scrumptious ice creams and an interesting game or all of you out there!And we also have a special gift for our winners today!So are you ready?"

 Chapter 90 - Ice Cream

    The emcee smiled enigmatically at everyone and then slowly introduced the rules of the contest,"Alright,so for all the lovely ladies out there,who love to eat sweet,we have a way that you can taste them and still not gain the calories!For that,of course we will need the help of your men!Our chef has prepared six new flavors of ice creams, which are mind blowing and out of this world delicious!We invite all you couples here to come ahead and try this!But here is the catch!The girls will be blindfolded and the boys will be the ones who will eat the ice cream..And then the girls will have to guess the flavor by tasting the lips of their men!!!"


    Many catcalls sounded at this contest while most of the women felt too shy to even think of participating..Xie Eun sighed and forgetting her thoughts for a moment!Ha! I''d rather just eat the ice cream!And work it off tomorrow!"


    Yu Seok,however had a different opinion,"Uh huh..But the contest is not fair,is it?I don''t like ice cream but if I have to take it,I''d rather taste it from your mouth.."


    Xie Eun,who was busy staring as a couple was coaxed onto the stage and her jaw almost dropped when she heard this..Her eyes bounced to his and she could only gape at him..His eyes seemed to be fixed on her lips as if....But what shocked her more was her body''s response to him was very positively exciting...


    Unknown to her,another pair of eyes were staring at her and seeing that she was ignoring him(Really?She had actually forgotten his existence),the man waved over a server and placed a request..He narrowed his eyes in anger at her and a smirk graced his lips.So,she wanted to move on?And she was very close with her husband?He would let her prove it!He had been with her for so long that he was very much aware of all her expressions..She had been true to him,he could bet all his properties on it.


    The server went to the stage and passed a cue card to the emcee as the other couple was trying to guess the correct flavors..The emcee smiled and whispered something back..Soon the couple in the stage had given up after guessing the flavors wrong..Once the couple had gone down, the lights in the restaurant dimmed further and the emcee announced,"We have here a couple who is newly married...ooo..that means they are in their honeymoon stage..and they have been caught here by a friend who has challenged them to participate in this.


    Xie Eun who had just started munching on the food when the spotlight suddenly shone on their table.Xie Eun paused mid bite while starting in horror at Yu Seok who was still waiting calmly...


    Her eyes widened as the emcee walked nearer the edge of the podium and encouraged them to come up.She urgently tried to gesture to the emcee and then Yu Seok to refuse but it was in vain. Si Jing on the other hand could see her panicky expression clearly and was pleased with himself.


    Of course the moment the light had shone on them, Yu Seok had known that there was someone who wanted to embarrass her so calmly wiping his mouth, he got up from his chair and walked towards her, extending his hand.She tried to beg him to make an excuse but he just whispered,"Trust me..."


    Automatically, her hand was in his as she knew she trusted him whole heartedly.


    As they walked to the stage,she tried to whisper to him,"Yu Seok...I really can''t kiss you in public..Please please do something.."


    You Seok smiled and taunted her,"Since when did you start backing out of challenges..And it is not as if we are kissing each other for the first time..."


    He had as good as confessed!Because she really had not ''kissed'', Yu Seok ever!


    They had reached the podium and another server came forward to tie a blindfold around Xie Eun but Yu Seok stopped him and took the blindfold.Guiding her to the tall chair, he helped her sit and then slowly tied the blindfold.The actions of the man we''re simple but the mannerisms and strength exuded in his aura versus the gentleness he was showing his lady, mesmerized the audience and even the emcee had forgotten that she was under public scrutiny.Only after Yu Seok walked over to the bowls where the ice cream was kept in iced baskets did the emcee wake up and remember her lines..


    "So everyone,do you think the beautiful lady here will be able to guess the ice cream flavor?"


    Everyone had a difference of opinion and using he cover of darkness many people made catcalls egging Yu Seok to choose the toughest flavor first.After all they had to taste and guess all flavors to win..


    Picking up a white ice cream with a spoon into his mouth, Yu Seok walked over to Xie Eun and gently placed his cold lips against her warm ones..


    The moment their lips touched all doubt evaporated and Xie Eun was able to focus on her sense of touch. she tried to remind her useless boat to not react as they were in a public place but the blindfold had heightened her other senses so that she was hyper aware of everything.His tongue pushed into her mouth and with that the flavor of the ice cream also burst into her mouth..She tried to think of the flavor but she kept losing her train of thought..It was only after thirty seconds had passed and the couple were still kissing did the emcee clear her throat with a blush on her own face and interrupted the kiss..

 Chapter 91 - Kiss Kiss Kiss

    The ''tasting'' session which had later for half a minute, made many people move in their seats uncomfortable..Many women even pinched their men under the table and pointed out that this was the perfect way to kiss a girl!Some sighed with creaminess as if they were watching a drama while some tried to control their jealousy over the striking pair..A young girl however looked at her partner shyly and then almost escaped because of the angry look in his eyes.She gulped and promised herself that she would never agree to a blind date again.This heir of the Si family had come across as gentle and living but right now he looked like an angry bull who would gore anyone who came in his way...She almost shuddered and ran away but her attention turned back to the stage when the emcee announced,"Yes..it is indeed the correct answer..."


    The rule was that none of the flavors would be announced as that would give others the hints so Xue Eun just had to tell her answer to the emcee.


    The emcee was this the only one who also heard the little tremble in Xie Eun''s voice as she said,"Coconut.."


    Since the answer was correct,the emcee continued,"Since the first one is correct, Mr Yu, please try the next flavor.."


    Yu Seok,who had paid no attention to what the emcee was rattling about,casually picked up another ice cream, a light brown one this time and once again went near Xie Eun.This time his mouth stayed closed and only their lips met. as a result, Xie Eun could taste the sweetness but could not guess at the flavor..But being a competitive spirit, she refused to lose once she had participated.So she carefully licked his lips and coaxed them open..This time she did not cling to him and remained focused..Naturally the audience could not see much but they noticed that I''d run moved back a bit immediately this time..The men all guessed that this was because she did was too embarrassed previously..They all thought that the girl was adorable and their eyes changed a bit as they viewedd the girl.Naturally, Yu Seok felt the change, he did not need to see..His eyes turned lethal as h turned back to the audience and gave them a sudden glare..thebglarenwas so potent that even the small murmurings among the audience stopped and people who had been having bad ideas dropped their thoughts...Meanwhile,Xie Eun had already guessed the second flavor into the emcee''s ears and so both the women had no idea that the poor audience had received a draft of chill..


    Only Si Jing could stare calmly at Yu Seok this time..This was not a simple not as his biodata indicated.Si Jing had done his research these last few days and realised that there was also a boy named Yu Seok studying in the same university as Xie Eun..But he had not paid it any attention.General Xie was a smart man. He would not simply marry off Xie Eun to a college student..But seeing the way these two people kissed each other and were comfortable with each other, he really doubted if he had been played by Xie Eun.She had never let him come close.A peck in the cheek also had to be stolen..and she was comfortable doing so many shameless things with this man in front of an audience.He was seething with anger and jealousy.


    After the coconut and African coffee flavor,it was time for a special flavor..The ice cream was slightly pink looking like a simple strawberry or raspberry flavour.The moment, Yu Seok put it in his mouth however, his eyes narrowed and he almost spit out the ice cream and glared at the emcee..Even though he walked to Xie Eun, he simply swallowed the ice cream and touched his lips to hers.His own throat burned as the chilli flavor ice cream was swallowed..He did not want Xie Eun to experience this so he kept his lips tightly closed even as her tongue coaxed him..This made Xie Eun so frustrated that the girl grabbed his collar and actually pulled him closer to pry apart his lips...The kiss was hot and the spicy flavor burst on her tongue.Since there was only a slight flavor, Xie Eun did not find it as spicy as Yu Seok..Her constantly invading tongue and aggressive stance raised Yu Seok''s thirst for her and he too forgot where they were as his hands went to her waist to support her in kissing.... However the emcee had to interrupt here again or they would be charged with decency and she was a poor single woman who already had enough dog food...


    As Yu Seok moved back from the kiss, he almost lasered the emcee with his gaze.She carefully lowered herself to the girl to hear her answer and clapped when she received the correct answer.


    Inwardly however she was missing for having accepted today''s job...This was like watching por*! This couple had only tasted three flavors yet and she could already feel that she was going to have to exercise the vibrator tonight...of this continued, she was pretty sure many ladies would faint here...


    Just then an idea struck her and she decided to play dirty to get the couple out..For the next turn, she did not give Yu Seok ice cream but a glass of plain water..Yu Seok narrowed his eyes at her dirty trick but she pretended that it was a part of the game and even the audience cheered him on shouting rowdily,"Kiss!kiss!kiss!". They wanted his Xie Eun fail eh?!They were fools.So what if there was no flavor tasted, she could still guess correctly..Hence he confidently sipped the water and walked over to Xie Eun.Their lips merged and the water flowed into her mouth from his.Xie Eun placed her hands on his shoulders for support and the kiss deepened..She could guess what they were up to and she also had the idea to get out of the game as well...Because these previous kisses had confirmed her doubts and she suddenly felt like crying... So she slowly moved back a bit and this time her hand extended in front of her.She pulled down the blindfold and her eyes sparkled like diamonds.The rules of the game were broken so Xie Eun was disqualified.She was handed the microphone and carefully whispered, her eyes starting straight at Yu Seok,"This flavor cannot be made by your chef...The flavor I have just tasted is that of my hubby."


    The audience was shocked at her answer and they broke out into an applause.They had thought that the girl would say water or complain that it was plain ice but she said the flavor belonged to her hubby....how wonderful! The answer was technically correct. The only person who was not happy with the answer was Yu Seok himself as he was being looked at with accusation..How did she become so sure suddenly, he could not think...Up until a few minutes ago, she had bee unsure and doubtful then how...Suddenly she broke eye contact with him and raced down the podium while the audience ooohed at the fact that she felt shy.


    Yu Seok watched her walk towards the table and wondered if he was going to receive the similar treatment like Si Jing..But when Xie Eun calmly sat on her chair, he was relieved and disappointed..So he was not even important enough to get a reaction from her while she had actually dumped coffee and other stuff on Si Jing..(author:Yu Seok?Aren''t you being too sensitive?Do you really want her to throw food on you?")


    Slowly, Yu Seok walked over to their table and sat down quietly.He wanted to talk to her but he could see that her eyes were glistening a bit..He picked up a piece of roasted duck and tried to extend his hand to feed it to her but she slapped away his chopsticks and shot him a nasty scowl. Sigh!It was going to be a difficult night and he was going to have to talk a lot..But the burning question was how she was sure.He had even changed the way he kissed her so how had she guessed?


    Finishing her meal, Xie Eun placed the chopsticks and since she had regained control of her emotions, she walked out leaving Yu Seok behind.At the door the concierge stopped her and handed her a box of thing thanking her for participation.She tried to refuse but he insisted.Since she was in a hurry, she took the box and walked out..She was not going to wait for that jerk!She tried ton flag down a cab but since it was already late, she could not find any..Angrily, she decided to walk away from the restaurant but Yu Seok had now come out.He simply picked her up bridal style and carried the struggling woman into his car.

 Chapter 92 - You Jerk

    Xie Eun struggled to escape and almost threw herself onto the floor but before she could do much,she was unceremoniously thrown into the car.Running around the car,Wolf got into the driver''s seat, and the first thing he did was to activate the child lock.Unable to open the door, Xie Eun harrumphed and looked away..


    Though she looked angry, inside she was a mess of feelings.She had allowed two men in her life and both had cheated her.She wondered if her forehead had the words,"I am a fool" pasted to it.Because she really deserved the title! She wanted to cry and she wanted to hit the jerk.She wanted to not talk to him and leave him while she also wanted him to give explanations to her. But she also did not want to hear those explanations..They must all be lies!All men were liars, she decided.


    Yu Seok kept looking in the mirror as he drove,his focus more in the seething girl than the road ahead. He knew that she was angry and dared not speak a word. She needed to cool down first..His readiness and impatience in wanting to kiss her and make her his had resulted in this mess.


    As soon as he parked the car and opened the door for her, she refused to look at him and simply stared in the other direction.Shaking his head, Wolf was about to pull her into his arms to carry her inside,when she actually pulled her hand back and threw a punch aimed at his face


    Wolf, thankful for his quick reflexes, caught her fist in time it he would be supporting a black eye or broken nose very soon..


    But, the next moment, he was totally defeated when she brought out another weapon and he hastily moved away...Her eyes filled with tears and she looked like a little girl whose favorite toy had been snatched...His heart began to ache as he blamed himself for putting that look there.He softened his tone to coax her.He could handle her anger but her tears would bring him to his knees..


    He called out to her and softly tried to reason,"Eun-a, please come inside.We can talk about everything.Please don''t cry..please"


    She glared at him through the tears and he ached to wile them away..in a hoarse voice she ordered,"Move away."


    Carrying the gift box that was still in her lap, Xie Eun marched out of the car the moment he stepped back and stomped to the house.She punched in the key code and had every intention of marching to her own room and locking the man out but before she could take two steps towards her room, she was pulled around and into a hug.The box slipped out of her hand and her nose was buried into his hard chest.


    The silent tears turned into loud sobs and her small fists punched against him calling him a jerk repeatedly.The punches had no potency but the tears were too heartbreaking for Wolf..


    He wanted to explain everything but knew that at this time she was too vulnerable and would not be anle to listen or accept any explanations.But if he let her go now then she would have sky high walls around her heart by tomorrow morning.He kept her in his arms as she continued to cry, thinking what to do. If she had discovered everything the way he had planned then all this would not have happened but now there was no point in thinking it.Just then, Xie Eun, having vented her anger started to struggle against him to put distance between them.


    Wolf,who wanted to stop her suddenly spied the contents of the gift box they had received.The things had fallen to the floor and in them was something very useful.Unwinding his arms from around her, he quickly picked up the fur lined handcuffs from the sex toys on the floor and put one on Xie Eun''s wrist and the other on his own.The next second, the t keaidtys had been slipped into his pocket. All this was done quickly and with precision so that by the time Xie Eun even realized what had happened, her hand was already caught.Her eyes widened in disbelief and she momentarily forgot about her grievances...


    Stuttering, "You..you..", she looked at Wolf first and then at her own bound wrist. She tried to pull her hand but the cuff was just the perfect size and her hand could not come out..


    Angrily she pointed at him and said," Whatbis the meaning of this childishness!Yu Seok, open this now or..."


    Giving her a smug smile, Yu Seok showed his  teeth and said,"What is what?Do you want me to free you of shackles?You can forget it.Inknow you are angry but you need to know that there is room for a reasonable explanation!Inwill not open this until you cool down and are willing to listen to what I have to say."


    Xie Eun, however, chose another option. He wanted to explain did he?She will teach him a lesson.Marching towards her own bedroom, uncaring of Yu Seok, she discarded her sandals and pulling him along marched towards the bed.There she lay down on the left corner side of the bed. since the handcuff was on her left hand, there was no place for Yu Seok to sleep.He would either have to stand uncomfortably in a half bent posture or sleep on the floor.


    Sighing, Yu Seok shook his head at her tantrum and slowly lay down on the ground, tugging a little at her wrist so that she would also feel a little uncomfortable for punishing him like this..


    Xie Eun stubbornly ignored the man and even the hand that hung on her side, closing her eyes resolutely.

 Chapter 93 - Explanation

    Once,the two had laid down, Xie Eun stared at the ceiling blindly.Though she had her suspicions, she realized that she had really hoped that she was at fault..Little droplets of water kept flowing out of her eyes even as she lay there quietly..It was only after a few moments that Wolf started to speak.


    "My name really is Yu Seok but I have never used it.You are the only one who called me that. I was called Wolf on the streets before Your father found me because, I liked to be alone or rather hint alone.Since I had no one, I let go of this name and remained Wolf.It also kept away those people who would prey on orphan children who feared the name..Any way, when I first met you, I had almost forgotten my real name.Your father had just rescued me and was helping me out..You might not remember me but we met once as teenagers.You were stuck on a tee.Throughout the way you chatted animatedly and I dreaded having to tell you that my name was Wolf.So I decided to tell you my real name.But we were not destined to meet after that.I kept away your memory after knowing your identity and worked hard to make my mentor proud.Then suddenly you were brought back into my life.I tried to talk to you again but you were angry and did not want to get to know me.I thought to give you time but then I discovered that your heard was already captured by another man.That was when I hesitated..You we''re never supposed to know Yu Seok but then my investigations showed that Si Jing was not a man who could be trusted so I had to take this chance and get close to younto protect you. Eun-a, I promise you if Si Jing had been a good man then Yu Seok would have been your friend only while Wolf would have agreed to divorce you.But you were unwilling to doubt Si Jing and that is where everything started to get complicated.I am not trying to blame you.I know I should have come clean immediately after you discovered the truth but at the time you needed Yu Seok your friend rather than Wolf the man you believed was your forced husband. Xie Eun, I have no right to ask this of you but please try to understand..Everything I did was to avoid hurting you but in the end it turned around the other way.. and believe me when I say this that I am really sorry to have caused your tears. From here on, there are no secrets among us.Apart from the name, I am the same person.Inhave never lied to you about anything else.It is up to you how you want to go ahead from here on...if, after this you wish to break off our friendship or..our marriage, I will not object to your wishes.But I will continue to protect you and if you should ever need a friend, you will always have one in me.To me, you are the most precious in the world."


    Wolf kept staring at Xie Eun waiting for her to reply but she kept quiet.He could see that her eyes were open and she had indeed at least listened to his explanation.So he quietly closed his eyes and waited for her judgement..


    Xie Eun listened to his even breathing, her brain mulling over the words he had just said.


    His explanation soothed some of her hurt and she thought back to all the conversations they had shared in the past.He was indeed right.It was Yu Seok who had supported her through her most difficult time.If he had come to her as Wolf then she would have been wary of him.If she had seen him as Wolf, the sexual tension between them would have kept her on the edge, unable to clear her mind.In her head, she had seen her husband as someone superior that she needed to please while Yu Seok was someone on the same plain as her.


    Her brain understood his reasons and felt that they were justified.But her heart was another story.Why did the person she placed her trust in have to be like this.But before she could lament more on this, her brain interrupted,"He has kept two different identities and maintained this deception for two years.Do you think he could not have continued?Who is Wolf?An invincible man.Would he commit such silly errors so that you could find his truth.He wanted you to know and that is why you were able to figure these things out..


    This fact was like a revelation to Xie Eun and she frowned as she pondered this.Soon the emotional trauma took a toll and Xie Eun closed her eyes and fell asleep...


    Soon after she had fallen asleep, Wolf opened his eyes and stared at her.Carefully, he opened the lock on the handcuff and took her hand out of it.She would be really uncomfortable if she slept like this the whole night. Adjusting her posture so that she would be comfortable, he made his way to his own room with a heavy heart and troubled eyes.For the first time in his life, he felt uncertain of his own future..


    The next morning, when Xie Eun opened her eyes,she had not yet reached to a conclusion..However she felt disappointed when she noticed the handcuffs placed on the side table.Rubbing her eyes, she carefully made her way out,listening for any sounds.She heard nothing but the moment the door opened, she was assaulted by some intoxicating fragrances and she followed them to see that a table full of her favourite breakfast items was laid out.

 Chapter 94 - Bribe

    The table was laid out with western breakfast of sandwiches, pancakes, coffee and eggs along with the traditional Chinese breakfast items like steamed filled buns,confer, fried noodles, etc.Even as her mouth watered, she chooses her arms and glared at him,"Do you really think that by doing this you can bribe me into forgiving you?I may love food but I hate lies."


    With that, Xie Eun hardened her heart against the food and the man and was about to walk back into the bedroom cursing herself for even coming out.


    But the next moment, she was pulled back and his strong familiar arms wound around her waist once more."These are not to bribe you.I have not made them for you to eat.."


    At this, Xie Eun scoffed and instantly retorted,"So are you having a party and that is why you have prepared these foods?"


    She was actually feeling all the more angry that he had the gall to way that the food was not for her.


    He calmly held her, noticing that though her tongue was sharp she was not struggling to get out of his arms and said,"These are for you to dump on my head.So that you can vent your anger."


    This made her jaw drop and she was actually stunned..She wondered of this man had a case of split personality.The renowned CEO,that everyone fears wants her a mere human to dump food on him to vent her anger?And he even prepared the food himself?


    She wondered if she should pinch herself to check if she was dreaming some odd dream...


    And then another thought struck her..So he wanted her to vent some anger eh?Well she would let him..Getting out of his arms,she walked back to the table and looked again carefully.."Throwing such food on you would be a waste of this..and you gave at least not fallen to the extent that man had.I''ll tell you what, Inam going to eat this and you should go and get ready.By then Inwill have prepared a punishment for you.."


    Wolf almost felt fear when he heard her verdict..If she was not dumping food on him then there were going to be even worse consequences..but at least she was willing to talk to him...Accepting his fate,he moved to his own bedroom to get ready for office.


    Once the man had entered his room, Xie Eun snatched a steamed bun and walked towards the kitchen.She intended to cook breakfast for him..


    As she took out the stuff she needed, she shook hear head at poor Yu Seok. He happened to be an excellent cook while her....well it was usually a blessing to be able to boil water without causing a mishap...


    Putting the bread into the toaster, she grabbed a few eggs and cracked them into a bowl..Having a bit of mercy on his, she took out the little pieces of shell that fell into it and then started to grab everything she could think of into the omelette.Finally,after mixing all the ingredients, she poured them into the hot pan and cooked it some..Finally after fifteen minutes her liquid and mushy omelette(if it could be called that)/and slightly charred toast were ready. She thought to take a bite of it but the smell was so horrible that she thought she would throw up.Sonshe went and quietly placed the breakfast on the table.


    Her meaning behind such a horrible breakfast was clear.She did not want to forgive him and punishing him would mean that she would also forgive him sometime..and maybe she would but at present she was not ready for that..Harrumphing she munched on her tasty breakfast and waited for him to come amd go hungry.


    She felt a bit guilty as every tasty morale melted in her mouth but she resolutely pushed down the guilt.After the explanation last night, she did understand his reasons but still she could not accept being lied to.


    After a few minutes, Yu Seok came out clad in a black shirt and black suit.His usually ruffled hair were slicked back.So this was how he looked as Wolf. Looking him over carefully, she decided that she likes his Yu Seok look better..This hairstyle made him look too much like a businessman.But she did not say all this and simply sipped at her congee.


    His eyebrows almost touched his hairline when she pointed at the ''breakfast'' on the table.Her gesture was clear.''Finish this and I may consider for giving you.''


    Without uttering a word, Yu Seok pulled a chair and started to eat the bread and omelette. She expected him to throw it out after the first bite or actually make a horrible face after eating it but he had no expression and continued eating as if the food on his plate was prepared by some high end chef. She was amazed and actually awed at this...And touched.


    Did he really care this much that he would eat such horrible food to appease her? She looked in shock as he went to pick up his plate and asked him tentatively,"Are you alright?"


    She wanted to ask him if his stomach was alright after having such horrible food but her pride stopped her from posing her concern.


    But then Yu Seok answered and his answer literally blew her brains out and smashed her hearts to pieces."Eun-a,don''t worry.My stomach is fine.Thebfood you prepared was very clean and hygienic so it will not affect me much.."


    "What do you mean clean and hygienic?"


    "You forget, I was in the streets for many years and there food is usually found in garbage only..You will have to think of a better punishment."


    Wolf did not know why he said all this..perhaps it was something he had never thought of in the past and never even talked about it.But somehow, he had slipped up and said this.He cursed himself even more after this. These things were in the past and should be buried there then why did his stupid mind insist on bringing them up?


    Feeling awkward at his own blunder and her silence, he said,"I..uh..I am getting late..I hope you will be here.Eun-a..",he paused and then quietly continued,"If you do not want me to return tonight, just drop me message and I will go to my apartment..."


    Xie Eun could not reply as he said this and walked out of the door.She felt horrible.She did not blame him for saying what he did.That food must-have reminded him of those days..She felt sorry in her heart.She glanced at the table of tasty food on the table and her mouth turned sour.She had wanted to apologize but words escaped her and by the time she came back to her senses, he was already gone.


    But this incident made her clear on one thing..She was not ready to leave him..Not once throughout the entire night as she thought of everything, did she consider divorcing him..And in her heart she realized that she still trusted him..


    To appease her guilt, she decided to send him something nice for lunch but since she was not a good cook,she had no idea what to do.She wondered if she could just pack all this food and send it too him but then there would be no honesty in that..Suddenly an idea struck her and she placed a call to her favorite pizza place..


    At lunch time:


    The guard in the security stared at the large box of pizza as if it would blast any second...He looked at the others in the room for their opinion but all of them remained blank..Finally, he decided to make a call,"Assistant Cheng Mo? There is a parcel for the CEO in this room?Oh?No I don''t think it can wait?But I don''t know if it is a prank..But since it involves the CEO, we thought it was better to ask you.."


    Cheng Mo, who was being glared at by the boss almost dropped his phone in excitement and repeated,"What did you say?The box is from the CEO''s wife?A young student came there and dropped it?I''ll be right there!"


    And without even excusing himself, Cheng Mo raced out of the office to collect the box that was his saviour..He reverently carried the box upstairs and placed it on the table in front of his boss..and escaped from there..and that is how everyone in the company knew that their boss was really dating a young girl and she maybe someone who delivered pizza for a living...


    Meanwhile, Wolf, who had never touched pizza munched on it greedily, saving only the words written on it.He happily re read them, confirming they said,"Hubby" and ordered his financial planner to buy this pizza company''s shares.

 Chapter 95 - Two Timing Jerk

    Xie Eun sat in the cafeteria in the opposite as she watched the man who had come to collect her box!Huh!This was Yu Seok''s lover..


    It was then she realized that what she was thinking!No no..Yu Seok was her husband and she was very much aware of his attraction to her so was her husband a bi sexual? She shook her head vigorously, almost making the people around look at her as if she was a little out of the head..Finally she narrowed her eyes and decided to speak to Yu Seok about this.Even if he had some interestednijnother boys, they were not in a relationship and he could not be with anyone else!Not even of it was someone from the other gender! Of course,she had nothing against boy love(she had even read some naughty stories about these things on webnovel) but Yu Seok was hers!


    She was about to take out her cell phone and leave a few threats to him when her cell phone beeped a notification.Checking it she saw that Yu Seok had shared a moment for the first time on his wechat!It was the picture of her pizza! Her smile bloomed widely and she happily put the other matter to the back of her head and went home to study.Meanwhile, the few higher ups in Alpha Companies and a few of his comrades in the army,who were added in Wolf''s wechat,almost fell off their chairs when they were unexpectedly showered with this dog food.


    She had new classes starting soon and she also needed to appear for the qualifying test for changing majors. She had studied hard during the last week but this weekend had been a whopper.She was still having difficulty recognizing the fact that her best friend and husband were one and the same person.


    Reaching home, she scratched her head and started to study studiously...


    Midway through a business law book, she started to feel sleepy and her head fell on the book with a small thump.


    That was the scene that Wolf came home to when he reached there in the evening.His usually stoic face creased into a small smile and he walked towards her and carefully wiped the drool that fell from the corner of her mouth.


    Xie Eun woke up with a jerk and liked around groggily.She looked into his green eyes that were looking at her tenderly.She almost smiled at him but in the next moment, she remembered the dream that she had been having..of two boys kissing..and suddenly her mind went on alert and she glared at her husband.


    Wolf,who had been in a happy mood since this afternoon was surprised when he saw her expression and wondered if she had not yet forgiven him..He had thought that since she had sent the pizza, she must have forgiven him...but maybe he was mistaken. His expression turned cold at this and he wondered where they stood at present..


    Xie Eun who was glaring at her husband,almost took this expression as a confirmation of guilt and picking up her pen,poke him in the chest,"Yu Se Ok..Listen to me carefully, since I have accepted you as my husband, you are not allowed to have that kind of relations with anyone else!"


    Her voice which had started out soft and gentle, went a notch higher as she finished her threat, confusing the poor Yu Seok..He often felt like scratching his head in confusion when he was in her presence..He caught the pen that was poking him and asked,"What kind of relations?"


    So now he even refused to admit it! Blowing out air angrily, she left the pen and picked up a pencil before poking his chest again!"Those kinds of relationship!The kind that we will have!You cannot have such things with anyone else even of he is a male!And if you refuse to agree with this then I will divorce you! Even when I was your wife in name only, I did not cheat on you with another man!And now that we are in a relationship, you cannot be with that man!"


    It was only as she finished her threat did Yu Seok realize what she was talking about.He discarded the pen and snatched the pencil out of her hand before pulling her into his arms and holding her wrists in his hand so that she would not put a hole in his chest with all the poking.. She continued to glare at him angrily and he caressed her face with his other hand and said,"The only person I am in a relationship with is you! And I am most certainly not interested in men!That was a result of your own imagination.The man,you assumed was your rival is actually my assistant who was trying to put in a few good words about me so that you would have a favorable impression of me.."


    Xie Eun:"oh"


    Xie Eun stood in the circle of his arms in a trance as she accepted this development..So she had been mistaken..and now she needed to apologize. She looked up, into his eyes, and suddenly the word''s of apology froze on her lips..He was staring at her in a rather odd way..That was when she realizes their position and tried to move back,"Ummm,it''s so late.We must have some dinner.What would you like to what?We can order it.."


    She subtly tried to remove her hands from his grasp but he only tightened them and then said,"Let us first finish this discussion...the relations that you mentioned that we will have..thise kinds of relations?How much into the future are you thinking of?"


    Xie Eun:"..oh"


    When she failed to answer and simply stared at him blankly, he smiled and pulled her closer to his body,"I propose that we work on out future good relations..Since you are still thinking, let me be the initiator.."


    Understanding his meaning, she tried to protest and stuttered out,"ffoo" but her mouth was sealed in a kiss.


    The kiss started off slowly but soon exploded as the sparks flew...Yu Seok slowly walked her towards the couch and pulled her onto his body so that she was lying on him as they continued to kiss and their hands continued to wander. His hands slipped into the small gap between her jeans and clutched at the skin there.


    At the same time, a sniper rifle was aimed at the house''s window..The man was dressed in black and unmoved from the scene of the couple inside, he waited patiently for the couple to be done so that he could take his shot. He was willing to wait all night to fulfill his task so he just sat there.


    Inside, Xie Eun suddenly started to have difficulty to breathe and she pulled away from Yu Seok and stood on unsteady feet.This put her directly in line to the aim of the sniper''s rifle..The man was just about to pull the trigger now that his target was in the clear it the other man soon obstructed the view..The sniper almost wondered of he should just kill both the people but suddenly his eyes fell on the mirror where the man''s face could be seen..He almost killed himself when he had a view of the ma..He must have made some movement because the man was also able to spot movement in that small mirror and immediately ducked, pulling his target down with him..


    Wolf, pushed Xie Eun against the wall with an icy order to not move and pulling out a small gun raced towards the door. He had spied the man outside and he wasn''t sure if there were more of them so he locked the door carefully and activated the emergency alarms that would send out distress signals to the local police as well as his own team..


    The sniper ran like the hell''s hounds were after him..Only after he believed he had gone a safe distance, he made a call,"Sir, the recent mission has failed but there is important information..Young master has been spotted..Young master is alive and I just saw him.."


    Before he could say more, a team of people rushed at him with their guns pointed at his head and his phone was snatched from his hand.


    However,he was already prepared, he broke the capsule in his mouth and swallowed the poison, all the while staring at the young master.Even of he had failed in his mission,he had passed on the important message to his superiors. He had not failed in his duty to his masters..The man''s eyes soon closed and a white milk like mixture started to flow out from his mouth, and he fell backwards, dead.

 Chapter 96 - Shocked

    Xie Eun sat against the wall in shock. It took her a few moments to understand what happened and by this time, Wolf had already ran out of the door, after ordering her to stay put.Once she had recovered from the shock, her eyes flashed and she slowly crawled on all fours towards the bedroom.She was careful to avoid the windows and at the same time her heart was in her throat.The attack had come too suddenly.Once in the bedroom, she opened her wardrobe and pulled out a small revolver that had once belonged to her father.She then slowly crawled back and went to her original position with the gun aimed at the door this time.She would not create problems for him by going out and increase her chances of being attacked but she was not going to for here waiting for an attacker.If someone was going to come inside, they would be shot.Her palms sweated and she could feel the gun slipping from her grasp. She tightened her hold with both hands and kept her eyes aimed at the door.


    After, what felt like an eternity the door slowly opened and Xie Eun was ready to shoot.But it was not a killer that entered.


    Wolf relaxed a bit when he saw the gun in her hand and raised his hands slowly teasing her when she kept her gun aimed,"Are you still thinking of shooting at me?"


    Only after Wolf had ordered this, did she take a deep breath.Throwing aside the gun in her hand, she jumped up and ran forward,jumping straight into his arms, almost making him lose his balance in surprise..Her hands around his neck were tight and he could feel her body trembling against his.. He slowly held her and rubbed her back comforting her slowly.


    It was only after a while that Xie Eun felt reassured and her breathing started to get better. She realized that she could hear his steady heartbeat and that calmness somehow helped her..She closed her eyes and concentrated on staying in his arms.


    After some time, she moved back a bit and her big eyes started at him with worry.


    Knowing that she was case now and in a state to listen, Wolf explained,"You do not need to worry, Eun-a, the killer has been exposed and the security tightened."


    Xie Eun simply looked at him and nodded. She tried to compose herself and after some effort,brought forth a semblance of a smile and demanded,"Yu Seok!I am hungry.."


    Understanding her need to change the topic, Wolf guided her into the kitchen and ordered,"Sit here and I will make some noodles for you."


    Xie Eun replied with a simple,"hmm" and then her eyes were downcast.


    It was only after Wolf had got to work, that she gazed at him from the corner of her eyes.She had indeed been terrified for her self but when she had thought of her husband, outside, chasing  a professional killer, she has been terrified..Xie Eun analysed her feelings and accepted that she had been terrified of losing him. Slowly, he had crept into her heart and life and made a place for himself there,without her knowing...And now the idea of him not being with her was too repulsive for her to even think of.She glanced at his long fingers as they expertly sliced a carrot and unable to stop herself muttered,"Next time don''t just rush out into a dangerous situation. You have to be careful and think of your own safety also.."


    Wolf glanced up sharply at her soft words and almost chopped off his own finger in shock..Shebwas still looking at the table top but it was clear she had said those words.Her concern and soft words touched a part of his cold heart and wrapped themselves around it like a warm blanket. With a slight affirmative sound, he continued to slice the vegetables..


    After a simple dinner of some soup and noodles, the two silently separated and went to their own rooms..


    Xie Eun pulled out a pair of shorts and a loose t shirt and changes into them..She was about to lay down in bed when suddenly the door to her room opened.


    In came Wolf clad in only a simple boxer shorts..Xie Eun felt her eyes go wide as saucers and she stuttered out,"What are you doing here?"


    "I have come to sleep, of course.Good thing that you are also ready.."


    Xie Eun almost fainted on the spot and before she could think of a protest, Wolf had already walked towards her...Her eyes followed the slight V of his body and noticed the boxer shorts that rode low on his hips. She had felt that thing inside the boxers a few hours ago against her stomach and thinking of what they had been doing before everything happened , she was unable to look up and move her eyes away from the shiny fabric..


    Seeing her fixed stare,Wolf''s husky voice interfered her thoughts,"If you keep staring, then you will have to pay a price for what happens."


    Understanding his meaning, Xie Eun shook her head and jumped in to the blanket, his husky laughter following her..She even forgot to protest his entering her room and her bed.


    She lay stiffly as Yu Seokf slowly entered the blanket..The next moment he pulled her hips and threw a leg over her hugging her from top to toe. Xie Eun closed her eyes tightly as she tried sleep but she could feel the tension in her body.She tried to wiggle a bit but his hands tightened around her waist, a silent warning to keep still..Xie Eun could only endure and curse at Wolf as the man soon fell asleep and his steady breathing fell against her neck..Sleep was going to be difficult...

 Chapter 97 - A Day Together

    Xie Eun woke up the next morning and immediately thought of the incidents of last night.Openeing her eyes she looked down and realized that her predicament, this morning might just be worse that last night. Her body flushed and she could feel herself turn red from embarrassment..She was still lying with his back to his front but she could feel him poking at her this morning..His thigh was still draped over her and his hand was inside her t shirt, holding the soft flesh there. She wondered if he was awaken and aware of their compromising situation.And if he was not awake, how did she get out of his arms without waking him. But her question was answered the next minute when his fingers slowly moved and started to play with her nipples...Immediately a wave do arousal passed through Xie Eun and she inhaled sharply. This small sound egged him on and his hand started to knead the soft globes alternatively.. His lips kissed the soft spot behind her neck and his hardened rod tried to get even more closer to her..Finally after teasing her some, Wolf turned her around in the circle of his arms and pressed onto her pushing her into the bed.His hand slowly pushed up the t-shirt and he kissed every inch of the skin it revealed.His mouth soon latched onto the small pink bud, tasting her, suckling her and pleasuring her.


    The sudden overload of pleasure on her senses made Xie Eun burn as she craved more. The two people were list in their own world,wanting and needing each other. It was only as Wolf started to take off the last layer of clothing between them did Xie Eun come back to her senses.Her eyes flashed with uncertainty but in the next moment, she tried to calm herself and continue what they were doing..But the moment was broken and Wolf had caught onto her uncertainty.Breathing hard, he touched his forehead to hers and his kisses softened.The urgency from a few seconds earlier gave was to a slow burn as he slowed himself...He pleasured her slowly now, his every kiss a reassurance and affirmation of his feelings for her. Only as she had reached the peak of her own pleasure did he, bring her hand to the part of him that ached for her...Her first touch sent shivers through him and he almost embarrassed himself.


    Xie Eun marvelled at the hard and hot length in her hand.She caressed him tentatively and slowly even as he jerked into her hand.The sight of him in her hand and the way his body leaned into hers gave her a feeling of immense pleasure as she slowly moved her hands over him..


    The two people continued to play with each other and explored each other, their intimacy reaching heights...Once spent, Wolf carried Xie Eun into the bath and slowly cleaned her up before carrying her back to bed...Once again the two snuggled together and fell into a peaceful sleep...


    It was only after the sun was high in the sky, that Xie Eun woke up..She stretched a bit and that is when her eyes fell on her discarded clothing a blush rose to her cheeks..Looking at the time,she realized that she was hungry and got up from the bed lazily. Wrapping the blanket around her she slowly walked towards the bathroom not expecting the door to open as soon as her hand touched the handle..She jerked to a stop and stared at the man who had just come out.Blinking up at him, she clutched the blanket tighter and stupidly asked,"What are you doing here?"


    Wolf''s eyes darkened as he saw her creamy shoulders with his mark and he mittered,"Where else would I be? I am not going to the office today..Freshen up and then come out for a brunch.." With that,he dropped a small kiss in the curve of her shoulder and walked out nonchalantly...


    Xie Eun took about an hour to get ready as she ahonized about how she would face him...they had been so..naughty...She even wondered if this is how awkward she felt, then she would not even be able to face him when they went all the way...Finally unable to delay anymore, she took a deep breath and walked out of the room clad in a jeans and a loose top.. her hair was tied in a simple ponytail and she looked young and fresh.This look caused Wolf''s heart to crabe her even more and after forcefully repressing his desires,he served her a healthy and nutritious breakfast.


    The two people sat quietly, concentrating on their food..To cover her awkwardness, Xie Eun stood up the moment the breakfast was over and rushed to her laptop using the excuse to study..


    Wolf, on the other hand, remained calm as he cleared the table and then as if it was the most natural thing in the world, he brought his own laptop and got to work right next to her.


    Xie Eun was distracted for the entire hour and could only stare at the man who was still able to work so calmly..Shencirsed the heavens for giving him everything, even such focus..Her eyes continued to stare at his long fingers as if looking for something..but she did not know what..finally unable to take it anymore and wanting to shatter his concentration also, she snapped close her laptop and turned on the television to play a movie. But even after a careful search she found nothing and could only wiggle on the couch, pouting at having such a boring day..When she noticed that Wolf was still undisturbed, she sulked some more and then poked at his arm with a finger.


    "hmm?" Was the reply she received while his fingers did not even pause on the laptop.So she poked him harder and when he finally looked at her, complained,"I am bored!"

 Chapter 98 - A Day Together Shopping

    After being poked at continuously and seeing her sulking like a little child, Wolf placed his laptop aside and the next moment, his wife was in his arms..Startled at the sudden pull, Xie Eun let out a small scream and tightly clutched at Wolf''s shoulders,with her eyes tightly shut.


    The next moment,her hands fisted and she hit his hard chest with her small fists!"Yu Seok!You can''t just go about grabbing people when they are talking to you."


    Sighing,he shook his head and said,"I am most certainly not going about grabbing people.It is my wife, I grabbed and since she kept complaining, I have to do my best to entertain her..So, my dear wife, what would you like me do to entertain you?"


    As he said this his fingers started to slowly move on her waist,his intent clear. Slapping away his naughty fingers, she frowned at him fiercely and demanded,"Teach me this theory!It is all written in an alien language!"


    Xie Eun tried to move so that she could show him where she was stuck but without letting her move, Wolf simply glanced at it and then pulling the laptop closer went on to explain..As the theory turned interesting and Xie Eun was able to understand the concepts,she slowly relaxed and concentrated on learning.She even forgot the compromising she was sitting in and simply wiggled closer to settle comfortably..Wolf''s fingers continued to play on her waist and both seemed to unaware of this simple touch..as if it had been a habit forever.


    Soon, however Xie Eun was distracted.She did not know why but her eyes kept turning to look at Yu Seok.She felt that something was amiss but could not point what was.After explaining the theory clearly, Yu Seok askednl Xie Eun a question, only to notice that she was starting at his hands..He wiggled his fingers a bit and her eyes followed the movement..Amused, he moved his finger along her arm and slowly started to make circles on her palm..She stared at his fingers as if hypnotized.


    Just as he was about to ask her what she found interesting, she looked up, glared at him and jerking away his hand,jumped up before smashing a cushion in his face.


    He had a really violent wife, Wolf thought to himself as he caught the cushion.He stared dolefully at Xie Eun,his eyes asking why he has suddenly been punished.


    Standing now, with her hands on her hips she pointed a finger at him and accused,"Where is your wedding ring?"


    She looked at him as if was a criminal or a person who has been caught red handed cheating on his wife..It was almost as if she was thought that he wanted to hide his marriage from the world..


    So he made a sad face(and actually managed to look pitiful) before saying,"You see, my wife does not want to acknowledge me so she never even gave me a ring."


    Xie Eun"..oh"


    That was indeed true.She had refused to put on a ring on his finger.She looked at her own ring which was on her own index finger and then his bare fingers. Harrumphing, she bent q bit and caught his wrist,"We are going shopping!"


    A few minutes after this declaration, the two people left for a nearby shopping mall.


    For the first time in his life,he had been dressed by someone else..Xie Eun had forcefully marched into his bedroom, insisting he Wear casual clothes so he was dressed in the only casual clothing he owned, a black jeans and a simple button down black shirt.To match him, Xie Eun was dressed in a similar manner.


    Naturally, as the two people entered the malll, all eyes surreptitiously turned to them. The simple black clothing highlighted the couple''s beautiful features.They looked so much like celebrities that many people even tried to take more looks to confirm their identity.Wolf took this chance to hold his wife''s hand and entwined their fingers together, content to follow his wife wherever she took him.


    Like a heat-seeking missile, Xie Eun took him to the biggest jewellery store. The shop assistant welcomed the couple and led them inside..The people inside were trained to judge the people by their clothes to see their buying capacity so the two people were led to a counter that had simple jewellery. In a polite tone, Xie Eun said,"We would like to see wedding bands for men please."


    Usually a couple coming in to choose would choose an engagement ring or a set of couple rings.So the assistant was surprised when the woman only asked for a wedding band for men.But he still went inside and brought out a tray with simple wedding bands.


    But I''d run was unable to find anything that she liked.Buying a being for a man should be simple but she did not know why she could not choose one.She frowned and started to wander through the store looking around casually. The attendant almost followed her believing that the girl would rob them..But as soon as Xie Eun''s back was turned,the assistant was met with the icy glare of her partner.He froze in spot, refraining from following her.


    Just then, Wolf took out his phone and typed out a message.


    A few minutes later, I man in a black suit rushed out and looked around with great tension.Finally, he spotted the man who was in the mall and gulped.He followed the man''s gaze and then understood who to follow.With a small nod towards the great CEO, the man made a beeline towards the woman.


    When the ship assistant saw the chief designer of the store rush towards the woman, the assistant assumed that he had seen the woman steal something from the surveillance cameras.He shot her partner in crime a shrewd look and followed the chief designer so that he would not be implicated in these people''s crime.


    But he was shocked when he heard the man''s ingratiating tone,"Madam, I noticed that none of the designs in our store seem to be to your taste.Do you have anything specific in mind?We can always customize as per your wishes.."


    The assistant almost thought that the designer had lost his head.He just offered his own services to a walk in customer. The man was known to not even give out appointments when people begged for it.


    Seeing the kind man being so hospitable to her, Xie Eun felt bad for not looking anything in his store so she said,"Uhh,I want something that would match this ring."


    She extended her hand and that is when the assistant noticed the ring I''m the lady''s slender fingers...It was a simple band that would not even being anyone''s attention but this one he recognized..Because the other part of this was still in their store...As soon as he recognized the wrong, he wondered if he should go and kowtow to the man and if the man had been offended.He thought back to the icy glare of the man and retreated..He had ton think of something that would result in him not getting fired.


    This set of songs was memorable because of three reasons,the first that it had been ordered and made overnight, the second that only the female part of the couple ring had been picked up and the third was that the small diamond in the ring was one of the clearest diamonds int he world that is it had next to no flaws.Only two percent of the world''s diamonds fell into this category and they were engraved into these rings.


    The designer happily glanced at the ring he had designed and breathed a sigh of relief.Sonthe real owner had finally come to fetch the pair.He smiled at the lady again and answered,"As it happens,I do have one that would go perfectly with this one..But it is at another store.I can show you the picture and if you like it, Incan order my people to bring it here."


    The designer would not dare to keep such a precious piece at his store and had actually placed it in a bank vault.He pulled out the picture from his phone and passed it to the lady hoping that she would really be satisfied.Because if  whenasn''t then he was sure that he would have to close the store..


    Xie Ein looked at the picture and compared it to the one she had on.Yes,they really looked like a pair..Nodding, she smiled satisfactorily and said,"Yes.Please ask someone to bring this.And that man there is my husband so you can take his ring size also."


    The man nodded and with a cursory glance at the big boss, added,"Inam sire it will fit him perfectly.Would you like to engrave something on it??"


    Naturally it was not possible to have anything engraved immediately but the ring in the picture already has engravings on it so he hoped that the lady would also..


    After thinking for a moment,Xie Eun nodded and added,"Yes,please add the initials, S and E on it"


    The designer breathed a sigh of relief and immediately left to collect the piece...he dare not make them wait unnecessarily..

 Chapter 99 - A Day Of Shopping

    Xie Eun flounced back to Wolf happy at her purchase. On the way, her eye caught a bracelet that the assistant was bringing into the store.She paused for a moment but then turned back towards Yu Seok.She never had been one to accessorize much.


    However, her momentary interest was caught by her husband as well as the assistant who crossed his fingers in relief..There really was something that could save him.


    Xie Eun, on the other hand, had already planned her next move.With a bright smile,she ordered,"Yu Seok,wait here for me.I will be right back!" Wolf nodded amicably and continued to stare at her as she left the store.There we''re many women in the store who had caught this scene.However they were unaware of what the woman had bought.But judging from her bossy tone,everyone assumed that they were seeing a role reversal.Usually men bought their mistresses to buy.them baubles but this time a woman had bought over her boy toy. One of the ladies gave a once over to the man and decided to approach him.After all, if he was a boy toy, he could be bought.And though she abhorred using second hand products, she would make an exception for a prime specimen like this one..


    Naturally, since the woman had the thought to do something like this, she was not anyone simple. Her name was Han Xi and she was the young miss of the one of the richest family in the country.


    Wearing a custom made red suit that accentuated her curves, she was very confident of her own power over there species..The gaze of this woman was, however,not noted by the assistant or the man himself.He actually was aware of being stared at but paid it no mind.It wasn''t until the woman stood in front of him and cleared her throat loudly, did he look up from his phone and even then he could only say,"Coughing like this..do you have any sense of hygiene?"


    Han Xi was embarrassed as she flushed awkwardly and even the two women who followed her around barely suppressed their giggles. Never had she been insulted so blatantly!Angrily, she retorted,"Do you really think that just because you have a young woman to pamper you, you can do or say anything you want?You are a kept man so you must know your limits!Apologize to me!Now!"


    The assistant who has been standing on the side trying to gather his courage, almost dropped the box of those precious items and gaped in horror. Forget his own job,it would be a blessing if this store could survive in this mall after today..


    Wolf, however paid no attention to the woman,and treating her like a buzzing fly, simply got back to his work.He might not be going to work today but that did not mean that he did n''t have work. Han Xi was so enraged at this that she almost smashed a priceless vase in the corner. Luckily, another assistant had caught onto what was going on and rushed forward,"Miss Han, please do come forward.The jade and pearl set that you ordered is here..Please, Miss Han, we would like you to take a look so that you can assure that it is up to your standards.Even of it cannot match your beauty, it must at least not mar it..Please Miss Han.."


    Han Xi, a vain girl that she was, nodded in agreement and harrumphing turned around.She would definitely buy him from that woman and then teach him a lesson.And if that woman refused to accede to her wishes, then she had other ways to teach them a lesson.


    Once the woman was out of the picture, the assistant hurried forward,least someone else irritate the man and began his spiel,"Sir, please take a look at this bracelet..It is one of our most treasured item in the store.Even Madam had been unable to stop herself from taking a glance at this.."


    Wolf,who had been ignoring the assistant as well,looked up at this.Of course he had seen her pause..He looked at the box and waited for the assistant to continue because he had no idea what these things were.


    The assistant immediately understood the situation and continued,"Sir, this is bracelet made of a rare metal called Iridium.This metal is resistant to all types of chemicals and acids.As you can see, it is thickly made. But because of this, it can be worn over a long period of time and even regularly if need be.And what use is longevity if it cannot be marked with memories, so we have designed many little charms that can be added over time to mark different occasions.For example, you can add a small ring with date to mark your marriage anniversary, or the first time you met.And at a later date, you can even add a baby charm to mark the birth of your children.This way it is like a long circle of life to mark your momentous occasions.


    Here sir, I also have a few charms, they are not as precious as this bracelet but they are unique and you can even put things that matter to madam the most.I am pretty sure that Madam would love it.."


    Wolf nodded and then casually pulled the box of charms towards him..The assistant , at this moment almost danced of joy because he had definitely not just saved himself but even made an awesome sale. Wolf,however had no idea that he made the assistant''s year a most successful one and was diligently taking out charms for his wife..However, after taking out a few charms, there were lines of anger on his face and the assistant almost fainted from hypertension when he saw this..

 Chapter 100 - You Cannot Afford Him

    The assistant gulped and began to stammer out,"Sir,if there is any specific charm that you want and it is not there in this, then we can have it made.It will be done within a few hours at most..


    Wolf nodded and extended his card to pay for the bracelet and the charms he had placed aside.Apart from that he wrote down three charms that needed to be added. The indication was clear, he intended to pay for it before his wife returned. The assistant took the card with trembling hands..It was a silver card with only the name of the bank but he had heard of this card.It was an invite only card and literally no one could afford it because it required the approval of all the directors of the bank other than having a net worth in billions of dollars. After swiping, he carefully packed the items in an antique jade box and placed the border for the rest of the charms before returning the card to the big boss.The man had not even asked the price of the things he bought.The assistant wondered what it would be like to have this much money!Though he would be making a hefty commission from this sale, he still had heart palpitations at the thought of spending such money.


    Just then, Xie Eun came back into the store with her hands full of shopping bags. As of he was not the person who had just been sitting here ignoring the world, Wolf stood up and took the bags from her hand as if they weighed a ton and would harm her hands.."You should have called for me."


    Ignoring his overprotective comment, Xie Eun gave him a brilliant smile and said,"Uh huh..I did not want you to know.This is a surprise for you!"


    She then turned to the assistant who was hovering in the background and said,"Is there a changing room here?"


    The assistant nodded and pointed to the private room of the boss.Naturally the boss would not mind..Nodding, she then told her husband,"Can you please wear these clothes? You do not have any casual clothing so this is not for now but from now on, I am going to add a few things to brighten up your boring wardrobe!But before that I need to confirm your clothes size..so.."


    So with that she pointed to the place the assistant had shown.Without a single word of protest,the man walked towards the office with the bags in his hand.


    At this moment, the assistant started to doubt reality.They had heard such fierce stories about the ruthless CEO Wolf..Were they imposters?Why did the scary wolf behave like an obedient puppy!He slinked back to the payment counter and confirmed that the receipt for the recent payment was real..


    At this moment, Miss Han had already bought her items and spying Xie Eun standing there alone,marched over to her and said,"I have a business proposal for you.I am willing to pay you whatever you want if you agree to sell."


    Xie Eun who had no idea of what was on the woman''s mind was slow on the uptake and believed that the woman wanted the ring that she had ordered.She gave a small frown and answered,"I am sorry.Mine is customized as per my requirements!Why would you covet what belongs to others?You may need to spend but I don''t need the money..so please choose something else."


    With that she turned around and sipped some warm water from the small flask that Yu Seok had packed for her.. Han Xi was so infuriated at this reply that she actually stomped her feet and said,"What do you mean , he is customized?He is just a boy toy so he has to listen to whatever you say!I just want to teach him a lesson and if you don''t agree then I will take it that you also want to be punished!"


    Xie Eun almost spit out the water when she finally understood the ''thing'' that this woman wanted to buy..She wondered if this woman was crazy or somehow playing a trick on her..but since this person wanted to be audacious and threaten her she decided to have some fun.Pretending to think seriously,she asked,"Do you have a harem of other women?Or do you take any supplements to umm.. enhance your sex drive? I hope you don''t mind answering these because you see that man has a really high sex drive..and you look like a cold bit** who would not be able satisfy him even once.."


    "How...how dare you!"


    Han Xi had believed that she had been insulted earlier but this was even more humiliating and she was even unable to come up with a reply as she could only raise her voice...But Xie Eun was not to be silenced as she shamelessly continued,"Well, with your looks, I doubt you could even make him give you an interested second glance.."


    Han Xi:".."


    Everyone else in the shop(Red with embarrassment) : ".."


    Xie Eun(enjoying being shameless): Since you are so shocked,let me assure you that even if you want my man with every fiber of your being,you cannot afford him..so it would be better to give up.."


    Han Xi who had never been subjected to such harsh words before threw a dirty glance at her and rushed out of the store almost in tears..With teary eyes, she called her mother and told the entire tale of the humiliation she had endured.


    Mrs Han, who treated her girl like a little diamond was immediately angry and made a call to her husband to complain about the shop! She vowed to get the shop to shut down to avenge her daughter.


    She ordered the servants to prepare her daughter''s favorite food and called a personal masseuse to comfort her daughter.If she had known that her ''little pure'' daughter had been humiliated because she had tried to ''buy'' a man, she would have fainted on the spot!

 Chapter 101 - A Makeover

    Once,the woman was gone, the chief designer had also returned and immediately walked over to where Xie Eun stood.He showed the ring and once approved, Xie Eun took out her own card to pay for the purchase.The designer wanted to protest that the rings we''re already paid for but he has already received instructions so he quietly swiped a sum and then packed the ring in a box.He then added an exclusive had and gold pendant in another box and added,"Madam, this is a good from our store.We wish you a happy and prosperous future.Do visit us again."


    Xie Eun was happy that she had been able to buy a ring for her husband within her budget and even gained a free product.She smiled satisfactorily and waited for her husband to come out.She wondered what was taking him so long.Just then,the door to the office opened and she could only stare stupified..The man who had gone in had looked handsome and dashing but then one who stepped out looked like a lady killer.


    Dressed in a dark blue bomber jacket and skin tight blue jeans,he looked like a bad boy come to life. The white shirt under the jacket clung to his abs, highlighting his muscles while the denims that encased his long legs made him look like a biker.


    Every man and woman who glanced at the man would stop in their tracks.A woman who was passing by the shop and had casually glanced inside, knocked into a pillar and hurt herself! Pleased with herself and her good looking man, Xie Eun picked up the bag where Yu Seok had placed his other clothes and the jewellery store''s bag..The assistant rushed forward and took bag from her hand,"Madam, please don''t worry .We will have everything delivered to your address."


    So the two people left the store hand in hand happily. Xie Eun,who has already placed the ring in her pocket, wondered if she should simply slide it on or if she should propose..After thinking for a while,she had yet to reach a conclusion and her stomach started to protest!No wonder she was having trouble coming up with something good!She was hungry!Wolf,already having expected this,had guided them to a small cafe.


    Amused at herself and at Yu Seok,she giggled,"You know me so well."Uncaring of the people around her,she patted her little non existent tummy and said,"See!He takes such good care of us!"Halfway through the meal,a cheesy idea struck her and she waited for an opportunity..And the fates were on her side,when Yu Seok''s phone started to ring in the middle.He declined the call but the phone kept ringing so she encouraged him,"Answer the phone!It could be something urgent!And there might even be a signal problem here..Go out and amswer.!"


    Yu Seok shook his head at her blatant and transparent scheme and just followed her instructions. Or she might come up with something even more dangerous. He excused himself and the moment he was outside,answered,"Yes?"


    Cheng Mo,who was expecting to be greeted by an icy and angry boss rechecked his phone to see of he had dialed the right person.Naturally he did not know that his boss was on a good mood because the lady boss had just dropped a ring into his glass of wine..Upon confirming that it was really the boss,he hesitantly went on to explain that there were some errors in the report that they had received by the government. He clarified that their own team believed that someone had caused the incidence while the investigation reported that it was their fault. Wolf raised his eyebrows and was silent for a minute.So it seems that lady Lu''s supporter family were powerful in the government also and thus dared to attack him.There had been a series of incidents at one of their construction sites.Though it was nothing major,it took a matchstick to light a large fire.They needed to find the source.He glanced at his watch and answered,"I will be there in 45 minutes.Until them tell everyone to find any and every flaw in the report.Also,call the finance team and ask them to bring all the government projects that we have really promised to invest in and inform them that we are unable to invest anymore."


    Cheng Mo noted down all the instructions and realized that his boss could really play dirty.Whoever had tried to use a devious trick against his boss would now be annihilated by the people within the government! Because if they, as the largest investors and developers, withdrew from the government projects then that would result in a major collapse..."


    Having made himself clear, Wolf calmly walked back to the restaurant and sat opposite his wife who was smiling like a cat that got the fish.


    To tease her a bit, he signalled a server and said,"I don''t like the taste of this wine.Please take this and bring me another one.


    Xie Eun who was stuffing a rice ball into her mouth was horrified and almost snatched the wine from the waiter, scaring the man in the process..Once she had swallowed, she ordered the waiter to leave and said,"Yu Seok, you have to drink this wine!"


    Her shocked look amused him and he calmly fished out the ring with a spoon, cleaned it with a wet tissue and slipped it onto his finger while Xie Eun looked on wide eyed.As soon as he was done, he gave her an almost blinding smile and said,"If I was a skeptical kind of person I would assume you were trying to kill me by attempting to choke me but since I am not,Eun-a,I accept your proposal and am going to be your husband forever and ever!Thank you."


    Xie Eun:".."

 Chapter 102 - A Few Pictures

    Xie Eun, who had kept her phone ready to click a few pictures of him when he found the ring, was severely disappointed.She poured at him,blaming him for ruining her ''well thought'' out surprise.She looked down at the phone on the table and then at the mam who was now happily eating and realized another thing..They did not even have any pictures together!


    Finishing her food, she patted her face to check if she had any crumbs on her face. When all was ok, she checked Yu Seok''s face also carefully.So carefully that his brows raises and he wondered if there was something stuck on his nose. He was about to check when she moved from her chair and walked over to him.Before he could get up, he was pushed back onto the chair and she was sitting in his lap. Feeling a little flabbergasted, he started at her questioningly. She was always welcome to sit in his lap but this was a public place..


    The next minute, Xie Eun had already caught Yu Seok''s flabbergasted face in her front camera.


    His usually stoic face was set in a weirdly adorable frown.Xie Eun giggled and then placed an arm around his neck and poker his cheek with the other, ''Smile, silly!"


    But Yu Seok was not a person who could just smile on orders though he tried.When Xie Eun saw the look, she almost wanted to groan.Thisnwas not his smile but more of a grimace as if she was a very heave person who was sitting in his lap forcibly.


    Hmm, when the kids needed to get a photo shoot, they needed to be distracted with candies and toys..guess she needed to use a similar approach..She set up a series of timers and then turned her face to him,placing a kiss on his cheek.The camera perfectly captured his surprised expression.She then poked her fingers at his cheeks to make him smile,making a cute expression at the camera. After a few of her antics,Yu Seok finally had a small real smile on his face and XIe Eun had the perfect shot of them staring into each other''s eyes and smiling..Once the photo session was complete,XIe Eun went to move off his lap but someone would not let her move..That is when she realized that they were being stared at by other patrons and started to feel shy.


    Whispering sideways,she said,"Let me off!"


    But Yu Seok,refused to and rolling his eyes said,"You really know how to tease,hmm?Well,there is no such thing as a free lunch.Do you think you will be let off so easily?"


    Confused,she stared at Yu Seok,who simply extended his hand that held his own phone. The indication was clear.She needed to click pictures in his phone also..Understanding his meaning,she smiled hesitantly and said,"Umm,I''ll just send the pictures over to you.."


    He shook his head adamantly making her feel all the more embarrassed and cursing herself for being so impulsive.Finally he relented and said,"Only one picture.."


    But before she could breathe a sigh of relief he added,"the picture where you kissed me.." and with that the shamelessly pointed to his cheek and even brought his face forward.


    She wanted to plead with him but she knew that he would never let her off so with a red face she snatched the phone from his hand,opened the camera and brought it to the perfect angle before she kissed him on his cheek and clicked the pic..But she did not forfeit the phone and clicked another shop where he looked pleased with himself while she made a teasing face at the camera..But Wolf was not one to be left behind,he placed his hand on hers on the camera and clicked another picture..where he placed a kiss on her surprised red face!


    Everyone around them broke out into an applause,thoroughly making Xie Eun so shy that she ran onto the street.After paying,Yu Seok followed her out where she stood with her arms crossed in front of her,casting him a sulky look. Smiling smugly,he placed a small peck on her lips and a hand on her waist,quietly guided a pouting Xie Eun to the car.


    (Author:Will you ever leave a chance to not take advantage of the girl? Wolf:No)


    In The Car:


    Xie Eun refused to talk to him and felt her head turned away,looking out of the window. She seemed to have forgotten that she was the one who had actually initiated the entire fiasco..


    Finally,Yu Seok captured her hand which was in her lap and entwined their fingers,"Eun-a,I have some work at the office..Would you like to wait at the office or should I drop you home?"


    Xie Eun,who was anyway feeling angry at him,muttered something intelligible and ordered,"I want to go home!"Actually,she was disappointed that their date was being cut off midway and had first muttered angrily..before asking to be sent home..


    Wolf, had,however caught in to her muttering and quietly turned the car towards the office.


    It was almost evening so he took her to the private parking and said,"I just need a few minutes and then we can be done."


    "Hmpf!" was the answer he received but Xie Eun deigned to get out of the car and let Yu Seok lead the way..However, as soon as they entered the elevator, Yu Seok whispered something in her ear to immediately turn off the pout and give him a bright smile..


    She kept smiling all the way to the top floor, which was actually empty! and then into his spacious office.After escorting her, Wolf stepped back and before leaving said,"You can freshen up and rest here a while.Think what we should do next to finish off this date and I will be back."


    Xie Eun who was still giving him a bright smile nodded as she stood there like an obedient student. But the moment, the door was closed behind him, her face turned into a pout and she rolled her eyes back at him and even showed her tongue to the door. She would naturally not date to do this to his face..Why did she never realize that Yu Seok was such a pervert!He actually threatened to kiss her of she continued to pout because he thought she looked cute!What...what...what a sweet tongue he had.Just how did he learn flirting so well..She started to look around the office casually not knowing the havoc she had caused downstairs.As Yu Seok walked towards the employee conference room, many employees(male and female) almost fainted in shock. Many files and phones and even coffee cups were dropped..This handsome hunk was their boss?? An employee who has almost lost his senses after seeing the boss even pinched himself to check if he was dreaming.


    The boss was dressed like a biker!!Did that mean that their boss was a biker boy on his off days. Wow....


    In the conference room:


    The employees were all prepared with their reports..They wee well trained and knew that if their boss had given them a time then they should be prepared to finish it before the deadline.So most of the employees were simply sitting having casual discussions among themselves...They know the secretary outside would warn them of he boss'' arrival.But they could not have guessed that even the secretary would be so shocked that she would forget about informing them..Thus when Wolf entered the room, no one paid attention to him.Some, who noticed the casual clothing almost called out to tease..but when they saw the man..


    Pin drop silence..that was the result of this shock...Though this was always the case when he entered so Wolf paid no mind to it..But Cheng Mo, who had already accepted the fact that his boss would keep surprising him, dared to point out,"Bbbooss?You are wearing a bomber leather jacket?"


    That was when Wolf seemed to realize hat he was no in his usual attire and that is why he had been getting such weird glances..Irritated, he said,"so?Are they not clothes?"


    Cheng Mo! Why do you have to open your mouth at the wrong moment?But now he was an expert at saving himself so he said,"umm, of course they are Sir.They are simple clothes but I am sure that the have been chosen by Madam.She really has such vivacious taste..It is why we were shocked when we viewed it.Lady Boss has a great sense of fashion...


    Satisfied at having his wife praised, Wolf nodded and started the meeting with he bamboozled teams..

 Chapter 103 - Yoo Shiro

    In a faraway mansion, an older gentleman sat on the armchair.His head full of white hair was combed back and his eyes closed.Beside him sat or rather slouched a younger man in casual clothes.Though his posture showed that he was busy with the games he was playing on his mobile phone, his green eyes were clear and sharp. His straight high nose and thin lips belied his identity as a noble.


    The assistant giving the report, placed the pictures that were sealed in a yellow envelope and stepped back. Neither of the men cared to pick the envelope or even gave an acknowledgement to show that they were listening..


    There was an easy silence in the room before the old man sighed,"Where is his body? What did those bastards do with him?Are they still holding his body or have they..discarded him?"


    The assistant did not catch the tremble in the old man''s voice but the young man did.His fingers paused for a second before they continued to tap and waited for the assistant to reply,"Sir,they gave him a burial.."


    This caused the old man to snap open his eyes and even the younger man paused his game and looked up.This was the first time they had heard of a person being given a proper burial to someone who had come to shoot them.. "Shiro?Check the pictures that the guard submitted before he discarded the camera.."


    The two people were none other that Yoo Sao,the elder and master of the Yoo Family while ''Shiro'' was Yoo Shiro,the youngest and the heir apparent. The Yoo''s were one of the oldest family in the country..They had once had deep connections with the underworld but slowly turned towards the lawful path once Yoo Sao took over the reins.Ad since then,they had kept a low profile to avoid any government schemes or conspiracies by their enemies.As a result,they had almost succeeded in fading into the background,until an enemy had struck them from the back a few years ago..and caused them the biggest loss ever..Since then they had kept their retreat but slowly accumulated power in different areas..The man who had given up his life that day had been their oldest and most loyal servant.If,not for that old woman,they would never have resorted to this..but they had promised to return the favor and that is what she had asked..


    Old Yoo Sao looked over at his grandson who was taking out the pictures. Yoo Shiro did not expect much from the pictures but when he opened the envelope, he was shocked to the core..Because, even though the picture was grainy, he could see the face that was captured by the long distance camera..It was the same face as his. The one that he had never expected to see again...His hands trembled and his heart jerked but soon he had composed himself and passed the pictures to his grandfather.He wondered if it was possible that this man just looked similar..No..they needed more information.He looked up at the silent assistant sharply, ready to question him but just then the assistant shouted,"Old Master" and ran forward..Yoo Sao had lost consciousness..


    A little while later, the personal doctor walked out of the old man''s room, to talk to Yoo Shiro, who stood leaning against the wall.His green eyes were broody and impatient with worry for his grandfather.The two men only had each other as their direct blood relation.


    The doctor pushed up his glasses and sighed,"The old man received some kind of shock today and seems to have gotten over excited.So his blood pressure shot up,causing him to faint. Please try to make him rest these few days and try to keep him relaxed.I have changed his prescription for now and will visit again tomorrow for a regular check.."


    Yoo Shiro nodded and thanked the doctor, gesturing for His assistant to see off the doctor.He, then called in his own personal guard who had been investigating the truth to give him a report.


    Immediately upon entering,the guard stated the results,"Sir,a few days ago, a woman approached the old master, claiming that he had to return her the favor that he owed her.The old woman was the bone who had saved your life master when you were kidnapped and she had not taken any compensation but a promise to fulfill her one wish. When she was able to get through to the master, he sent his personal man to get her mission because it was a personal favor.The old woman wanted her maternal granddaughter killed.."


    Yoo Shiro felt his eyes widen a bit when he heard this piece. Who was this wonderful person who would attack her own family?Ridiculous!


    He nodded at the guard to continue,"Anyway when the servant tried to refuse,she insisted that she wanted a life for a life and if the Yoo''s could not fulfill their promise then.." The guard was afraid to finish the sentence.He wondered how the woman had the audacity to say it when his guts shivered before repeating it


    But Yoo Shiro had already guessed and finished the sentence,"then I too do not have the right to live?"


    The guard trembled at the cold voice and nodded his head..


    Yoo Shiro curtlynordered,"Continue.."


    "The old master was angeed and thus ordered his servant to do the deed and warn them that he did not wish to see that woman again..But when the old man went there to finish his task, he unexpectedly saw someone who looked exactly like you..And since everyone knows about your missing twin, the servant immediately clicked a picture with the camera in his button and transmitted it."


    "However it seems that he was spotted before he could do much because soon after his death was reported to the government.The time gap between the transmission and the death report is only ten minutes. He did not wish to implicate the old master who was finally fully rid of the dirty past and thus he consumed poison.."


    Yoo Shiro nodded his head and sitting in his office, he steepled his fingers and rested his chin on them, deep in thought. He then cocked his head to the side and asked,"So, who is this man?"


    The guard, at this point felt like pulling his hair out.Because here is where the problem began..


    "Sir,that is the problem..We do not know.The house that the girl was staying in, is in her name only. Since the man seemed to be intimate with her, we tried to check her connections but she seems to have none. Her father is dead and the only person she can rely on is her ''mentor''-Wolf. And her unknown husband."


    An eyebrow raised,"unknown husband?"


    "Yes sir,from what we have gleaned, the old woman had been using someone to woo the girl to meet some will''s expectations.The girl also pretended to have fallen into the trap but the night the will was supposed to be read, she announced that she was already married. They are still investigating who her husband is and how she had come into contact with the business man called Wolf because she is a country girl and seemed clueless. The old master''s people are still trying to find information.But there is another thing we have found out," there were highly military trained guards at the spot where the servant died.That means that the chances are that those people were already aware and waiting for our move. The old master is still cunning and he tried to use the government to bring out the called Wolf but he suppressed the government within a few hours.So we have to be very careful.."


    By now, Yoo Shiro had closed his eyes and there was a cruel smile on his face.After such a long time, a real challenge had come to him..he uttered a single word,"Interesting.." And then,"so what is this girl called?"


    The guar realized that he had missed out on an important detail and answered,"Xie Eun."


    "Xie Eun..", he slowly repeated the name, looking forward to this new chase.So,either this girl was smart or the people behind her were..He would know soon enough.."


    He opened his eyes at the guard and asked,"So there are only these mysterious two men around Xie Eun?"


    The guard thought for a moment and shook his head as he remembered something,"No Sir.She also seems to have another male friend in University but we have not paid much attention to him...other than his name."


    "So a mentor, a husband and a best friend?What is the name of the best friend?"


    "Yu Seok, sir."

 Chapter 104 - Identity Unknown

    "What did you say is his name?",Yoo Shiro asked with his narrowed eyes.


    "Sir,his name is Yu Seok. He seems to be a senior student at the university. He is good in his studies but seems to be a little introvert and is known to not talk to many people.His major is business and minor is photography and that is how he seems to have become friends with Miss Xie..We are not focusing on him because the other two people are more important to find out who this man is and how is he related to Miss Xie. We believe the person that resembles you is Miss Xie Eun''s husband since he had been with her at night.The CEO who is her mentor is known to be unsociable and arrogant so naturally the husband is mostly the target.."


    As the guard continued to talk,he realized that the young master had zoned out..This was the first time something like this had happened so the guard was at a loss whether to continue..


    It was only after a few minutes that Yoo Shiro ordered,"Leave the husband and the mentor aside for now.I want more information on Yu Seok."


    The guard was a little confused at this order so he dared to say,"But sir,that person seems to be the simplest of all the people related to Miss Xie.."


    Yoo Shiro narrowed his eyes at the guard and said,"Really?Is he that simple?Then I want all his information from his place of birth to his last many years.In an hour.Understood?And if it is not on my desk then you better be prepared for a severe punishment."


    The guard gulped and realized that he had indeed crossed his boundaries and offended the young master.So he bowed and escaped.However,not once did he wonder that he would fail in this mission..


    Yoo Shiro walked to the window and he looked out at the wide rolling green plains outside the mansion. "Yu Seok." It had been so long since he had heard this name. They had assumed him to be dead for so long.The crushing weight he had carried for so long,for the loss of his brother suddenly felt as if it would ease.Would he really get redemption if Seok-a returned? Would he forgive him?


    A far away look entered his eyes as he thought back to those horrible days when they had been kidnapped. He had failed as an elder brother to protect his younger one..He wondered if Seok hated him for it..But even if he was lost,why did he not return?He remembered his name so he should have remembered his identity...But the coincidence was too great..A man appeared that he closely resembled him and who also had the same name as his assumed to be dead brother.."


    Yoo Shiro walked to the bar,poured himself a drink and pondered the move that the fates had thrown at him.He tried to imagine what it would be like meeting his brother.Did he have a good life after being away from them? Was he able to have a normal childhood that he had always craved? But if that was the case why was the once extrovert and outgoing Seok perceived as shy and unwelcoming in university.


    A little while later, a sweating guard stood at the door as he prayed for himself. He gave a timid knock on the door and entered on the orders from inside.


    "Sir?"


    Yoo Shiro turned back from his musing and looked at the guard.A wry smile graced his face when he saw the usual posture of the guard broken.."So what have you found out about Yu Seok?"


    The guard cursed his big mouth,his sad fate and breathed deeply before answering,"Nothing,sir.."


    Yoo Shiro who had just gained hope was even more intrigued at this. So someone had the power to stop his people from getting any details? Ironically,he wondered if it was his own brother who would dare to put a wrench in his plans.."Tell me.."


    "Sir, this person came to the University about two years ago.Withbhos perfect credentials,he was considered a transfer student and given special preference.This resulted in his name being touted about and he is said to be good looking , this became instantly popular among the female students.However,after many beauties were rejected, he was named unsociable and some even wondered over his sexual preferences.But soon he was seen befriending Miss Xie so it was assumed that the two were a couple who had yet to announce their relationship. Everything matches on the surface but when we checked into the University database, we were not able to find the person.His previous records are all sealed by the Army and he seems to be related to someone from within. We checked his picture but that happens to be the same as the student after him in enrollment number.So naturally his form has been tampered with so that it would look like a simple mistake. So though the person seems simple, his past is deep and hidden.Whoever he is, he is concealed deep in the shadows.But we think we have found a side profile of his and he does look remarkably like you.."


    With that he put forward a photo. There behind a couple posing happily for the camera was a man with high cheekbones and a straight nose. It was a matter of chance that the picture had bee found by them because Miss Xie had been in the news recently.


    Yoo Shiro picked up the second and latest picture he had of his brother and without giving a reaction muttered,"Hmm..Show me Miss Xie Eun.."


    The guard pulled out his phone and brought out the picture of the girl that could now be considered his only lead to his brother. He took the phone and his heart skipped a beat when he saw the beauty on the screen .The picture was from the night when I''d run had dressed up for the grand ball and her beauty had been highlighted the most..Yoo Shiro almost felt an urge to check if such a beauty really existed.


    Controlling his expression with difficulty,he ordered, get someone to keep an eye on this girl and I want every move reported. Tell me more about her."


    "Sir, Miss Xie is the current heiress of Lu Enterprises.She was a major in photography but she would be sitting for her exams this week to change majors from photography to business.This seems to be her requirement to inherit Lu Enterprises. It is rumored that Lady Lu has targetted her because the girl had had a country upbringing and also cannot be controlled by the chairwoman like her other grand daughter."


    "Tell me about the husband."


    The guard once again hesitated before beginning,"Sir, here is the thing.Nobody knows who Miss Xie married and when. Not even anyone in her own hometown is aware of this.Most people seemed to believe that Miss Xie was engaged to Mr Si Jing but he was a spy planted by Old woman Lu.After, Miss Xie applied to become the heiress, she discarded Mr Si Jing so harshly that everyone believes that she too had toyed with the man, biding her time. But only one person can make everything clear and that is miss Xie herself.We are waiting for your orders before we approach the girl and question her.We also need to handle the old woman as she had been pestering her with questions."


    Yoo Shiro thought carefully and answered,"Tell the old woman that a life has been lost to pay her debt. So if she still wants to claim the favour,she better have the patience to let us handle everything or if she is in such a hurry, she can do it herself. Regarding Miss Xie, he looked down at the picture again,"do you think it will be easy to approach her?She will be surrounded by body guards.There is only one way we can see her and that is me..Make arrangements to distract her mentor and Yu Seok.I will take his place and then everything will be clear.Alpha Industries has a big project lined up in Country D,don''t they? Contact our people there as tell them to create some obstacles for the time being. Tell the to not cooperate until the CEO himself appears. And keep a few ofournspies there to photograph the CEO when he gets there.You may go for now."


    Yoo Shiro felt a thrill pass through him and he was barely able to stand still. He had a hunch..that he the CEO and his brother Yu Seok were the same person..It was going to be a good ride...

 Chapter 105 - Exam Day

    Xie Eun woke up with a jerk, drenched in sweat. Her eyes stared around and she heaved a sigh of relief when she realized that she was safely sleeping in Yu Seok''s arms.Ever since she had discovered his identity, Yu Seok had refused to sleep alone. She smiled and looked at the hand that was draped across her waist. He never said anything and neither did he force her to accept any untoward advances..They would simply spend some time together playing or kissing but never did he make her feel uncomfortable.In fact she had developed a habit of sleeping in his arms. She wondered what she would do if they ever had to sleep apart.Chances were she would develop insomnia..she shook her head at her own whimsical thoughts and slowly her hand crept onto his arm.Lifting it up as lightly as she could, she turned around in his arms and breathed a sigh of relief that he did not wake up. She looked at his peaceful face and the long lashed that rested against his cheeks. Hisnlashes could make any girl jealous.. His face/which was usually set in a teasing(when with her) or an indifferent expression looked at peace as if he had no care in the world.It was also the first time she realized that he looked like he was in his twenties.It was his eyes she decided.They looked too mature. As if they could see everything.


    She tried to remember how they had first met but could not.He claimed that he knew her even before they were even married but how come she had no recollection of him? She had always been aware of the beauty around her and if she had seen such a handsome boy before,she would have definitely captured his picture.


    Not satisfied with exploring his face with her eyes, her fingers moved of their own accord and traced his features.Slowly, as she kept starting at him,she had forgotten about her nightmare and was just lost in her own world.It was also why she did not even realize when those green eyes had opened and she was starting into them.There we''re only the two of them,starting at each other in the dark night.Even as she started into his eyes, she noticed the tiny flecks of black in his otherwise emerald eyes.


    Her consciousness was focused in him and the rest of the world faded. Powerless against the nature and her own self, she cupped his cheek and leaned close to him, placing a light kiss on the corner of his lips. She smiled a but dazed by, as if in a dream and then snuggling close to his warmth,she fell asleep once again.


    Yu Seok, who had woken up the moment she lifted his arms, gave a small smile as the girl cuddled into him like a cat. He was exceptionally pleased with the way she had ''molested'' him just now..Seeing her sleeping peacefully, he breathed in her scent deeply and let her snuggle close to him.


    The next morning, Xie Eun woke up refreshed having forgotten her shenanigans of last night or rather believing that they had been some kind of a dream sequence. But, she had a happy and content feeling in her heart which made her feel chirpy. Freshening up,she got ready for the university, where she had to sit for her exam today and felt relaxed. This was because for the first time she felt confident of sitting for this.Her husband had taught her well and his notes had been too easy to understand. Almost hopping, she pulled her hair back in a pony tail and walked out to see her husband studying some files.. There were two casseroles of food placed in front of him and she felt a warmth seep into her heart.He always had food for her. After being alone these years, she had finally realized the things she had missed. Happy with him and the world in general, she went to him, ruffled his hair, placed a kiss on the crown of his head, and casually sat back to eat her food, leaving him bemused. Pleased with her behavior, he pulled her ponytail a bit, teasing her and then placed a all peck on her lips, making her blush. With no other words said from the either party,they had already created each other and then spent a peaceful time on breakfast.


    As if the couple had been together forever, the two then walked towards the car, hand in hand and Yu Seok pulled open the door for her.


    Xie Eun pulled out her phone and started to revise.It was only after they reached the university ,that she noticed that Yu Seok was dressed in a suit so he was obviously not coming with her.


    "You?"


    "Hmm,I have some work. I''ll pick you up after the exam."


    Nodding, she made to get out of the car but he caught her wrist and stopped her. Aren''t you forgetting something?"


    She stopped and wondered before shaking her head,"Umm..No.."


    "Yes,you are."


    "Umm No I am not.See,I have my stationery,books and everything.."Like a little child,she even extended her bag and showed the things to him.


    Yu Seok shook his head and pulled her close sealing her mouth in a deep kiss..But since they were in a public setting,he finished the kiss quickly and pulled back and placing his lips close to her ear,whispered,"All the best."


    Nodding her head like a robot,Xie Eun quickly escaped the car.He always shook her.So she had forgotten to kiss him.."


    It was only as she entered the classroom,did she realize that she had not forgotten anything because she had never kissed him before getting out of the car..Today''s circumstances had been unique and the jerk had used this to his advantage. Since Xie Eun was lost in thought she failed to notice that a pair of eyes were staring at her. The stare was malicious and the girl harrumphed when she saw..


    Xie Eun,quietly went to her desk and started to revise from the book as there was still some time left for the exam to start. She actually did not need much revision but it was better to stay in the zone.


    On the other side,the girl had stop revising and was hurriedly typing out a message. She had just sent press,when the teacher entered the class with a stack of question papers.


    The exam was divided into two parts,where the first part consisted of a written test and the other part was interview conducted by a panel of judges. Most of the students in today''s exams were trying to get into the university''s business department which was one of the most coveted departments. Since business was their second choice the teachers were stricter to these students.


    The teacher passed on the question papers and soon the only noise that could be heard was the scratching of the pen against paper. Xie Eun stared at the questions and started to write at a fast speed,excited about knowing the answers. But another girl who sat in the next row could not concentrate on writing.She kept staring at Xie Eun every few seconds. Finally,she saw her plan come to fruit. The boy behind Xie Eun used the small piece of paper in his hand and after copying the answer from it,he threw the paper under her chair.


    A little more time passed and then a pen was thrown under her desk..The other person,whose pen had fallen,raised his hand to the class teacher and asked,"Sir,My pen has rolled under this classmate''s desk.Permission to move sir?"


    The teacher frowned and looked to where the pen had fallen.He was about to nod his head and move on when he glimpsed the small piece of paper a little further away. His eyes narrowed and he walked over to the desk before bending down to pick up the pen and the piece of paper.The class room had just been cleaned before the exam so there should have been no bits and pieces of paper in class. Passing on the pen to the student,the teacher paid no attention to the triumphant expression of the three students and opened the paper carefully. He sucked in a harsh breath and without a pause,he walked to the podium and rang an alert bell. This sudden sound made the students pause and most of them sucked in a breath as they wondered how the time had passed so fast and they had to submit their papers.It was only after a few dazed seconds that they realized that they still had time and something was wrong.


    They looked at the angry teacher on the podium and then the paper he was showing in his hand.No one was a fool.They instantly recognized that the teacher had caught someone cheating.


    Seeing that everyone was now paying attention,the teacher announced,"Whoever,this paper belongs to,I suggest you hand in your exam paper right now and leave and I will let the matter drop.But if you continue to cheat and lie,then I have no option to call the principal and have you suspended.This way you will not get into the business department but you will also lose your place in the department in which you are already studying."As the teacher finished saying this the students started to look around waiting for the cheater to leave but no one moved.


    It was only then that Xie Eun had a premonition and she realized something,"The teacher was directly staring at her..

 Chapter 106 - Cheater Who?

    Xie Eun,suddenly realized that she had switched to her old ways and had not been paying attention to her surroundings.But she did know that the teacher had passed a student the pen.She looked at the teacher directly and then continued to write without bothering to wait for any culprit.She had already deducted that this was most probably a conspiracy and there was no way to save herself if the teacher was bent on implicating her. So instead of waiting for the inevitable,she continued to write.The other students had also understood that no one would accept that they had committed a crime and so the teacher would have to directly catch the traitor or they would be wasting their time.So everyone who had a clear conscience got back to work.


    The teacher stared at the piece in his hand and then walked back to the desk.Stopping directly in front of Xie Eun,he said nothing but continued to look into her paper. He was actually an honest man and did not know that some students had conspired. He did not want the student to be punished because he understood that students committed mistakes. But supporting a cheater would be injustice to other students so he quietly looked at the girl and checking her name,said softly,"Student Xie Eun?"


    Xie Eun looked up with clear eyes and pausing in the writing of an answer,asked,"Yes Sir?"


    "I would like to see your answer sheet."


    Wordlessly,Xie Eun passed on her answer sheet and the man noticed that her handwriting was different from the one on the note..Maybe she had asked someone else to write it for her.. As the teacher was wondering what to do,he slowly walked to the desk of the student who had dropped his pen.What if the slip of paper had also rolled out with that pen? So moving a step forward, he checked the work of the other student but that too was a different handwriting. Just then the school inspector made her rounds.The woman entered the classroom and immediately her eyes zeroed in on the teacher and thebalip of paper in his hands.


    The older woman narrowed her eyes at the teacher and asked arrogantly,"Professor?What is that in your hand?"


    The shocked teacher then realized that the matter was now out of his hands.But he did not understand why the inspector would make sudden rounds..


    Quietly,he walked over to the inspector and explained the entire matter of the piece of paper that has been found.He even tried to explain that maybe it had fallen out of someone''s book and went unnoticed. But the old woman simply scoffed at this and directly walked over to Xie Eun. This time, Xie Eun was not ignorant.She kept her head down and continued to write down her answers.However, her fingers tightened on her answer sheet because she was somehow sure that this inspector may not be as honest as the professor. Because someone had made arrangements for her to get caught,they would not leave it so that she would escape unscathed. The inspector, stood in front of her desk and crossed her arms,starting at the downturned head. When I''d run paid no attention to her, the inspector tried to forcefully snatch the answer sheets but Xie Eun smartly pulled them away and garden upwards.


    The inspector suddenly felt a chill run through her body when her eyes met the student''s.It was almost as if the student had seen through her intentions. But she suppressed those thoughts and said,"Student Xie Eun, you are not allowed to sit for this exam.Get out of the class right now."


    Xie Eun, however, made no move to get up, she simply asked"Why?"


    The inspector did not expect to be questioned so she was flustered before she replied firmly,"Because you cheated."


    Any other student would have been agitated by now and worried about finishing the exam in time.But not Xie Eun, she merely asked,"What are you talking about?"


    The inspector was angered at this and raised her voice,"Student Xie Eun, you were caught red handed and you have the audacity to question me!I had the intention of only leaving you with a warning but now I will see to it you are suspended from the faculty you are currently in! There will also be an investigation to check if you have cheated in other exams and after that you will be expelled!Get out of this class now and go straight to the principal''s office."


    Xie Eun calmly replied,"No.I have done nothing wrong.And I have no idea what cheating you are talking about.But it is my right as a student to sit here and finish my exam.And if you accuse me once more, I will be filing a case against you for defamation and if I am forced tonekave the examination hall, I will also sue the school for accusing me wrongly and shielding the real cheat."


    Unexpectedly,the threat caused the inspector to be alarmed and glance in the direction of the person who has ordered her.Xie Eun subtly followed the gaze of the inspector and her brows raised up.So this was the perpetrator , how interesting.She had earned herself a new enemy.


    The inspector thought back to the orders she had received,"That Xie Eun should not be able to sit for the exam" and decided to use some dirty tactics. She extended her hand to slap the unruly student but the Professor stopped her in time and reminded,"Senior Inspector!You can not hit a student like this!"


    The inspector was at a loss and this time she could not even use the excuse that the student had riled her up,so she decided to create a fuss in the principal''s office. She raced out of the classroom whole other students stared surreptitiously at Xi Eun.Some believed that she was too arrogant to insult the teacher after cheating but some believed that something was fishy.Why would there be so much fuss over something liken this.They had seen the strength with which the inspector had tried to snatch the paper. It the student had not saved her sheet in time then the paper would be torn by now. And no one had really seen the student cheat but the inspector had directly do used on her. Some of them were aware of the person''s identity and believe that it was because of her connections in the business world that she was being targetted.But soon after, everybody put this matter to the back of their heads and went to their tasks and the classroom turned peaceful again.


    But the principal''s office at this time was the direct opposite of it. The inspector had barged into his office and was creating a ruckus over the arrogance of some students and that the teachers were helping their students cheat.After calming down the inspector, the Principal understood the situation an decided to investigate later. He assured her that the culprit would be punished. But the inspector was insistent and forced the principal to come to the examination hall.The principal sighed but had to give face to the senior teacher so he followed. He wanted to ask why she was conducted the rounds so early but then simply let go, seeing her so upset.It was her job to make rounds during exams after all so she could choose any time. As soon as the principal entered the classroom, the concentration of the entire class was broken.They could not help but be fistracted by the drama that was taking place. Walking over to Xie Eun, the inspector rudelynpoimted at her and said to the Principal,"Sir,this is the student.She was the one who was cheating and then she even threatened us that she would sue us!Hearing this, the principal was also angered but he was a rational man and decided to question the student."Student Xie Eun, of you were not prepared for the examination,you should not have applied.Why resort to underhanded means?Once a thief, always a thief. If you use such methods now then how will you stop yourself from doing unlawful practices in the future?"


    Xie Eun retained her calm however and replied confidently,"There are so many students in this class.Please ask anyone if they have seen me cheat. Or ask the professor or even the inspector if she has seen me cheat with her own eyes. She came to the classroom and directly accused me of cheating."


    "I want to ask the professor,did he tell her exactly where he found the slip of paper?Did she find any evidence of my cheating?Then tell me Principal Sir, Who is the cheater?"


    Everyone was stunned at this and had nothing to say..

 Chapter 107 - Caught

    Seeing Xie Eun''s confidence,the principal felt a sliver of doubt. Principal Meng glanced at the ID Card and seeing the name of the student,he inexplicably felt that it was somehow familiar. He noticed that quite some time had passed and the students were all distracted so he took a deep breath and looked at the professor and said,"Call the substitute and let them invigilate for a while.Student Xie Eun,there is a thirty minute break after the written test.Please come with us.If it is proven that you are indeed innocent,then you will get the extra time to finish your work.Otherwise,you will be expelled from the university."


    Principal Meng purposely said this to make the student re think her position. In his thirty years of experience,there were many students who lied confidently and the principal needed to make sure that this student was not one of them.On the other hand,he had to also consider that the student''s career and life were at stake. He already had a solution and a way to solve this problem but he did not wish to discuss this. As the trio moved to go out o the door after the arrival of the substitute teacher,they looked back to see Xie Eun continue to stand there defiantly. Before anyone could say anything,she asked,"What if it is proven that I am not the culprit?Then who will be punished.Naturally if I am innocent,then there is someone who cheated and then framed me."


    The Inspector was stunned and she glared ferociously at Xie Eun before saying,"What arrogance you have student!Do you see Principal Meng?The student is like this and still you want to give her a chance to clarify?"


    Principal Meng stared intently and suddenly the unwavering pose of the student reminded him of someone.And that is when he realized where he had heard the student''s name..This girl was his old comrade''s daughter! She was General Xie''s daughter. Her expression reminded him of the man!And if he was right then that meant that she was also CEO Wolf''s wife..Hmm.Realizing that today the secrecy about the classroom cameras was going to be worth it.He kept his expression blank and announced,"If another person has committed this and then tried to pass off the blame,rest assured,they will also meet the same fate.They will also be expelled."


    Satisfied with the answer,Xie Eun,picked up her things and followed the three people to the office. The Principal then guided the Professor to his room and asked the other two to sit outside. Xie Eun sat there quietly staring at the closed door,while the inspector glared at her hostilely.


    Inside the Principal''s room:


    "Principal Meng,it is true that I found the slip of paper under student Xie''s desk but I have not seen her copy anything so I cannot be sure of this. But the handwriting on the answer sheet and this cheat sheet does not match.It is why I was hesitant to call out this student.At that moment,I had just moved forward to the other desk when the Inspector came in.She immediately started to question me and I had only just explained about the piece of paper when she accused the student. It wasn''t until the student pointed out this point did I realized this."


    The principal nodded and after receiving a satisfactory explanation,sent the teacher out of the room. He asked that the inspector be sent in,before he opened his work computer and went to check something.Soon he had an answer to the question and thus he slowly started to play back slowly.


    The inspector came in with a frown and immediately started to complain,"Principal Meng. It is the student who cheated and not us.Why are you calling us and not her for some questioning. Are you trying to say that you trust a student more than your staff? Is that the impression you want to give to the students and others?She should have been expelled by now!"


    The Principal,who had never been scolded in his life, narrowed his eyes and said,"Don''t worry,Inspector. The person who had committed the mistake will be punished.But can you not have some more patience and empathy?The student must have her own reasons.You can excuse her or even give her a light warning.Why are you intent on expelling her?"


    "I would have excused her if she had committed a mistake but she continues to be bold and and dared to talk back so much. Tell me sir,with such an attitude,would we not be helping her by covering her crime?Such people need to be punished well!"


    The inspector gloated a bit at her impeding success


    Principal Meng frowned a bit and nodded his head,"Very Well,then.Inspector,what would you like to say for this?"


    With that Principal Meng turned around the laptop on his desk and let the Inspector see everything for herself.The woman paled and almost lost her sense..She saw with her own eyes that the students had coordinated to frame the girl..And the principal had then played back and zoomed in on when she had been typing out a message to her..


    "Sir..."the gloating look on the Inspector''s face was gone and she could only gulp as she tried to think of an excuse.."


    Just then,the Principal''s office door had opened and the mobile phone that had been surrendered before entering was brought in."Inspector,we will be confiscating your phone as evidence and this matter will be raised in the board as they were the ones who recommended you. You have failed in carrying out your duty and tried to misuse your position. We will make sure that a person with such character is punished severely. Do you have anything to say?"

 Chapter 108 - The Real Culprit

    Han Xi,who sat in the classroom,was happily writing her exam and waiting for the announcement of her success.When she had spied the girl who had dared to humiliate her in the mall,she had used this chance to teach her a lesson.So she was a student in this University?Well her uncle was a board member here and her aunt,the examination inspector. Naturally,this was her turf.The fool did not even know that she was in danger and continued writing. Han Xi,immediately dropped a message to two of her friends,to let them know what was going on and what to do while she typed out another message to her aunt. She had worried that her aunt may not read it in time but then she had been lucky!Everything had worked out smoothly and without a hitch! That girl liked to play with boys?Then let her do that only!She would see who would support her then once she publicized the fact that she was a cheater.."


    Han Xi had no idea that her aunt had already fallen into the grave that she had dug for Xie Eun and next it was her turn! The bell rang to hand in the papers and the students soon gave in their papers.Most felt it was a pity that the girl would lose in this way but many others felt that it was fair.After all they had worked so hard for the test so why should someone else be allowed to use a shortcut? The three students who had collaborated,glanced at each other and smiled at their success.However,before the class could empty,Principal Meng returned to the classroom followed by a couple of security guards. Without a word,the guards found the three students and unceremoniously dragged them to the podium,shocking the class and the professor.


    Han Xi,screeched at being manhandled and shouted,"What are you doing?How dare you touch me casually?Do you know who I am? I am the young miss of the Han family of country D! My uncle is the member of board here!You will all lose your jobs!"


    The other students were all shocked at this behavior as they had never heard their university being so ruthless.Once the students had been dragged to the podium,the Principal announced ruthlessly,"These are the students who want to enter our university!they dare to cheat and then implicate other student,even going so far as to destroy their careers! These three people actually had the intention to harm student Xie Eun. We have evidence against them. They will be expelled from this moment on wards just like I said earlier. All of you need to remember one thing,Anyone who tries to go against the University''s motto of being united will meet the same fate!"


    The students all breathed in fear at the usually easy going Principal''s anger and quit gossiping waiting for the second part of the exam to start.


    Xie Eun had been escorted to an isolated classroom to finish her exam under the supervision of the Principal''s secretary.She had not asked any questions or said a word throughout because though everyone else was not aware of the surveillance cameras that the Principal had installed in the classrooms,she had known this fact because of Yu Seok who had already prepared her for any eventualities. It was why she had not panicked from the beginning to the end. She had just finished checking her paper when the secretary came forward to ask if she was done.She handed in her answer sheet and went back towards the classroom.If it had been anyone else, then their mentality would have been shaken but Yu Seok had helped her be prepared and she realised with a jerk that she had been able to keep calm because she had known that when if she was not able to do anything, he was there behind her to support her.


    Meanwhile, in the principal''s office, the senior inspector was cursing at the Principal and threatening to sue him for having invaded the privacy of the students. Then fierce argument had resulted in an urgent board meeting being called. The Principal had already received the consent from the members so they could do nothing about the surveillance cameras but the board members had to give each other face, so they tried to pressurize the Principal into keeping the students and giving them a light punishment. But then the Principal, after realising that the Board was more concerned about themselves than being honest, said calmly,"Very Well.I can tell the student concerned that this is your decision. But do let me also know what explanation Inshould give her guardian-CEO Wolf?"


    The board members all stuffened in shock and one by one unanimously voted for Inspector Han and Miss Han to be suspended and expelled respectively..


    The second round was set up like an interview meet with a panel of teachers ready to judge. No one knew what the questions would be or if there would be even any fixed set of answers.


    Xie Eun calmly sat and waited outside the room where these were being conducted. Two students would go at a time and one would move forward to the next round and one would come out of the classroom, disappointed.Xie Eun felt that this round would be a challenge to her capabilities and so tried to calm her heart..


    Unknown to her, the teachers inside were panicking at the thought of interviewing her. The news that the snobbish wife of the board of director had bee fired because of a student, the teachers understood very well that the student must be very powerful.They had only on thought in their head, " how do they prevent themselves from offending the esteemed student?"


    So when Xie Eun came in for the interview, and answered questions,she wondered if she had come for a university interview or a kindergarten one? They did not ask a single difficult thing? she could not help but wondering if she had entered the wrong room..


    Meanwhile, the students who had been tortured with mean questions from business and economic fields, ".."

 Chapter 109 - Problems Arise

    Cheng Mo sat at his desk, reading the files and reports that he had been receiving. His eyes narrowed as he compiled every report that they were receiving, he could see a pattern emerging. It seemed that they were being attacked.And the enemy was using multiple means indiscriminately.They could easily handle these problems but it meant I variable wasting their resources. He arranged everything in a file and then called the government department who had been pestering them ever since the last time they withdrew the investments. They had learnt their lessons and would not be making any trouble.But they seemed to have trouble understanding that the boss'' decision was final as would not be changed...


    Finally,prepared with everything, Cheng Mo,who as about to leave,stopped as the phone on his desk started to ring. He paused and went back to answer the phone. When he understood what had happened, his heard thundered and he went back to the office, the Boss was going to go on a killing spree if this continued..


    Giving a perfunctory knock, Cheng Mo rushed in and said, breathlessly,"Sir there have been a few accidents in our mining operation in Country D! It has caused a lot of disturbance and now the local people and government are refusing to cooperate. They are being unreasonable and demanding that you will have to assure them personally. The enemy thisntimenseems really powerful Sir.It is not easy to make the people in country D cooperate in such conspiracies. They must have deep connections there.So this enemy had deep connections in this country as well as another one.."And they desperately wanted to remove the Boss from the madam''s side. Cheng Mo did not say this but the meaning was clear to both parties. After thinking for a while, Wolf gave a subtle nod before saying,"Make preparations to leave the country.Tighten the security around Xie Eun. It seems they want to do something in my absence.Let them try to do it.We don''t need innocent people to suffer because of this."


    Cheng Mo, nodded and went to make preparations.Wolf seldom travelled outside the country because of his unique identity. But even so, his acceptance into a country was always welcomed.


    Cheng Mo alerted the lady boss'' security team and then ordered the pilot to prepare to leave tonight.


    Wolf,on the other hand had already, cast aside this problem to the back of his mind and was wondering how Xie Eun''s exam had passed. he looked at the time and realized that she must almost be finished with both the examinations. Deciding to give her a surprise, he picked up his cell phone to go to the university. However the first person to be surprised was Cheng Mo who realized that his boss was playing truant. But knowing this was because I''d the last boss, he paid no attention to it and continued to work.


    Yoo Shiro, at this moment,received a note from his allies and gave a satisfactory smile. His spied in country D had already forced the company''s and Yu Seok would be leaving soon.He told his amn to keep an eye out for the man and not to let him return soon. By the time Yu Seok returned, Yoo Shiro would have already made the preparation. Just then the butler walked in and announced,"Sir,we have already sent your orders but the woman is refusing to leave.She insists that she will go if only she is allowed to see you once.."Sir, we have tried to order her, coax her and even threaten her but she refuses to leave without seeing you or the old master.We can only ask you to order us to beat her up if you want her to be sent away." Yoo Shiro rubbed his fore head and ordered,"Bring her to the blackroom."


    The black room was like confession room in the church.It was used in the past to conduct underhanded deals while maintaining the anonymity of both parties.It was a small box like room with a wooden partition in between and a hand sized hole in between to talk.Once the woman had been situated in the room,Yoo Shiro walked in and sat down,before arrogantly asking,"Lady Lu?Why are you pestering my people?"


    The old woman recognized the voice as not the old master''s and thus snobbishly answered,"I said I wanted to meet the old master but he refuses to come!I was assured,many years ago,that the Yoo''s never forgot a favor done to them and that whenever I demanded something in return,it will be given!But now that I have made my request, both the old master and his loyal servant refuse to answer my calls!And now that I have been waiting here since morning,the old master does not even give me face and sends a lackey here to talk to me!Is this the value he has placed on his grandson''s life?"


    Yoo Shiro felt his face harden at every word the woman uttered. Her voice grated in his ears and she thought that she had the authority to talk to them like this! Sighing,he took out a small silver gun and placed one end at the hole,"You,Lady Lu.like to talk a lot.But we have no time to listen to your prattle. You requested that we kill your granddaughter in return for you having saved the young master''s life. But you failed to give us pertinent information regarding the security she was placed under which caused us to lose one of our most loyal and trusted men.And then you come here complaining!You were told that the favor will be paid and that will be done!But just like you took your time to ask for the favor,we will take our time to return it.There is no hurry!And if you are so anxious,then you can hire a professional killer.But if I see you here on our doorstep again,this gun will do the talking.So,leave."The man''s unemotional and cold tone combined with the threatening gun that faced her made the old woman pale and she hurried out of the room without waiting to be escorted. Her breaking the protocol made Yoo Shiro pause in his steps. As per the protocol,he was supposed to leave first and then the lady would be escorted out. Even if she was scared and had made such a blunder,the lady had been looking around intently..He had caught a glimpse of her side profile and something started to bother him as he walked back to the old man''s bedside.


    The old man had been slipping in and out of consciousness these past few days. Every time he opened his eyes there would be a question in his eyes,asking him without much hope if the news was really true. Yoo Shiro held his grandfather''s hand and gently caressed the fingers that were not arthritic and showed wrinkled skin. His grandfather had held on so many years but now that he could see the hope too close to him,he was unable to stabilize himself,causing him more harm. Yoo Shiro,sighed and hoped that their plan would be successful.Once, Yu Seok was out of the country,he would get close to Xie Eun and try to understand the relation between the two. If the woman was true to his brother then she might have a chance to live,otherwise..He slowly placed his grandfather''s hand back on the bed and closed his eyes,leaning back for a moment.


    But suddenly,a scene from the past flashed in front of his eyes and they opened wide."That voice,he had heard it before! And the side profile of the old Lady Lu was also very familiar. His forehead turned to frown as he thought of this. Was it because she was the one who had saved him in the past that hearing her and seeing her brought back the nightmare that had not plagued him in the past? No,his instinct told him that something was very fishy..Sighing he walked out of the room and ordered,"Investigate Lady Lu.."


    Meanwhile,the old woman had been escorted out and once she was in her car, she made a phone call and confirmed,"Indeed the old man is sick and that servant is dead.."


    Hello,if you are reading this anywhere other than Webnovel application or website,then please be aware that the book is pirated. Please support the author and do not use the pirated version. To my paying readers,please be assured that you are not paying for these words and they are within the parameters so that you will not be charged extra coins! Very Sorry for the inconvenience caused.

 Chapter 110 - Sweet Nothings

    Xie Eun walked out of the university, almost bouncing on the balls of her feet.She had been selected in the interview and once the result of the written answer was here, she would have been shifted to the business management faculty. She took out her cell phone, thinking of informing Yu Seok about today but when she looked down,she saw that she had already received a message from him.He was waiting for her at the gate! Pushing her cell phone into her pocket,she had a wide smile on her face as she speed walked towards the gate!Why was the university so big?And why did he have to wait at the gate?He had his student Id!He could just enter casually! Thinking this,she had almost reached the gates when she spied him leaning against the car. Her eyes widened and she almost forgot how to walk!How could he look good in everything?He had changed into a pair of blue jeans and a dark blue shirt and he looked so yummm..


    She really had been blind..But the others were no so blind. As Xie Eun walked closer to Yu Seok,she noticed that there were many females throwing repeated glances at him. A girl even approached him and tried to talking to him.She did not know what they spoke about but the next moment she blushed and ran away..Her ears smoking,Xie Eun speeded up so that her husband would not be flirted with. Maybe she should change his looks so that he would be less attractive to others..


    Xie Eun could not have imagined that it was because of her that her husband was being flirted with. Because,under normal circumstances,no one would dare to approach the man with the icy aura. It was only because he had seen her that his stance had softened making him more approachable..Once near,Xie Eun marched over to him,caught his neck in her hands and pulled him down a bit to kiss him on the lips. Shocked but extremely happy to indulge his wife,Yu Seok immediately kissed her back.But before he could use this opportunity to the maximum,his wife skipped out of his arms and opening the car door,jumped into it..


    Meanwhile, Yu Seok:".."


    The innocent people who had been served dog food:".."


    Following her into the car, Yu Seok closed the door and saw that she was already wearing her seat belt and fidgeting with something on her phone..Well it seemed she was not so happy to see him after all.Disappointed at such a lukewarm reaction to his surprise,Yu Seok,shook his head and started to drive the car.A few minutes later,unable to stop himself,he asked,"What are you doing?"


    "Giving you a god**** new face..Who told you to be so handsome!"


    Yu Seok: "Huh?"


    Xie Eun had a guilty look on her face,when she suddenly remembered the answer she had given him. Yu Seok on the other hand caught her look and raised an eyebrow in question. Stopping at the next waiting point near the side of the road,he crossed his arms and stared at her. Xie Eun tried to hide her phone,but he simply extended his hand and waited for it.


    Like a kid,she placed her phone in his hand and sulked with her arms crossed in front of her. Yu Seok glanced at the pictures and for the first time in his life,almost roared in laughter. Surprised at the laugh,Xie Eun turned her head and was unable to stop her smile.She had only been venting but his laugh was really precious..


    Yu Seok brought the phone screen near his face and asked seriously,"Will you really like me to look like this?"


    In the picture,Xie Eun had photo shopped a big mole on his cheek under his eyes and a wide moustache over his lips. It was one of the pictures from their outing that day and with the clothes he had been wearing,this one looked like he was a smuggler with terrible make up skills.


    Amused,he wiped and looked at another form that she had given him. In this one,he was bald and had thick eyebrows and a thicker framed spectacles. He looked like an old perverted professor.."


    The third one was a mixture of earlier ones and he almost failed to recognize himself. There were those with effects where he had long hair but was effiminate,made him groan.


    Indulging her ,he resignedly asked,"Eun-a.Sweetheart. How did I offend you that you are using your photo shop skills to create such master pieces?"


    Pouting harder now,she pointed a finger at him and accused,"You just flirted with that girl! If you had been a little less good looking then this would not have happened.Can you not apply a fake beard or something? Or better yet,just shave your head.And why do you have to talk to other girls?"


    She almost shouted the last sentence showing him just how much sour vinegar she had consumed!Since she was affected like this,Yu Seok was so glad that he could dance with joy.Because that showed she cared.


    Smiling,he leaned sideways and placed a sighing kiss on her lips."You look really cute when you are angry! I was not flirting.That human asked me for an address and I told her that I did not know."


    "Hmpf.."


    "But I did know.I just did not want to talk to someone who is not you.So which of these looks would you like me to wear from now on??."


    Xie Eun melted like a puddle of ice at those lines. He really was good at flirting with her.She gave him a mega watt smile and said,"No need.I just cleared the interview today and we must celebrate.."

 Chapter 111 - A Little Drink And A Lot Of Flirting

    Xie Eun narrated the entire incident to Yu Seok that had transpired in school,still shaking her head that something like this had happened..It had been a momentary argument,why would that girl carry a grudge till now? People were weird,she felt. Yu Seok drove calmly towards a small restaurant as he heard her grumble and rant. He was assured that she could handle everything now..He wanted to tell her that he would have to go out of the country tomorrow for a few days but could not find it in himself to spoil her happy mood..


    They reached their destination just as the light turned dark. Xie Eun looked around at the small restaurant that was tucked away in a small valley between the two mountains.She had not paid much attention to the road but she knew that this must be some isolated area as there were next to no cars here. But when she went inside the place,she was even more shocked as the place inside was the direct opposite of the quiet atmosphere outside. It was more of a bar and less of a restaurant.There was a large television on one side of the wall where a few people were watching football, screaming and yelling among themselves while on the other there were people in groups playing darts and a few other games. It somehow had a very small village type feel to it that made her feel nostalgic. Unlike other girls,she had never been to the small bar in their hometown. But she had begged her father to take her there when she was seventeen and even threatened him of finding a silly boy to take her there and get drunk,if he did not.General Xie was not someone who went bar hopping but he had taken her there.However he was not one to be easily manipulated. He had then made her drink all the drinks that night and when anyone dared to talk to her,he had glared at them..She had been so sick the next day and never again thought of going to a bar..until..but that was a different matter!


    Feeling nostalgic,Xie Eun gave him a silly smile and hopped onto a bar stool ordering a variety of wines."I am going to get drunk today and you are going to take care of me!" Yu Seok shook his head but ordered some dishes to go with the wine. But he had underestimated her determination to get drunk..What he did not know was that she needed liquid courage to tell him what her heart had finally accepted but ..


    After eating and drinking some,she moved to the darts table and got herself a few darts getting ready to play. In the excitement of the game "in which she failed to meet a single target,despite being a good shot normally),she had no idea how many beers she had drunk and was getting more and more louder.Thus,they did not stay at the bar long.After an hour of playing,Yu Seok dragged a tipsy Xie Eun out. She really was stubborn. Why did he have to bring here here today of all days? She wanted to drink beer and had seemingly forgotten what had happened when she had drunk too much in the past.. As they reached back home,she refused to move out of the car and insisted that first he would have to carry her on his back. Pushing Yu Seok forcefully and almost falling to the ground herself,she continued to behave drunk. As a result, soon she had her wish.Winding her arms around his neck,she was being carried into the house. She lay her head comfortably on his broad back and sighed," I have never been carried like this!You are the best!"


    Rolling his eyes and wondering if his eardrums (Xie Eun was shouting as of now) would survive, he muttered,"Liar!"


    Having heard him, Xie Eun shouted again, "hey!What do you mean?Are you saying that I have been carried before?"


    By now,the two people had reached the door and soon Xie Eun was unceremoniously dumped on the couch.Though she never felt anything. Because she was busy thinking,if she had really been carried like this before.. But soon she lost her train of thought and sat there in a daze, thinking random things. So that when Yu Seok returned with a glass of water, she wolf whistled at him and said seamlessly,"Woah..You are so good looking! Who are you?"


    Before Yu Seok could react, Xie Eun had already extended her shaky hands and was encircling his biceps making an awed face.Next she leaned close to his neck and sniffed deeply, muttering,"You smell really good."


    But unexpectedly what she did next, shocked Yu Seok..and if Xie Eun had any recollection of what she did the next morning,she would bury her self in sand and refuse to come out.One of her hands landed on his butt while the other on the front of his pants..Her eyes widened as she felt the hardness and she shamelessly muttered,"You are so big!" To top it off, she then went ahead and squeezed his bu** while muttering,"You have really photogenic buttocks!I wish you had let me click a picture last time!Would you like to do some modelling?You would look really good..but let me warn you, I will not a low you to show these assets to anyone else.If every businessman worked out like you, can you imagine how good looking they would be.. Her hands kept caressing as Yu Seok stood still and she continued to babble nonsense.


    Finally, Yu Seok used the best method to shut her up, he pushed the lasvicious girl onto the couch, kissing her deeply and helped the itch in her hands go away...

 Chapter 112 - A Sudden Confession

    Xie Eun woke up slowly. Her hangover was not too strong as Yu Seok had forced her to take the medicine before she fell asleep.However,she still groaned and wanted to bury herself somewhere.Her memory was somehow intact from last night.And she even believed it was too vivid...Because she really was too shameless in front of him. Had suppressing her nature for these two years resulted in her becoming too shameless?Just as she was wondering this,her blanket was pulled from her and a soft kiss was placed on her forehead. She blinked her eyes at him shyly and gave him a small smile. Even though he had made her hand sore last night,she had liked everything he did..


    "Wake up,sleepy head..I have to leave soon.So have breakfast with me."


    Her eyes opened wide and she nodded her head but made no move to follow him.This was because she realized that she was too saddened by the thought of this going away..Even her heart ached a bit though she tried to convince herself that it was not because of the thought that he was going to be away from her but because she had over indulged herself.


    Sighing,she watched his retreating back and thought to herself,"She was hopeless. He was not even gone yet and she was already missing him..Sigh!!!


    Throwing away the blanket,she washed and dressed herself up..She bit her lip as she considered if she should confess before he went or after he came back..She liked him and she wanted to tell him that.She knew he liked her and was happy with her even of she acted like a problematic child sometimes..but she had never told him that she really liked him..She was unsure of the word ''love'' because of Si Jing but she knew one thing,she liked being with Yu Seok. Whether it was the time when they were on the ship or when they were just at home,studying.It did not matter if he was talking or simply reading his files.His mere presence made her comfortable. She knew that many people would call this love...but.. She was just too silly.She did not want to accept this even to herself. So she had decided to confess that she liked him.She had thought that she would have time after the exam but here he was,already leaving and now there was no time..Maybe she should wait until he returned..


    Xie Eun,saw the fried dumplings the boiled eggs and her heart ached even more.She would even have to go back to eating muesli and breads...She felt even sadder at missing out on the food..


    Her expression was transparent as a book and pulling her into his lap,he placed a hand on her waist and asked casually,"Eun-a,I will be back in a few days,a week at most.Will you miss me?" Xie Eun felt shy at this direct question but did not want him to be disappointed before he left so she nodded her head vigorously and said,"Yes."


    Pleased with her answer,he fed her a dumpling and watched her chew slowly before asking,"So,will you miss me more or the food that I feed you?"


    "Ofcourse..",Xie Eun answered but before Yu Seok could be too happy,she said,"the food."


    Wolf: ".."


    Seeing his expression,Xie Eun gave a small giggle and answered,"Of course I will miss you more silly! You are so cute" and placed a little peck on his nose.She then picked up a dumpling and put it in his mouth before saying,"But I will miss the food you feed me also.I guess I need to start learning cooking.These past few weeks,you have spoilt me greatly and now eating takeaway food does not sound appealing at all.."


    "You don''t have to eat take away.I have prepared some food for you and it is placed in the freezer.You only have to take it out and heat it. Anytime you don''t feel like doing that,"I have also saved the number of a personal chef.She will cook and send whatever you want,whenever you want."


    Amazed at the care and attention to detail,he showed her,Xie Eun felt touched and had nothing to say.Thus,she placed her head on his shoulder comfortably,listening to his stable heartbeat and enjoying the peace that surrounded her because of him.She knew that she was able to live carefree because he was stopping many people on her behalf. She vowed to grow stronger so that she would be able to stand by his side with pride.But for now, she felt sorry for him and thus suddenly asked,"Yu Seok?Why do you like me?"


    She did not mean to ask this question..Xie Eun had planned to ask this when she confessed to him but just now the question had slipped out of her mouth of its own accord. Before the stunned Yu Seok could answer,she slapped a hand on his mouth and said,"No!Don''t tell me now.This..this question just slipped out!You have time.You don''t have to answer this now.When you come back and I tell you that I like you,you must tell me then. Then we both will have confessed.."


    The next moment,she slapped a hand on her own mouth and fled from the crime scene..


    Wolf: (who had been unexpectedly confessed to) had a big grin on his face..


    Just as he was about to follow his wife to get a clear confession so that he would be sure that he was not hallucinating,the doorbell rang..His feet turned towards the door of their own accord and Yu Seok opened the door with the same silly grin on his face almost causing the person at the door to faint from fright.."

 Chapter 113 - Meeting Cheng Mo

    Cheng Mo,who had been admiring the boss home,clutched the box in his hand tightly and rang the doorbell.The boss and him were leaving today so he was supposed to pick up the boss. He hoped that he would also have a chance to meet the Lady Boss and get a formal introduction.He had thus even prepared a nice gift for the lady boss. But when the door opened,he almost dropped the box in his hand. His boss was grinning..And it was a frightening expression!


    "Bbboss.."


    Realizing that it was time to leave,the expression on Wolf''s face returned to his normal cold one,relieving a frightened Cheng Mo..He heaved a sigh of relief and said,"Boss..Is the lady boss in?"


    When he tried to peep in,the boss have him a hateful glance causing him to gulp and move back directly.He then heard,"Wait here.I will bring my bag." The door was then closed with a bang.


    Once the boss'' back was turned,Cheng Mo frowned and glanced at the box in his hand. He really wanted to meet the lady boss.Just as he was about to go back,disappointed,the door quickly opened and,to his astonishment,the lady boss stood there with her hands on her hips. He was about to smile and present her the gift when he noticed the expression on her face..Why did the lady boss'' expression match the boss usual expression? Before he could gather his thoughts to ask her anything,Xie Eun walked out of the house and told him to follow her.When they were at a safe distance,Xie Eun narrowed her eyes and asked,"You are his assistant?"


    Cheng Mo nodded skeptically and before he could say anything more,she asked,"Are you gay?"


    Cheng Mo:".."


    He had not even introduced himself and this question..."Why did the lady boss ask this? Did she have any unknown agenda?What if the boss came to know that she was asking such intimate questions?"


    His expression turned weird and scared at the same time,which caused Xie Eun to narrow her eyes and wonder if it was an expression of guilt. It didn''t matter if he was the best assistant in the universe, if he was interested in her husband, he had to go!


    Seeing the lady boss'' eyes narrowed, Cheng Mo realized that he had taken too long to answer so he cleared his throat at once and said,"Sis..sister in law, I am not gay!In fact I am looking for a girlfriend!But the work is so much that I don''t get any time(and the cursed author is not even finding me a girlfriend)..does sister in law have a girlfriend that she can introduce me to?", Cheng Mo asked with hope in his eyes..Seeing his pitiful expression and how he called her sister in law, as if he was Yu Seok''s brother, Xie Eun was satisfied and said,"Oh..I will definitely help you find a girlfriend.But until then, you have to do something for me.."


    With that, she handed him a piece of paper. at this point, Cheng Mo, finally remembered the box in his hand and extended it to her,"Sister in law, since the boss is going to be away and you will be bored, I brought you this meeting present. I hope you like it.."


    Xie Eun was flustered at receiving the sudden gift and tried to refuse it but when Cheng Mo insisted,she had no choice to accept his kindness.Yu Seok and her had no family left and now someone was calling her sister in law so she decided to be more kind to him in the future..


    Just as she was about to escape, she turned around and dashed into the arms of her husband and would have fallen backwards if his arms had not caught her in time..


    Poor single Cheng Mo was unexpectedly served dog food when he saw the loving look in his boss'' eyes.


    He turned back and ran to the car to await the boss..


    Xie Eun looked at the button of his collar,unable to look up due to shyness.With a box acting as the barrier between the two of them, Yu Seok bent down and gave her a small kiss on the lips before promising,"Eun-a, I will be back soon..And I look forward to your confession.."


    Kissing her once again, a little lingerigly this time, Wolf finally walled to the car. His eyes however never left the slender figure that could be seen in the rear view mirror.


    Once the car had gone a safe distance, Wolf extended his hand and without a word, took the note that was still clutched in Cheng Mo''s hand..reading the three orders on the list, he was amused and passed them back to Cheng Mo, saying,"Follow these orders well.."


    Cheng No, breathed a sigh of relief and pocketed the more without daring to read it. Only after they had reached the airport, Cheng Mo dared to do it but then cirsed his fate..What kind of orders were these? He glanced at the note and sighed,"Even though they were weird, Cheng Mo thought that they were super easy.Because the boss really was not interested in other people.


    The note simply read,"No woman with bad intentions, but then the ''with bad intentions'' was crossed out and the line continued to be,"No woman could come within a meter of their boss."


    Meanwhile, Xie Eun trudged back to the house and opened the gift box that Cheng Mo had sent her. She soon giggled after checking the contents of the box..There were horror movies inside! Original edition. Xie Eun closed the box and shook he read, there was no way she would be watching these in Yu Seok''s absence.


    When the car that was supposed to be carrying the two people reached the airport, however, there was only one person who alighted and boarded the private plane.

 Chapter 114 - An Enemy Of An Enemy

    Xie Eun made her way to the university in the car that had been arranged by her husband.She kept trying to cheer herself up but it was like something was missing.She had never realized how used to she had become to Yu Seok''s presence at the university by her side.Even on days that they would not meet,just knowing that he was there would make her day reassuring. Today they had to attend a few basic classes and brush up on their knowledge before they were thrown into intensive training. Xie Eun plucked at the hem of her short top as she tried to forget that she would have to come back to an empty house.


    Once at the university,she kept her senses about her and without talking much simply smiled politely at other students who saw her. The news that a teacher had been fired because of her had already spread like wildfire and she simply wanted to keep her head down and not create any more waves. Just then the Professor entered,followed by a girl.The girl looked ethereal and her light blonde hair,which were tied in a loose knot looked like a halo. Seeing her, everyone subconsciously straightened their backs and tried to look their best.Only Xie Eun was the one who was not affected by the girl and almost rolled her eyes. If anyone were to look into her heart they would surely know that the girl was as far from an angel as she could be. Once the entire class'' attention was focused on her,the girl bowed and introduced herself,"Hello everyone. My name is Lu Yeona and I am new here.Please take care of me."


    The single sentence resulted in a round of applause and Yeona walked to a seat in the front row to attend the class. The lectures turned out to be back to back with no break as the covered a range of topics from a study of basic micro economics,human resource management and then some strategies related to laws and using them to a business'' best advantage. After every lecture,the professors did not hesitate in giving them a tonne of homework. Xie Eun methodically wrote down the notes but her attention was on her husband and whether he had reached his destination and thus she left as soon as the lecture was finished. But because of this,she gave the cunning Lu Yeona a chance to make friends with her classmates.Soon after,there were rumors circulation that Xie Eun and Lu Yeona were cousins who were at odds.Lu Yeona had said nothing directly but a few words had turned the tide in her favor. Many people wondered what must have happened to the cousins to be at odds but seeing that the pretty Lu Yeona was saddened by this,they did not ask much. However,to cheer her up,may people offered to help her with her homework which she gratefully accepted.


    Xie Eun,on the other hand decided to not go home and instead went to the library to study some more.On the way,she tried calling her hubby but his phone was unreachable. She was about to place her phone back when her phone rang.Checking the caller id,she spoke a tentative,"Hello?" and was greeted by a cheerful voice from,"hello Anna!How are you?"


    Xie Eun smiled at the exuberant greeting and answered,I am well.How are you?"


    She wondered if Miss Wen wanted to talk about anything more about the will but Shan Shan continued,"Anna. Would you like to meet up for dinner?"


    Xie Eun thought nothing of it and agreed.When Shan Shan asked her where she was,she told her the name of the university and they soon agreed to meet near there.


    As Xie Eun prepared the notes in the library,her phone beeped once again and she saw that she had received a message from Yu Seok telling her that he had reached. She smiled a small smile and responded quickly,"Great." and then unable to stop herself added,"I miss you.."


    Wolf,who was presently far away from his wife almost threw aside his cell phone to return to his wife''s side.


    The restaurant they met at was relatively private than last time and Xie Eun wondered why Shan Shan had chosen such a setting.Once she was escorted to the private room,Shan Shan met her at the door happily and the two ordered the food before they unconsciously started discussing random topics from weather and even some internet memes. Xie Eun forgot that she did not know this girl for long while Shan Shan felt as if she had found a friend. Their meal was almost over when the two girls realized that they had simply chatted as close friends instead of simple acquaintances. It was only when it was time for them to separate that Shan Shan remembered her focus and said,"Anna.You need to be careful. That bi*** Yeona has transferred to your University. She may seem like a dumb blonde at times but she has a specialty. And that is to use boys to her best advantage. If there is one thing that can be said about her is that she is like a chameleon and knows how to even change her basic character. Soon,she will know everything about the important people in University and then start to use them against you. I know because she has done this in the past. Though University students are smarter that high schoolers and not easily lead astray,she is well experienced in manipulating and won''t shy away from using dirty tricks. She has also done this in the modelling industry .In the initial days,a beautiful model had debuted with her and would have surpassed her. But suddenly she befriended Lu Yeona and soon the media revealed that the young girl had been intimate with many men. The girl was only fifteen..she committed suicide and all her projects were taken over by that woman so you need to be really careful."


    Only when Shan Shan was finished talking did she realize that Anna was looking at her strangely.She raised her eyebrows in question so Xie Eun commented casually,"You know too much about Lu Yeona.."


    These days Xie Eun was very wary of people and as the girl had spoke about her,she had detected a hint of hatred in Shan Shan towards Lu Yeona. She somehow felt that she had an ulterior motive in telling her these things.And Xie Eun did not want to be used by anyone so she directly asked,"Why do you hate her?"


    Shan Shan''s eyes glittered with hatred and she said,"I have my reasons. But if you think that I have befriended you because you are her enemy then you are only partially right. As you can see,I have had my eyes on her for a while now but I am unable to get much evidence. But for you, I feel that she has already done enough. Destroying her is not too difficult for me but she has the protection of that Chairwoman Lu. But you have challenged that woman''s authority now and I feel that helping you will help me. But I have also seen that you are relatively innocent and would not be aware of the many deep tricks of these women and I wanted to protect you from them also."


    Xie Eun felt oddly touched at the girl''s words and also understood that whatever her reasons for hating Lu Yeoan were,their new found friendship had nothing to do with it. And anywats there was a saying that an enemy''s enemy is a friend so..Soon the two girls separated,this time already making a plan to see each other again soon.


    But they could not have known that there was someone who was spying on them. A man who had been following Xie Eun since this morning made a call,"Sir,Miss Xie has met with a girl friend."


    The man,then sent the pictures of the two women chatting amicably to his boss.


    Yoo Shiro glanced at the pictures in the phone as a small smile played around his lips. He looked at his own assistant and extended his hand.Soon a file was placed in his hand as the assistant summarized,"Miss Wen Shan is the granddaughter of Lawyer Wen.She has recently been helping her grandfather so that she can take over his practice. a genius,Miss Wen cleared her bar exams at a very tender age and she is yet to loose any case. But she is very eccentric and has had no friends in a very long time.Miss Xie seems to be the only person she has met outside the office in the past and that too seemed business related."


    Yoo Shiro nodded and calmly said,"I need a new lawyer..for buying the south side disputed property.Invite Miss Wen for a meeting.."

 Chapter 115

    Xie Eun lay on the bed,staring at the ceiling. She blinked repeatedly and then checked her phone. He had not called or messaged her yet. Should she? What if he was busy?All sorts of thoughts kept rummaging in her head until she finally shook herself and let out an "Urgh!"


    The emptiness of the bed reminded her of how much she missed him and how alone she was. Finally, kicking away her blanket in frustration,she marched out to the living room,turned on the television and sat on the couch with a thump. The next moment,she got up again,went back into the room and grabbing her cell phone,stomped back to the living room.


    Turning on the television,she browsed channels to see if there was anything good but nothing caught her attention.Finally she turned back to her cell phone,glared at it for not ringing and started to surf the internet.Even as she stabbed at the phone''s screen,she inwardly cursed Yu Seok for not calling her,he could have called her even if he was busy..She took out his number in the contact list and wondered if she should dial but then what if she disturbed him?So she gave up the idea and started to check her SNS account.


    A little while later as she was bored and staring at various posts,something caught her eye. It was a quiz!A small smile graced her lips as she stared at the quiz,"Which celebrity/CEO/Rockstar is your ideal husband?" She wondered if Wolf''s name was there on the list..She then shrugged her shoulders,and decided to play even if it wasn''t there. It was something fun to do so she went ahead and opened it. The questions were so random and basic that she almost rolled her eyes. How was her favorite color or her holiday destination going to decide who her ideal partner was? But then the next question made her face turn red and she almost threw her phone.What did they mean by asking a favorite sex position? How was she supposed to answer that?Her over active imagination provided the answer as various images of herself and Yu Seok gathered there making her feel hot and flyshed.Choosing a random choice in that, she answered all the questions diligently as if she was taking an exam and then waited for her results. She wondered if she should take a screenshot of the answer and send it to Yu Seok,just so he could taste some vinegar..After waiting for a few moments,her eyes widened and she wondered if this test was a hack. How come the test result showed that CEO Wolf was her ideal partner!She squinted her eyes and read the description : "You are a hopeless romantic day dreamer. Thus, your ideal partner would be CEO Wolf of Alpha Companies.His mysterious ways will keep you hooked and his lack of presence in public eye will give you privacy.He would care for you, will always be there for you when you are feeling down and will always make you smile.You can expect a life long relationship with this person because they will never let you go." She felt her heart warm some more before her face turned sour.How could they use his name in a quiz like this?How many other woman would have gotten him as the ideal partner?Ha!She threw the phone down on the couch, having tasted vinegar herself. She wondered if she can sue them.. Useless quiz.They could just write whatever nonsense they wanted! Scowling ferociously, she picked her phone again, stabbed at the screen to close the quiz and fumed some more. It was better to watch some movies rather than do all this. But then another idea struck her and she restarted the quiz.This time she chose options that were totally against her and we''re almost the opposite of what she wanted. She then sat back smugly and waited for the result.Let them give her a different answer this time and then she will send it to Yu Seok..after a few minutes, the quiz had come up with another answer but this one made her even more angry and she was tempted to smash her phone. She started reading the description,"President Si Jing of Si Enterprises is the heart throb of many young girls..blah blah blah." This time she jabbed at the phone''s screen even more harshly and blew out a breath. She had class tomorrow. There was no need to waste time in all this.She needed to sleep. But the thought of going to sleep in her big and lonely bed made her sad so once again she marched to her room, grabbed a pillow and a blanket and decided to sleep on the couch. Dimming the lights, she lay down on the couch and once again stared blankly at the ceiling. Finally, unable to take it anymore, she grabbed her phone, typed out a,"Good night" and sent it to her ''hubby'' before pulling the blanket over her head and resolutely closing her eyes. After some time, sleep still eluded her and she could not help but frown. She wondered if there was something that made her addicted to him in such a short while!He was even more potent than the most powerful drug in the world! Just as she was about to get up,her gaze fell on a closed door on the other end of the living room..Maybe she could go and sleep in his room..Though he had been sleeping in her room since she found the truth...may be she would sleep better.She was sure his blankets and stuff would smell of him..and then she would feel as if he was around..and not miss him so much..Folding her blanket and picking up her pillow,she then walked towards the room she had not yet gone into...

 Chapter 116 - Missing Him

    Stealthily sneaking into the bedroom, Xie Eun felt as if she was a thief. She could even imagine the mysterious tune that usually played in the background of those detective shows she watched as a youngster. She did not know why she was tiptoeing but somehow felt it was appropriate.She had never entered this room and never even thought of this. The moment she stepped inside,the dark room was suddenly bathed in light and she let out a small screen before realizing that the room had motion sensor lights like the ones in her room. She breathed a sigh of relief.She looked at the big bed and her face felt hot once again as she thought of sleeping in it Her imagination helped her situation by providing some real nice images to go with that... Throwing aside her own blanket,she fell face first onto his bed..and then sniffed deeply into the blankets..only to inhale the scent of washing detergent! Wrinkling her nose, Xie Eun sat up and frowned heavily..Next time..next time she will break his legs if he thinks of going somewhere and leaving her..better yet..she will make a habit to sleep alone again and then not let him sleep with her so that if he does go, she will not miss him!After all she had lived so many years without him..


    Resolutely,she turned over and was about to leave the room,when her gaze fell on the dressing table.It was free of any clutter(typical of Yu Seok,she rolled her eyes and thought of her own messy one) and there was a small bottle of men''s cologne and a tube of after shave. Wondering if he smelled so tempting whenever they were close,was because of those, she went to the dressing table,picked up the bottle of cologne and inhaled deeply.."Aachooo" The sound of the loud sneeze echoed in the room and almost made her jump. Hurriedly placing down the bottle,she raised her nose and then dropped the thought of going out. She,next walked into the walk in closet. Her eyes almost rolled back at the shades of black and grey in the closet. She used to think that she had a keen eye for colors but all these blacks were so different.And everything was color coded... The only other color that could be seen was some white from his shirts and a couple of basic white t shirts that he probably wore when working out..Did the guy really not wear any other color?She made a note to buy him some colorful suits. And more t-shirts...


    She then went on a mission to find something that smelled like him.She had come to the conclusion that it could be the only way that she would fall asleep.If she could not get his warmth then that was the next best option..Finally after looking into the cupboard,she found two items that smelled of him. A white shirt and a t-shirt. She could tell at a glance that the t shirt was the one he had been wearing in the morning and the shirt was probably from last night..Happy her finds,she grabbed the t-shirt and stuffed a pillow into it. The next moment,she was about to discard her own pyjamas and wear it but she changed her mind and slipped it on top of them..Just then her cell phone,which was in the living room rang, and she raced out..


    Wolf had just entered the hotel room,tired from the day''s meetings. He glanced at the time and realized that Xie Eun must have fallen asleep. Stretching his neck and rubbing out the kinks,he made his way to the shower to freshen up. A little while later, when he came out of the shower,he noticed that he had a message from Xie Eun so he opened it and the small wish of good night made him smile.He felt that the day''s tiredness had melted away.. He thought of messaging her back and they could have a short conversation if she was awake,but just then,another application on his phone beeped urgently. It was the motion sensor that was installed in his room to prevent any intruders..Walking over to his laptop,he powered it and turned on the small camera in his room.At the same time,his fingers dialled the number of the local police chief.The call had just connected and before the groggy commissioner could say ,"Hello",Wolf muttered a "Nothing" and cancelled the call. He then sat down to watch his wife who had just wandered into his room like a small burglar.He wondered what it was she wanted. He saw her throwing aside her blanket and falling face first onto the bed. His eyes heated up as the camera showed the perfect line of her figure encased in pink silk pyjamas. She never wore these when he was around..He observed as she restlessly turned over and then went through his dressing table. An unconscious "bless you" escaped his mouth when he saw her sneeze. But even as he was thoroughly amused,he wondered what she was up to.. So engrossed was he that he did not even realize that he was sitting in a chilled air conditioned room with only a towel around his hips. Finally,he realized what she wanted when she came out clutching two of his clothes and hos smile widened into a grin.. When she put the t-shirt on the pillow,a small chuckle escaped him and then he saw her put the shirt in front of her,His eyes narrowed and a certain part of his anatomy stood at attention.


    He almost groaned but then sighed in disappointment when he saw her slip on the shirt..Before she could button up the shirt,he turned on his cell phone and dialled his wife''s number.

 Chapter 117 - Phone Call

    Xie Eun ran to the phone expecting a call from her hubby.He was the only one who would call her at this hour. She glanced at his name and with a happy smile answered his phone,"Hello?" And she decided that as soon as he said hello,she was going to whine to him about his going away like this and then waiting till so late to call her.She even wondered if she should pretend to have fallen asleep


    What she did not expect was to hear his husky voice order her,"Take it off."


    She had walked back to his room and when she had just stopped at the door,she paused with a ,"Huh?"


    At this moment,Wolf could see her and his eyes heated even more as she stooped with her confused expression. He raised his brows and repeated,"Eun-a take off my shirt."


    Her eyes widened and she dropped the phone in her hand as she tried to see how he knew. For a moment,she wondered if he had returned but then she knew that could not be possible.So there was only one possibility,.Grabbing her phone from the carpeted floor,she shouted into the phone,"Yu Se-Ok!Did you put spy cameras on the house?" Her memory went back to a few hours ago when she had bathed and wandered into the room naked.She had even stood in front of her cupboard and looked at herself,seeing the places where he had left his mark.At the thought that Yu Seok,the pervert, had observed all this,she narrowed her eyes and vowed to kill him when he returned.


    Her indignation made him feel she was the cutest and he laughingly whispered into the phone,"Whatever it is you are thinking,I have not installed any camera in your rooms so you can leave that thought aside..Only this room has these sensors and cameras in case of a burglary. And I most certainly did not expect a burglar to enter the room tonight..Come in,Eun-a" His honeyed voice beckoned her like a pied piper and she stepped into the room slowly..


    She did not know where the camera was and her eyes darted around but could not see. But she could feel a thrill of excitement run through her as she thought of his heated eyes on her.


    In a low voice he ordered her,"Baby,put the phone on loudspeaker and place it there.


    Xie Eun followed the orders blindly as if she was hypnotized by his voice.


    "Now take off the shirt."


    Xie Eun looked down at the shirt that she was wearing over her pyjamas and wanted to explain but the words were caught in her throat. Just then his voice echoed in the room,"Eun-a..Take off your pyjamas. Her eyes widened at this request and she shook her head.


    Patiently,he coaxed,"Eun-a..You just stole my shirt. Is it not better that it is close to your skin rather than against your pyjamas. When we sleep together..we are usually closer."


    Her entire body turning red along with her face,Xie Eun slowly slipped the shirt off her shoulders. She felt shy as well as bold. She could also hear his excitement and that made her feel powerful..Once the shirt was off,she slowly opened the buttons of the short sleeved pyjama top. The pink parted to display her white bra and milky skin. But before Wolf could have a proper look,Xie Eun had snatched the man''s shirt and ran out off the room.


    She was too shy to give him a strip tease,while standing in the middle of his room.!The moment she was out,she threw away pyjamas and put on the shirt buttoning it up all the way to the collar. She looked at the way the shirt reached her knees and then the pyjama bottoms that could be seen under it. Thinking a bit,she discarded that too and then walked back in feeling like a naughty child.


    Wolf, who had been about to dial the house phone to console her,thinking that he had pushed her limits,was pleased when he saw her walk in. Seeing her like this,in his clothes,he felt a wave of possessiveness. She was his..and she was accepting him slowly. Very soon,they would make each other complete.But for now,he simply asked her,"Eun-a?Are you all right."


    She looked down at her toes,but nodded her head.Other than feeling too shy,she was alright.She felt safe with him.


    Without giving her another chance to escape,Wolf ordered,"Baby,go sit on the bed..You can''t sleep.Can you?Let me help you."


    She wanted to ask how he would do that but decided not to and just go with the flow. Once she was on the bed, he ordered,"Eun-a..unclasp your bra.."


    Xie Eun shivered at the order and with trembling with excitement or fear she did not know,she put her hands inside the shirt and opened the clasp.She then slid out the straps from the sleeves and threw away the piece of clothing. Wolf had already discarded his towel and soon he ordered her to bring the phone to her ears and described in detail what he would do to her if was there with her exciting her to the point of no return..A long while later,only the sound of heavy breathing could be heard.Once the two people had come down from their pleasure,the two lay in their beds peacefully..hearing the sounds of each other''s breathing..Thousands of miles separated them but this one call brought them closer.After the two had calmed down,Wolf asked her about her day and the two fell asleep talking about the mundane things..their bond of intimacy even closer and stronger now..Half asleep,Xie Eun had the thought that it would not take too long for her to fall in love with him..maybe she had already..

 Chapter 118 - Yeonas Attacks

    The next morning, Xie Eun woke up fresh with a big smile but a dead battery of the cell phone.Glancing at the time, she realized that she needed to hurry up or she would be late. Hurriedly,she showered and raced out of the door,with a cold dumpling in her hand and managed to reach the University on time.


    And as she entered the university,she understood one thing,Yeona had made her move.Because she could feel the people in the corridor looking at her awkwardly and some even looked with disdain.Ignoring the look,she made her way to her desk and quietly opened her book to study the notes that Yu Seok had given her..A few busy body students frowned at her while some even snorted as they passed by.


    However a girl then came in and sat next to her.The girl clucked sympathetically and said,"Hey?Are you Xie Eun?You have a really desperate sister.."


    Xie Eun was quite shocked to hear this statement but simply said,"Umm..I don''t have a sister.."


    The girl looked at her ironically and said,"That is not what that Miss Sob Story there said.I guess she forgot to mention cousin to the others. But anyways,you went away yesterday while Miss SS,that is ''Sob story'' by the way, took everyone in the class for a meal and then sobbed about how you had taken away her rightful inheritance and how you were using your influence to suppress her.Now I did my research and know that she is "Lu Yeona" the super model with super influence.And since she is trying to incite everyone against you, I guess she is really offended with you.Now I don''t care about anyone else but you see I am a poor student and I have decided that instead of looking down on you I am going to look up to you,if you tell me which big thigh you are clutching.If it is someone really powerful,then you need not worry I will not try to snatch them from you,I will only clutch at your thigh..."


    Xie Eun was pretty amused at this but before she could reply the professor entered and passed a set of question papers. The students were not happy that they were being tested on the second day itself and continued to grumble under her breath. Since Yu Seok had already told this to her so that she would be prepared and thus she quietly closed her books and prepared to put them into her bag.But the book was snatched from her hand before she could put it and the weird girl on the side stared at the name.Her eyes widened and she asked in a whisper shout,"Do these notes belong to Senior Yu?" Xie Eun felt like snatching the book from her deskmate and felt a sudden revulsion for the girl.This girl sounded like she was going to rob her of the notes and the way she said Yu Seok''s name was how a devotee would utter the name of a GOD.


    Xie Eun slowly extended her hand and took the notebook from the hungry hands and slipped it into her bag,before closing the bag securely. The girl continued to stare at the book and the bag,making her feel uneasy. Ignoring her,Xie Eun started to write the surprise test and focused on her work. A little while later the pop quiz was returned and the students would go to another classroom to study the next lecture. But before Xie Eun could go to the next lecture hall, her hand was grabbed by her deskmate..


    "Those are Senior Yu''s notes correct? Did you steal them?Does he know you are using his notes?"


    Xie Eun drew herself up at being indirectly accused and answered,"What are you trying to say?He gave them to me to study!"


    Xie Eun could not have guessed how a single statement from her would have overturned Yeona''s well thought out plan. Though Yu Seok and Xie Eun were in the same University the departments were different and so was the influence. In the Art and Photography department,Yu Seok was known as a handsome eye candy senior with good grades. In the business department he was revered like a God. It was because almost everyone was aware of his special status in the exams and that he was already working for one of the biggest companies of the world. He was a legend that was inspired by many teachers and no one in the university dared to dictate anything to him.


    The girl was actually a University reporter and soon news had broken out on the school forum,"Of the two new beauties who have joined the business department, one is aloof while the other is gently. One possesses the looks of an angel while the other looks like a sex siren. It is believed that both are cousins and from a same influential family..But our sources report one big difference..While Miss Angel is trying her best to make friends by exposing her life''s story,Miss Sexy has already received the approval of the University God Yu Seok.The elusive Yu Seok has lended the Miss Sexy study notes! The informer has also found out that the results of Miss Sexy may be on par with the God Yu. Keep coming here for more updates..


    P.s The author personally supports Miss Sexy."


    Once the forum post was made,many people who were going to write against Xie Eun changed their stances. It was because Yu Seok was known to be the star of the University and if such a person was supporting someone then that could also be a top star. So most people decided not to believe the story that Lu Yeona had told them but kept mum,simply liking the post or leaving a generic comment.


    But Lu Yeona would not sit back and she had already hired people to create false accounts to smear Xie Eun''s name. These people went to the forum and even complained of how the girl was an expert in using the big names and pushing her sister out of the family business.


    Xie Eun who would not have bothered under different circumstances knew one thing as she read all the malicious comments calling her a a wh*** and bi*** for using big names to make a place for herself and she knew that she would not let this slide.This matter was being made big by Yeona to make problems for her.So she took out her own phone and using a fake ID herself,she posted a video on the forum. It was a clear video from the day of the annual celebration and the post was titled,"Fair competition."


    They both met the requirements of the will so who were these students to try and malign her. The next post,she made from her own Id,writing down the name o her lawyer and a clear message that if anybody had anything to say,they should be prepared to talk to her lawyer.And having big names was an ability and the only way they could malign her was if they could prove that they would never try to clutch a big thigh. Her boldness and threat shook everyone and no one dared to re post anything thoughtlessly.


    After the eventful day,Xie Eun rubbed her head.This move had not won her any friends but it had most certainly suppressed any nonsensical voices that would threaten her or harm her reputation. Once the long day was over,Xie Eun shook her head and moved towards her car,entering and ordering to go home. Her attention was focused on the phone and thus she failed to notice that the driver had changed.t was only as they reached the small house that Xie Eun looked up and realized that she had a different driver today.Her eyes widened and she asked,"Who are you?" The driver looked up and said politely,"Hello mam. I am Driver Hou. I will be driving you to and fro for the next few days as my colleague had a small accident. Xie Eun nodded and after inquiring after his health got off the car and into her home,not paying much attention to the confident smirk of the driver.


    In the other country,a man with green eyes was also being driven about with the driver when the car was suddenly crashed into by another small car. The phone in the man''s hand the computer fell down and shattered while something heavy crashed on the man''s head.


    Soon,Yoo Shiro received a call,"Yu Seok has been captured. And Miss Xie Eun has also been put under observation.. Yoo Shiro,who was dressing up in a black suit,nodded satisfactorily and then put on his coat,ready to leave for his blind date with Miss Wen.

 Chapter 119 - Date Night

    Grandfather Yoo sat staring at the door angrily. He had only just fully recovered and heard the entire news from his staff.He was angry at Yoo Shiro for intervening but also grateful that the boy was finally taking interest in staying. He was also eager to talk to Shiro about the possibility of his brother returning


    Just then,the man door was opened and the butler brought in the handsome man.Like his twin, Yoo Shiro also possessed a commanding aura and his grandfather was pleased that the boy was ready to take the mantle of responsibility.Shiro had always been an obedient boy but after the kidnapping,it was almost as if his personality had been swapped. The changes had not been seen initially and the old man had attributed all those changes to the grief and loss of his twin but as the years had passed and Shiro had neglected everything in favor of gaming and partying and living the high life, Grandfather Yoo had given up hope of having a responsible heir. Oh, the boy was very smart in business and most people in their company listened to him but he had never shown any interest innit and would have to be forced or dragged to participate .But these days when he had been sick,he had been relieved to see the precvious serious self of his grandson.


    But instead of the boy coming, Grandfather Yoo was disappointed that it was not Shiro but his assistant.The assistant almost trembled when he felt the old master''s gaze on him and cursed tee master for making him the bearer of bad news. But he breathed deeply and answered,"Old Master..The master said that he is happy that you are recovering well.He asks that you rest tonight and he will come see you tomorrow.He...He has a blind date tonight and does not wish to miss it." The last words were said in a rush as the assistant was worried that the old master would be offended that the master had ignored him in favor of going on a date. But he was amazed when the old master gave a big grin and asked,"What?Shiro is going on a date?Tell me more about it.."


    Assistant:".." Why did he feel that the old master was behaving like an old gossipy woman??


    At the restaurant:


    Yoo Shiro glanced at the watch on his wrist for the tenth time in as many minutes while thinking to himself, he had never waited for anyone like this.Even in school, the teachers would be in class before he went in. But this girl was late.. Was that the norm these days? He scoffed at this and thought to himself that if it was not for getting more information about that will and Xie Eun, he would have long left.Ha!In face he would never have come..


    Just then a girl with spunky slightly curly hair walked in. Since his gaze was fixed in the door, he recognized the girl from the pictures even as his eyebrows raised at the difference. The picture he had was of a powerful and young attorney while the girl that entered looked like a bohemain hipster.She wore a loose white blouse and multi colored and patterned long length skirt. The big hoop earrings on her ears were mismatched and he wondered if that was because she was absent minded or some sort of a fashion statement. But just as he was about to raise his hand to acknowledge,her gaze skipped over him and she turned back. His eyes widened and he wondered if the woman was near sighted. Even if she did not know him,if a man as handsome as himself was sitting there,she should have taken a second look.


    Shan Shan,who had been coerced to go on this blind date,went back to the host station and asked with a frown,"Are you sure that Mr Yoo Shiro is inside already?"


    She had purposely come in late because she had no intention of pleasing the partner for tonight and in fact hoped that the other party would leave angrily. But the hostess had indicated that the person had come and was waiting for her. But inside,most of the tables were occupied and no one was sitting alone. Her aunt usually found nerds for her and the only man sitting inside was not a nerd. Her heartbeat fastened at the thought that,that man could be her date tonight but then she assured herself that such a man good looking man would not need to go on a blind date..


    The hostess,smiled politely at the odd looking woman and showed her the way. Inside though,she felt it was a pity that such a handsome man was going to have to suffer from such a date. Once the hostess had guided her to the table with the handsome man,Shan Shan felt her eyes widen in disbelief.Where did her aunt find such a good looking specimen?


    She was almost tempted to go back and change into her regular suit and combed back hairstyle. But then she remembered that she was not here for an official meeting nor did she want a boyfriend,so her present clothing was fine. She smiled and thanked the snooty hostess(she had noticed the salivating expression) and sat opposite the man who had stood up when she reached him.The man had the looks and the manners.So there was only one thing that would make him want to go on a blind date.A horrible personality. But,she decided there was no need for her to be obnoxious if the man could reasonably back out, But there was something about the man that was making her instinct go crazy..


    Yoo Shiro really wanted to escape even before the girl has sat down. He did not want to date this girl..His type was the sexy and confident businesswoman not this..this butterfly kind..But he reminded himself,his goal was not a partner but Xie Eun. (Author: Yoo Shiro..you are turning out to be scum..I thought to make you my second lead but now.. Yoo Shiro:Author?Who said second leads cannot be scum? Cheng Mo(hopeful face):Author please consider me..)


    Trying to make the girl feel comfortable,Yoo Shiro smiled and said,"Miss Wen.I have heard a lot about you.It is nice to finally meet you."


    Wen Shan felt her jerk alert radar go on high alert. She knew from this single line that this man was as sincere as a murderer!) So she went on the offensive and smiled suavely,"Really? If you have only heard about me then you know nothing! Let me tell you,I am twenty five tears old and..."Shan Shan then went on a monologue where she subjected Yoo Shiro to her childhood escapades,her favorite foods,her favorite dresses and even her favorite shoes not letting Yoo Shiro saying a word in edgewise. When she had no other topic left,(like a true ARMY)she did not hesitate to talk about her favorite band BTS and all the records they had recently broken with their latest album "Dynamite."


    After an hour of listening to Wen Shan and watching her only stop to eat,Yoo Shiro felt that his head would explode any minute. It was only when dessert was served did he breathe a sigh of relief that there was a pause for a few minutes. But that relief was short as Shan Shan soon started to even discuss the good looks of her favorite band members and spoke how V was her favorite.


    At the end of his tether,Yoo Shiro ditched all his plans about seducing information out of the girl and his only thought was to escape. But he could not help but ask one question before they departed..but he forgot that curiosity killed the cat..


    "Why are you wearing two different ear rings?"And the answer took another forty minutes which caused him to sit for an after dinner coffee also..


    Finally,after making his escape,he breathed deeply and took out his cell phone and answered,"Does this Miss Wen Shan also have a twin?Why is her information incomplete? She is insane!"


    It was only after the confused assistant answered him did Yoo Shiro realize that he had been played by a master.. Wen Shan Shan was a cunning woman who had been on numerous blind dates and successfully waded her way out of that..He shook his head as the girl''s wide and beguiling eyes flashed in front of him. Dialing another number,he waited for the other person and spoke into the phone,"Aunt,I loved talking to your niece but she was too shy so I did not ask for her number.And I am not too sure if she liked me..Can you please arrange another date for us?But please don''t tell her in case she refuses..I would be really saddened..Oh that contract..of course I will ask my assistant to contact you.."


    Wen Shan who was celebrating her success suddenly sneezed and wrinkled her nose cutely..unaware of the trap that her opponent had laid..

 Chapter 120 - A Peep Into The Past

    In a dark,dilapidated building,four goons sat staring at the man who was unconscious. They could do nothing but stare at the man as he slept.It had been almost six hours since the man had been kidnapped.The accident had been a light one but this man would not wake up. And they could not help but worry. Because this kidnapping was the most weird one they had done. The person who had ordered the kidnapping did not want the victim to suffer.They were not allowed to tie the person.They were not allowed to harm him!Just how the boss expected them to control the prey was beyond them.It was not as if they could dance and stop the person and once this person woke up and realized that he was relatively free,he would simply walk out of here.So the four goons decided among themselves that the moment the person woke up,they would scare him so much that he would not even dare to think of running.


    The person on the bed was however not unconscious.In fact he had never lost consciousness. But at present the man was fast asleep.Because he had gotten bored of acting.. Cheng Mo,who had been kidnapped instead of his boss,was sleeping soundly because he knew that these people only wanted to keep the boss out of their way and not harm him. And he already had a GPS chip located on him so his boss could find him anytime.The boss was right.This was like an a free dream vacation..sleep freely and no need to spend any money.The surrounding could have been better but the fact that their enemy was sponsoring this vacation made up for it...Sweet..Cheng Mo smiled in his dreams..The weird dreamy smile made the goons feel even more scared and they started to gossip among themselves of how this man must have offended their boss. They even speculated that the boss must have fallen for some woman and this man must be her brother or lover so the boss wanted him out of his way to woo his woman.But he could not beat to hurt his woman by hurting her relative..


    Far from this place the two twin bosses of these ''smart'' people were also carefree. Yu Seok,who had gone into hiding was waiting for the opponent to make his next move. To prevent anyone from being alerted,he had even turned off his cell phone and email. And the moment he had received the confirmation of Cheng Mo being kidnapped he had sent a message to Xie EUn telling her that he would be out of touch for a few days and that she could contact his new assistant for the time being. And the new assistant was no one other than him. This was Xie Eun would also not worry and in case of an emergency,she would know who to call. But Yu Seok had failed to predict some things.The biggest being that his new enemy could be his own brother.Until now they were working on the premise that the Yoo family was targeting Xie Eun due to Lady Lu.And thus he had not made any preparations against certain unthinkable things..


    Yu Shiro on the other hand had received confirmation that the DNA sample from the man had been collected and sent for a match. Yoo Shiro whistled as he drove the car home.He just needed to confirm that the doppelganger was really his brother. The person who had orchestrated their kidnapping had still not been found and they had been told repeatedly that his brother was dead. So there were only two possibilities.His brother was not the enemy''s man or the enemy was also not aware of his brother''s existence. Once he had been found,his grandfather had kept him under strict vigilance,not even letting a fly come near him. His brother on the other hand had been unprotected and an easy victim..Yoo Shiro vowed that once it was confirmed that this person was his brother,he would bring him back come hell or high water.


    Occupied with his thoughts,Yoo Shiro failed to notice an oncoming truck from the other end and only swerved at the last moment crashing into a tree. He watched as the truck speeded away. His eyes narrowed and there was only one thing in his head,"First he needed to deal with Lady Lu and his grandfather. After checking that his car had suffered minimal damage,Yoo Shiro made his way towards his grandfather''s home..


    At the same time,Yu Seok,who was now living in a small studio apartment near his home,lay down on the bed,staring at the ceiling.Like his wife,he too suffered insomnia from missing her.And he did not even have any ways to relieve his heart that missed her so dearly.He took out the spare cell phone and checked the only picture he had of her in this phone. This was all he was going to be able to see of her for the next few days. He closed his eyes and tried to forcefully block thinking about this problem but it was in vain. Only her face flashed in front of him when he closed his eyes.


    But soon,Yu Seok fell asleep only to fall into nightmare. He looked at his younger self that was him yet different. He looked at the little boy that was tied up Unlike himself who had been found near the garbage cans in an abysmal state,this boy was dressed in an expensive shirt and pants. Even in his nightmare,he tried to analyse the situation. This was actually a nightmare that he had seen many times as a youngster and thus he did not panic. He saw as the man walked towards the little boy,pointed at his neck and asked,"Tell me kid.Who should I kill?You or him.I need to send out a warning..so who should I use?"


    The little boy''s lips trembled but he looked at the man fearlessly. And just like always,before Yu Seok could hear the boy''s answer,he heard a woman scream,"Master.." and he woke up with a jerk.. Yu Seok sat on the bed,drenched in sweat as he tried to analyse his dream once again. He went over once again and only one question kept eating at him..Why did he see himself in third person?He could see that the boy in the dream was him but why did the dream look like he was only observing and not suffering from it? He closed his eyes thinking through everything again when a new information struck from the dream struck him.The woman who screamed,,he had seen a blurred figure of the woman and the person looked familiar..


    He rubbed his head at the elusive dream,the only connection he had to his past and sighed deeply. It would be a waste to even try sleeping now so he started to exercise and distract himself. He was in the middle of his exercise when another scene flashed in front of his eyes..The grave..the grave where he had seen that old woman Lu...Yu Seok stopped just as suddenly and narrowed his eyes. There seemed to be some sort of a connection between his past and that grave..


    Yoo Shiro sat in front of his grandfather pleading with him,"Grandfather,please,please tell me everything..It is high time isn''t it?How did that woman happen to save me?"Finally after a decade of keeping his silence,the old man relented and answered,"You know your father and I worked hard to disassociate ourselves from that dirty world. But not everyone was willing to let us go so easily. The man was once my friend. I wanted him to have a peaceful life as well so I convinced him to let go of the dirty ways and join us. And he saw the peaceful life we were going to lead.He believed the dream and was willing to join us.But his son was not the same.He had started to enjoy the power that our exit gave him. But he knew that without his father,he would not be able to enjoy the same power.And so he forced my friend to stay..When they finally reached a stalemate,the man tried to use the both of you to subdue you. My friend died to save you from his sons. The Lu woman is my friend''s only daughter. In trying to save you both,she lost her father and brother who refused to acknowledge her after that. And thus I promised to do her any favor she wished when the time came. She was also who acted as our missionary and pleaded with her brother to let go of his unjust hatred towards us..

 Chapter 121 - Let Us Pretend

    Xie Eun felt uneasy the entire say.She had been restless since last evening when she received Yu Seok''s message that he would be out o touch..She did not believe herself to be the clingy type that needed to know where her husband was at every moment but the message was too cryptic for her!Dam*** he was not in the military that he needed to go on top secret missions that he could not discuss with her.


    "Hmpf!" She snorted angrily as she made her way back to the car,scaring the innocent passers by with her anger. Or he could restrict himself to one message a day!At least she would know he is safe! As she reached the car,her clumsiness had started to rise again and the driver who had opened the door for her to enter,was stomped on the foot. The girl however never realized it while the driver almost shot in pain.The next moment,she had pulled the car door while the driver still had his hand on it causing him to almost lose his fingers while the perpetrator remained oblivious. Sighing,the driver thought thankfully that today was his last day on the job or he would have to ask the person who hired him to compensate for injuries. He had already passed on the message that Miss Xie was distracted today,just like the boss wanted.


    Xie Eun who was unaware that she had already attacked someone who wanted to harm her,kept muttering and cursing slowly. Occasionally,she glanced out of the window to check her surroundings and once assured that they were going in the right direction,she would turn back her gaze to her usual silent phone. The driver kept checking and seeing that the girl was still clutching the cell phone he planned to take a rash turn so that the phone would drop and shatter.That would be step one of their plan. But just as the thought had struck him,Xie Eun let out a scream,"Stop!!"


    Unintentionally,he stepped on the brake hard and looked at the young lady.They had just been about to reach the spot where the small accident would take place. Then why did she stop before that. He wondered if she had discovered his deception. The driver gulped and was about to escape when he noticed that Miss Xie Eun was already getting off the car.


    His eyes widened and he called out,"Madam..madam.."


    But Xie Eun simply waved him off and shouted,"Go home..I will comeback on my own. And tell the security people to keep a safe distance!"


    Xie Eun knew that she would have the security following everywhere so she simply let them follow her at a safe distance. That was something not in her hands. But she did not want the driver to be treated unfairly and wait for her. She hurried away into the mall before the driver could say anything. At a loss,he finally reported the sudden change to his superior..and waited for directions. He needed to cause the madam to be admitted to the hospital to receive his final pay..chances were he would be admitted to the hospital in her place with the way this madam behaved. why was she so impulsive?


    Xie Eun, raced into the mall to follow the person she had seen. She was pretty sure she had seen Shan Shan but the girl had been dressed weirdly.. Finally she spotted the girl who was dressed in a bohemian off shoulder top and long skirt and called out,"Shan Shan?"


    Wen Shan,who had been wondering what tactic to use to scare away her suitor for today heard her name being called out and turned with a black frown which immediately eased into a genuine smile.


    She waved excitedly,and waited for Xie EUn to reach her. Finally,relieved that she had seen the right person,Xie Eun walked over and immediately the two girls started to walk around. Xie Eun could not help but ask Shan Shan if she dressed like this in her off time causing Shan Shan to be embarrassed and then tell the tale of how she had adopted this technique to chase away the blind dates arranged by well meaning family and friends. Finally she groaned,"I used this get up yesterday. Usually I have time to think something up but these two dates happened back to back and now I cannot think of any new ideas to get rid of the suitor today. So I came here early to see if I can find something else.."


    After having heard the story,Xie Eun nodded in sympathy and then offered her own advice,"Shan Shan,you could try ignoring him..you know when I was not very satisfied with my fathers choice for my husband,I simply ignored him so that he would go away.. The two girls had just bought ice cream and Shan Shan could not help but stare at Xie Eun as she received this advice.


    She shook her head at Xie Eun,pointed a finger and said,"Anna!That is absolutely the worst advice and example you can give!I want to get rid of him,not marry him.In case you have forgotten,please check your ring finger and remember that instead of being able to get rid of Yu Seok you are still married to him and very happily it seems from the rosy glow on your face.."


    Shaking her head,Wen Shan muttered something about useless advice and walked on,staring into the windows of various shops.


    Xie Eun:".." She really did have a point..Yu Seok had not been ignored..


    Finally,she licked at her ice cream and followed Shan Shan thoughtfully.According to Shan Shan,they had an hour to get ready.Finally the two girls could come up with nothing so Shan Shan desperately begged,"Anna!Let''s pretend to be lovers.."

 Chapter 122 - Let Us Pretend

    Xie Eun almost inhaled the drink from her nose and started a coughing fit. After catching a breath,Xie Eun stared at Shan Shan incredulously before asking,"Shan Shan?Have you lost your mind?I am a married woman!"Shan Shan Rolled her eyes and said,"That is why I said pretend.It''s not like I am coming onto you.We don''t even have to pretend kiss we can just hold hands and the message will be clear.Hell, the man might even tattle to my Aunt and she would be so scandalized that she would stop setting me up! And we can even click some nice pics together,so that even if someone else tries to set me up on a blind date I will use you as an excuse.."


    The first thing that came to Xie Eun''s mind was not whether this person was crazy for making such a theory but what would be Yu Seok''s reaction if he ever found her pictures.. Shaking her head,she looked for a table, sat down pulling along the agitated girl and pointed out a flaw in the theory,"What if this person is a pervert and instead of being disgusted he asks to show more or even tries to blackmail you? Can your professional career take such a blow?Tell me something,first why are you so against meeting someone?The other party could be a decent person you could fall for or someone you could be friends with.or develop a relationship with..." A shadow was cast over Shan Shan''s bright eyes causing them to dim a little for a few moments but she recovered and continued,"but then I would be limited to one party..and there will be no variety in life. And these blind dates are entertaining even though I am laughing at the expense of someone else.."


    Xie Eun could already see that she would not get any meaningful answer from Shan Shan so she decided to not pry. After all it was not easy to reveal wounds left from the past..thus the two people waited out while discussing wild strategies to drive away men.They could simply have recorded their conversation and no sane man would have come near them.. Soon it was almost time for Shan Shan''s date to arrive so the two girls would be going their separate ways soon.


    Yoo Shiro drove joyfully towards the mall looking forward to his date tonight.He was even anticipating the look on the face of the girl tonight when she saw that he had come back again. Actually dating the girl was not a necessary part of his plan. He just needed a backup plan in case something went wrong..


    But he could not have imagined something could go wrong immediately in the present. Arriving on the right time for the date, Yoo Shiro had immediately spotted his target when he reached the food court of the mall.And just he would have walked to her when he spotted the back of the woman seated next to her...The person who was not supposed to be here..Freezing for a second and then turning back immediately, he walked over to the nearest pillar and hid there like a burglar. But he did not realize that he had been spotted..Xie Eun had actually looked up at the moment that Yoo Shiro had entered. But she had not paid much attention to the man who was wearing a simple jeans and t shirt. She had initially thought that she had seen her husband''s silhouette but the casual clothing had distracted her and by the time she would have seen his face, the man had disappeared..Crediting this to incident to her missing her husband too much,she sighed inwardly and did not think too much.


    Yoo Shiro glared at his cell phone as he dialed the number,"You bunch of fools! Where is Xie Eun?"


    The person on the other end shivered in fright and almost dropped his phone.He then carefully explained,"Sir Miss Xie is in a mall. Even we don''t know why she suddenly entered the mall.She even ordered the driver to go away.Thankfully the driver informed us and has even messaged Miss Xie that he will be waiting for her instead of leaving as she ordered. We are also looking for alternatives..


    Yoo Shiro wanted to bang his head against the wall at the incompetent fools. All they needed to do was cause a small accident so that Xie Eun would be admitted to the hospital and he would be able to enter their house and snoop around. If he needed to take Yu Seok''s place,the only way to know more was to live in his house..


    Slowly,he peeped around the pillar wondering if he should cancel the date tonight and run away but he saw that Xie Eun had already left her seat and was walking towards the pillar after saying a good bye to Miss Wen. He immediately moved back, stood facing the pillow and bent down to pretend that he was tying his shoe laces.. Unfortunately for him,Xie Eun stopped just before the pillar as the heel of her shoe snapped..Leaning against the pillar,She picked up her heel and after frowning at it,threw it into her shopping bag which unfortunately moved sideways and hit him on the back of his head..Before he could scream "Oww",she had already walked of barefoot oblivious to everything..Once the girl was out of sight,he got up from her crouched position,rubbing his head which was now tender and walked over to Shan Shan with a pained smile.. But he was bound to be disappointed.. Because instead of being shocked or flustered at seeing him again,she gave him a smile with alacrity and the moment he had sat down continued,"Are you also interested in BTS?Are you a fanboy? I wanted to tell my aunt that you were interested and our topic was left incomplete but then she said she had another date lined up..Good thing it is you..Today I will tell you about the "golden maknae of BTS..coincidentally,it is also his birthday today..

 Chapter 123 - A Discovery

    The moment Xie Eun had left the car,the security team that Wolf had installed had moved into place.They were already working on their last nerves when they had received the notification of the boss'' accident and subsequent kidnapping and the sudden change in the routine had also made them antsy and thus the reported the change to their superior urgently. Their immediate superior,unknown to them, was Wolf himself who they believed to have been kidnapped. Concerned about his wife''s safety,he asked the security personnel to click a few pictures at intervals and send it to him so that they would be able to keep her safe. Yu Seok had just breathed a sigh of relief when he got the news that Xie Eun had left the mall..when he received the pictures.Giving them a cursory glance,Wolf was about to check up on the progress of Cheng Mo''s investigation,when his gaze fell on something or rather someone in the background. The last picture in the series was the one on top and there stood someone who looked exactly like him.Zooming in on the pictures,his eyes narrowed into slits and his breath hitched. He felt as if he had frozen on the spot. Because the person was at a distance but the resemblance was uncanny. Suddenly many things started to make sense and he urgently called his people in the other country. In a curt voice,he asked," After Cheng Mo was kidnapped,did anyone visit him or did the kidnappers go anywhere? The person on the other hand thought carefully before answering with a "no" but Wolf knew he had finally found the missing link and asked again,"Think properly!Did any doctor come visiting or did any of the kidnappers go to a clinic or a lab?"


    The specific question jogged the man''s memory and he answered,"Yes. One of the kidnappers did visit the doctor yesterday.."


    "DA**** it!" Cursing harshly, Wolf ordered,"Find out the details and the reason for his visit. I want the result in thirty minutes.


    In the meanwhile,Yu Seok made a few calls and was on his way to the airport.He had no plans to go anywhere but his pilot was going to make a trip to another country as he needed to send something...So this was the reason why they did not cause much much harm to his travelling plans..On the way,he received the details and then asked the doctor for every detail.Satisfied that the doctor had not yet sent over the report,he made other arrangements..He had been kidnapped as a kid..if what he saw in his dreams was true then this person should be his...twin..The one who had been asked to choose.Dam* it!that is why he had always seen the dream in third person! So now there were two possibilities.This twin was either his enemy or someone who could be an ally..They just needed to wait..


    Just as he was about to return after giving his own hair sample for the DNA testing,Yu Seok received the other news..Xie Eun had also met with an accident. His hands tightened on the stearing wheel and he called the hospital where she was taken to..!If these people dared to hurt his wife,he would bury them alive DNA matching or not! Disregarding the fact that it could be a ruse to confirm his ruse or even a trap,Yu Seok raced towards the hospital.. Just as he was about to get off the car,he received a notification that made him pause..Xie Eun''s phone had been hacked into. The hacker had started to copy the information in the phone. The software that he had installed in her phone to prevent it also started his work and first started to erase his existence from her cell phone. But the hacker was smart and he immediately disabled the software from the handset..


    From the handset..the thought resonated in his head and a clarity formed in Wolf''s mind. Someone was trying to get to him and they needed to access Xie Eun''s phone to get it..Sitting back in his seat,he let the hacker do his job and called the doctor who assured him that it was a minor concussion and she would be able to go hoe the next day. Even though his heart ached,Wolf stopped himself from going in to see her and waited patiently.His patience was rewarded when an unobtrusive black car stopped at the door of the hospital.A man,dressed as hospital staff came out and passed the phone into the hand extended from the car before accepting an envelope..


    Wolf gritted his teeth and once waited for the man to leave. He had already guessed where the next stop of the man was going to be. He wanted to know about him..But he was in fact giving Wolf a chance to study him..Once the people in the transaction had disappeared,a man in a doctor''s coat and a simple mask entered the hospital.. He directly made his way to the room number of his wife.


    Slowly opening the door of his wife''s room,Wolf checked her patient chart.After confirming her injuries,he pulled down his mask,placed a small kiss on his wife''s forehead,covered her with a thin blanket and made his way out of the room. He had prey to catch..


    Once Yoo Shiro had received the pass code to their house,Yoo Shiro excitedly made his way to their home. On the way,he checked the messages on the phone but they were all empty so he decided to check the pictures. There were hundreds of pictures in the phone and that too of small things like an empty chair,students studying etc. He rolled his eyes and closed the phone. He wondered how his brother and Miss Xie were husband and wife...they had nothing in common..

 Chapter 124 - Seeing His Twin

    Just as Yu Seok reached his studio, Yoo Shiro reached his brother''s house.Looking around at the homey place,he wondered if it was his brother''s choice or sister in law''s and imagined himself living in such a place and shuddered in revulsion. He narrowed his eyes to check if there was anything that would stop him from entering but there was next to no security. He shook hois head at his own brother''s foolishness. Any burglar could easily get in..Opening the door he looked around slowly and curiously but found nothing that would tell him more about his brother. He felt an ache at the thought that he had to creep into his brother''s house to know more about him. He remembered the time when they were as close as each other''s shadows and now he had to doubt him..But they had no choice. The only way to clear the past and get his brother back was to know all that took place in those dark days.


    Yu Seok felt his breath catch when he had the first clear glimpse of his twin. He did not remember this person but seeing him made him think that they were familiar in the past. He watched as the other man snooped around and looked over everything. He had turned off the cameras in the room but now turned them on again. Another thing he did was turn on the laser rays. They were beams that would not allow this intruder to go out. Wolf actually had one of the most high tech security systems in the world. But since he had left her alone,instead of letting Xie Eun worry over activating and deactivating the security he had taken to monitoring the outer areas. He had specifically let the man go inside and then turned on the beams..So he wanted to use their absence to look around?Well let him look around. And if he tried to get past this..


    When Yoo Shiro had gone all over the house,he finally entered Xie Eun''s bedroom. He had wondered why there were none on Xie Eun''s clothes in his brother''s wardrobe and now he had the answer. The husband and wife did not share a room. Having made this discovery,Yoo Shiro had just stepped in when the house turned pitch black. Yoo Shiro felt his eyebrows raise at this. He casually looked out of the window and realized that this was not a power failure as the outside was brightly lit. He stepped out slowly and as his eye adjusted to the darkness,his gaze fell across a small frame. He noticed that the picture must be freshly printed and the frame seemed to be new too. He picked up the frame and stared at the couple staring out.Carefully he took out the picture and tore the pictures apart,placing the girl''s back on the table and taking his brother''s. This venture into their home had made at least one thing clear-there was nothing like a husband and wife between the couple, He then walked out of the room.


    Yu Seok stared at his screens as the other man spent so much time in Xie Eun''s room. Her room was the only one that did not have any camera installed and he did not want a stranger to look through her things. Yu Seok had almost pressed the alarm button to let the police go there.. and force this man to leave but just then the man stepped out and continued to walk around.


    If Yu Seok had known what this man had done inside,he would have definitely punched the man..The picture was one of the from their outing ones that Xie Eun had clicked and had printed and framed it at home by hand. She had planned to give this to him when he returned and she confessed her liking to him..


    Yoo Shiro was troubled as he realized that what he had done today was not enough. He needed to make a place for himself in his brother''s life again and do what he could to protect him.. He was thinking on the future course of action as he opened the door to walk out. His hand was the first that touched the laser barrier as he started to walk out and he immediately jumped back as a small electric current passed through him.To make sure that it was not because of any static that he had been shocked,he touched the air again and was jolted backwards.


    This time he began to panic. He had easily entered the house but how come when he tried to go out,the security system was engaged. He thought back to the numerous pages he had read about how no one had been able to see his brother and gulped. Had he been lured into a trap. He fished out his cell phone and tried to call his men but the signal was absent.This time Yoo Shiro knew for sure that he had been trapped. He walked over to the window and using a paper,he made a rocket and threw it out..only to see the burnt thing falling down. So the current was really high..Yoo Shiro tried to think of a way to get out of this house. If his brother was kidnapped then who was this person controlling the security. He looked around and pressed a small button on his watch as he started to walk around the room. Soon the instrument beeped and he looked at the small pinhole camera under the light. Yoo Shiro''s mouth lifted in a smirk and he gazed st the camera directly as if challenging the other party. Wolf''s eyes narrowed as he saw the smirk and challenge on a face so similar to his own. To teach him a lesson,Wolf planned to turn on the fire alarm manually but before he could do that his gaze fell on a small figure that was walking over the yard...and he immediately stopped..

 Chapter 125 - Meeting The Brother In Law

    Xie Eun came home with a terrifying headache and an incredibly bad mood. The doctors these days were really horrible.Did they think she was an old senile woman who could not take care of herself? So,she had a mild concussion and had to stay at the hospital? What nonsense! This was not the first time she was suffering from a concussion! Arguing with those people had eaten away so much of her time!And then when she had asked for her belongings,they had even tried to refuse to give that. To top it all, she had not her cell phone..Now she knew why she had this uneasy feeling since this morning. It was all Yu Seok''s fault.If he had not gone out of touch, all this would not have happened.A part of Xie Eun knew she was being unreasonable but ahe was feeling bratty at the moment.It wasn''t enough that she had to forcefully discharge herself out of the hospital but then the taxi she took had almost taken a wrong turn... And now, as she stood at the front gate, she felt disgruntled as well as tired. She walked slowly as she could feel the effects of the antibiotics start to case as her head grew heavy and throbbed painfully with every step.Due to the pain, she failed to realize that the sensor lights can not turned on and that the house was shrouded in darkness. Wolf panicked as he saw his wife and realized that she would be walking into a direct current if he did not stop her..but he had no way slof stopping her. Howeve, it was not safe for her to go inside as well. Just as Xie Eun''s hand would have touched the invisible electric barrier, Wolf turned it off in a split second. He was a quick person and had already calculated that the person inside was obviously less dangerous than the electric current. Turning on the surveillance, he decided to confront the person right away.  Inside, Yoo Shiro noticed that the lights on the porch had suddenly turned on and before he could think of anything else, he heard the sound of the door opening.Wondering at who it could be, Yoo Shiro quickly hid at the first possible place-behind the door..


    Xie Eun stumbled inside and looked at the dark inside. Finally at home, she breathed a sigh of relief and turned around to close the door. But just then she spotted the figure in the shadows. Her eyes turned sharp and she screamed loudly. The next moment,her right hand had met a jaw with a ''thwack'' sound. The man had not been expecting a right hook punch to his face and before he could get over the shock, a knee was aimed at his groin..Barely saving himself from the crazy woman he now recognized as his sister in law, Yoo Shiro decided that the only way he would get out alive would be if he showed his face and pretended to be his brother... He barely deflected the kick and ran to the place where he had seen the switchboard and turned on the lights.


    The sudden flash of light, blinded Xie Eun for a minute and when she opened her eyes she saw her Yu Seok standing there with a swollen face staring at her with accusing eyes...a small gasp escaped her. And then a sudden burst of happiness. She wanted to run and hug him. She wanted to apologize and soothe his hurt but she did not know why she stood rooted on the spot. Finally,she decided that maybe because she felt unwell, she did not feel calm as she usually did in his presence.So she convinced herself to run to him. Yoo Shiro felt as if he was watching everything in slow motion as Xie Eun recognized him, stood there staring at him and then finally started to race towards him. He was horrified as he thought that she was going to hug him and was trying to live his legs when she suddenly slipped as she was running.Automatically, out of instinct, he decided to catch her, but her arms flailed about, hitting him on the eye before she fainted in his arms. He dropped her on the nearby couch gently and then groaned in pain.. He would have stared at her with loathing if he could open his eye..never in his life had he been beaten so badly. In the evening at their almost first meeting, she hit him on the nose!And then when they would have met the second time, she almost broke his jaw, robbed him of his family jewels and gave him a black eye.. This woman was lethal. She had not even known that he was her new enemy and he was already beaten black and blue by her.


    Checking to see if she was in any danger, he opened her eyes carefully and after making sure that she was only asleep and not in any danger, heade his way towards the freezer to get himself a bag of ice..Since no one was here, he could simply drive away after the swelling had come down.. He tried to open his eye after a while but was not able to so he finally had to relent and called the driver. So now that the lady was home, even the signal blocking device had been turned off..


    On his way out, he threw a one eyed glance at Xie Eun and felt guilty She was in this state because of him..The least he could do was cover her with a blanket before he left..so he trudged back to the room that he had first seen and picked up the blanket from the bed, walked back to the couch and slowly placed it over the a sleping woman. But his luck was really bad..because if he had not wasted those few minutes, he would have been saved from the next punch that was thrown by an enraged Wolf who had seen red when he saw his twin leaning over his sleeping wife...and soon both his eyes were closed shut...

 Chapter 126 - Crazy Boss

    Groaning in pain,Yoo Shiro dared not open his eyes as he slid down and leaned against the couch. But,the brother he had come looking for,the one he had anticipated meeting,had simply punched him in the first meeting. He could have accepted his brother doubting him and not believing him when they met the first time but being punched by him was too much!But then,another realization truck him,if his brother was here..then who was the one that his people had kidnapped?


    Hie eyes would have opened wide in shock at this realization,if he could open them. Painfully,he opened his eyes a sliver and was unexpectedly force fed some dog food as his brother placed a comforting kiss on his wife''s forehead. Ha,,he was the one that needed the tender loving care!The one who had been beaten so brutally and then tortured.


    He closed his eyes again and let out a loud groan to attract his brother''s attention. And he dared not open his eyes to check.


    Soon a boot point touched his jean,shaking him a bit. He peeped slowly and an ice pack was thrown into his hands. Oh,..he had an awesome brother who took care of him..Forgotten was the blame and the fact that the same brother was also responsible for his injury..Soon the swelling from his eyes and face had come down and he was able to move though his eye were not able to open fully.. He looked up and straight and directly into the eyes that were same as his yet different. Those direct eyes forced him to look away as he remembered how they had looked at him the last time they met,with so much accusation..Slowly,he got up and sat on the opposite side of his brother,on a single seater couch. The two brothers could only sit in silence as each came to terms with an unexpected present. Yu Seok had never been aware of ever having a family and Yoo Shiro who was still coming to terms with the truth of his brother being alive.


    Finally,Yu Seok,turned his head away and focused his gaze on his sleeping wife,"You shouldn''t have harmed her. And not you need to leave. She is already suffering.I don''t want her to be confused when she wakes up..."


    Yoo Shiro felt inexplicably angry at this and unable to control his anger,he got up and punched Yu Seok in the face..shocking the man who had not expected this sudden attack! ,"You bas****!What about when I have suffered?And what about grandfather''s suffering?She is asleep!so how can she suffer. We are seeing each other after so many years.Could you please at least look at me and talk. Seok-a!Where have you been all these years?Why did you never return home if you were alive? Why did you let us believe you to be dead for so many yeas?Do you not recognize me at all?Are you..are you still blaming me for everything that happened?" Though the questions were asked in a cold and accusing voice,both the brothers observed the vulnerability between the lines and Yoo Shiro tightly shut his mouth and to get over the awkward moment he went back and picked up the ice bag and passed it to a shocked Wolf who had received a black eye for the first time in his life... Yoo Shiro ached to know what his brother thought about that time..It was only after he had vented out his anger did he realize that he had really punched his brother and the man had even let him..


    Wolf also saw the way his twin stared at him and felt incredibly uncomfortable.The harsh world that he had spent his life in thought him to never reveal his emotions and keep a closed mouth. The only person he had let go of his rigidness was with Xie Eun. But seeing his twin,Wolf felt coerced to answer the an truthfully so he took a thoughtful breath and answered,"I don''t remember anything from the past..I have never known of your existence or a grandfather ever since as I gained a clear understanding of my surroundings.."


    Yoo Shiro had never expected this to be the case..So he had never remembered their existence.."But you remember your..name.."


    Yu Seok shook his head in answer to that and claimed,"No,I was simply called a pup or a bas**** when I lived in the streets. It was only in my teens when I was taken in by someone that I started working towards a better life. My mentor asked me to choose a name and I simply picked up this one.."As Yoo Shiro digested this piece of news, the driver he had called for finally arrived. Yu Seok looked out and said curtly,"I think you should leave.You need rest..We can talk about the rest at a later meeting. I will ask my Assistant to arrange a meeting with you"


    Yoo Shiro could see that his brother was not yet ready to talk about them and wanted him out of his presence. But Yoo Shiro felt reluctant to go and thus being thick skinned, continued to sit there..


    Finally the two brothers were at an impasse,as one tried to sort out his feelings and hesitant to talk about the while the other tried to talk about the past..


    Just when Yoo Shiro would have said something,Xie Eun suddenly sat up on the couch. She rubbed her eyes and Yu Seok moved forward to hold her but she did not see him,staring instead straight ahead. Looking around,she then glimpsed a Yu Seok with two black eyes on her left and a Yu Seok with one black eye on her right.Her mouth falling open comically,she pointed at one and then the other..before muttering.."Uhhhh!I should have taken that quack doctor seriously I guess.God knows what medicines he had given me that I am having such weird hallucinations..Both of you ugly Yu Seoks'' need to disappear..


    Shaking her head,she lay back down and once again fell asleep..but this single moment broke the tension between the two as both the brothers started to chuckle. FInally,Yoo Shiro patted his pocket where he had placed the torn photo and guiltily muttered,"Sister in law is really interesting.."


    Hearing the words,Yu Seok''s eyes softened and Yoo Shiro realized triumphantly that he had found his brother''s weakness and thus magnanimously said,"We have lots of things,we need to talk about. And grandfather also looks forward to meeting you so please arrange for your assistant to call me soon..This is my card.."


    Yoo Shiro placed his card on the table and then walked out of the house with his head held high. It was only later as he sat at the doctor''s clinic being bandaged and laughed at did his face show a disgusted expression. In truth he was not really satisfied with this person but he could see that his brother was..and he needed to get close to his brother.At present this person seemed to be the only one who could make it possible..


    (Author:"Jerk of the highest level you are Yoo Shiro! Just you wait!I will teach you a lesson in the future chapters!" Yoo Shiro:" As if I care.." Cheng Mo: Author?Now will you consider me for second lead? Author:".."


    After the swelling had properly subsided,Yoo Shiro made the call to his people,"And his ffirst words were houted,"Who the hell have you kidnapped?"


    The four kidnappers were scared by the tone and the scary look of the boss and immediately turned the camera to their victim who only ate and slept all day. Yoo Shiro glanced and recognized the same persona and then bellowed at them,"Where is the picture that you received?Is this the person you were supposed to kidnap,you incorrigible fools!"


    The kidnappers were confused and took out the picture.There were two men in the picture.They looked at the picture and then at each other before on finally showed the picture to the camera and said,"Here it is boss!" Yoo Shiro glared at them and frustrated said,"Yes!You were supposed to kidnap the man in the black suit then why did you kidnap the one in the brown?"


    The four goons however were even more flummoxed and this time hesitated before asking,"Boss,you wanted us to kidnap you?" Inside their heads they wondered if the boss had lost his brains somewhere..


    Hearing this conversation,Cheng Mo also opened his eyes and stood up to check the person on the screen..His eyes widened and he also accused,"Boss!You ordered these people to kidnap you and then told me to take your place?If you had changed your mind about being kidnapped,you could have just ordered them to stop the kidnapping!"


    The kidnappers and the kidnapped both looked at each other in sympathy over having the same crazy boss...

 Chapter 127 - Missed My Hubby

    Once the intruder had left,Wolf looked at his sleeping wife and the slight bump on her head. Walking to the medicine cabinet,he took out a first aid box and tenderly applied an ointment on her forehead. She mumbled something in her sleep and held his wrist tightly. Wolf tried to take it back but she wouldn''t leave him and only brought his hand to her and hugged him tighter. Touched and happy at her clinging,he pushed back a few hair that covered her forehead and sat down on the floor. He placed his own head near hers and closed his eyes,letting her clutch his hand in her arms. Early in the next morning,Wolf opened his eyes and was greeted by his wife staring at him closely with widened eyes. He blinked at her,feeling a bit of pain in the swollen eye but before he could say something,she pointed at him and then poked a finger at his nose...pressing it firmly like a button,causing it to frown. But she was not satisfied with that so she then touched his har and pulled harshly causing him to protest,"Ouch.."


    He pried her fingers away from his head lest she pull all his hair out and once again tried to speak..in vain..Because his little shout of pain had alerted Xie Eun he was indeed real. With a small scream,she launched herself into his arms causing him to lose his balance and the two of them to fall on the floor. Thankfully he was already on the ground otherwise,that would have caused a serious injury..


    Laying her head on his chest,Xie Eun clutched at him desperately as if they her been away from each other for years. Her warmth seeped into Yu Seok who hugged her back as tightly as she hugged him..Seeing that he was really here,she gave a big grin,pulled his cheeks before smacking a kiss on each and then put her head back down on his whining,"Yu Seok!!I missed you so much..."


    The two people lay there quietly for a while..hugging each other and cherishing each other''s presence in their hearts.


    It was only after a while that she thought of something. Her head shot up and she narrowed her eyes before looking at him intently.."Who hit you?"


    She had only noticed his eyes in passing when she had launched herself at him and thus not realized the bruise that was there..Just as she was getting ready to go hit the person who would raise a hand to her husband,a memory struck her..of her attacking a figure in the dark..."Oh!!Ohh! hubby!I am really sorry that I hit you last night!I was on medication and actually thought that you were a burglar.I am so sorry..By the way,how are you back so early?Weren''t you going to be gone or a week?Of course it is not to say that I am not happy that you are back but..why are you not saying anything?Did I hurt you too much?


    Yu Seok kept staring at her and Xie Eun finally trailed off that she was not even allowing him to get in a word edgewise. How was he going to answer? Seeing that she had finally stopped for a breather,he simply captured her lips and rolled over so that he now lay on top of her and kissed her deeply...Their tongues entwined and their hands clutched at each other..It was only after a while that the two people came up for air and leaned against each other. Yu Seok ran a finger against her cheek and answered,"You did not do this..And I can see that you too are hurt."


    Xie Eun wondered if she was still suffering from concussion as she did not seem to understand what he was saying.She was only aware of their closeness and nothing much so she only nodded and touched his wound tenderly before slowly placing her lips there softly. She then placed soft kisses all over his face. She noticed the tired lines on his face and felt guilty so she pushed him away a bit,forcing him to stand up..And unlike his usual self,he let her go this time..He must be really tired,Xie Eun thought to herself.Otherwise Yu Seok would never let her escape so easily..She caressed his head and the frown lines there eased,"Are you in pain?"He had travelled so much and then slept the night on the floor..She decided that everything else could wait and dragged him to his bedroom and was even more worried when he did not try to coax her into bed with him..She sat down on the bed,pulled him and made him lie with his head on her lap and started to massage his head slowly.


    Wolf closed his eyes as her soft hands stroked his and felt himself calm down. He had been avoiding thinking about last night and focused all his thoughts on his wife to get through the night but even then,those nightmares had lingered in the periphery of his dreams. For the first time in his life he felt tired to his bones. His self control at this point was lowest and he felt shamed that he had almost wanted to force Xie Eun just now when she was under him just to reassure himself. Finally,under her soft caresses,Wolf fell into a deep tired sleep. Xie Eun looked at the face and wondered once again who had dared to punch him.She would have to find out soon..


    Hello..If you are reading this novel on any site other than Webnovel then please know that it is pirated.You can check the original novel there and support the author..To my readers,you are not paying extra coins for this message so please dont be disappointed..

 Chapter 128 - Grandfather Yoo

    t the same timeElder Yoo sat at the breakfast table waiting eagerly. He had received all the news about his grandson from the butler last night and wanted to see his bratty grandson now. He had seemingly presented a sorry picture.. Grandfather Yoo stirred the porridge in front of him but it seems the brat was not prepared to come down and show his face. Elder Yoo looked at the time and decided to go and check out his grand daughter in law. He wanted to see who had been able to bring him to such a sorry state..And he needed to look for Old woman Lu also..they could not really kill their granddaughter in Lu. He would have to ask her to let go and use ask another favor..Maybe he could promise to give her a few of their overseas companies..As he pondered this,Yoo Shiro finally came down with a sulking face. Seeing the red face,Elder Yoo gave a pleased grin and looked down into his bowl to stop his grandson from noticing. He wished he had been able to see this last night. It would have been even better.


    Yoo Shiro scowled at his grandfather and said haughtily,"You think it is funny that I was beaten up!Old man!That woman is a mess. She would not have been able to get near me if she had tried to attack me!She is so clumsy that she keeps falling about or throwing things about,hitting people in the face!A girl like this!she will make us a laughing stock in the society when she will ''mistakenly'' throw things on out allies!And the people we will have to pay to make them not file a case against us would be huge!"


    Yoo Shiro stabbed the eggs in his plate viciously as he talked about Xie Eun. And there was nothing to say about the girl''s friends. I mean look at her choice!Miss Wen Shan! He had assumed that Miss Wen was a dignified lawyer and someone he could pretend date and have a decent chat. But all that woman knew was to talk about BTS! He had a mind to check Miss Wen''s degree to see if she had really passed her bar exam..


    Ignoring the rant,Elder Yoo looked at him and asked,"So what do you plan to do now?When is your brother going to meet you and join the family formally?"


    Yoo Shiro looked down and ignoring his grandfather''s hopeful words mumbled,"I think it will take time. He has accepted the act that we may be twin but whether he considers us family or enemy is something we are yet to know."


    He did not tell his grandfather that Yu Seok had continued to regard him as a stranger even after knowing the truth. In fact he had wanted to escape his presence as soon as possible.These things would probably only hurt his grandfather. Gulping his glass of juice,he got up from the table,hurriedly and answered,"Soon we will have an answer..Grandfather you rest well..I will be back soon. "


    Once Yoo Shiro was out,Master Yoo had no intention of waiting at home. Ever since he had discovered that his other grandson was married,Elder Yoo had been dreaming of meeting him and having great grandchildren to bounce on his knees. But that would only be possible if his granddaughter in law was on friendly terms with them. His grandson was going to be tough to crack so Elder Yoo went for the little girl..


    Outside the university,a staid old car stood outside the gates and the old man sat inside with a pair of binoculars waiting for his granddaughter on law to come. He had researched her picture and was continuously comparing the girls going in with the picture in his hand.


    Finally he spotted the girl as she got off the sports car (his grandson had come to drop her off!Good boy,Elder Yoo approved). He waited for the car to go out and then rushed out of the car. He walked fast,belying his old age and straightaway dashed head long into the back of his granddaughter in law.


    Xie Eun who almost fell face first into the ground was about to turn around and scold the person when she noticed the age of the person. She did not think for a moment that the old man could have deliberately pushed her.She looked at him and asked,"Old uncle?Are you alright?Are you hurt?"


    Old man Yoo,who had never looked sick when he went about,hunched his shoulders and pretended to be weakened and frail,"Little girl.I am sorry for pushing you.I just felt a little dizzy.."He clutched his head and pretended to sway a bit as if he would keel over any minute. The bodyguard and the driver that were watching from far away felt like cheering for their boss who was such a good actor!Concerned,Xie Eun,looked around and then clasping the old man''s arm,she slowly guided him to a nearby bench and helped him sit. Taking out a bottle of water,she had him drink a sip of water and then asked,"Would you like me to take you to the hospital?Uncle you must not be out in such heat.Should I call someone in your family?"


    Though,Old man Yoo continued to look week and tired,inside he was rejoicing!Someone said that daughters were like warm blankets for their parents.This little girl was so warm to a stranger so she would definitely be his obedient granddaughter at home..He decided to spend more time with her and was about to nod to let him take her to the hospital..when a shadow fell over them..


    The old man and Xie Eun looked up at the same time and both felt shocked. Xie Eun was surprised and old man Yoo groaned,in his head,"He had been caught red handed..."

 Chapter 129 - Meeting His Grandson.

    Elder Yoo looked up as a shadow fell across him and so did Xie Eun. Her eyebrows raised as she saw her husband glaring at the old uncle with a rather hostile look. Deducting that he must have thought that the uncle was being a nuisance,Xie Eun hurriedly explained,"Yu Seok! Uncle, here, is not feeling well. We need to take him to the hospital.."


    Yu Seok turned to look at the old man who had acted out the fall beautifully and stared in silence. Feeling like a kid who had been caught red handed stealing sugar,Elder Yoo had a downcast expression. He looked at his granddaughter in law longingly and then at his long lost grandson and decided to intervene for himself,"Child..I am feeling better.Thank you for helping an old man. You must be getting late for class. Let this young man take me..to the doctor.."


    Xie Eun looked to Yu Seok,imploring him with her eyes to help the kind old uncle. As always,Yu Seok agreed to his wife''s will and nodded. Xie Eun gave him a big smile and then turned to the uncle,"Uncle.You need to take better care of yourself so that you do not get sick again!What if you had fallen to the ground and hurt yourself..I will leave for class now but you must be careful to go to the doctor and get treatment!"


    Elder Yoo nodded obediently and watched the girl wave at him and his grandson and leave. Elder Yoo looked up at the cold man who stood in front of him and sighed before getting up and standing straight. Like his grandson,gone was the mask of an old gentleman and a shrewd man stood in front of him . He was a man who had been brought up with the old traditions that strong men showed no emotions and never cried. But seeing his grandson in the flesh,the one he had thought he had lost forever,made him want to break down and cry.


    He looked at his grandson carefully and said,"The Imperial Ocean,Room no 1019."


    Yu Seok had no intention of listening to the old man or meeting him so he just turned around and walked away but then the old man threatened,"If you are not there in the next twenty minutes,then I will be back here waiting to talk to the girl. You are a powerful man,Wolf but that does not mean that I am not. I mean no harm to your wife but that does not mean that I am not willing to use her to get to you. See you there..Wolf."


    His hands clenched as Wolf stared at the receding back of the old man. He hated walking into a situation unprepared,and from what little his people had been able to glean,this man was not beyond dirty means...and it could not be ignored that his people had tried once to kill her. So even if they were related bu blood,he could not help but feel wary. Because if this man was so powerful,why had he been unable to find him until now?


    When he had seen the old man purposely fall and push Xie Eun,he had been tempted to grab him and pull him away. Only wanting to know his intentions,he had quietly followed.


    Looking at the time,he quickly got into his own car and followed the old man to the hotel that he had named.


    Elder Yoo had already composed himself by the time he reached hotel and warned his people to not alert Yoo Shiro about this meeting. He knew that Yoo Shiro would not be happy at being left out.


    Soon,Yu Seok was led in by the hostess and Elder Yoo smiled gently ordering the food and then asking that they not be disturbed for some time. The hostess smiled in understanding and left the room.


    The two men,one old and one young stared at each other waiting for the other to back down. Finally Old man Yoo sighed and said,"I want you to join the family. What will it take?You have money and power of your own so naturally you are not lacking there. Tell me then?"


    Yu Seok narrowed his eyes and instead of answering the questions asked a few of his own. "I heard that you have left the underworld.So why did you choose to accept the old woman''s order to kill my wife?"


    His grandson was like himself and his son,Elder Yoo thought proudly. He was devoted to his wife. But with the Lu girl,everything was complicated.But he needed to explain..


    "We have indeed left the malpractices and killings of the underworld. But we owed a blood debt to her and it has been long overdue. In fact when she came to my man for this,even he was shocked and tried to get her to change her request. Since we had promised that we would fulfill her wish..there was nothing we could do. And for someone who had killed so many times in the past,one more person was nothing. Your security was perfect but my man would have succeeded even with his rusty skills if he had not seen you,Yu Seok. He used to be your guard when you were young and had lived in guilt ever since we lost you. Seeing you, he must have felt like he had fulfilled his purpose on earth and thus he conveyed the message of your presence and before killing himself."


    "But we needed to make sure that her protector was Yu Seok or Wolf which is why we had to attack your business deals also. But I assure you that we will not do any such thing in the future and I will also protect you and your wife from people with wrong intentions. Regarding the Lu girl..I will think of something for her.Her hatred is too deep...and undeserving."

 Chapter 130 - Hatred?

    Yu Seok finally had an answer that he was looking for when Elder Yoo slipped up and mentioned this last line. Quietly,he asked,"Why does Lady Lu hate Xie Eun? If it is just about the will then both are her granddaughters and if it is about gaining control then she could have just manipulated Xie Eun without the girl being none the wiser."


    Elder Yoo however did not answer the implied question in the statement and instead asked,"Yu Seok?Are you not curious about the past? Are you not going to ask me anything about that. You have lived as an orphan in spite of having a family..I want to ask if you have been well. Have you suffered a lot? Are you not curious about your parents deaths?About your twin''s life?Anything?"


    The old man felt angrier by the second. He did not think that his grandson was wrong in asking about this but he wanted to know his grandson also!He wanted him to be a family and not someone who was dealing with his business. He stubbornly set his mouth,refusing to give any answers until Yu Seok talked about himself!


    Yu Seok saw the mutinous and child like temper of the elder and deciding it was not worth discussing his life,he was about to leave when his cell phone rang with a message. It was Xie Eun asking about the old man and reminding him to take care of the man until some family came over..Sigh..He typed out a message to Yoo Shiro.."come and collect grandfather."


    Looking at the old man,he noticed that the man was indeed a bit pale and the nerves on his forehead were getting prominent...so he simply said,"it was tough in the beginning as I had no idea of who I was or where. But I was stronger than others and smarted so no one dared to bully me. Later on I was adopted by someone in the military and trained there as a soldier. It is also why I still have links with the Army though I have been discharged honorably."


    Elder Yoo knew that his grandson was just shortening the truth but he was satisfied with what little information he had received and curiously asked,"And Xie Eun? How did the two of you get married?Do you love her?"


    This time Yu Seok refused to answer and asked again,"Elder Yoo,if we can get back to the topic of Chairwoman Lu??"


    But the old man simply stared at the clock and pressed a button on the table,indicating the others to come in with the food. Immediately the food was brought in,cutting off the quiet atmosphere. Once the servers had gone out,Yu Seok repeated his question but was ignored..


    Finally unable to endure,he said,"Elder Yoo. Please stop wasting my time."


    The old man finally looked up and said with sereneness,"Are you talking to me?Then you need to address me properly and you will have all your answers, if you keep calling me as a random elder then naturally I will not be obligated to answer to you..So if you are willing to change the form of address,I will answer you!"


    The two men sat and stared each other silently. The old grey eyes and the young green ones.Both stubborn and unmovable. Finally Yu Seok wa the one who put aside his arrogance and said,"Grandfather.Please tell me more about the Chairwoman Lu.."


    Nodding,Old man Yoo gave a big smile and even as his eyes teared,he kept himself in check and said,"Eat eat!And then grandfather will tell you."


    "You give a finger and your arm will be grabbed..",Wold thought of how this saying was perfectly true. But he also accepted a fact in his heart. He had seen through the old man''s stubbornness that he really cared for him and thus he was willing to bend. There was a time in his life he had craved a family and even though now he only considered Xie Eun his family,in time their children will be able to have a bigger family with a great grandfather..


    After a quiet meal,Elder Yoo could see that his grandson''s patience was at an end and thus he replied,finally,"I don''t know much but I do now the Lu woman hates Xie Eun because she is not her biological granddaughter..She tried to treat her step daughter well in the beginning of their marriage but the old man''s daughter was headstrong and stubborn. After much time, the two people''s rift ended when Xie Eun''s mother married her father and went away. But by then the husband and wife had drifted apart and could only stay together for their adopted son. The Lu girl probably blamed Xie Eun''s mother for it and I believe she had also celebrated her death at the time..But that was the final blow in her relationship and the couple would have separated because of this. But then Chairman Lu also passed away and he had stipulated such a will.Naturally she was angry..Because she had been left with responsibility and a threat on her head while those who had offended her were already gone. If Xie Eun had stayed away,I believe everything would have been fine. But with her return,everything the girl had dreamed for must have been in danger and add in the fact that Xie Eun looks like her mother,it is like digging old wounds. Yu Seok she may be out benefactor and saved you and your brother, but we must not forget that she is a formidable enemy who wanted personal gain before anything else.I am under no illusion that she saved you from.kindness. it is because she decided that we would be more powerful than her brother that she did that.."

 Chapter 131 - Drunk

    Xie Eun looked at the time casually as she wondered if she should go to the library and wait for when Yu Seok or she should take a ride home. She did not know how the picture that she had so carefully printed had been ruined and now that she wanted to confess to him,she had nothing to show. If she went home now,she would have some time to print a new photograph and present it to him..but then she would be missing out on the time that they usually spent together when going back..What a dilemma...


    Finally,she decided to go home and prepare for her confession. Her cheeks turned rosy as she thought of what his reaction would be. Well then she would go home she decided! No more delaying!


    With a happy smile,she walked out of the university,ready to go home and work on her surprise. But her plan was doomed to fail. As she walked out of the university towards the taxi stand,a hand grabbed her and she was pulled into an alleyway. Reacting first,she threw a punch and a kick but the person was able to avoid that easily and she was pushed face first against a wall with her hands behind her back.She received a few scratches on her face from being rubbed against the rough wall but she continued to struggle.. but soon she stilled..A strong smell of alcohol assaulted her nose as well as a familiar smell of the man..Si Jing!


    She renewed her struggle,this time trying to hit him on the nose with the back of her head but that move was also avoided deftly. Finally she shouted,"Si Jing!Let me go!What is the meaning of this!"


    It was only as she said the name of the man,that the hands that held her tightly,stopped trying to subdue her. A forehead landed against the back of her head and Si Jing leaned against her..before asking in a broken voice,"Xie Eun..please can you not try to forgive and forget the past. We had been together so long!We can even be considered school sweethearts then why won''t you give me a second chance!All these moves that you have used against me!Do you remember who practised them with you? It was me!I had no other choice!If it had been in my hands,I would have long confessed the truth to you but that would have ruined my family!On the other hand,if everything had gone according to the plan,Chairwoman Lu had promised me to take away her interference and let you marry me! Xie Eun please!I have checked everything and I can already guess about when you got married and under what circumstances..Please Xie Xie..please give me another chance.."


    Xie Eun had calmed down by now and realized that he was drunk and so calmly added,"Si Jing..Please leave me.We..we can talk calmly.You are drunk and this is not the right time. Please Si Jing. I do not want to hurt you.."


    Si Jing relaxed his hold after listening to her and moved a bit back.He turned her around and looked deeply into her eyes.In his drunken state,he did not notice the indifference in her eyes and saw only the warmth that used to be there. Seeing the slight scratches on her face that were caused due to his roughness,he caressed her cheeks with his hands and stared at her with moist eyes. He wanted to apologize but no words came to him. He cupped her cheeks and meshed his lips to hers in a sudden move..The moment their lips touched,Xie Eun was repulsed and pushed him back,causing him to stumble back a bit at the sudden move. But the push had only shocked him momentarily and because of his drunkenness he turned even more aggressive and pulled her back to him,caught her face roughly and forced another kiss.He needed to remind her that she belonged to him.That she had once loved him."


    Xie Eun stilled at this moment. She had been struggling and realized that she was no match for his strength. And thus she used another method.She stilled. Not allowing him to deepen the kiss but standing stiffly.Finally her strategy worked and once he had let down his guard,she kicked him hard in the groin causing his to fall to the ground and groan in pain. Once he was on the ground,her eyes flashed and taking out her water bottle,she drank the water and wiped her lips vigorously. He kept lying on the ground and pitifully cried out her name.


    When she moved away,he caught hold of her ankle and would not let go. Seeing the once proud man lying on the ground like this,made Xie Eun sigh with pity.Even though he had crossed her boundaries tonight she could not leave him here to be robbed and murdered. So she pried her ankle out of his hand,walked a bit out and hailed a passing cab.She then requested the driver,"Sir, a person is lying there,drunk.Please help me bring him here and drop him home..I will pay you in advance.."


    The cab driver looked out and nodded,even agreeing to help her carry the pitiful man into the car. But Si Jing would not let the man touch him and only leaned against Xie Eun,one of his hand spanning her waist.So that she had to support his waist by putting an arm around him.Unfortunately,for anyone looking from the back,this scene did not look like someone helping and rather an ambiguous meeting..


    Finally,when she had coaxed the drunkard into the cab,she gave the driver the address to the driver and tried to move away.. But Si Jing still refused to let her go and held her wrist tightly,"No I won''t let you go Xie Eun!Not until you tell me that you still love me!I want to hear your sweet voice confess to me.."


    But Si Jing had gone too far and this time Xie Eun showed him no patience and using her fingers,pressed a acupuncture point at the base of his neck,causing him to lose his consciousness and falling into the back seat.She then said clearly,"Si Jing!I love you like I would love a painful ulcer which is not getting cured!"


    With that,she closed the cab''s door with a bang and walked away without looking back.The cab driver drove away as he looked in the backseat of the car at the sleeping man..Seeing that there was no chance of the man waking up anytime soon,the driver took out his own cell phone and made a call,"Sir,I have the recording you needed.."


    The assistant cut off the phone once he had received the call and looked at the boss who had been listening in. Once the audio was received he played it for his boss.."Si Jing.....painful ulcer.."


    Yoo Shiro nodded his head at his assistant and ordered,"Edit the recording how I have instructed.And what about the pictures..


    The assistant extended the small tablet in his hand and showed the pictures of Si Jing and Xie Eun which had been clicked at incriminating angles so that t looked like that the two people were meeting secretly.


    Satisfied,he returned the tablet to his assistant and ordered,"Get a print of these. Elder Yoo is entertaining a guest at present.Send these pictures to him and his guest.Make two sets. Also make sure that the guest in unable to leave tonight.."The assistant looked a bit confused and asked,"Sir..Why are you doing this?The lady clearly pushed away Mr Si and we know that she had not been cheating. So why would you try to spoil your brother''s relationship? He is after all your twin brother.."


    Yoo Shiro''s eyes narrowed scaring away the assistant who apologized and got to work. He had no intention to get his brother be entangled with Chairwoman Lu and anyone related to that person..He had decided that Xie Eun was not the person for his brother and that was it. He then picked up his phone and made a call to a childhood friend. A soft and gentle voice answered the call and Yoo Shiro''s tone softened of its own accord,"Little one..We have found your fiance."


    The other person seemed to have stopped breathing before a trembling joyous voice asked,"Are you sure?"


    After talking for a while and reassuring the other person that he would keep them updated,he made another call,"Miss Wen?Are you free for a date tonight?" He waited for the answer and on receiving it,Yoo Shiro smiled smugly..

 Chapter 133 - Hurt

    he two stared at each other for a few charged moments before Yu Seok threw the envelope in his hand onto the table..Somehow,Xie Eun felt that envelope would have the answers to all the questions arising in her heart but she elt scared to pick it up.. She realized that her Yu Seok had never treated her like this..this cold and silent look. Even when he had known that she was dating Si Jing,he never looked at her with such condemnation and cold indifference. She did not glance at the envelope again and looked into the eyes of the man in front of her..Quietly,she asked,"What is this?" He had been behaving differently since this morning and now this..Was the reason for his tiredness and exhaustion in this envelope?


    His face twisted in a sneer as he answered,"See it for yourself."Xie Eun was even more stunned at this look.But before Xie Eun could protest his behavior and tone,he had turned around and went back to his room,closing it shut..Xie Eun continued to stand there,in shock. There was nothing that could warrant such behavior..


    With trembling hands, XIe Eun picked up the envelope and she stared at the contents wide eyed. So this was all a misunderstanding. She looked at the pictures carefully and saw that they were ambiguous and clearly portraying a different fact from the reality..In the pictures ,it clearly looked like they were meeting secretly and having an affair..It had to be Si Jing''s or that Lu Yeona''s idea!She should have hit him harder in the ba**s! That bas****.. But why did her security team not alert him to this scene? Since the time she was kidnapped,Wolf had made it clear that there would be guards following her everywhere and would report any dangerous movement to him.


    She could understand that he was angry but she felt hurt that he had not even given her a chance to explain.. She thought of the hundred reasons she had left for him and felt that if she showed them to him now,he would only believe the worst of her. She felt confused that Yu Seok would behave this way and not even give her a chance to explain..Her eyes filled with moisture and she sat down in the chair,the photographs clutched in her hand desperately..And now everything was going to go awry! She cried a little and turned to stare at the door waiting for him to come out so that she could explain..


    Inside the room, Yoo Shiro lay down on the bed languidly and stared at the ceiling. He checked the messages on his phone and smirked when he received the message that Yu Seok was still detained. Sorry brother..he thought to himself. This woman is not good enough for you.. The person who was right for him would be here soon. This was the only way he could get rid of this below average girl who wanted to climb higher in the world using his brother''s thigh! So let her try to explain this situation to him and when he refuses to understand,she will walk away..Just like she walked away from that man Si Jing. He looked at the pictures and patted himself on the back for using such awesome strategy. A boy like him was so easily manipulated when drunk.A whisper here and a whisper there and the other person had done all the dirty work,. Yoo Shiro knew that it would not be so easy to manipulate his brother so he had already decided to use Xie Eun.. The first step to creating the misunderstanding had been laid. The second one would be laid soon.. He felt a pang of guilt at the thought of the poor victim who would suffer because of his nefarious and selfish plans but he suppressed it. That person was a woman of the world and would get over it quite easily..


    He tried to think and guess what the girl was doing outside but could hear any sound..Maybe he must check to see how much his plan had succeeded.. But he needed to be very careful.. He had tried talking too much lest she guess he was not Yu Seok. It was also why he had escaped into his room. She should be despairing by now,trying to explain herself to him or at least angry at him that he did not trust her. Shouldn''t she be cursing her luck or something!But outside all was silent..How? This showed how much leeway his twin had given her and how she spoiled and selfish she was. His brother had done so much for her and she did not even have the basic etiquette to explain herself to him!Did she consider his brother inferior to herself..All these thoughts inside his head made him angrier by the minute and he was tempted to strangle her.How dare she cheat on his brother and then not even feel sorry!


    (Author:*cough cough* she did not cheat..you set her up..Should I call a doctor for your delusions Yoo Shiro?" Yoo Shiro:".." Xie Eun: Author,he will need to call a doctor soon enough!Don''t worry..)


    Finally,angered at his own thoughts and theories,Yoo Shiro walked out of the room in a huff,ready to confront Xie Eun on behalf of his brother!Let her try to explain the pictures!And then he would let her hear the recording!And he would record every explanation she stammered out would be recorded and sent to his brother. However the wind was taken out of his sails when he opened the door to the room and walked out ready to confront whatever tricks this person had come up with..But she


    Yoo Shiro: ".."


    Yoo Shiro could only shake his head and glare at the person who sat there so nonchalantly..

 Chapter 134 - Have A Dinner

    Yu Seok,sipped at the tea that was placed in front of him.However at the first sip,his eyes narrowed and he spit it back into the cup. He glanced at the time and then raised his eyebrows at the elder who was observing him closely. In a soft but lethal voice,he asked,"Grandfather? Are you sure you do not mean to harm me? Would you like to have a taste of the kind of tea I serve when someone tries to drug me?"


    In any normal circumstance,a man would be shivering in his shoes at the threat that the tone issue.But Elder Yoo looked quietly at his grandson before guffawing loudly..He then clapped his hands and said,"Now that is what I call a good boy!You came here with me to the restaurant only because my granddaughter in law asked you to!So I had to make sure that you were as fierce as I had heard!And I must tell you my boy that you have not disappointed me. Good boy!"


    Though the old man put on a show,Wolf''s expression did not ease. Instead he asked,"And is Yoo Shiro invading my home also a test?" These words were said in a tone that almost froze the entire room.Even Grandfather Yoo could not help but frown.Just as he was about to ask what Wolf meant,there was a knock on the door and a man walked in.He walked to the elder and placed a manila envelope on the table in front of him. A similar envelope was placed in front of Yu Seok after this. The Elder Yoo glanced at the envelope and opened it in haste. The only person who had the power to disturb him at this time was his other grandson and if he did this then he would have something inexplicably urgent. The pictures that fell in front of him,however utterly horrified him and almost made him leap from the table in anger. His own lethal eyes narrowed and he looked up to see Yu Seok who had not even touched the envelope in front of him. He narrowed his eyes trying to check if these pictures were edited or photo shopped,but found no evidence of such..His mouth tightened in displeasure.


    It could be said that,initially,Elder Yoo was satisfied with his granddaughter in law but if what these pictures showed was true then this was really troublesome. He cleared his throat and then looked at his grandson again..Umm,why don''t you open the envelope. Umm,even if you don''t want to know,just keep it and see it later.." But before Elder Yoo could say anymore,the person who had handed the enveloped,placed a cell phone in the middle and pressed the ''play'' button. Immediately,a soft voice rolled out,"I love you.."


    Though the elder had heard the voice only once,he could recognize his grandson''s wife.His brows furrowed even more and he started to get angry as he heard the girl confess her love to another man.


    ''Bang!'' A fist was hit on the table,causing the usually sturdy table to almost shake and then the old man was standing angrily before shouting,"What is the meaning of this? I thought you were a fierce man of society then how can you let your wife confess to other men!Yu Seok!Did losing you have such an impact on your brain that you have to cling to a cheating wife to have family?If that is the case,you now have your own family.."


    Yu Seok,however was amused at this and said,"Grandfather..What have you put this show up for? And why is a ''member'' of my family in my house pretending to me?"


    Finally,Elder Yoo remembered the confounding question Yu Seok had asked before the envelopes were brought in and looked at Yu Seok in confusion.. He sat down and uttered,"Explain."


    Soon a cell phone was placed on the table in front of Elder Yoo and he saw the entire video that happened outside the university. And after that,he was also made to hear the entire love confession..This caused Elder Yoo,however to be even more confused. He could not understand why Yoo Shiro would do such a thing but it was clear that it was Shiro''s prank.He had just received Shiro''s message to keep Yu Seok with him as long as possible and followed that assuming that his grandson also wanted to come meet his brother. But it seemed that Yoo shiro had other plans...


    Elder Yoo tried to think of something and could only come up with,"Maybe it is a prank?"


    Yu Seok raised his eyebrows and said,"And he intends to do the prank with my wife?His idea of a prank is weird."


    Elder Yoo also felt bad and guilty over such a thing happening so he quietly looked away,unable to understand what had happened. Finally,he apologized to Yu Seok for doubting his wife and then placed a small box in front of Yu Seok.."This is a jade bangle..My wife gave it to your mother when your parents first married.And my mother gave it to your grandmother. This bangle should be in the hands of the first daughter in law in the family. I met her today for the first time and wanted to give her this but it seems it will take some time for us to become family,especially after the way your brother had reacted tonight..but I hope you are able to give the child this token of our family.It will also signify her relation with us in case she needs to use it in the future.


    Yu Seok looked at the bangle that Elder Yoo had carried with him and knew that it was a welcome gift as well as an apology for what he had just believed about Xie Eun and thus accepted the small gift with a polite gesture.Seeing his gift accepted,Elder Yoo said,"In case you want to go home and teach your brother a lesson,you are free to do so..I will make sure no one stops you." Naturally the old man understood that Yoo Shiro must have taken precautions other than him to stop his brother from going home so he was indirectly suggesting that he would take care of it. Yu Seok glanced at his phone and saw his wife and her actions.Suddenly a small arose on his lips and a warmth invaded his heart.. He looked up at his grandfather and answered,"Grandfather Yoo.Let us have a dinner together."


    Elder Yoo was surprised at the man''s sudden look and could not help wonder what happened. Just now,Yu Seok had looked like a dangerous animal who was being forcefully restrained and now he looked like any kid his age...what just happened?And now, before he could ask more, his grandson more, Yu Seok added,"But weust watch a good show wile doing this.." Elder Yoo was even more bewildered.He was just now planning to call his other grandson for a scolding but now..what good show?But he would never lose a chance to get to know more of his grandson and what he considered a good show, so he nodded immediately.Yu Seok then turned his eyes to the only other person in this room and the man who had been asked to report back what happened in this meeting, stood there sweating profusely.The poor assistant.. This was most certainly not the result the young master had expected...as a result he had not been able to message anything to the young master and now these two people with extremely suffocating auras were also staring at him. As sweat rolled off his forehead, he gulped visibly and asked,"Yes master?"


    Yu Seok simply ordered,"Bring in a laptop.."


    The man nodded hurriedly planning to message the other master int he way that there was something wrong with the plan but before he left the room, Elder Yoo ordered,"Leave your phone here boy."


    The man looked nervously and then pointed at the table,"My phone, Sir.."


    But Elder Yoo snorted and said,"Your personal phone boy."


    It was almost as if the older man had X-Ray vision as he started at the exact place where his own phone was stashed and thus he could do nothing but take it out and place it on the table before leaving to fulfill his task.


    Finally, when the other person had left, Elder Yoo looked at his grandson with curiosity and asked,"What is this about?"


    "Grand father,you have not really met your grand daughter in law until you have seen her true nature.Let me introduce you to the real Xie Eun."


    Just then,the assistant brought back the laptop and placed it in front of the two men. Once the assistant was out of the room, Yu Seok connected his phone and waited for the show to start...It shouldn''t be too long...

 Chapter 135 - You Think?

    Yoo Shiro had expected two outcomes of this evening when he staged this scene. One where Xie Eun would cry and try to explain herself to him or where she would be angry and refuse to talk to him. In the end,both would have the same result and that would be creating a misunderstanding between them.. But he had,never in his wildest dreams,imagined what he saw in front of him. The girl who should have been trying to frantically save her relationship was calmly eating her dinner...


    His eyes hardened some more as he saw the apathy and nonchalance with which she treated his brother. He wanted to stomp over to her and throw away her plate..He must have made some noise because she looked up at that moment and their eyes met. His angry and hers calm. Soon she gave a small smile and said,"Yu Seok..so you have finally calmed down?Come and have some dinner..I made some of your favorites.."


    Yoo Shiro wondered for a moment what he should do in such a moment..If she did not turn angry and tried to resolve the misunderstanding with the real Yu Seok everything would go awry..No..it was best to join her on the table and pretend to be calm..Then after dinner he could make up another issue and then leave..She would not be so patient again and again..


    Ignoring her,he went to the chair where his brother usually sat at and started to put some rice into his plate..Seeing him so calm,Xie Eun excitedly got up from her chair and said,"Since you are eating,I have also simmered some fish broth for you!Wait a minute and I''ll go get it!"Xie EUn came out soon carrying a simmering bowl of soup and carefully put it in front of him..She then looked at his kindly and said,"It''s still hot..wait for a while until it turns a little warm.."


    Xie EUn then skipped to the other side and sat down resuming to eat her food..While Yoo Shiro waited for the broth to cool he had the other vegetables and kept staring at Xie Eun with a puzzled frown. He even wondered if she had not somehow found a clue so he surreptitiously glanced at his phone but there was no message from his person also..But Yoo Shiro started to feel uneasy and finally broke his silence,"Xie Eun, are you really not going to explain?"


    Xie Eun looked into her husband''s eyes carefully and began in a small voice,"Yu Seok..I..I hate that you do not believe me. I have never cheated on you and I will never..Si Jing was my first love and that fact cannot be changed.But if you are going to use these thing like SI Jing and me meeting and keep doubting me then I have no reason to explain this to you!You can think what you like. I have never forced my thinking on you.."


    Yoo Shiro was stunned at first and then satisfied with Xie Eun''s reaction. So she was angry and as such when Yu Seok really came back and asked for an explanation again,she would blow up and refuse to cooperate.


    Xie Eun, on the other hand narrowed her eyes at Yu Seok before looking down. Her eyes which had showed anger just a second ago showed confusion and determination.. She carefully wiped her fingers on the napkin in her lap having found the confirmation that this was not her husband but some impostor..


    A Little While Ago:


    Xie Eun had indeed been a mess when she was confronted with fault allegations.. Her heart had hurt that Yu Seok would talk to her like this and then not trust her. It was only as she had slumped on the table did she realize that he was being unreasonable.She was about to march into his room and demand an explanation when her eyes once again fell on the tie that had been discarded on the sofa.She stopped in her tracks and stared at it..Never had she seen Yu Seok be so careless and inattentive...He would never have left his tie out like this.. he was practically obsessed with putting back everything in it''s place..She sat down and slowly wiped away her tears..Another abnormality struck her.. Both his eyes looked red when he was supposed to have a single slightly faded black eye..And his refusing to listen to her explanation..heck him even asking for an explanation was abnormal..Her Yu Seok was almost omnipotent when it came to any matters regarding her..A few scenes also flashed in front of her eyes from last night..The ones she had dismissed as a result of her concussion..


    So she stared at the closed door a little longer before deciding on a course of action.First she needed confirm to her doubts about the identity of this person and then she needed to find out if this impostor had created any trouble for her Yu Seok and that is why he had not come home yet..And lastly,she needed to know who was responsible for this act.If it was her dear old grandmother or Yeona. they had just dug themselves a grave..she also needed to find what their plans were...They should not have found out about Yu Seok''s identity so soon.She wiped the tear tracks from her face and decided to buckle up. Her husband possible needed her..


    Just then,she heard the door opening and started to eat her food.There was no need to alert the other person that he had been caught.


    Back to the present:


    Yoo Shiro was just about to ladle some soup which had cooled a bit into his bowl when his hand was stopped. He looked at the dainty hand that held his wrist and then the girl who had suddenly walked over to him without even him realizing it...

 Chapter 136 - Teaching A Lesson

    Yoo Shiro quickly pulled back his hand and looked at Xie Eun carefully. She seemed to be smiling thinly at him. He felt something was wrong with that smile and this quickly pulled back his hand as if scorched. She smiled at this action and picking his bowl,ladled some soup into it. But instead of passing it to him,she picked the spoon and slowly brought the soup to his mouth..


    Yoo Shiro was now at a complete loss. He dare not let this woman feed her because if his brother knew this then he would not be able to get away..But if he did not then this woman might catch onto something..He opened his mouth and was about to sip when suddenly she screamed and her hand shook,causing the entire soup to be upturned onto him..Yoo Shiro jumped back in shock as hot liquid splattered all over him..He looked angrily at Xie Eun but the girl just jumped at this and shouted,"Sorry..I am so sorry Yu Seok! I thought I spotted a spider and got scared.".She then picked up the napkin from the table and raced to him again,wiping his shirt or rather smearing it more..She then muttered,"Oh!The soup was so hot!what if you are burned?Let me see.."And before Yoo Shiro could anticipate her next move,she had upturned a jug of cold water all over him his chest!" He moved away in shock.But Xie Eun was not done.She had already picked up her next object and ran back to snatch another napkin..But this time she did not try to wipe him..This time she ''slipped'' with the napkin in her hand and threw herself on top of the man,with her hand just happening to hit him on the nose and causing him to fall with her.With his eyes covered and Xie Eun having fallen on top of him,Yoo Shiro was completely at a loss..But not Xie Eun.She quickly used the confusion and pushed back the impostor''s head onto the floor a couple more times and then pushed her own elbow into his stomach causing him to jerk in and try to push her away..But sadly for him,Xie Eun was not done and Yoo Shiro had only just had a chance to move and remove the napkin on his head when Xie Eun pulled the table cover,causing all the dishes to fall and land all over him..before she jumped back away from him.By falling all over him,she had already checked that he did not possess any weapons.She felt reassured at this and thus stood there,babbling apologies..


    Yoo Shiro was finally able to get up from the ground and he glared at the woman as he wiped or rather tried to wipe the noodles and rice that now stuck to him..He looked at the woman who had created the mess and was even more angered that she had hardly dirtied her self while he was probably smelling like a dumpster. He was about to walk off into this brother''s room to borrow a change of clothes when she tried to come near him again..He extended both his hands and said,"You!you stay away from me!Can you not walk straight?Do you really have to be clumsy?"


    In less than 48 hours this woman had beaten him so many times because of her clumsiness that it was a wonder that his brother was still alive! He wondered if his brother was a masochist for having fallen for the charms of this girl..


    When he would have marched away after getting angry at her,Xie Eun''s eyes filled with tears and she closed in on him,causing him to move back in order to keep a safe distance from her.But his luck was not on his side as his back soon touched the wall. He almost quivered like a small heroine from some third grade novel as he watched her close in on him.She poked him hard in the chest with her finger,making him groan as it was already burning due to being showered with hot soup..


    Annoyingly,his words even stuttered when he asked,"Wh..What are you trying to do?"


    Xie Eun poked his chest again, as if she was trying to punch a hole in him and accused,"Yu Seok!Do you not love me anymore?Did you not say that you find my clumsiness cute?But now you have to say this to me.You heartless fiend!!"With each word,Xie Eun poked him hard in the chest and finally screaming obscenities, jumped up and started to pull his hair like a banshee..


    Having almost all his hair pulled out,Yoo Shiro used all his strength to throw the crazy woman away from him and put some more distance between them.This person was too unreasonable and dangerous. It was better to escape..He turned around and was about to get out of the house when suddenly he was grabbed from behind. The crazy woman had jumped onto his back and her hands almost throttled his neck..Finally using his own momentum,she pushed him down again..But this time,before Yoo Shiro could get up from the ground,he felt a foot at his lower back pressing him down and a black muzzle near his nose..The crazy woman who had just been clinging to him,calmly held the gun to his forehead and asked lethally,"Who are you?"


    Yoo Shiro felt his eyes widen..How..how had she caught on that he was not Yu Seok? This meant that his plan had failed miserably..He tried to get up but just unlocked the safety lock on the gun and placed a finger on the trigger..This girl looked like she meant business and would really shoot him He thought of pretending some more but then gave up on the idea when he looked at her...He tried to think of someway to get out of this situation but Xie Eun had had enough of him..She narrowed her eyes and was about to hit him again when he said,"Don''t hit please..It was just a prank.."

 Chapter 137 - A Prank

    "It was a prank..." Yoo Shiro knew that he had been caught and if he dared to confess that he meant to drive a wedge between them then he would be beaten more brutally. Already his body was burning in places..his head ached from being pulled and hit multiple times..And now this woman was ready to put a hole in him..


    Yoo Shiro felt like banging his head on the floor.Having heard his answer,Xie Eun snorted and said,"Do you really take me for a fool? You did such an elaborate set up just to prank me? Let me tell you,if you think I am unable to pull this trigger then you are mistaken. I am a very good hunter and a little human blood will not deter me. Yes it will be a mess to clean up this place later on,since all your brains will be splattered here but I think I will manage..So for the last time,where is my husband?"


    Yoo Shiro felt faint when he heard her describe the gory details and this time shouted,"Sister in law!!It was just a prank!Please believe me!I am your husband''s twin! He is my long lost brother.."


    (Author:Sister in law?Yoo Shiro,you two faced jerk! Yoo Shiro: Ha!You are responsible for this author!You are being two faced..How can you make the second lead so battered? Author: "Who told you that you are the second lead?")


    This time Xie Eun paused thoughtfully.. She wondered if this was another ploy..She looked carefully at the man.He really did look like her husband if you disregard the disgusting look right now on his face.....


    She moved back a bit and keeping the gun pointed at him pulled a chair and sat down,gesturing him to stand up as well..Slowly,Yoo Shiro winced as he stood up and the smell of the all the food assaulted his nose making him almost stop breathing.


    Once he was seated,Xie Eun cocked her head and asked,"So if I get this straight,you claim that you are my husband''s twin brother and are here to prank me?Is that correct?"


    Yoo Shiro nodded his head slowly as he thought of a way to get the gun out of her hands..Her smile widening as his eyes flickered,Xie Eun pressed the trigger,scaring him to death..It was only after the gun simply clicked and did not shoot did he realize that it was out of shells..When he looked at Xie Eun in astonishment she smiled and said,"Don''t worry,the next compartment is not empty!But you need to keep your eyes straight.Don''t think it is going to be easy for you to snatch the gun from me. The moment you make any sudden movement,I will shoot first and ask questions later.So where is my husband?He would never let anyone play such an awful prank on me.He has a better sense of humor.So you have definitely done something to hold him back.."


    Yoo Shiro thought back to how his brother was comfortable enjoying himself with their grandfather and the present state he was in and groaned in agony.. He should have just instigated Yu Seok and then he would have dealt with this vixen..


    While Yoo Shiro sulked,the old man was laughing heartily and so amused, even clapped his hands like a child..He then slapped Yu Seok on the back and said,"Very good!You really chose a good wife!Good blood and strong stock.She will give birth to strong and intelligent little great grandchildren!And she will even keep your brother in line!" Yu Seok rolled his eyes inwardly as he heard him almost compare his wife to cattle and then at the screen. He did not bother to point out his grandfather''s mistake because he himself was very pleased..His wife recognized him and his brother apart!He had seen his brother closely and they were totally identical.. But she had been able to tell them apart so soon so naturally that meant that she was not unaware of him.She had taken note of his little habits and actions..Seeing that his brother had not crossed another line and tried to harm her physically,Yu Seok got up from his chair and bid a farewell to the elder,promising him to arrange a formal meeting soon.


    Elder Yoo glanced at the screen where his Daughter in law still pointed the gun at the brat and smiled contentedly..Atleast the brat had some sense and did not try to use his combat training against her. Because even if she was good,if Yoo Shiro had attacked her then she would have lost but maybe hurt herself in the process of defending herself...And if she had been harmed,Yu Seok would have killed Yoo Shiro and fed him to the tigers..


    Yoo Shiro finally thought himself through and said,"He is with or grandfather. He doesn''t know that I am here.Look,let me go and he will come back sooner and explain everything to you.."


    But when Yoo Shiro would have left his seat,Xie Eun shook her head and said,"Uh huh..even if I believe you that you are his twin,I don''t understand your prank..You could have pretended to be him under normal circumstances and that would be a prank. Why try to use this as a prank..Mister Clone..Why are you trying to drive a wedge between me and Yu Seok?"


    Clone? Did she just call him a clone.Angered,Yoo Shiro shouted,"I am his twin not a clone!My name Is Yoo Shiro! Do you understand?"


    Nodding sagely,Xie Eun stated,"Alright,Mr Clown?You still have not answered my question,why did you set up today''s scheme?And don''t tell me all this is a coincidence!I think that Si Jing''s appearance also has something to do with you!"


    This time,Yoo Shiro was not able to hide his disdain but he said nothing. He was not going to sit in front and answer these questions any longer..But unexpectedly Xie Eun announced,"You don''t like me!You think I am not worthy of your brother?Isn''t that right,Yoo Shiro? So decided to strike and create problems before Yu Seok could tell me of your existence,because once I knew then you would be unable to fool me.."


    Yoo Shiro felt his eyebrows raise to his hairline as he heard her unexpected but accurate evaluation..He thought for a while and answered,"You are absolutely right.I don''t like you.I have found my brother after so many years but I find that you are attached to him like a leech. I don''t like it. He is smart and successful while you are nothing but a clumsy and cunning girl!"He glanced at the still expression of Xie Eun when she did not answer and thus he felt that she too was aware of her own shortcomings and said,"So,since you at least have self awareness, we can let go of this ruse and you can consider divor.."


    Before Yoo Shiro could complete his sentence,Xie Eun stood up,grabbed a big palm sized dumpling from the plate on the floor and stuffed it into his mouth unceremoniously..causing his eyes to widen..She then locked the safety of the gun,pointed the barrel at his head and said,"I may or may not be worthy of him!But there is one quality that you are not aware of and that is that I am pretty unreasonable when it comes to those I care about!A prime example being Si Jing when I thought that I liked him..But your brother..I lo.." No,she wouldn''t confess her love for Yu Seok to this scumbag first and so she continued,"And I have more feelings for your brother than that Si Jing..So if you think that I am going to take your dumb suggestion then you are dreaming! And if you try to utter such nonsense again,I will stuff some soap in your mouth instead of something edible!!"


    It was only as she finished speaking did her glance fall on the figure at the door!Yu Seok!She wondered how long he stood there and then even panicked that he would not like her threatening his brother but then their eyes met and when she saw the normal and ever present loving expression there,her unsettled heart slowly settled back in place. Her attitude taking a 180 degree turn from a minute ago,she threw him a wide smile and said,"Yu Seok! You are home! Look we have a guest here! I have welcomed him well but he is even more clumsy than I am.See what he has done to out home?.So can you please ask him to clean up after himself?Until then I''ll be in the kitchen,warming up the food that you made for me.."


    She actually wanted to run to Yu Seok and hug him but felt unsettled doing so in front of the Clown Clone so she just went into the kitchen leaving the two brothers alone...

 Chapter 138 - Reassurance

    Xie Eun waited in the kitchen staring at the frozen soup in the pot. As the ice slowly melted away,she also felt the ice around her heart slowly melting.Until she had seen Yu Seok standing in front of her and his eyes looking at her just the way they did,she had ever realized how scared she had been.Even when she had heard that ''clone'' confess that he was not Yu Seok,her heart had been hammering against her chest.What if the real Yu Seok looked at her like this.She did not think she would be able to survive that look from Yu Seok..Though this evening had ended on a not so bad note,it had given her enough fodder for nightmares..


    She stirred the soup half-heartedly and lost in her own thoughts. Just then a pair of arms circled around her and the burner was turned off. With the two hands on the side of her stomach,she was pulled back into the circle of Yu Seok''s arms. Turning around,she hugged him tightly,burying her face in his strong chest and breathing in deeply. Her arms clung to him and tears streamed down her face..


    A small smile graced Yu Seok''s lips..It seemed impossible that this was the same girl who had beaten his brother down a few moments ago...A mass of contradictions is his Xie Eun. He picked her up causing her to scream a bit,startled, and carried her out of the kitchen in a princess style hug. Walking across the mess,he carried her to another room and sat on the couch with her still held in his lap..Understanding that she had already let out her feelings,he stroked her silky hair and asked,"So were you scared?"


    Of course the tone in which this was asked immediately raised her hackles and alerted her to the fact that Yu Seok would tease her mercilessly if she dared to lament over her recent fear. She had also guessed that Yu Seok was probably aware of his twin''s plan and had not even warned her .So she refused to answer him and simply made herself comfortable in his lap. Harrumphing she changed the subject and asked directly,"Who was the clone?"


    Yu Seok let out loud laughter as he heard the nickname she had allotted his brother and could not help but shake his head. He then went ahead to explain everything of how they had discovered each other and the role the old woman had played in the entire scent. This put forward another dilemma as she realized that somewhere Yu Seok was indebted to Grandmother Lu..She nodded her head in understanding,feeling happy and saddened at the same time..Until nowt,they were both orphans,without any family and now Yu Seok had two people added to the family and one of them did not like her. She wanted to ask Yu Seo about his brother''s hatred towards her but kept her mouth shut.She also thought that she should ask to meet his grandfather but what if he did not like her as well. She would be too saddened and hurt by that..So she just kept quiet and leaned against him with her eyes closed.


    He drew her closer and slid his fingers into her hair,kissing her slightly on the top of her head.His hands started to slowly massage her stiff neck..She tried to close her thoughts against the negative ones but it was turning out to be useless...


    Yu Seok looked at the girl who was clinging to him while at the same time refusing to let go of him. She thought that by being quiet and by not looking at him she would be able to hide her thoughts and insecurities.. He really felt like bashing Yoo Shiro for the trauma he had caused her. In fact it was an attack that he had not expected. Actually Yu Seok could not imagine anyone not liking his Xie Eun so when Yoo Shiro had made this set up and attacked,he had been blind sided. If he had even a little knowledge of what they were planning,he would have immediately gone over and stopped Yoo Shiro. Even when he had received the video of Si Jing from the guards he had known that Xie Eun could handle everything related to that man. it was only as Yoo Shiro sneaked into the house did the security team inform him of his brother''s presence. And even though there was surveillance outside the home and in his bedroom,the rest of the house only had sensors and no videos. He had thus ordered the guards to train video cameras over all the windows to keep an eye on Yoo Shiro.. But at that point he had known that he needed to let Xie Eun reach her own conclusion. And since his brother had already thrown the curve ball,he should let her bat. And she had played beautifully,showing no weakness,making him proud.


    Well,and now that she showed some weakness,it was up to him to let her regain her strength and he had the perfect thing. If there was one thing he had seen her crave when she came here was ''Acceptance'' from family. It was something he understood wanting. After all it was something he had wanted for so many years. And once they were together,they had accepted each other..But now with this new family and rejection,it was like scratching old wounds..So what better to gove her something that showed acceptance..


    He picked her hand and held her wrist. Softly,he circled it,holding it between two fingers..He then slid the jade bangle in her hand. Her closed eyes opened wearily and she looked at him.."What is this?"


    "My grandfather''s meeting gift to you."


    Xie Eun sat up straight at this,her eyes regaining some of their lost vitality,"your grandfather?When can we meet him?And why would he give a meeting git even before meeting?" Yu Seok smiled and answered her patiently,"You did meet him today..and he had invited us to dine with him tomorrow.Would you like to go?"


    Xie Eun nodded and then realized that the old uncle was Yu Seok''s grandfather..She really looked forward to meeting him..But then another thought struck her and she felt herself deflate like a balloon..Pouting,she asked,"Will that clone also be there?"


    Yu Seok tried to suppress his smile and nodded seriously. His wife and brother had taken a thorough disliking to each other..and of course he had to help his wife get over what Yoo Shiro had done today..


    He looked at her admiring face and tapped her nose. This time,she really looked at him with a questioning look,"Would you like to use my brother''s tactic against him?


    This time,Xie Eun, narrowed her eyes and carefully looked at Yu Seok..he seemed to have something up his sleeve.She narrowed her eyes at him and asked,"What are you thinking?"


    Yu Seok said a single sentence that made her smile widen,"He is not the only one who looks like me..I look like him too.." Yes!Her husband was going to help her avenge herself! She raised her eyebrows and looked at him with interest. Yu Seok''s eyes crinkled at the corners as he slowly laid out his plan for Xie Eun..Rubbing her hands like an old smug uncle, Xie Eun nodded along her husband''s ideas..Just as she was about to race away from his lap to make the required phone call,Yu Seok pulled her back on his lap and frowned at her.."What?Now that you are comfortable and even have a new plan,you are going to abandon me?"


    Xie Eun clicked her tongue and sat back down on his lap,looking him over.Cheekily,she patted his cheeks and asked,"Aww my poor baby...Are you feeling ignored? What do you want?"


    This cheekiness was however going to cause Xie Eun so much as the wold inside Yu Seok raised his head and his eyes burned,"I want you..You see I am so hungry.."


    With that Yu Seok,had to do nothing but pull her closer face to him and soon they were kissing each other ferociously. This time Xie Eun did not shy away and tried to get even closer to Yu Seok..Her heart had already made clear it''s feelings and today''s circumstances and the way she had missed him these few days only made her want to get closer and affirm their relationship..It was time to let the slow burn that had consumed them to rage into a roaring fire...


    Feeling as if he would be killed if he did not get closer to her,Yu Seok soon attacked her clothing with a vigor and all her clothes and his lay aside torn on the ground...

 Chapter 139 - Closer Still (R-18,I Think)(No Innocents Allowed)

    The kiss deepened along with the reassurance and so did the need for each other. Soon the two people''s clothes were thrown aside..Slowly,Yu Seok moved back a bit,he stopped his hands from roaming and exploring the skin that it had exposed even though they itched to,as if they had a mind of their own.Her fragrance was like an intoxicating drug,more potent than any arousal drug.His harsh breath fell against her shoulders as he tried to control himself.. He could feel her surrender,her but he still needed to be sure..Slowly,he turned his head and buried his nose into her neck,his soft voice fell on her,"Xie Eun,baby,Are you sure?"


    He felt her nod rather than see it..and yet he did not move.. savoring the pleasure of finally being so close to her..This acceptance was a huge step for him.The depth of his feelings for her threatened to overwhelm him at this moment..He had never dared to confess how deep his love was and neither had Xie Eun let him know if his feelings were returned.. All of this was almost too terrifying for him maing him hesitate... But,he realized that in spite of all this,it was not terrifying enough for him to hold back now or let her go and cheat himself tonight. A thought niggled that she may regret this in the morning but he suppressed it in his heart,not letting it grow.He wanted to kiss her and make love over and over for all the lost moments they had missed out until now..


    Xie Eun slowly felt her heated body cool as she waited for Yu Seok to make a move.Her heart felt a mixture of arousal and shyness. Of being bold as she sat there stark naked ,but for her panties,in his lap,his manhood touching the side of her thigh through the thin cotton of his shorts,but she also felt coy and a little unsure of their next move..When,Yu Seok still did not move,she started to feel a little fear so she asked in a small voice,"We can go to sleep if you don''t want to do that tonight." Even as she said this,her heart shuddered in fear of rejection.She had finally taken the step even if she had not yet told him the truth of her feelings. Her heart was already with him..and she did not want to be rejected at such a vulnerable time..


    Before she could finish her sentence,he raised his glittering and ferocious eyes to her. A small smirk graced his face as he growled,"Pretty sure we are not going to get any sleep tonight,baby.." He caught her lips once again and picking her up,he brought her to the bed,almost throwing her onto it. He wanted to admire her beauty like a conqueror but instead of just lying there,Xie Eun got on her knees and pulled him along,pouncing back on him. Equal tonight and not just the conquered. Tonight she was going to be his..but he was going to be hers also..


    The continued to kiss as their hands roamed each other''s hot skin. Finally, Yu Seok subdued his wild cat as she scratched his back,her fingers dug into his bu**,urging him on and goading him,and held her under him with her hands clasped together in his big one. With his other hand,he slowly ran a finger from her lips towards the tips of her brea***..She purred at this and tried to get closer to him,her eyes closing off of their own accord. The purr fired his blood and he went closer to her,her warm skin and softness meeting his hardness in all the right places...Her full breasts rubbed against his firm chest,her slightly round hips perfect for him to hold and fit in as if they were made for him..


    Soon,this was also not enough. He wanted more,his greed for her boundless, and so he took more.


    *swish* the boxer shorts were thrown to the ground and then a tearing sound was made,signalling the removal of the last barrier of clothing between them..He burrowed himself between her thighs,close to her,but not close enough. Her hips jerked closer wanting more,demanding more from him,She freed her hands and put them on his hips,pulling him closer to her hidden self,arousing him more and teasing him more as they rubbed against each other.


    This time when their mouths met,the kiss was fast and oppressive.He moved closer still and stopped an inch from her entrance,from heaven and gazed deeply into her eyes. They looked black in the dimly lit room, glittering like precious stones,a sheen of arousal shining in them and finally he inched forward,closing the millimetre difference between them and they became one.. Xie Eun gasped at his entrance, clutched him to herself hard, answered his thrusts with desperate passion of her own..The rhythm that had built gradually now fastened...the two people lost in their small world..pausing only to moan or whisper each other''s name,frantic in the pleasure and joy of being together..she cried out as she neared her peak and then she came,violent and wild,screaming his name..And that scream pushed him over the edge,hearing his name on her lips, the way he wanted her to call him..the way he had dreamed so often..He felt the power and joy consume him, of seeing her like this..on the edge, straining for him..in this moment,he wanted to tell her that she was the only one for him.It had always been her.. But he had no adequate words to express himself so he simply kissed her again,throwing all his words and emotions into the kiss. The two people still clung to each other even after their passion slowly started to calm down.Neither wanted to let go.Each other''s harsh and satisfied breath echoing in their ears...But soon, they had caught back their breath and the desire in their blood refused to calm down.They started to tease each other again.Both of them wanted to consume the other,hungry for more of the other...The lips met ferociously this time.No more gentle.Simply wild and urgent..Clinging and even rough.


    It was only later in the night that the two people finally lay on the bed,side by side,exhausted and unable to even untangle their limbs and fell asleep in each other''s arms.. As the sun rose in the morning,the sky pinkened gradually and Yu Seok lay on the bed,with his head cocked on his palm,staring at his wife.. His eyes showed satisfaction and gratitude for her acceptance. Slowly he whispered the words he wanted her to know but the ones he had been unable to utter loudly. He hoped she would know them in her heart..


    He stroked away the lines on her forehead, that appeared as she frowned in her sleep. She moved a bit,wincing at the same time. Yu Seok felt a pang of guilt at this. He had gotten carried away last night and they had been rough towards the end. His eyes roamed over her,glittering at the marks that he had left on her..but somehow he felt satisfied at them rather than anything else..Even the scratches she had left on his made him feel like he had received an award..


    Xie Eun opened her eyes gradually and the moment her eyes looked,she stared straight into his green ones. She saw the passion,the guilt,the need in them and let them reflect them in her own..Gone was her shyness and in it''s place was only the knowledge that they had acquired last night.She could feel his arousal against her and knew that this time they could do nothing..because she was too tender down there...but that did not mean that she had no other way of getting closer to him..Today they were going to spend the day in bed,she had already decided..only cuddling and making love..Heck she did not even mind if she were starved today but she did not want to get away from him..She pushed him back,not giving him time to protest or stop her. His helpless look as he stayed under her,just staring waiting for her,gave her the confidence and power as she helped him find release with her hands..


    And according her plans,the two people stayed in bed all day,though Yu Seok did leave the bed to get some snacks to re energize them..and simply slept in each other''s arms..


    It was only late in the evening,as they were about to get ready for dinner did something strike Xie Eun..and she almost flinched..But just then Yu Seok returned and she forgot the thought

 Chapter 140 - Yoo Shiro Is Dumped

    Yoo Shiro, put on his jacket and closed the buttons on his cuff as he walked towards his car. His mood today was black and this could be seen from the coldness of his face. Tonight they were supposed to have an official meeting with that Xie Eun and he had been ordered by his grandfather to be present! Having no way to get out of the meeting,he had finally made up the reason that he was going out on a date!But he had never realized that his grandfather had his spied amongst his own people who had ratted him out which had coerced him into making a date with that irritable Miss Wen.


    He got into the car and drove off,already deciding that since Xie Eun was already aware of his identity,he did not need to carry on his plan for using that Miss Wen. So today he would tell her and her aunt that he was not interested anymore. But for tonight he would have to listen to that chatterbox.. He turned on the radio,to tune out his own thoughts but then the latest BTS song Dynamite started to play and then then the Radio Jockey started to talk about the band,making his thoughts go back to that Miss Wen. His heart was actually feeling a bit troubled at the thought of not meeting her for a date again but he ignored it..He felt that it was relief that he would be free of torture from tonight.His thoughts then turned to what his grandfather had said about Xie Eun and once again he felt angered. He couldn''t believe that his grandfather had witnessed the entire torture he had suffered at the hands of that woman!A live broadcast!They had watched everything and even then his own biological brother had waited until the torture was over and his grandfather had even laughed at him instead of saving him!


    He reached the restaurant and went inside casually. However he could not have expected what he had suffered yesterday was nothing compared to what he was going to endure today.


    Wen Shan glanced at the man who walked in as she sat in her car. They had a couple of dates where she had dressed weirdly and behaved even more weirdly but his patience and the way he had handled everything she had thrown at him had actually impressed her and made her interested in him.She had even wondered how he was so different from the other men that she had known. She had even considered going ahead and dating him seriously,revealing her true self and getting to know him. But then she had received the file this morning and since then her blood had boiled.All men were really jerks!And the more good they came across the more scummy they were!


    Seeing him walk in so casually,so arrogantly,she wanted to pick up the nearest object and bash him on the head!On the one hand,she considered if she should stand him up tonight and on the other,she should maybe go a little more crazy on him..After thinking a bit more,she realized she had already made her decision when she came here..


    From the last two times,Wen Shan was dressed like a bohemian,eccentric girl. Tonight,however,she was dressed to kill. Her pale and white legs were exposed under the black sequined cocktail dress. Her lustrous hair was were styled into a knot at the nape of her neck and her eyes were illuminated by light make up,exposing her true beauty. This was the woman who was known as a killer in court. The woman who could cut down people with a glance.


    Every man could not help but take a second glance at the hot girl that walked in and Yoo Shiro was no exception. It even took him a few minutes to realize that this hot woman was the same as the wholesome girl he had met with previously. And in that moment,he even reconsidered his decision of not dating her...


    He stood up as she walked closer and even stepped forward to greet her. Wen Shan gave him a small smile and sat down, without revealing her true feelings of revulsion. The waiter walked forward to take their order and unlike the last two times,this time Wen Shan ordered the most expensive dishes in the menu. After all she had come in advance and made special preparations for tonight.. But Yoo Shiro was too busy taking observing her beauty to note that this time Wen Shan was not being talkative.


    Once Wen Shan had finished ordering,she looked up and gave him a sultry smile and talked,"Mr Yoo..You are too quiet tonight.."


    Yoo Shiro realized that he had no idea where to start so he simply shook his head and invited her to talk but this time Wen Shan did not want to talk so she too deferred and thus the two people sat in silence,waiting for their food to arrive. As they waited for the food,soft music started to play in the background. She looked on as couples moved on the dance floor and she looked at Yoo Shiro,"Wouldn''t you like to dance?". Yoo Shiro took the hint and extended his hand sauvely,"Madame?May I have the pleasure of a dance?" Pleased, Wen Shan put her hand in his and the two walked to the dance floor. Her hand settled on his shoulder and his on her waist. Slowly the two people were immersed in the dance and moving to the rhythm,as if they had done this many times in the past. Just as they would have walked off the stag,they bumped into another couple and Wen Shan who was mid-swirl,lost her balance and almost fell but was saved at the last minute by Yoo Shiro. She glanced at him shyly and soon they walked hand in hand to the table.


    Soon the food was served,and the two people started to enjoy the meal. Yoo Shiro looked down at the prawns in his plate,and felt that the food quality in this restaurant had gone down. But before he could complain, Wen Shan threw a brilliant smile at him and said,"The food here is great.Thank you for tonight.. "


    Yoo Shiro was pleased with tonight and seriously considered continuing to date her. Just as he decided to come clean,Wen Shan looked at him and said,"Can you give me your phone?I just remembered that I had to meet grandfather and I forgot to inform him about out date tonight!And my battery just died..."


    Yoo Shiro looked at her slightly guilty face and handed over his phone without considering anything further. He even missed the triumph that flashed in her eyes. She pretended to make a call and then she looked at apologetically and said,"It seems there is no signal here. I will be right back.


    Yoo Shiro was pleased with tonight and seriously considered continuing to date her. Just as he decided to come clean,Wen Shan looked at him and said,"Can you give me your phone?I just remembered that I had to meet grandfather and I forgot to inform him about out date tonight!And my battery just died..."


    Yoo Shiro looked at her slightly guilty face and handed over his phone without considering anything further. He even missed the triumph that flashed in her eyes. She pretended to make a call and then she looked at apologetically and said,"It seems there is no signal here. I will be right back."


    With that,Wen Shan walked out of the restaurant without giving him a chance to say anything. After a few minutes when, Wen Shan had yet to return,Yoo Shiro started to worry if she was being scolded by her grandfather and wanted to go and check. But not wanting to come across as over bearing,he stayed put and waited for her..But when Wen Shan had not returned even after fifteen minutes,he was even more worried and decided to go and check out. But before he could even leave the table,his head started to feel heavy and a dizziness took him over.


    In that moment,his eyes hardened and he realized that he had been drugged. He was about to walk out but in that moment,his stomach started to cramp and he started to feel nauseous..Instead of walking out,he moved towards the restroom and violently vomited,forcing himself to throw out the drugs he had ingested.


    A long while later,a pale Yoo Shiro walked out of the restrooms and looked around for his date. He stopped a waiter and that is when he was informed that his date had already left.Even then,Yoo Shiro did not realize that he had been set up by Wen Shan and walked out, a little dizzy and confused. It was only as he reached the table when he saw a note left by Wen Shan,"You are in trouble,you jerk.Next time you decide to play with a girl,the results will be much worse than a nauseating drug!"


    "PS Apply for new cards and phone. The ones you had have been burnt.."


    And so Yoo Shiro who had never been played had been left in a hotel, without a phone and a wallet...

 Chapter 141 - The Family Meeting

    As the two people drove towards the Yoo Manor where they had been invited to meet Elder Yoo, there was an awkward silence in the car. Xie Eun could hardly believe that they had already taken that final step in getting together and she had not even confessed to him.She kept staring at his from the corner of her eyes. He looked the same to her but she felt as if he was different. Maybe it was because of the way they had felt ad been with each other since last night..These last few hours were like a dream to her and she still would have had trouble believing it to be the truth if the aches in those places did not remind her of their activities repeatedly. These thoughts brought a small blush to her face and she could not help but look down at her hands. She thought of the little confession cards she had made and regretted not giving those to him today. Her eyes scanned the way, his long fingers held the steering wheel and the way those masterful fingers had held her..she looked away and squirmed in her seat,regretting agreeing to go today. Even if she looked forward to meeting Elder Yoo,she felt too giddy and shy at the moment.


    Her shy glances and the light blush were like a siren''s call to Yu Seok, who was also hyper aware of the girl beside him. He had been trying to hold back but her shy looks kept goading him,so much so that he wanted to stop the car right there and get close to her. This was the first time he saw her in a kimono and he had suddenly realized the allure of their traditional clothing. Though this version of it was modernized,the belt that tied it together accentuated her shape perfectly and made her look like a little fairy.. Add in the soft redness of her face,her slightly swollen lips(from his kisses) and her repeated looks at him,Yu Seok was finding it really difficult to even breathe let alone concentrate on driving the car.. Finally,seeing her giving him the side glance again,he said,"Eun-a,if you keep looking at me like this,chances are we will not be meeting grandfather tonight.."


    This sultry threat,snapped her back to reality and Xie Eun cleared her throat and tried to defend herself,"What are you talking about? Who is looking at you?I was just looking at the car!"


    "Uh huh" Yu Seok simply gave her a smile,his eyes calling her a liar. Making a face at him,Xie Eun harrumphed and turned to look outside the widow,even as a silly smile graced her face.


    Yu Seok threw a glance in her direction enjoying her silly smile and he accepted that thi was the first time he was truly happy. He had been satisfied when he found a direction in life,he had been indifferent when he achieved success after success and even though he had been happy when he met her and on their wedding day,true happiness for him was this. Seeing her smile because of him and for him..


    However,the next moment,the softness in his eyes vanished.Because he had just discovered someone following them.Rather two someones..His eyes narrowed and he slowly increased the speed,keeping an eye on the rear view mirror. The following vehicles increased their speed gradually too,confirming his doubts. Once he was sure, Yu Seok gradually slowed down and then increased the speed again making those behind a bit confused..Xie Eun also noticed the change in mood and turned to look questioningly. However one look at his expression and she was clear of what was wrong. She took out her cell phone,ready to call the police when Yu Seok stopped her. "Let it be for now.." Actually, he did not want to scare her but they had passed various speed o meters at high speed and yet no police car seemed to be chasing them.It could only mean one thing,someone had ordered the police to stay away.


    Yu Seok glanced at his wife who sat there calmly and then ordered,"There is a thick blanket under the seat. Take it out and wrap it around yourself. And get the gun in the dashboard.When the time comes,you may need to jump off the car.."


    Xie Eun had already bent down to retrieve the blanket when she heard the rest of the instructions. She paused before doing as she was told. Once the gun was secured and the blanket wrapped around her,she looked at her husband and spoke,"If you think I am going to jump out of the car and leave you in danger then you are severely mistaken."


    Yu Seok,who already knew his wife''s stubbornness did not bother wasting time arguing with her.As long as she was safe,he would push her out of the car,if need be.


    With this thought,he speeded up to get onto the wider road..this would be their last chance to deal with these people because after this they would begin their climb into the mountains where the Yoo Villa was situated and it would be too easy for their attackers to push them down the cliffs and winding roads. Yu Seok that even if his sports car was quick,when it came to a truck,it would lose out but he would use the small size of this compact car to the maximum. After all the engine of this car,was much more sophisticated..


    Just as the road had widened,he ordered "hold tight" to Xie Eun and the next minute the car took a sharp 180 degree turn and drove head on towards the two incoming speeding vehicles..His high speed and sharp turn had shocked the two assailants and before they could react,Yu Seok had already pulled down his window and two shots rang in the air...

 Chapter 142 - In The Hospital

    The entire Yoo Manor was in a flurry at the idea that the young master who had been lost as a kid was returning home. Though none of the servants had seen the two young masters together or even heard about a lost master,they felt pleased at the hopeful occasion seeing the old master so vibrant and healthy because of this...Elder Yoo waited in the drawing room,glancing at the time after every minute,hardly able to control his excitement. He wished both his grandchildren were present with him tonight but Yoo Shiro was a stubborn boy.Once again,Elder Yoo glanced at the clock and sighed thinking the children were late. But he did not mind..after all they were newly married. But before Elder Yoo could sigh and wait for the couple,his cell phone started to ring. Elder Yoo looked at the caller id and frowned. He did not really want to talk to the quack doctor now so he declined the call. But almost immediately,the phone started to ring again..He sighed and answered the call,only to almost drop it when he understood the reason.


    When Dr Wang received the information that a VIP patient had been wheeled in,he went to check the details and almost dropped on the spot when he saw his school and university buddy,Yoo Shiro being wheeled in on the stretcher. And coming in with him was a woman who had claimed was his wife. He checked the information on the patient chart that paramedics had filled up and immediately ordered the surgery room to be prepared. The next thing he did was to inform Grandfather Yoo of this recent development.


    .Elder Yoo called his driver hurriedly and tried to connect with Yoo Shiro and the moment the phone was connected,he barked into it,"Your brother is in the hospital!Be there fast!"


    Dr Wang naturally did not know of a twin so he thought that the person being prepared to be operated on was his friend. But Elder Yoo had guessed correctly and even as he urged the driver to go faster,his brain started to calculate the person behind the attack. There were only two possibilities,the Lu woman or someone was a spy in their people,because as of now,no one was aware of Yu Seok''s identity.


    On the way the car passed the carnage that the accident had wrecked and Elder Yoo''s eyes flashed with murderous intent. It seems that some people had forgotten that even if a lion was asleep,he was still a lion...


    As elder Yoo drove towards the hospital,Yoo Shiro sat in the washroom of the hotel''s suite,clutching his stomach and cursing the woman Wen Shan. Here he was,thinking of apologizing to her and she had played such a dirty trick on him. Who did she think she was. He could already guess who had instigated the woman and swore to teach the two a lesson as soon as he could think of an appropriate punishment..How devious of them.Never had he been so thoroughly humiliated in public! Even as he slowly moved from his seat,he winced a bit as his body protested and slowly got up. That is when he heard the pounding on the door and his frown deepened. What the hell!What kind of a hotel was this!First they let thieves in and now they wouldn''t even let their guest rest peacefully.


    Slowly,he walked to the door and opened it,only to try and shut it back in the face of the person who was knocking. But she pushed hard and in his weakened state he almost fell back. he scowled hard and snidely asked,"Have you come to check your handiwork?Or are you feeling guilty of harming an innocent person?"


    Wen Shan snorted and answered,"If this is the extent to which you have suffered,then it is not enough. But I am not here for any of these. You need to come with me."


    With that,Shan Shan extended her hand,clasped his wrist and pulled him behind her..After a shocked moment,Yoo Shiro tried to resist but then she said,"Your brother is in the hospital. The only way you can get there is with me..."


    Hearing the explanation,Yoo Shiro stopped resisting and hurriedly followed Wen Shan.


    Once in the car,he started peppering her with questions to which Wen Shan had no answer. She explained how she had his cell phone and received the call from his grandfather...


    Finally when Yoo Shiro would not stop asking,Wen Shan snapped at the man to shut up..


    The two cars carrying the members of the Yoo family reached the hospital almost at the same time..


    They rushed to the emergency and were asked to wait in the waiting room as the patient was in surgery.


    As the three people moved in unison,they also saw the lonely bloodied figure curled against the wall on the ground outside the waiting room.


    Xie Eun was actually drenched in blood..Her cheongsam which had been a pale color was now dyed red and matted with blood. Her hair was a mess and there was a slight swelling on the side of her face which had come from being punched by one of the goons. She seemed to be unaware of her surroundings as she stared unblinking in the direction of the operating room. A young police seemed to be standing on guard next to her with a bottle of water in his hand and the passers by were all staring at the girl with pity. Elder Yoo felt a pang of pain when he saw his daughter in law..while Wen Shan felt scared when she stared at her friend''s state. She did not know if all this blood was Yu Seok''s or Xie Eun''s but she knew that Xie Eun was probably in shock..only Yoo Shiro frowned and muttered under his breath,calling her useless, before striding ahead to question the police officer.

 Chapter 143 - Useless?

    The two people started to walk forward together. Wen Shan with the intention of comforting Xie Eun while Yoo Shiro walked to the policeman,to her the details. He needed to find out who had dared to attack his brother. The policeman looked up guardedly and was stunned for a moment when he saw the person who walked to him look so similar to the victim they had bought in. But he immediately understood the situation and nodded in acknowledgement.


    But before the two could talk,Wen Shan had bent down to see Xie Eun and almost screamed when she saw Xie Eun''s eyes cross and Shan Shan caught her as she slumped onto the floor,unconscious. The nurses who had been pitying the young woman saw this and immediately rushed towards her,calling the doctor. As Xie Eun was also wheeled into another room for a check up, Yoo Shiro was unable to suppress his disdain and snorted,"What a useless piece of a woman..Her husband is hurt and all she can do is sit there and then faint.."


    The comment was heard by the three other people causing all of them looked at Yoo Shiro with loathing. Elder Yoo was about to reprimand him while Wen Shan was also tempted to punch him, but it was the young officer who had the most violent reaction..as he turned to Yoo Shiro and ranted,"Do you really think that the person there is useless!You are useless!Your brother is lying on the operation table and instead of taking care of his beloved wife,you are calling her useless. Those two people,almost lost their lives today and that too for each other and this is what you do!That young lady refused to be checked up until you all were here because she was worried that her husband might come to harm when she was getting treated.So she waited for family to arrive! Do you think that your brother''s life is in danger?You are mistaken then! Yes,the glass did pierce his ribs,but his vital organs are safe while that lady may just die because of blood loss!She was drenched in blood and all you can do is call her useless! You are the one who is useless!"


    Yoo Shiro was stumped at being scolded harshly,while Elder Yoo could not even find strength to absorb the words that the officer said but Wen Shan still retained her calm and talked to the officer,,"Officer,can you please tell us what happened?"


    "It seems the couple was being stalked and the people had planned to kill.The two people who have been caught are actually wanted killers who are responsible for many ''accident'' murders over the years. Luckily,Mr Yu spotted them and he followed a good strategy to subdue them. From what we understand,once Mr Yu spotted them,he, instead of being led by them to a cliff,turned around and attacked them head on,and before the two people had a chance to react,he had shot their wheels,forcing them to stop. But unexpectedly,they had already fallen into the trap. There were more people waiting for them up ahead and when the car did not turn up as expected,the others turned around and reached them. By then,Mr Yu and the perpetrators were already in a fight and shots were being fired from both sides. As the killers had managed to stall for time,soon their car was surrounded.And this time they did not try to create a scene to make it look like an accident.They we''re prepared for murder. Mr Yu managed to avoid getting the passenger side hit while Mrs Yu also entered the fray and fired at the people who were trying to attack them.Shebshot one of the leaders in the head.Finally,it was the unexpected attack from Mrs Yu that they were forced to retreat. Even as they fled the scene, Mrs Yu kept firing, injuring two more culprits. And it was also Mrs Yu who called the department and told us the situation. We are ashamed to say that someone among out people was also involved as there was no surveillance on the road at the time and they even tried to get the call go unanswered. We can assure you that we are already investigating the person who was bribed and the people behind this. But when the paramadics reached there, Mr Yu had lost consciousness and Mrs Yu was unwilling to get checked. At first we thought that she was only covered in Mr Yu''s blood but then the paramedics noticed that she was bleeding. Why do you think the were nurses covering around here? They knew that she could keel over any minute..We think that she kay have been hit with a stray bullet.." Just as the inspector finished saying this the door to the waiting room opened and the nurse came in,"Mrs Yu was hit by a bullet on the side of her waist and several pieces of glass are embedded in her arms. We request the family to arrange a blood transfusion immediately.At present, she has lost too much blood and may slip into a coma because of it."


    It was only after hearing the diagnosis, did Yoo Shiro feel ashamed of himself.  He finally realized his mistake and hurried out take the calls to arrange blood for his sister in law. He accepted that maybe Xie Eun also loved his brother as much as his brother loved her. And he knew one thing..he had to apologize to her very soon...


    But even if he had realized his mistake, some things could not be changed. Because at this moment, the mobile phone that had just been returned to him, dinged with a message notifying him of a new arrival. And he could not be sure that this person would not cause more trouble..

 Chapter 144 - Nora Xu

    A long row of uniformed people stood on both sides of the runway as they waited for the doors of the airplane to open. Today they were waiting to welcome a special guest. The person was said to be a the daughter of their country''s most respected finance wizard Mr Xu. The gossip said that Miss Xu was returning to their land after a long time. And the reason for this return was her marriage. Many employees wondered what the heiress would look like. It was said that Miss Xu was not just some airhead who only knew how to spend money. She was also a leading name in the fashion industry of Country E.


    They expected to see a cultured woman who looked and had the mannerisms of a princess as well as the snootiness of one.. And hence they were shocked when they saw the figure that alighted the airplane. The woman or rather the girl looked like a student rather than a high society fashion designer. Though she was dressed fashionable in what one would describe as airport fashion and looked undoubtedly beautiful,it was not some one who liked snooty as the people had expected. And sh even smiled at everyone graciously when they bowed in welcome,unlike some who would ignore them like furniture.


    Her voice was sweet like a nightingale''s as she thanked them before walking towards the stretch limousine that was waiting for her. It wasn''t until the car had departed that the employees came out of their trance and started to talk among themselves.


    Dressed in a flowy orange silk skirt and a cashmere sweater,she looked relaxed and even unassuming. But the comfortable clothing highlighted Miss Xu''s excellent looks and left an unforgettable expression in the people''s hearts.


    Inside the Car:


    Nora hugged her father and excitedly asked him,"Father!Is it true?Is he really alive?"


    Xu Man looked at his daughter whose eyes had not sparkled in so long and teased her,"Little Nora!You meet me after so long and all you can do is ask after him? What about your old father? You don''t love me at all?"


    Nora Xu pouted at her father and replied,"Daddy! I talk to you everyday!But Him...daddy for so long I have believed him to be dead that when Brother Shiro called to tell me about his return, I almost believed that he was playing a prank on me!It is why I have returned in such a hurry!Daddy please tell me it is the truth.."


    Xu Man looked at his daughter and sighed. He actually wished that it was not true. Because atleast then his daughter would have considered seeing another man. But now,she would not even consider it..And from all the things he had heard, the man that returned to the Yoo family was already with some other girl..


    But he could not lie to his daughter,"It is the truth that there are rumors that the other heir of the Yoo''s may have returned. But the elder in the family has not yet announced anything formally. But Nora,you have to know..the person,may be married.."


    Nora, however paid no attention to her father''s words and excitedly started planning to meet her long lost fiance. Her small eyes formed little moons and her cheeks showed off her dimples as she looked pleased like a little puppy. She took out her phone and messaged brother Shiro of her arrival and appealed for him to arrange a meeting with Yoo Seok soon. She almost expected that brother Shiro would call her immediately but when she received no reply,she pouted a bit and placed her phone aside,talking to her father about the way the city had changed when she was away. She could sense her father''s uneasiness.But brother Shiro had mentioned that Yoo Seok was married and she was prepared to meet his wife also. What she was going to do after that was left to be seen. If brother Shiro was right and she was really unworthy then she would try to talk to the lady and if he was wrong,then she would wish them well. But she was going to try and become friends with Yoo Seok so that even if she was not with him,she would be close to him. By his side..


    In the Hospital:


    Yoo Shiro typed out a message to reply to the girl and then deleted it. He then typed out another reply before before deleting that too. He had no idea about how to tell Nora about his brother''s marriage. She''d been a kid when their parents had arranged their marriage but because they told her that Yu Seok would be her husband,she had even dreamed of marrying him. And when Yu Seok had been thought lost and after a while and her parents had tried to change the grooms,she had reused vehemently claiming that she would be true to his memory. Yoo Shiro had always admired her loyalty and even felt guilty for supporting her in her madness for his brother. It was also one of the reasons he had not taken a liking to Xie Eun. But tonight had proved to him that he could not be sure of which girl loved his brother more. On the one side who had waited for a lifetime. And on the other who had almost waited with her life.


    He looked at the message once again.And then finally typed out,"Nora,I am so glad you are back. Let us catch up soon." he purposely chose to ignore the topic about his brother. But even then he did not send out the message and simply sat in the hospital corridor wondering over the tangled mess he had just created. Finally,deciding to just jump in,he pressed the send button at the same time deciding to give Xie Eun also a warning about this,just to be fair..

 Chapter 145 - Havoc

    The night passed slowly for Yoo Shiro who had sent his grandfather home. he sat in the waiting room staring at the screen as both the boards showed that the surgery in the rooms was ongoing. Occasionally, he glanced at the girl who was sitting next to him.She had changed into a pair of jeans and shirt and he realized that she really was unbelievably attractive. But she seemed to regard him as some sort of a devil. However,because he had been amazed this evening,he had not caught onto her deception. Looking at the quiet girl from this evening and now and comparing her to the chatterbox he had previously met,it was pretty clear that she had been playing him as much as he had..in fact more so!He had planned to use this relationship in the future but otherwise he had been pretty honest but her..she had duped him from the beginning..And still he was the one who had suffered and endured tonight.. His stomach still ached at the thought of what it had endured a few hours ago.


    Tired of her glares at intervals,he turned towards her and poked her on the arm."You are a liar!"


    Wen Shan glared at him and asked coldly,"What is this?The Pot calling the kettle black?Mr Yoo,tell me if I am mistaken. First you approached my aunt with the sole reason of getting to me. You made her believe that you were interested in a serious relationship and that is why she arranged a date for us. But fooling an old woman was not enough once so you told her you actually liked me and asked a meeting again! And then you made me believe that you were a good man and even made me feel guilty for lying to you! Luckily,your scheme was exposed timely,or you would have created misunderstandings between my friend and me! So,you are the liar and you have only succeeded in making me believe the fact that all men are liars and scumba**!."


    Yoo Shiro,however narrowed his eyes at the generalization and said,"I agree that I had an ulterior motive!But when did I lie to you?Or to your aunt? I have been clear that I really am interested in a stable relationship while you,instead of confessing to your aunt that you are not interested,you dress up frumpily to scare away potential suitors and then talk about random bands like that STB! And.."


    "BTS! The band is called BTS and it is not some random!You tone deaf person!I just don''t want to talk to you!Your voice is like someone is scratching a chalk against a board!So just shu* it!"


    Yoo Shiro could only blink at the odd insult and after his mouth hung open for a few moments,he snapped it shut.


    Thankfully, at this moment,another figure walked in and saved them the trouble of staying in such an oppressive atmosphere. The two rushed at the nurse and asked simultaneously,"How are they?"


    The nurse blinked at the man in front of her,completely ignoring the girl and replied dazedly,"Just fine.."


    The dazed tone of the nurse made it clear that she was not talking about the patients at least. Wen Shan rolled her eyes,pushed Yoo Shiro and leaned in close to the nurse,almost banging the other party on the nose and filling their entire vision so that she would not be distracted by Yoo Shiro and repeated,"How are they doing?"


    The nurse blinked and awkwardly moved back a but before putting some distance and answering,"They are both doing well. Mr Yu''s biggest injury was hit on the head and had internal bleeding but we have corrected that with surgery while the other wounds have been sewed and bandaged. Mrs Yu was suffering from acute blood loss and an artery had been hit,she will also be brought out soon. Both of them will be shifted to the rooms soon."


    Having received a satisfactory answer,Wen Shan moved back and let the nurse get back to admiring the view.


    Just then the doctor who had informed Elder Yoo came out of the surgery and almost fainted when he saw the patient he had just operated on,stood in front of him. He looked back at the room and then back at the person in front of him,"You?Yoo?"


    Yoo Shiro gave a sardonic smile and said,"See doc?You are so amazing.You just operated on me and here I am..now standing on my own two feet..


    The doctor finally got his senses back and realized that there was some sort of a story, but he too shook his head and said,"When it came to the person I operated on!I would have even believed this!Do you know he became conscious during the surgery?And then actually demanded to know what was going on!Let me tell you I have never been ,ore shocked at this! I never could have believed that I would be intimidated by someone who I was operating on!It was a good thing that we were only sewing him up!If something like this had happened earlier,my hands would have shook during the surgery!Anyway,I came to inform the family that the two patients are going to be put in the same room ,on the patient''s request,I would most certainly not advise that but really I was too scared to say no!And I can see that you are family,so here I have done my duty!And now Shiro,let me warn you that I will want an explanation for this,once your twin has recovered."


    Just as the tired doctor was about to turn back,his eyes caught on the beautiful figure that stood nearby and he paused,"Are you the patient''s family too?"


    Wen Shan who had not been paying attention straightened up but before she could say anything,a possessive arm crept around her waist and settled there,and the man gritted out,"She is my fiance!Now go and rest after the surgery. You look like something the cat dragged in.."


    Doctor Wei stared at the suddenly rude man and walked out of the room, cursing his so called bas**** of a possessive friend,while just behind him,"Wen Shan caught the fingers on her waist and bent them backwards making Yoo Shiro groan in pain and drag away his hand!"Who did you call your fiance?"


    Yoo Shiro grinned and pinched her nose like one would a child''s and said,"You,of course! I have already told your aunt that I like you and that is why she set up our meetings!And with the stunt that you pulled this evening,you have settled even more firmly in my vacant heart.."


    Wen Shan narrowed her eyes at the person who looked like he was serious and wondered if he was serious. She gazed into his eyes trying to judge but then looked away.Because she was sure that if she stared at him longer,she could burn..She could still feel the imprint of his hand where it had settled on her waist.. To cover her confusion,she let go of his hand and planned to walk out of the waiting room. Now that she was sure that everyone was fine,she could take a breather. But before she could walk out, a large hand settled on her stomach and pulled back,"Wen Shan..you may not know this but the moment you walked out of that hotel with my wallet that you stole, you belong to me. Because you see only one woman would be allowed to hold my finances..and you chose to take that upon yourself. So be prepared.."


    Wen Shan stood frozen in spot while Yoo Shiro placed a small peck on her cheek before walking out of the room with a small whistle..


    Wen Shan shook her hear vigorously to bring herself out of shock. And then she started recollecting the threatening words and paced the waiting room trying to figure out if what the man had said were mere words of threat or what?


    She went and sat down on the uncomfortable metal chair with a thump and put her head in her hands. She was actually having a minor panic attack..She put her head between her knees and tried to control her breathing. And that is how Yoo Shiro found her when he came back with a bottle of water and a sandwich in his hands.


    Immediately recognizing what was going on,he used to have similar attacked when they had just been rescued,he walked to her fast but maintaining a distance,said,"I was just joking..here,have some water..."


    He extended the bottle of water slowly and as she looked into his eyes and smiled in reassurance..

 Chapter 146 - Apologies

    Wolf woke up with a jerk from a nightmare. He looked around in a panic before he realized that they were in the hospital. So his nightmare really had been true. His eyes fell on the person whose bed was placed beside him. His heart ached as he saw the iv connected to her arm and the way her face was pale as she slept. Who were these people?They were not even scared of the reputation he had made for himself and dared to attack them openly.. It was time to confront that Lu woman and get some answers. Just then,he saw Xie Eun''s face change and her forehead crease into a frown. Seeing her like this,he started to get anxious and got up hurriedly. She was his world and he never wanted her to suffer even in her sleep.


    Slowly,he tried to get off the bed and almost stumbled. His felt his vision fade and then regain. At this moment,he saw that she was getting even more agitated,so ignoring his dizziness and aching head,he stumbled to her and sat beside her,being careful to not jostle her hand that was attached to the IV. He patted her head and eased the frown lines on her forehead,holding her hand carefully so as to reassure her. Feeling his skin against hers,Xie Eun calmed down even in her unconscious state. She clutched his hand and slowly calmed down,resting peacefully.


    This entire scene was observed by Yoo Shiro who stood at the door. He had seen for himself the dependence each of them had for the other. He turned back and went out to get some breakfast for the two people,also leaving them together alone so that they could be with each other.


    Xie Eun had been dreaming that she had been separated from Yu Seok. She tried calling out to him in her dream but he kept walking away from her. Suddenly she felt his hand clutch hers and she calmed down,holding onto his hand tightly and slept peacefully.


    Seeing her having calmed down,Yu Seok leaned against the bed slowly and closed his eyes the medicine still affecting him. The two people then woke up simultaneously, late in the morning. And as if in sync,the two people first kissed each other hard,reassuring themselves that the other one was fine. After the kiss,they hugged each other would have kept on hugging but for the person standing on the floor who cleared his throat to interrupt the two people.


    Light bulb Yoo Shiro wanted to shake his head at these people who were clinging to each other. His brother had no shame! Yoo Shiro walked in and slowly placed the bento boxes on the table. "If you are done filling your stomachs with love,have some breakfast."


    With the entrance of Yoo Shiro,the atmosphere turned a little awkward. He looked at the two people on the bed who were starting at him with bewildered and hostile expressions simultaneuously. Realizing the problem,he went to Xie Eun and said,"Sister in law. I owe you an apology!" He extended a box of chocolates from under the bento boxes and stood there sincerely apologizing. Xie Eun was surprised to see the chocolates and then looked at Yoo Shiro in amazement. Wasn''t this person just staring at her with loathing until the day before yesterday?What changed so suddenly? She wondered if he was pretending and thus decided to test him. Goading him,she said,"Is this because of the surprise that Wen Shan and I gave you last night?" She had of course known what Wen Shan planned to do and been totally in agreement with the plan.But instead of getting angry,he smiled and said,"It was a rather unpleasant surprise..but this apology is indeed because of last night. You made me realize how much you care for my brother and this made me want to apologize to you. Xie Eun looked at him surprised.It was rare that anyone could give such a sincere apology.Either he was really sincere, or an amazing actor, but looking nto his eyes, she decided to give her brother in law,the benefit of the doubt. And so she accepted the box and the apology.


    The three people then shared the breakfast in peace after which the doctor came over to check the wounds. Yu Seok was instructed to rest well for the next few days and pronounced fit to discharge within a day while Xie Eun was to stay in the hospital longer. Naturally, Yu Seok would not get a discharge until his wife was also discharged..using the time that the doctor took to check Xie Eun,Yu Seok questioned Yoo Shiro about the people who had attacked them.


    Yoo Shiro looked att he empty cafeteria they sat in and then stared at his brother carefully,"Yu Seok,do you remember nothing of the time we were kidnapped?"


    Yu Seok paused and thoughtfully stared at the man before revealing,"I do remember some things..But I am not too sure if it is a memory or some sort of a lie made up by my mind.."


    Though Yu Seok did not state anything clearly,he could see the doubts in Yu Seok''s eyes so instead of asking him what memory he had,he started to tell him about the worst memory he had from those days,the one he had never told anyone about.


    "My biggest memory of that time is when that men brought us together. You don''t remember but even though we were kidnapped together, we were held separately. The rat bast*** knew that if we were together we would escape but if we were kept apart,we would not leave the other behind. When he brought us together,I though I would talk to you and we would be able to plan something. But you were in a much worse state than me. Even though you looked fine, I could see that you were starved and almost half dead. I flew into a rage and almost tried to kill him but was subdues easily. His men held me down and then he questioned me.Do you know what he said?"At this time both the brothers knew in their hearts what the kidnapper had asked..but only one was unaware of the answers.


    Yoo Shiro took a deep breath and continued,"He asked me that if I was willing to abandon you,he would let me go..I..I remember flying into a rage and trying to break free Trying to attack him.But Yu Seok,I don''t know if I really chose to abandon you..Because that was the last time we met and then when I woke up I was alone in the Yoo Manor. I went crazy for a while and blamed my self. But I want to assure you that if I had been in my right mind,I would never have chosen this life at the cost of yours!And I owe you an apology for this..It is also because of this guilt that I have been antagonistic towards Xie Eun. I have felt guilty that I did not love you enough and when I saw that you and Xie Eun had separate rooms,I felt that she too did not love you enough!It is also why I was so prejudiced against her. I wanted you to have everything you missed out on. But last night, I saw the love and devotion she held towards you and realized that I was wrong about her. She loves you as much as you love her. And it is why I also apologized to her. Also I want you to know that from this moment onwards I will not come in your way.I hope you will be able to forgive me for my past mistakes and the ones that I have committed against your wife. I understand that a simple apology cannot suffice for my transgressions but I am willing to work hard to gain your forgiveness. May be then we can be brothers in the true sense of the word again.instead of just being each other''s look alike. I know that you want to look for the people who were involved in last night''s incidence and the reason why I am confessing this today is also related..Lady Lu? She is said to be our savior. But I have a hazy memory that is somehow pointing to the fact that this woman is still somehow connected with her brother. Because if she had betrayed him, then it would not have been so easy for her to maintain such a high profile. Even if that man forgave her transgression, he would not have let her flourish.But if she is still in contact with the underworld, why did she approach us to handle Xie Eun? All these answers are somehow connected.Can you please let me investigate this to show my sincerety?"

 Chapter 147 - Lady Lu

    Chairwoman Lu leaned back in the chair in her home office as she received the news of yet another failure. She rubbed her fingers over her forehead cursing the turn of events that had made her helpless like this. She had taken so many preemptive measures to make sure that Xie Eun fell into her trap but nothing seemed to work. She even had to resort to dealing with dirty goons since the Yoo''s failed to kill her. And she did not like the attitude of the young brat. She had saved his life so that they would be indebted to her not so that he could sneer at her. She would have to talk to Elder Yoo and she would have to talk to her brother...She had kept the favors, these two owed her very carefully and she did not want to use both the chances on a small ant like Xie Eun. She did not understand how that General Xie had snagged such a powerful man like Wolf.


    Yu Seok...Ever since she read the name,she was even more worried. She felt it was a terrible coincidence that the person named Wolf was called Yu Seok and carried the same name as the dead child of the Yoo family. If she had not made sure that her father died when saving Yoo Seok,she would have worried that this person was the same as lost child of the Yoo''s..But Yu .Seok seemed to be a brat from the village and he had risen here with the help of the General..And the man was trained really well in avoiding traps and foiling attacks.


    Lady Lu walked to the small bar on the side and poured herself a glass of whiskey. She had come this far,played so many games and tricks,not so that she could lose in the end. She had even planned the murder of her own father to gain her brother''s favor.She did not understand why the little brat Xie Eun could not die! She had killed the girl''s mother successfully and even her husband had not suspected anything until the last moment. Even her father had believed that she was on his side.And even that Xie Eun had been so trusting of her.. But General Xie had put this hurdle in her path to success! She''s had enough of these little games of hide and seek. The girl would have to die!And so would that person named Yu Seok. She hated the name anyway..


    Sipping the whiskey in her hand,she swirled it a bit,the light reflecting off it,making her aura seem mysterious and even more dangerous..Picking up her phone,she decided to use this last chance before she would choose to contact her brother..


    But before she could make the call,her phone rang with a private number. She frowned att his sudden call,because this man usually contacted her only once a year to ask her updates about the Yoo''s and she had already told him everything she knew.


    She answered the phone and the other person barked into the phone,"What is going on with the Yoo''s?They have started investigating the past? Someone is trying dig out files?Why?"


    This caused the lady to frown as she heard this. The person on the phone was her brother''s right hand man and the person she used to spy on her brother. If he was calling her to ask this then that meant her brother was involved now.


    Before she could answer,a cold voice came onto the phone,"Little sister.Many years ago,we had a deal.I have kept my end of the bargain for so long but why do I feel that your end is left a little messy? That time I listened to you and let that Yoo Shiro go,because you wanted leverage with the Yoo''s. I would have preferred that both the brats burn in hell but you advised agains it and let one go..and now that one is interfering in our business. And you have also challenged the CEO of Alpha Companies? Are you crazy? Do you know his people are also trying to dig your information and almost finished off my men in the process? Do you know who Wolf is? I may be one of the most powerful men in the underworld but there is something greater than me. And that is money?Do you think that everyone is scared of CEO Wolf just because he cleaned a few people?No you fool!Killing and murder is common! He is scary because he controls all the money in this part of the country! And you are out to challenge him!Let me warn you if something bad occurs because of you,I will renege on my promise!"


    Having heard her brother ranting at her,Lady Lu also lost her patience and snapped,"How dare you threaten me?Have you forgotten how you reached the position you are in now?And money? I am the one who controls all your money! I have helped make all the fraud companies so that you can launder your money!And why do you think I am doing this? Once the company is in Xie Eun''s hands and if she looks deeply enough she will find the discrepancies and then I will be the one going down!"


    She thought that she had won the argument when her brother''s voice sounded," You may have helped initially,but do not think that I am not aware that you had your own selfish reasons. And you have received your share of dirty money over the years so do not pretend that you have done anyone a favor. But let me tell you,if my interests are harmed because of you, I will make sure that you are buried six feet under the ground before you can say sorry!"


    Snap!And the phone was disconnected...

 Chapter 148 - Yoo Shiro

    Yu Seok stared at the face that looked so similar to his before saying coldly,"No."


    The word was like a slap to Yoo Shiro when he realized that Yu Seok did not want him to handle this matter. Even though he understood that building their relationship would take time,he felt that the olive branch he had extended had been cut off too rudely. He tried to not take thi personally but he was indeed hurt..


    But then Yu Seok explained,"I told you I have been having nightmares. Well in my nightmares,a man is forcing me to choose. Choose what I never understood but I have been trying to make sense of it ever since I met you. I had my doubts from the time I saw you but now I can confirm. You are not guilty. I always saw the dream as if I was watching on the outside. I never understood why it was not from my own perspective.It was because you were the one in front of me. So you were being questioned and asked to choose. And your chosen answer is still ringing in my ears after every elusive nightmare. It is always shouting Yu Seok.. So you can be sure that whatever the kidnappers reasons for letting you go are,it is not that you chose to save yourself and sacrifice me. So you do not need to live in guilt."


    Yoo Shiro felt as if a boulder had been lifted from his shoulders. He had tried to reassure himself over and over again that he had not made the wrong choices but he had been unsure and uncertain. The feeling of not being able to believe oneself is the worst of all. Even now he had trouble believing that his brother was not lying to him. But he decided to believe that it was the truth. He could live peacefully now. But still, the investigation,he could help with.


    But before he could say anything, Yu Seok continued,"My people are already investigating. But there is something that you need to do.." Yoo Shiro felt a chill down his spine,as he saw his brother''s look. Why did he suddenly feel scared? Smiling a bit hesitantly,he asked,"What can I do to help?"


    Yu Seok,looked serious as he drawled,"Xie Eun is going to need time to recuperate. And some peace."


    Yoo Shiro nodded in agreement. He had to accept that his brother was always going to think about his wife first in every conversation. He waited patiently for this conversation to take the right direction, and so Yu Seok continued,"And we haven''t had a honeymoon yet.."


    Grasping the meaning behind his brother''s talk,he decided to tease his brother,"So you want me to take Xie Eun away on the honeymoon.."


    "Only if you are tired of living.",came the pat reply..


    Yoo Shiro rolled his eyes at the pat threat that rolled off his brother''s mouth and said,"Fine fine..no need to try and scare me. I was jut teasing you. Your Xie Eun would kill me even before I said anything. I still do not understand how she was able to tell the difference between us so easily. At times even I get confused!And even you just confessed that you thought that I was you in your nightmares.. Maybe it was a coincidence..So let me get this straight.You want to go on your honeymoon to pamper and spoil your wife.Meanwhile I should take your place and go about pretending to be Wolf so that I would be that Lu woman''s target..How long?"


    "One week."


    "One week!Isn''t that too much?


    "It is..too little..But I don''t want you to suffer too much so I said one week.."


    Yoo Shiro felt like banging his head against a wall. His dear brother wanted him to pretend to be Yu Seok and fed him so much of dog food and then showed as if he cared about him! What kind of care was this where he had to live a dual life with a sword hanging over his head while his brother took a vacation..Sigh..but he had offered to help..so he nodded and agreed.. "Fine!But are you not scared that I will finish off your business within a week?"


    Yu Seok raised his eyebrows and gave a thin smile,"We are biological brothers you know. You may pretend to be dumb and carefree but both of us know that it is actually what it is..Just pretense.."


    Yoo Shiro looked at his brother in surprise and realized that he really had been underestimating him.. He was actually several step ahead of him.. "Fine.. I will get to work.."


    The doctor had just left after examining Xie Eun and she kept staring at the door waiting for Yu Seok to return. She wanted to talk to him about effectively handling the matters regarding her grandmother. They could not live like this with threats hanging over their lives. They were starting a new life and would be expanding their family in the future...just then,the door opened and Yu Seok entered. Immediately he sensed her mood and walked over to her slowly..Seeing him walk slowly,she kept aside the other matter and frowned,"You should be resting!You just had a surgery!How can you just roam about!"


    Yu Seok smiled and slowly kissed his wife on the nose,"You look cute when you are angry."


    This made Xie Eun angry and she pointed at him and threatened,"We''ll see if you think the same thing when I angrily pull your hair out and punch you!You are the most precious to me!So if you want me to recover,then you have to rest well!"


    Yu Seok had a big grin on his face and once again pecked her on the nose,"I''ll think you are cute even when you do all this.But since I am so precious,how can I not take care of what you value. I will rest now..With that he promptly lay down next to her and closed hi eye,pretending to snore loudly..."

 Chapter 149 - Stared At

    Yoo Shiro felt trapped.. Here he was sitting in his brother''s office, wearing a stuffy suit with pile of files in front of him.. How his brother had managed to complete so many files in a week was beyond him. He only had to pretend to read them while here for the next week but he felt as if his brother was a demon. Just then the door opened and Cheng Mo walked in. He placed another stack of files on the side and respectfully said, "These are the files that needed to be worked on. Boss said that you can do this work and then send it over to him when you are done..and he can approve it.."


    Yoo Shiro stared at the growing piles in front of him as if it was an eight headed monster! What was the meaning of this! He had been able to deflect taking the responsibility of running his own business by hiring talented people but now his brother was going to make him work like a slave.. while he was out there having fun! Yoo Shiro looked up as if blaming the fates for giving him such a brother. They had found each other after so many years and instead of going on trip together to bond with each other, his brother used him so that he could spend some time with his wife!Where was the justice in this! (Fates: you want to go on a honeymoon with your brother? Yoo Shiro: Ewwww no!)


    Yoo Shiro looked at his brother''s assistant and complained loudly, "My brother is a maniac! How did he even find the time to fall in love with my sister in law if he is micro managing his business?Why are there so many files?Do you make profits by not hiring many people?"


    Yoo Shiro looked at Cheng Mo and frowned when he saw the man''s face. He was looking at him so intently. He growled under his breath and asked, "Cheng Mo! Why are you staring at me?"


    Cheng Mo nodded seriously and said," Though I have believed the boss to be a maniac many times, it is very disconcerting to listen it from his own mouth. What I mean is you look the same so it just seems unbelievable.. Oh and as far as I know, he has loved Miss Xie before he became a maniac. And our company does have many people but they are handling the existing businesses. These files are investment ventures he is considering so they are relatively new companies that he wants to take over.."


    Yoo Shiro, who had already lost interest in the prattle of this talkative assistant, suddenly looked up with interest. Well Well! This was his chance to get to know more about his brother. He looked at Cheng Mo once again, narrowed his eyes and gave a gloating smile. His brother had left for the hills but this piece of treasure was left with him. Cheng Mo who had apparently been his brother''s aide for a long time. His brother''s most trusted or rather only trusted man..


    Cheng Mo felt a chill through his body when he saw the weird look in the boss'' brother''s eyes. It was not easy for him to look at this person and not think of him as boss but this kind of a smile, it made him creep out. He wanted to cover himself and run out of the office like a maiden from the olden times, who had just spotted a feral dog. He cleared his throat and was about to make a run for it when Yoo Shiro said, "Cheng Mo. Let''s play games.."


    Automatically, Cheng Mo crossed his arms in front of him in a panicky gesture and stuttered "Wh what games?" While Cheng Mo''s imagination was going wild, Yoo Shiro took out hi phone and logged on to the latest shooting game. It was only after Cheng Mo saw the game being played that he breathed a sigh of relief and readily fished out his phone..


    Actually the boss had already instructed him that he had to keep this person entertained so that they would keep busy and not get in the way. So playing games could be considered his duty and it could be said that he was only working. And being a diligent employee, he would enjoy his work to the fullest.


    As the two people started to play, Yoo Shiro began his next mission of fishing information from Cheng Mo. He could not have asked directly as this would be reported back to his brother,but fishing out snippets between the conversation and even if something reached his ears, it would not look over the top and threatening. He had yet to confess about the whole Xu Nora thing and he could not afford to offend his brother at this stage. He ws amazed at the little details he was able to glean and even laughed his ass off as Cheng Mo told him about how his brother had come in with torn clothes on his wedding night. His sister in law really was fierce. Though Cheng Mo did not know the entire story, his guess was accurate. His brother had always had XIe Eun in his heart. He even laughed heartily as Cheng Mo described how a budding actress had tried to drug and seduce him but ended up being locked in a prison faculty. he also understood that his brother had worked really hard to reach where he was today. Yoo Shiro felt proud of having such an amazing brother..


    But as the day progressed, he also realized two important things. Cheng Mo was closer to his own biological brother than he was. He felt envious but also glad. His brother had encountered good people along the way also. He had not been completely alone in this world..


    Yoo Shiro wanted to cultivate the same closeness with his brother and

 Chapter 150 - Towards The Hills

    A big hat graced the head of the smiling person as the car drove towards the outskirts of the city.  Her pale summer dress setting off the vibe for a vacation,Xie Eun sat there looking at the passing scenery but nothing registered in her mind. She was excited but at the same time felt there were butterflies in her stomach. The sudden trip had come as a surprise to her but she realized that she looked forward to it.. Because even though they had been living together and the spark of attraction between them was like fire, they had been immersed in routines and structure. And then when they had finally come together the attack had happened. But on this trip, they would not just be alone, they would be together all the time..She thought of the confession notes that she had prepared and hurriedly put them into her bag and smiled happily. She had already changed her plan and now was going to hand them to him directly.. somewhat. Suddenly, the car slowed down and came to a stop at the end of the road. Xie Eun turned her head worriedly but Yu Seok simply stared at her.


    "Are you too tired to drive? Do you want me to take over? We should have hired a driver instead of coming over ourselves.. "


    When Yu Seok simply gave her a smile, not saying anything ,Xie Eun frowned even harder and was about to reach out her hand to check his temperature in case he was delirious when her extended hand was caught. Yu Seok smiled and kissed her wrist before saying," Nothing is the matter. I just like it when you worry for me. It makes me feel really warm.."


    Xie Eun smiled a little at this, feeling shy and happy at all his sweet talk. She lowered her eyes and poked him in the arm, "Enough of the talks! I want you to seriously tell me if you are tired !You promised to do that. It is a long drive but we can drive alternatively!"


    Yu Seok smiled and said, "I would let you drive, if you had not failed your driving test four times.."


    He winked at her as he said this while Xie Eun narrowed her eyes at him and poked him again, "Exaggerating much? I do have my license! I just don''t like to drive! And I failed only once and that too not because I was not good enough! A fly had suddenly flown into the car and I got distracted. The teacher who was testing was a scaredy cat and got angry because I suddenly braked! And that was many years ago! How did you even know that?Get off the driver seat now and I will show you how well I drive.."


    Yu Seok laughed at her angry face and gently told her, "Your father loved to talk about you. He was really proud of you when you cleared the test the second time.."


    Hearing this, Xie Eun giggled and remembered how her father always teased her about this. That had been the first time she had failed and she had been so angry about it! Her father had teased her mercilessly and told her that it was good she had a taste of failure...so that he could teach her to look at failure in the eye and then overturn it into a win with a smile on her face. It was a lesson that had helped her get through the difficult times. Her smile turned even more softer and she leaned in close to Yu Seok and laid her head on his shoulder, "Yu Seok! you are the best..."


    Yu Seok turned his head and planted a soft kiss on her head, "I know.."


    Xie Eun looked up at him and poked his arm again, "You are such a narcissist.. Now tell me why have we stopped here?"


    Yu Seok smiled and pointed to a gate a little further ahead and said, "I have a surprise for you before we reach our destination."


    Xie Eun felt her eyes widen at this. Had he also been planning a surprise for her the way she was? She excitedly got out of the car and looked at him as he handed her the camera..


    It seemed he had found her something else to photograph.Her heartbeat fastened as she held his extended hand and walked towards the gate. A couple of bicycles stood at the entrance and she was amazed when Yu Seok got on one.Just as she was about to grab the other one, he caught her hand and gestured to sit behind him.A little awkwardly she climbed onto the left and then placed her hands on his waist. Her camera was placed in the basket on the front and soon Yu Seok had started to pedal and the ride began. Her fingers unconsciously tightened at his waist and she rested her head against his nack as she took in the picturesque view. The air was so much cleaner here and the atmosphere so peaceful. There were tall trees lined along the road which swayed softly as if greeting and welcoming them.. Soon the bicycle stopped and when Xie Eun got off and looked around,she felt her breath catch..It was like paradise on earth.. They had cycled downwards so that they were now at the small valley of the hills and surrounding them were flowers of more variety than she could count, and ranging from pale lilac to bright Fuschia colours.it was like a bouquet of more than ten thousand flowers. It was beautiful beyond belief. Unable to take her eyes off the beauty, her hands automatically found his and she hugged him tightly all the while marvelling at this beauty...and once again her hands itched to take pictures but this time she wanted to take pictures of him in the ocean of flowers...But before that, she finally took off her eyes from the beauty, wound her arms around him and leaned up and kissed him deeply...

 Chapter 151 - Everything Is Perfect

    Even as the beautiful expanse of flowers stretched in front of her, Xie Eun had only one thought going through her head. "He is so perfect.."


    She brought her camera to her eyes and clicked away at the beautiful scenery. But soon, her camera moved towards the man who stood beside her. He had angled his face away from her and the camera captured his symmetrical features and she was struck by how clear the latent power in him was reflected against this colorful background. He looked like a ruler even when he was laid back. She sighed in appreciation and quickly accepted the fact that he was her favorite subject to photograph.


    After a while, Yu Seok had lay down a picnic basket and the two enjoyed a picnic of sandwiches and juice. Xie Eun could just marvel at the attention to detail that this man gave.


    Soon they were on the road again. This time they were travelling with the top of their car down and Xie Eun marveled at the rush of freedom she felt as the air blew through her hair. She spread her hands and screamed loudly, feeling intoxicated from happiness and adoration.


    As they ventured deeper into hills, the air turned chilly and there was a bite of coldness. Xie Eun who was dressed in a summer dress could feel her self shivering but she wanted to make the most of it so she gritted her teeth and endured the feeling. This too was noticed by Yu Seok who frowned a bit before saying, "There is a small blanket at the back. Surprised, Xie Eun looked back and indeed there was a folded blanket on the back seat. Gratefully, she spread the blanket across her legs and looked at Yu Seok with a small smile. After a few moments, she asked him, "Where are you taking me? How much further is it?"


    Yu Seok threw a glance at her to judge if she was tired from the journey but she was staring at him bright eyed so he calmed his worry down before saying," Another thirty minutes.."


    "hmm"..Xie Eun muttered a bit and then lay back in the seat, closing her eyes.


    They reached the small get away just as the sun set. Xie Eun looked at the cozy place and marvelled at another beauty of nature. The small house looked like a part of the nature itself. The natural terrain was used in such a way that one would be able to see the farms from all sides. And the tranquility up here was even more astounding.


    She wanted to grab her camera but this time Yu Seok stopped her and said, "We have more time to do this later. Let''s get some dinner and settle in first. Xie Eun was disappointed a bit but then nodded and agreed with Yu Seok, following him in. But inside another surprise awaited her. The inside of the place was dimly lit with small fat candles and a dinner table had been set up in the middle. A number of dishes were laid out on the table and the temperature inside was pleasantly warm unlike outside where it had turned freezing.


    Xie Eun felt herself melt at another of his romantic surprise and could not hold herself back anymore. She jumped at him and kissed him deeply, passionately. She had been thinking of their night together again and again, wanting to confirm that all of that was not a figment of her imagination but even now she felt she was in a dream The situation had quickly changed and this time the two people were clinging to each other..Xie Eun felt like groaning. .Oh God.. help her.. his mouth on her was heaven sent. She pressed herself closer to him and the his hand went to her back, clamping tightly ,holding her to him and pulling her closer, as close as was humanly possible, making her aware of every single of his hard muscles. Her hands lifted to his shoulders, her eyes were tightly closed as she let every one of her senses take control of her body.


    His masculine scent, mixed with a smell of earthy nature, filled her nostrils, filling her body with promise and anticipation of the upcoming night.. Soon the kiss had turned more passionate, more aggressive as his tongue dueled with hers, demanding a submission that she offered willingly. The hand on her back dipped lower, his fingertips moving over her bottom, pressing her further forward so a simple kiss¡ªnot that kissing this man could ever be called simple¡ªsuddenly became about so much more. Her pulse was like a torrent in her veins, her heart hammering so hard and fast that she could hear it in her ears, her knees felt as though they were made of jelly..


    Yu Seok seemed to sense her weakness, her surrender and he lifted her up by the waist, pressing her against the door, still holding her to his body. He had lost all sense of time and all he wanted was to be one with her.


    Her hands curved behind his neck, holding him there for her, and she kissed him as though she were drowning and he was her only lifeline. One of his hand supported her while the pther slowly crept under the dress, kneading the soft skin there, inching slowly, closer and closer to her core. She ran her fingertips over the skin at his nape¡ªshe seemed to love that part that part of him¡ªand slowly wound her legs around his waist, locking his body to hers as much as hers was glued to his.


    The first time was a dream but this time, she kissed him slower, longer, committing every single moment to memory. She luxuriated in the feeling of his body on hers as his weight pressing her into the door. Soon the hand had reached the band of her panties and his other hand had joined in exploring her. He tore away the small barrier and then his hands moved to his own trousers discarding them.. Soon their mouth''s separated but even as Xie Eun tried to catch her breath, Yu Seok had moved his mouth to her breasts. He sucked the protruding tips through the material, leaving a wet spot on her dress. Xie Eun threw her head back in abandon. He lay small kisses all over her neck, suckling and nipping leaving little red marks all over her. Xie Eun, was also lost in passion and the fire within her threatened to consume her. She licked his adam''s apple and bit slowly, enticing him further, encouraging him to enter her. And soon Yu Seok had entered her body. Both of them groaned together at the feeling of being together. After frenzied and urgent movements, the two finally stopped moving as Xie Eun tightened on him and he too found release at the same time as her. The feeling of them being together, made Xie Eun shudder again..


    The two people continued to cling to each other, still half dressed and completely ravaged. Slowly, as if she was dreaming, she heard Yu Seok''s words as he confessed, "Eun-a..I love you." Xie Eun felt as if he had offered her the sly but when she turned her head, she realized that the words had slipped out of his mouth unconsciously and his eyes were still closed. She was not meant to hear these words. And so she cherished this confession even more than if he had made a loud declaration of love.


    Just then a thought struck her and she realized that she could stay like this forever, with her head on his chest, listening to the steady beating of his heart, a heart that she believed to be completely hers.. She moved a bit and then winced unconsciously as she realized their activities may have just hurt her wounds. Her wince was caught by Yu Seok and he immediately came back to reality and worriedly asked her," Are you alright? Was I too rough? Are you hurting? Let me check your wounds." He slowly moved away from her body so that Xie Eun''s legs which were wound around him, slowly slid down. She felt unsteady when her feet touched the ground and thanked the heavens that the door supported her.


    Unconsciously, Xie Eun started to giggle as she took in, this unique and disheveled version of the ever perfect Yu Seok with his hair falling over his forehead and sticking in various directions because of the way she had run her hands through it, the buttons of his shirt half opened and the jeans which he seemed to have stepped out of, she didn''t know when and his worried frown. She giggles uncontrollably and then pecked him on the nose, hugging him tightly before muttering, "No you did not hurt me, my love . Everything is fine.. Just perfect.." Her eyes closed against him and thus she failed to note his stunned expression as she had called him ''my love."

 Chapter 152 - A Mischievous Miss

    After the exertion of their day and the evening, the two people finally enjoyed their dinner later, much later in the night before falling asleep tiredly. In the depths of the night, Yu Seok lay on his back and studied his sleeping wife. His exhausted, sated wife¡ªwho had also exhausted and sated him. The minutes ticked by as he studied her face and his eyes glittered with a possessive light.


    She was like a witch who had bewitched him, he would walk through fire for her, sell his soul and more for her.


    And it didn''t really matter if she did not really feel the same for him or understand this feeling, because he himself did not understand why he felt what he felt.


    Sliding deeper into the bed, he gathered her, who had slipped away from him in her sleep, into his arms and felt her warmth sink to his bones. Felt her turn to him in her sleep and curl into his arms. Trusting him so deeply.. As his body relaxed, he slowly slipped into dreams of a world where they would be together a a family.


    Yu Seok woke the next morning¡ªat dawn, reaching for his wife without even opening his eyes. It seems she had again slipped out of his arms during the night.


    But, this morning, all he found was cold sheets.


    "What¡­?",he muttered and, lifting his lids, and his head, he confirmed that the bed beside him was indeed empty. Stifling a curse, he half sat and scanned the room. There was no sign of Eun-a.


    Cursing freely, he flung back the covers and stalked to the window. Opening the pane, he pushed back the shutters. Dawn was a glimmer on the distant horizon. Abruptly shutting the window on the morning''s chill, he turned back into the room. Scowling ferociously.


    "Where the devil did she go?"


    Determined to get an answer, he hauled on a pair of shorts and a t shirt and strode out of the room. Looking around he checked that everything was where it should be. He opened the door and stepped out looking at the vast green fields and checked that there were no vehicle tracks also.. Nothing was out of place except for his wife.


    He was about to stomp away to look around the house when he caught a glimpse of the note that was stuck to the door. Walking to it, he pulled it out and stared at the lines. His eyes widened and for the first time in his life, Yu Seok''s mouth fell open in shock.He did not think he had ever been accused of being cute.. But this note said a simple line, "I LIKE YOU.. Because you are so cute." He looked around and tried to gauge where his errant wife could be, and if she was playing some sort of a prank on him. Just then his eyes fell on another note, tucked under a flower pot. This time it was in an envelope. The envelope said, "I knew you would find it! Follow the numbers to me.." He opened the note and smiled a small smile this time rejoicing in the contents of the note.. His wife, it seemed was confessing to him, "I LIKE YOU.. because you are so hot, sexy and good looking."


    Finally after an hour of searching and finding the notes tucked in almost impossible to imagine places, Yu Seok collected all ,but one, of the notes in his hand, a wide grin on his face. He had never expected Xie Eun to do this. And he had never expected that a personality like him would actually cherish these little things. In a morning, she had given him the world..


    Yu Seok looked around trying to figure out if there were any more notes and where they were hidden. He was almost dying to hold his wife in his arms. Just then an arrow swished past his head, startling him. Immediately on alert, he looked around and then felt his eyes widen even more. The arrow was stuck in a tree and it had a note pinned to the tree with it''s point. Instead of taking the roughly made arrow, his wife was really talented that she had made such a thing, he looked in the direction the arrow had come from.. but could see no one there. Pulling the arrow out of the tree trunk, he glanced at the note and he felt as if he was about to combust of happiness. He wondered how he was going to ever do justice to such a confession. Xie Eun had left behind all the romantic ideas he had planned to propose to her so that they could marry again with proper fanfare.. Finally he caught a glimpse of the blue denim and white skin, hidden among the branches of a tree. He ran to the tree and looked up into the eyes of his wife who was hanging upside down on the branch, with her knees hooked on the branch. She smiled at him and when he had reached close to her she shouted, "Yu Seok!!!I LIKE YOU because I LOVE YOU!!! And now catch me.."


    Rushing forward, Yu Seok caught his wife in his arms and even before she had screamed for the fall, sealed his mouth to hers, hugging her tightly to himself. In that moment, he had felt his heart almost leap out of his chest when she had let go, the same way the first time it had happened.


    A minute later, they came up for air and Yu Seok confessed,"Eun-a,I love you.. I have loved only you in the past, love only you in the present and will love only you in the future. Forever and Always. Thank you for loving me back.." He kissed her again, taking her mouth in a passionate kiss, putting all his surging emotions into the kiss.


    Just then a loud rumble sounded through the otherwise silent atmosphere. The two people broke away and Xie Eun looked down at her stomach with a frown(cursing it for breaking the atmosphere) while Yu Seok gave her an indulging grin.. He slid her down his body slowly and suggestively and said, "Let''s satiate this appetite first and then we can handle the rest.."


    Seeing his teasing look, Xie Eun scowled a bit and said,"What appetite?" Smiling in a teasing way, Yu Seok controlled himself from laughing at her some more and flicked her on the nose,"Cme on, you hungry cat.It is nothing to be ashamed of. I did not feed you well so naturally your stomach has to protest.Xie Eun scowled and before she could say anything, Yu Seok had turned around. Seizing her chance, she let him walk abbot further and then ran a bit and jumped onto his back. Expecting this from his mischievous wife, Yu Seok automatically grabbed her by placing his hands under her thighs, carrying her at a jog.


    It was only when he had already started walking, did Xie Eun realize her mistake.Last time, she had been drunk but this time, she was aware of everything about him. His slightly rough hands were clenched over her bare flesh,holding her to him. This position brought to her mind their similar position last night when her legs had been around his waist and she felt herself heat up. Even though he carried his wife, Yu Seok was careful to not crush the little notes that she had left him and held them carefully all the way to the small house.


    Once inside, Xie Eun immediately jumped off his back and raced into the nearby bathroom trying to protect herself from giving him an opportunity to tease her again. Yu Seok grinned at his wife''s antics, wondering if he would always have a smile pasted to his lips with her around him and went in to check the ingredients in the kitchen. He had instructed the staff but had not bee able to check if his orders were followed well. Satisfied, he took out the flour and tray of eggs, starting to make some deviled eggs and a batch of savory waffles. It was something that he thought that she would like eating so he had specially tried a recipe for her.


    When I''d run came back, her face was a normal tone but her t shirt was wet,indicating that she had washed her face a bit messily. Yu Seok casually glanced at her and then motioned her close.The moment she was withing a hand''s distance, Xie Eun was picked up and placed on the kitchen counter. Stepping between her legs, Yu Seok growled at her,"Baby, are you trying to tease me to death?"


    Xie Eun frowned at this accusation and was about to protest when she realizes that his gaze was stuck somewhere else.. Her throat dried as she realized that washing her face had made her mistakenly turn her t-shirt see through.and his gaze was making her shiver... The heated eyes of the two people met and Yu Seok slowly stepped back before saying,"Let me feed you.."


    Xie Eun who was about to protest then realized his meaning as he picked up a sliced fruit and placed it in his mouth before holding her by the neck and fusing their lips together.

 Chapter 153 - Elder Yoos Oath

    Chairwoman Lu sat in her library, carefully considering the e mail she had received this evening. It seems the head''s of the finance and accounts departments had been sacked already. This could mean only one thing- that the person appointed by the Alpha group had discovered the anomalies. So finding the truth was going to happen sooner or later. And yet there was no movement from the Yoo''s. Finally, she decided to go to the Yoo Mansion again and this time she would not return until and unless she was able to find Elder Yoo.


    Before she could leave, however, the butler walked in. Held in his hands was a scroll. She frowned and collected the old fashioned scroll. "Madam, this was delivered by someone from the Yoo family."


    Chairwoman Lu''s face suddenly brightened at the prospect of the content of the scroll. Could it be that her request had been met? But then why not just inform her? Why send a scroll? As far as he knew, the Yoo used to have the habit of not leaving any evidences after the deed was done. She looked at the rolled scroll in her hand and smirked? Were they so arrogant now that they would do this. Her brother would definitely be pleased. But the content of the scroll soon made her frown. She read the lines again and again before frowning intently. She had been summoned?


    "Please come to the appointed place in an hour."


    She did not understand the reason but she understood that the people behind this were erious or they would not have been so formal. So, she immediately ordered, "Get the car."


    The butler nodded before hurrying away while Lady Lu pondered if she should inform her brother of this meeting.. but in the end decided against it. He only knew how to use guns anyway. He would only create more trouble.


    It was already dark when the car drove towards the graveyard and everything had turned silent. Lady Lu wondered if she was going to see a new person tonight as the previous one was dead, but she paid no mind to such thoughts and leaned back in the seat. Soon they had reached the graveyard. Getting off, Lady Lu ordered the driver, "Stay here." and went inside arrogantly, not at all afraid of any ghosts lurking in the graveyard. However, if she had only turned back at this moment, she would have known that the driver had already started to hurriedly walk back from the car towards the main roads.


    Inside, Lady Lu was surprised to see the person who had come. But she covered her surprise and bowed deeply," Elder, you could have summoned me home. Why come here.."


    Elder Yoo smiled and motioned the woman close. Once she had come around the grave, Elder Yoo turned his back to his grandson''s grave and started to walk away," Lady Lu, you are an old woman now but I have always considered you my sister and like a daughter. When you rescued my Shiro, I promised on my grandson''s grave that I would help you whenever you needed me. I waited and waited but you never came to get your favor. And now that you finally approached, I have failed you miserably. I can never forget that dreary day when you came to me with my Shiro and told me how you had rescued one grandson but were unable to rescue the other.. And then you brought me here where you had buried the ashes of your father and my grandson. I could not have regretted more and I could not have been more thankful. But I have failed you again and again now so tonight I have invited you to witness my punishment. "


    Lady Lu who had been frowning until now, looked up sharply as Elder Yoo said this but the next moment, she followed his gaze and was shocked. There, was a small bomb on the grave and a remote in the Elder Yoo''s hand.  Before she could speak a word, he had pressed a button on the remote and ,"BOOM"


    A loud sound pierced through the night and a large fire engulfed the grave. Lady Li felt her mouth fall open in horror and she turned to glance at the old man but he had already turned away..She ran up to him and stopped him forcefully,"What...what do you mean by this old man? Are you going back on the oath you made?Do you think you would be able to satisfy me with this. Your grandson is already dead for many years so why do this drama? The only person, that grave mattered to was you,anyways. You can simply admit that you are unable to fulfill my wish! I would have asked for something else!"


    But Elder Yoo paid no mind to the woman who blocked his way and said tiredly,"Yes. I am unable to help you. And this is my punishment. My grandson has seized all the power that I held. So I am just an old man. By now, Elder Yoo had reached the gates on the other side of the graveyard and a cold light glittered in his eyes as he looked into the dark and nodded.


    The next moment, a scream echoed and the old woman was thrown into the car with a sack on her head and her hands tied behind her back.


    The driver cum bodyguard who had just started to walk back towards the car, ran at full speed after hearing the scream. He felt worried and guilty as he thought of the payment he had received for going away from the car for a little while. The person had assured him that he would not be implicated and the old woman would come to no harm. But now he had heard the scream of the old boss so he was worried. But just as he reached the car, he watched the madam coming out of the gates. She was walking hurriedly while looking back. There was something different about the madam but he paid no mind to it and ran to open the door. He thanked the fates that he had ran fast or he would have been fired..Closing the door as soon as the madam had slid in, he closed the door and started the car.


    In the backseat of the car, he watched as the madam, tried to catch her breath. He had never seen her like this and wondered if he should take her to the hospital. But the madam, lay her head back and closed her eyes so he drove silently.


    After the car was long gone, a van drove out of the other side. The windows of this car we''re covered so that no one would guess what was inside. Behind this car was a long stretched limousine and inside was the old man who had just had a broken expression on his face but right now had a serene smile on his face.


    At this time, in the shady streets, a few police cars we''re parked under disguise. They had received the information of an upcoming drug deal and were waiting for the perpetrators to arrive. The informant had told them about that a very important person was about to be present tonight and this one was that had been on their wanted list for a few years now.


    Soon it was time for the deal and many black shadows started to roll outside the warehouse. This man was none other than Lady Lu''s brother who had come to pacify an old customer.


    Then two people were in the middle of a negotiation when suddenly the customer came up with a gun. The man who was selling the drugs, smiled an evil smile. Did this man take him for a fool? Just because he was an old customer, he could get away with this?


    When the man did not receive the reaction he wanted, he stepped closer and threatened," Give me my supply or I will kill you, Wu Tao!"


    "Will you? But that won''t help you, will it? After all, the police cars that you have arrived with and the ones that are waiting for me to confess, they would be extremely disappointed. Now let me tell you something, you want your thing, you don''t bargain and you most certainly don''t try to fix a meeting desperately. It becomes pretty clear that you have become a mole."


    As Wu Tao said this he casually threw the lighter in his hand onto a patch of dry grass. Immediately the grass caught fire and the policemen rushed out of their hiding places, to capture him.


    But Wu Tao had already caught on, and before the smoke could dissipate, he ran from there. As the men opened fire, a bullet grazed by his hand, making him swear but he was not going to let such a small thing stop him! He held up his middle finger and disappeared into the smoke.

 Chapter 154 - Distracted Dinner

    Yoo Shiro stared at his phone in dismay. He just couldn''t believe the problem he had invited. At this crucial time, he did not want to involve Nora Xu but she was continuously pestering him. Finally, he sighed, and messaged, "Let''s have dinner together, little girl. And then we can talk comfortable. Though he messaged her, promising to talk, he called the hotel and especially booked out all the private rooms, so that none would be available when they went to talk. Sighing, he rubbed his hand over his face and hanged into casual wear.


    A little while later, his car pulled into the restaurant and he got off casually. However he had not expected that the moment, he would walk to the door of the restaurant, a little hurricane would run to him and jump into his arms. Catching the girl, he laughed and hugged her, before spinning her in a circle. He forgot his trepidation as he hugged his childhood friend and the sister of his heart. But, before he could even put her down, his eyes met a set of wide eyes and he felt his heart thunder. The girl who had been staring at him quickly averted her eyes as if she was a stranger but his own heart felt uncomfortable. He did not understand why but he wanted to run to her and explain his relationship. But his pride then roared up, the woman had lied t him and even attacked him and made a fool of him. And then she decided to ignore him. They had both been at fault.


    But the indifference on her face stopped him cold. Just then, Nora Xu laughed and pecked him on the cheek, "Put me down you oaf!"


    Seeing her smiling face, he kept aside his discomfort and smiled at her and brought Nora inside. She was disappointed that they would not get a private room, but she put it aside. She could catch up with Brother Shiro and get more information about her love rival in the process.


    Soon, the two people were caught up in catching up but unnoticed by Nora, Yoo Shiro was distracted throughout. He kept glancing at the girl who was sitting quietly at the table, as if waiting for someone. Good, served her right for making him wait every time they had a date. He looked at her professional attire and wondered if she was here for another blind date or for business purposes. Soon, his question was answered when a man in a smart business suit walked in and was guided to her table. He tried to observe her reactions but she continued to sit there staring quietly at the approaching man. But then something happened that , made his blood boil. The man actually leaned down and kissed her on the cheek as a greeting. He wanted to strangle the man. And she did not even object.


    Nora Xu finally noticed his distraction and clicked her fingers to call for his attention. She was about to turn back and follow his gaze when he smiled at her and said," Nora, right now my brother and sister in law are on their honeymoon." Just then the waiter arrived with their food and the two people stopped talking. Lowering his voice, he continued, resolutely ignoring the couple and said," Nora, I am sorry. It is all my fault that I informed you before I found everything. I am sorry for giving you false hope. I want to request you that do not contact my brother. Even if you had been engaged as kids, he is now already a married man and he seems to love my sister in law very much. I know you have missed him for so long but please Nora. I am really sorry."


    Nora Xu looked at the person in front of her and gave him an understanding file and said, "Brother Shiro! I am just happy that he had returned. Yes, I am disappointed that he is taken but I am not so unrealistic that I would not understand the difference between the puppy love and real love that I had for him. I only want to see him and have a friendship with him just like the two of us. Is that too much to ask?" Her voice trailed off towards the end, her lips trembled and the words shivered. Her expression was clearly telling him that she was trying to be brave and he should not force her.


    Yoo Shiro retreated immediately and changed the topic, talking about other things casually. However his eyes kept straying to the couple who also seemed to be enjoying a peaceful meal. Finally, the two sets of people at the different tables had finished their meals and started to walk out. At the gate Nora turned to hug him, making Yoo Shiro promise that he would arrange a meeting soon. And since the man was distracted, he failed to notice the calculating gaze in her eyes as she sat in her car and waved a good bye to him.


    Once the car had driven off,he slowly walked to a darker corner and leaned against the pillar. His eyes observing the people coming and going.


    Wen Shan was in a mess. She had reluctantly come to meet this man today with the clear intention of telling him to stop harassing her. She did not know why this person had crawled out of the woods after being away for so many years! He should have stayed in whichever hole he had escaped to after he shattered her heart so ruthlessly. And then to add more vinegar to her already sour mood, she had glimpsed another jerk the moment she sat down. This man was a player alright. The way he was comfortable with the girl, it was clear that the two shared a close relationship. And yet he had dared to date her. Even of it was all fake, he should have refrained from doing that with her. But soon, her attention was focused on the man that had arrived and she put Yoo Shiro to the back of her mind. He had been repeatedly calling her and even dared to come to the office today! She was going to get rid of him tonight. Throughout the meal she tried to reason with Qian Yu, her one and only ''dear'' ex, but the man was like a slippery eel, changing topics at the speed of lightening. She had been frustrated through out the dinner and already did not know how to refuse his invitation. She cursed herself for being such a pushover and as they walked to the door, Qian Yu once again apologized to her for the past and tried to get closer to her as he placed a hand on her waist. This time Wen Shan felt a revulsion so sharp that she almost threw up on the man. The way he had placed his hand on her made her feel creep out. Her mind flashed back to when Yoo Shiro had done something similar and she realized that even with that jerk ,she had not felt this level of disgust. She moved back or tried to but his hold on her tightened. At this time they had already stepped out of the restaurant doors.


    When Yoo Shiro saw this scene he was inexplicably angry. Unable to think of a reason for such a n extreme reaction, he tried to console himself that it was because of that girl and decided to turn back. But at that moment, he noticed something from the corner of his eye that made his turn back sharply. She was uncomfortable with the intimacy and was trying to subtly remove herself from the man''s grasp. And just as he would have walked forward, he saw her forcible push away the suited man and slap him hard on the face. Yoo Shiro even winced for the poor man but then was incredible happy. He had not been treated like this. She had thought out and executed a punishment for him while she had simply slapped the man. So she must care for him..


    (Author: ".." Weird Yoo Shiro)


    But before he could feel too happy, he noticed the man''s reaction and immediately ran out his hiding place.


    Qian Yu who had been suddenly slapped, felt the humiliation that this girl had meted out and decided to slap her back. But even before he could lift his hand, he was pushed back forcefully and a pair of dangerous eyes flashed at him and pushed Shan Shan behind him. Qian Yu scowled and though he was intimidated, he gritted out, "Look mister, this matter is between me and this woman! It had nothing to do with you so please do not poke your nose in other people''s family matters!


    Yoo Shiro sorted and went close to the face of the man and said quietly,"It is not other people''s matters when you try to take advantage of my fiance.."

 Chapter 155 - The End...Of Mrs Lu

    Chairwoman Lu struggled in the dark as she tried to release the knots that tied her to the chair. She desperately tried to look around for anything that would help her escape but the place was empty of any thing. There was only this chair.. Just what went wrong that the old man had kidnapped her ? Why had they suddenly turned against her? She tried to think if they had somehow discovered that she was still in touch with her brother but then immediately discarded the thought. Whatever the reason, at this moment, she regretted her over confidence that the Yoo''s would not harm her. They were after all, one of the most blood thirsty families once in the past. However, she was not too worried because she knew that as soon as her people discovered her missing, they would take out a search and find her at the soonest. A day had already passed since she had been kidnapped Maybe they were already looking for her.. Her eyes glittered with confidence as she thought of this and gav herself some false hope.


    Just then a man came in and placed a small paper plate with rice in it, in front of her. She snorted at the pitiful food and the paper plate. They dare not take any risk so they were not even going to give her any utensils. She looked at the food with disdain and said," Take it. I don''t want this." Though it had been more than twenty four hours since she had been kidnapped, the old woman had trained her body to sustain hunger for a long period of time. This was because of her childhood training when they were forced to go hungry for longer periods of time.


    The man paid her no attention and simply walked to her before untying her hands and unceremoniously dumping the old woman on the ground. Before the old woman could get over her shock, he had already walked out of the chair. Once the door closed behind her, the man opened a panel on the door and said, "Lady Lu, my master has a message for you. The food is right here, if you do not wish to eat it, then it is not a problem, your companions in this room will smell it and come to eat it. He hopes that you will enjoy their company. The rats are really friendly here. You have fifteen minutes to make your decision.


    This announcement caused the old woman to widen her eyes and look at the food with loathing. The old man knew her weakness that she was scared to death of rats.. She shook her head at this and tried to talk herself out of the fear but it was useless. Finally, she slowly stood up and slowly walked to the food. Finally, unable to sacrifice her pride, she let out a scream and threw the food against the wall. She was willing to suffer than take this humiliation! The scream worried the man who was guarding outside but he only opened the small panel and peeped in, relieved to find the old woman standing there unharmed. When Lady Lu saw the man, she snorted and turned to him, "Were you worried that I had harmed myself? No need. You can tell your master to stop using there dirty tricks. He doesn''t want to kill me. And I don''t mind being tortured. So whatever he wants to know, it is better to talk and negotiate. There mind games won''t work on me."


    The guard once again said nothing and simply closed the panel. This was because, everything the woman said could already be heard by the master. The room that she was being held in was properly under surveillance. Old Lady Lu stood alert in the room, waiting for the dirty trick. She knew that the old man would not have made empty threats and she expected the scurrying and smelly rats to invade her space any minute. She dared not sit on the ground for fear that they would try to climb on her. Elder Yoo observed the scene even as regret invaded his blood for having to do this. She was once like a sister and daughter to him. He did not want to be so ruthless to her but she had left him no option. He needed to know what had happened in the past that had caused all this. Had she really been in cahoots with her brother? Or had she really believed Yu Seok to be dead? And the only way he would be able to extract the truth from her would be when she was out of her mind. He had known that she would not eat the drugged food but he had hoped that he would not have to resort to this. Sighing again and again, he moved away from the cameras and ordered his men, "Release the first batch of rats."


    Soon, a few squeaking rats had been let into the room and immediately their beady eyes were spotted by Lady Lu, who stood at the opposite corner from where the food had been spilled. She clenched her hands and locked her legs because she was afraid that she would just keel over from fright. She tried to track the movements of the rats and even dared not breathe for fear of attracting their attention but she was still not able to see them clearly because of the darkness.


    Soon, she felt something soft brush against her legs and she started to wipe her legs, but she kept having that feeling again and again. Soon the woman started to scream from fright and as her voice turned hoarse, her breath started to turn short until finally her face turned blue and she broke down, "What do you want to know? Stop torturing me and come out and confront me!"


    Elder Yoo was satisfied and ordered his men to pause for a while. The rats were actually robotic and not real. So the men simply stopped the movement of the rats with a remote control. Elder Yoo then turned on the microphone and asked, "Where is my grandson?"


    The old woman stilled as soon as she heard the voice and leaned against the wall tiredly. Suddenly the realized that the old man could see her. He has purposely waited for her to break down so that he could get what he wanted. But even as she understood this, she did not understand why he would ask such a question. As the cold sweat beaded on her forehead, she panted heavily and closed her eyes.When she opened them, there was a deep hatred in them and she shouted,"Dead. Your dear grandson is dead, old man."


    A wild triumphant light glittered in her eyes as she said this. She genuinely believed that Yoo Seok was dead. This gave the old man Yoo a pause and he pondered how to proceed with the interrogation. He had planned to start by asking her Yu Seok''s whereabouts so that she would doubt that they had found him but now..was she really that great an actress.


    The old man''s eyes narrowed and he asked coldly,"Why did you kill one and rescue the other? Both of you wanted to hurt me. So why leave one and let go of the other?"


    This question caused another unexpected reaction in the old woman. Instead of answering she started to laugh maniacally. But soon she answered, " It was actually my plan. You see, of we had killed both your grandsons,you would have been devastated and maybe killed yourself with no reason to live.But by giving you one and taking the other away, we made sure that you would live for your one grandson. We made sure hat you would live with the loss of one and the hell of fear of losing the other one.And out plan worked beautifully, did it not? Tell me old man, was it fun living all these years with the sadness of losing a grandchild.And you even made an oath of protecting your grandson''s killer on his own grave.Your poor grandson must have been so deeply hurt..."


    Elder Yoo was disgusted with this woman and realized that if it had been true and his grandson had been buried there, finding this deception would have killed him. Just as he was about to order his men to release the real rats in to the room, the woman screamed once again,"Don''t you want to know how we chose which grandson of yours to kill? It is a very interesting story. I am sure Yoo Shiro would not have told you about this!!"


    Elder Yoo paused this time and looked at the screen as dread tightened his heart. He did not ask anything this time because he knew that the woman would definitely tell him..and she did tell him..And his worst thoughts came true. The one''s he refused to believe. His eyes flashed back to the nightmares, Shiro had when he had been rescued and at that moment, Lady Li''s shout echoed through the speakers,"Your grandson chose to sacrifice his brother so that he could save himself!"

 Chapter 156 - A Trap

    While the old woman was being tortured, her brother had angrily launched a search for her. This was because he believed that she had become a whistle blower and in order to save herself, she was the one who had informed the police of their underground movements. Who else would have such detailed information of their operations in the past and even now! He had known that she kept an eye on his business but this bi*** had actually fed his information to the police dogs to save herself! He was going to kill her! Wu Tao looked at his hand that had been injured in the scuffle when he had escaped and then at the small dinghy room where he had gotten it bandaged. His house and all his offices had been raided while he had been forced into hiding. At this point he wanted to barge into her home and kill her! But he needed to stop himself. Because at this point, what he needed most was money and she was his cash cow.


    Wu Tao played with the knife in his other hand and smiled as he decided, "The woman had actually dared to go against him. He would kill her as soon as he was done with her. This would be her end." Just then his phone rang and he got the good news, "We have captured the Lu woman. She was hiding in her home. Where should we bring her, sir?"


    Wu Tao smiled at his sister''s foolishness. Did she really think that after betraying him, she would be safe anywhere? Happily he ordered, "Bring her to the warehouse No 365. Be careful that it is not a trap and the police is not following her."


    Wu Tao picked up his gun from the side table and then put his knife in his pocket before leaving the room. A woman with slightly wild hair stopped him when he opened the door, "Master.. Please don''t go. You are hurt and you need rest. Master please let me serve you well and then you can.. Master please." The cruel Wu Tao looked at the woman with contempt and pushed her aside," Get out of my way, you filth. Jut because you know how to tie a bandage, do you think you have the power to stop me." Wu Tao kicked away the woman causing her to be hit by a nearby table and even then the woman crawled to him to stop him. Wu Tao forcefully kicked away the woman and walked out of the small house Unknown to himself, he had kicked away his last chance of living.


    A few minutes later, a small inconspicuous car stopped outside Warehouse No 365. Wu Tao alighted from the car and after carefully looking around walked into the dark place with a swagger and murder intent. He felt indescribable pleasure as he saw his sister tied pitifully to the chair. She struggled a bit and then glared at him, "What is the meaning of this? Why are you attacking me?"


    Wu Tao smiled and arrogantly mimicked her, "What is the meaning of this? Why are you attacking me? Do you think I do not know that you, my dear sister are behind all the things that have happened tonight? I have my own spies and they have let me know everything. Just as WU Tao was about to gloatingly threaten her and ask her for the oversees account information that she had, she suddenly smiled cunningly, making him pause. At this moment he felt a premonition that something bad was about to happen.


    And that premonition came true when his sister smiled cunningly and said," And you my dear brother will always be a fool. Do you think that after getting you out of my way, I would wait around for you to capture me? Of course I was the bait and the trap. I need to make sure that you do not come back to hurt me after all. You think I don''t know that you have been collecting evidence against me for so many years."


    Just then, the door to the warehouse was opened and several armed men rushed in, with their guns pointed at Wu Tao''s head. "You bi***! I will kill you!


    Wu Tao rushed at lady Lu forcefully with the intention to kill her but before he could move two steps, he had been captured and his hands forcefully tied behind his back. His mouth still shouting obscenities, he was stuffed into the back of a police car.


    Behind him, some of the men came forward and unwound the rope on the old lady''s arms respectfully before walking out. The moment the warehouse was empty, though the older woman smiled and carefully started to peel off the artificial skin on her face. Soon the wrinkly skin and white hair had come off revealing a stunning woman in the place of the older one. She discarded the clothes that she had worn and wiped her face with a tissue before taking out her phone and making a call, "Sir, Wu Tao has been handed over to your men."


    The old man smiled at the call and said, "Good. You have worked hard. Your payment has been transferred."


    The woman smiled and said," Thank you sir. This has been one of the easiest jobs so far."


    While the woman walked out of the warehouse, Wu Tao was still not aware that he had been cheated and the worse was yet to come. Because the so called Police was not taking him to the police station where he could escape but to the private yard owned my the Yoo family. It was only after the car had been driven for a while did Wu Tao realize that something was not right. He started to struggle but before he could do much, he was hit on the back of his head ruthlessly, making him faint and lose consciosuness.

 Chapter 157 - Yoo Shiro

    Once again, Wen Shan was shocked when she heard the man claim her as his fiance. But she did not refute. Because, she too had toyed with the idea of having a fake fiance to use as an excuse to push away Qi Jun. But this man who disturbed her on a primary level would not have been her first voice. She would rather have hired an actor. She saw the disbelief in Qi Jun''s face. The incredulity that she could have another man in her life. At this moment, she actually felt exhilerated that Qi Jun was shocked. But in the next moment, she felt regret. Regret that he was also right in his guess. He had not expected her to be able to move on after the hurt he had dealt her. And just like he had expected,she had been stuck firmly in the past. But Qi Jun snorted and said, "Do you think this is some drama? A random stranger will just walk up to me and tell me I am her fiance and I will believe it?"


    Yoo Shiro shook his head and shot down the doubts saying,"And do you think that a random stranger will harass Shan Shan and I will let him go?"


    Though the words of the two men were similar, Qi Jun sounded like a person who was trying to behave like an adult while the murderous intent and oppression in Yoo Shiro''s voice was clear for all to see.


    Without giving the other person a chance to say anything, Yoo Shiro guided Wen Shan back to the hotel with a hand on her waist. And straight to the elevator. He had a suite reserved in this hotel for emergency use. Shan Shan was in shock as she was almost dragged to the room and the door was shut behind her. She stared at the angry man for a moment, feeling the attraction of his magnetic eyes. Their eyes met for a second and her breathing stopped. Tonight, there was no mask and deception between them, just something crazy..


    She felt her heart race at the way he was looking at her now. He wanted her. The knowledge thrilled her, making her forge that she did not like this man. That she did not like any man.


    Yoo Shiro felt his blood race and a certain part of his body turned attentive as he glanced at the dazed woman in front of him. His kind screamed to make her his and not let another man touch her, claim her.


    Moving off it''s own accord, his hand spread out on her waist,  making her feel a spark a shoot through her. She froze, heart thudding, as he inched lower until he reached the hem of her skirt. He paused, silently asking for consent.


    Did she want this? His hands on her like this? Her mind screamed no but her body screamed yes. If she were honest with herself, she''d be thinking about it the second she had seen him. And so she nodded once, slowly, never breaking eye contact. After the night she had just endured, she could break her rules, just this once.


    His big, strong hand ran up the length of her thigh, stopping just short of the edge of her frilly thong. She sucked in a breath. She''d never done anything like this before, not once, and here she was, about to let a man touch her¡ªthere. He was almost a stranger to her and yet... But she wasn''t going to do the things expected of her,she decided..Tonight she''d be the kind of woman who did wild things that she wanted without a care for consequences.. To hell with everyone. She''d be someone else, and maybe, just maybe she''d like it.


    She slipped her knees apart, and he pushed upward, gently caressing the thin fabric of her underwear. She felt all her nerve endings come alive at once, the slow burning embers fanning into flames. Shiro watched her, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth, and she knew, right in that instant, that she was going to have the night of her life. If there had been even a hint of locker or triumph in his eyes she would have pushed him away. But all she saw there was the glittering desire, in response to her own.


    The two people pounced on each other like starving tigers, kissing passionately and aggressively, letting everything slide out of control and soon loud moans and sighs could be heard in the room. The two people spent their passion on each other, pleasing each other and themselves to the fullest before finally falling asleep in each other''s arms.


    But not for long. Deep in the night, Shan Shan woke up. She started at the man who had given her so much pleasure through the night.She could even now feel his touch all over her. Shame washed over her as she though of what she had done tonight.She had made love..no she had had s** with a person that she had no feelings for.


    Carefully, she slid out of the bed and looked around for her clothes. She did not want him to wake up She wouldn''t know what to say to him and she had no idea how he would react. it was better to back off now and then see him again later.She did not fool herself that she would be able to avoid him forever. But she needed time to sort herself right now.


    And so, once she had taken her clothes, she quickly put them in before slinking out of the hotel in the dead of the night.


    Quickly she got into her car but before she could drive away, she felt guilt assault her and she wrote a message but then deleted it. She had no idea about what to say in such circumstances. Finally she decided to message a simple,"Thank you." and then drove off.

 Chapter 158 - A Thank You?

    Yoo Shiro woke up and stretched like a lazy cat as he thought back to the amazingly hot night he had lived last night He could still feel the softness and malleability of the hot woman under him. Without opening his eyes, he stretched his hand to pull her to him so that he would be able to enjoy some more but the bed next to him was cold. His eyes snapped open and he looked disappointed. Kicking away the covers, he slowly made his way towards the bathroom, hoping against hope that she would still be in the washroom. But he was bound to be disappointed.


    He looked down at the part of his anatomy that had woken him up looking forward to a treat and frowned. Guess he would have to use the cold shower. Just as he was about to walk into the washroom, his phone beeped with a message Turning back he saw there were a few unread messages on his phone. He read the first, informing him that their plan last night had succeeded. He smiled to himself. As if failure was an option. But the next moment the smile had disappeared from his face as he saw the message that the woman had sent! What the f*** did she mean by Thank You? They had shared an amazing night together and she closed it out with a thank you? Were women not supposed to be clingy? Not wanting to let go? They why was this woman so different? After the night they had shared, she should have been asking him about their relationship and how he should take responsibility for her. And she just sent him a message! How could she be so laid back about it?


    Another thought struck him at this moment. If she was so laid back about last night, did that mean she did things like these often? His blood boiled and jealousy rushed through him at this thought. Well even if she did these things in the past, they were now in this together and they would be in this together for the near future. He will let her know that it was not that easy to leave his bed! Walking into the shower, he quickly washed off and ordered fresh clothes for himself from the hotel. Within thirty minutes, Yoo Shiro had her address in his phone and had driven off to catch the errant girl.


    Wen Shan had just finished a shower and was putting on her dress when the bell rang insistently. She frowned and cursed, wondering who could it be? Normally at this time, she was not home so she could not think of anyone who would be at the door. Hurriedly pulling up the dress, she let her wet hair hang around her face and walked to the door- only to be confronted by a hot and angry male.


    Wen Shan felt her eyes widen as she looked at the man in front of her and she subconsciously stepped back. His hot eyes gave her a once over, thoroughly satisfied with how she presently looked and putting his hand around her waist, he pulled her to him and growled, "Never ever do this again!"


    Wen Shan scowled as his fragrance surrounded her and looked in his frustrated eyes, "Do what again?"


    "Leave me like this!" With that whiny comment, he closed the gap between their lips and started to kiss her passionately. He reached up and touched her cheek, gently, and the caress made her shiver. Last night had been all heat and fire but now he was going to take his time, she realized, and she liked that. His lips on hers softened from aggressive to coaxing. They were firm and in control as he deepened the kiss a little. He was soothed when he realized that she was not going to push him away. Spreading his hand on the small of her back he pulled her closer. Their bodies pressed closer of their own accord, recognizing each other, deepening the connection. He tasted like the mint and a unique scent of his own: sweet and spicy. His lips, soft but in control, pressed against hers, opening just a little. How she wanted to taste him more. How she wanted¡­ more. He pulled away first, and when her eyes fluttered open, she found herself staring into his big green eyes, losing herself there for a minute. Her heart thudded hard in her chest. It was a teasing kind of kiss, one that promised more to her. She wanted to pull him and closer and continue where they left off. But just then the phone started to ring. The two people were lost in their own world, ignoring the loud ringing but just then the voice mail sounded and the voice of a man echoed in the room. "Shan Shan. I know you cannot forget me. Stop playing games with me. You promised to love me forever. I don''t know why you would play such games. Shan Shan. Call me. And tell me face to face that you don''t love me.. Because I know that you do love me!"


    The voice was like ice water had been doused over them breaking the atmosphere. The two separated, panting hard and looked into each other''s eyes. The last line of the man that "you love me" echoed in the room loudly. Yoo Shiro was the first one to gather his composure as he raised an eyebrow and said, "The delusional brat from last night?"


    Shan Shan nodded and touched her swollen lips in wonder. She had assumed that last night had been an aberration. Something brought on by unexpected emotions and circumstances. But the kiss just now told her that the chemistry between them was explosive and not something that could be extinguished easily. Even now she burnt to get closer to him. She looked away and tried to form a coherent sentence, "Umm.. please sit down.. I''ll get you something to drink.." But she did not move. Her eyes were glued to his lips that had just been on her.,


    Yoo Shiro could feel her gaze on him, exciting him, challenging him. He pulled her back to him and said,"No need. I know something that we can do instead of drinking.."


    A million dirty thoughts ran through her mind at once and she nearly stopped breathing at her own boldness. It was broad day light and she who was a ''good girl'' was indulging in such naughty things..She looked at him with wide doe eyes and managed to say, "You are too bold.."


    His face pulled into a smirk and his hand inched lower, caressing her as he arrogantly claimed, "Only when I know what I want."


    Shan Shan gulped and asked, "And what do you want?" She had tried to sound sexy and sultry but instead her voice came out in a whisper. She was having trouble looking into his eyes without feeling her nerves being frayed.


    Yoo Shiro leaned forward, his lips brushing her ears as he pulled her closer still and murmured a single word answer in her ear, "You."


    Shan Shan felt as if her knees had turned into molten goo. Her past had scarred her, making her feel conscious of her own body. But this man wanted her here, right now. Was she really considering something like this? What was happening to her, Shan Shan did not know.


    But her mind provided the answer-It was this man. His eyes, his perfectly chiseled chin- it was all him. They were like pied piper to her, calling the deepest part of her, hypnotizing her.


    Of it''s own accord, her body softened, indicating her surrender. A low, almost inaudible growl escaped him as she pushed him against the couch. The moment he had fallen back, she threw her knee over his lap so that she was straddling him. She felt his need under her. His thick and hard need for her. Last night she had felt him inside of her and now she could feel it burning for her again. Her fingers inched over the fabric slowly, working him through it. His eyes never left hers as explored him. This sexy hunk of a man wanted her. His need was like a balm to her scarred soul. Yes, she thought. She was also the one who wanted this.


    His hand inched up beneath the hem of her dress. And it was all it took for her not to scream out ,"Yes!"


    Yoo Shiro felt confused at this moment. This woman.. He had come with the intention of confronting her but now all that was gone. He should have been turned off at the thought that she loved another man but there was no such thing. His instinct told him that she was his for the taking but what bothered him was his own need to take her. He put these things to the back of his head as his hand went up her thigh closer to her center.

 Chapter 159 - Nothing To Do

    Xie Eun woke up lazily. Sitting up in bed, she rubbed her eyes and stretched her hands. This was the most decadent holiday she had ever had! Even when she went with her father a few times as a young girl, they would have days packed with physical activities and some junior soldier taking her sight seeing, but here it was just decadently lazing about! It was a wonder that they were not bored but she realized that this was the best way to get to know each other. They did not have to fill their time together with useless chatter. It was enough to just together and read or watch television. Unexpectedly, Yu Seok had even kept some board games and she had been consistently winning in Monopoly! Amazing that she would win such a game. She was pretty sure that he was losing on purpose!.. She turned her head and then suddenly did a double take! Outside the world had changed. A light blanket of white snow covered the scenery which until yesterday had been green. Her eyes widened in excitement like a little child who had just discovered that Christmas arrived early. She had never been in snow! Without caring about wearing her protective gear, she raced out into the snow. And then went back in! The temperature outside was freezing! A single blast of that frigid air had left her shivering. Just then she spotted Yu Seok coming out of the kitchen. He picked up a thick jacket, helped her into it. Next was the scarf, which was tied around her neck and then a hat was put on her head !After putting the protective gear on her with a serious face ,he smiled, "I knew you would not be able to wait! The weather here is very unpredictable! So don''t stay out for long! And wear those boots unless you want to get frost bite."


    Xie Eun glanced at the ugly looking snow boots but happily donned them before rushing out again. However a minute later she was back into the house.. She needed to grab her camera!


    Outside, she first breathed in deeply, loving the new transformed look of this place.


    She brought the camera to her eyes, gazing at the bold and bright light that fell softly onto the pure white sea of snow. The scene was untouched and untrampled by human or animal, just another wonder of nature. Little shrubs looked like white soft creatures under the blanket of snow. She clicked successive shots without pausing for a breath. This blue sky and the white snow with colors of green and grey mixed in, demanded it''s moment. So many shapes and textures to play with. Her eyes shined and the smile never left her lips. Her breath drew in like cold shards of glass and expelled in frigid clouds as she framed the winter beauty in her camera. This is what she always wanted to capture. This nature that was beautiful beyond imagination.


    And the grand and gorgeous house rose out of the sea, an elegant and graceful island. The house too caught her attention. It had looked beautiful against the greenery but now it looked majestic. It was now a part of their memories. The first of many they would have in the future. She would not miss the chance to photograph it. She worked her way to it, experimenting with angles, using the light to A movement caught her eye, and as she turned to follow it she saw her husband moving about in the kitchen. She zoomed in, instead of going closer and clicked a few more shots as he worked inside house.


    But then she turned back. She would lose herself in clicking his pictures soon. She walked a little further away, her camera glued to her eyes as she clicked the tall trees and the small rocks hidden under the snow. She had no idea of the time that passed, until a pair of strong arms suddenly came around her, making her shriek and almost drop her camera.


    She turned back and glared at her grinning husband who had given her a fright. She pouted at him and complained, "You broke my concentration!"


    Not feeling the least bit guilty, he coaxed her," I don''t want my wife to freeze! Come, eat something and then we will go and explore further."


    At this moment, Xie Eun realized that she had been outside for more than an hour. And she was so hungry. Seeing her scrunched up face, Yu Seok took the camera from her hand and clicked a series of her pictures.


    She frowned at him and complained," Don''t! I look ugly!"


    Yu Seok brought the camera down and smiled, No, you don''t. You look cute, as always!"Xie Eun made a face at him even though she was inwardly pleased and said," Did you just drink a lot of honey? You are spouting too many sweet words!"


    Yu Seok grinningly pulled her closer to his body and whispered near her lips," Taste my lips and you will know whether there is any honey."


    The two people kissed slowly and clingingly before Yu Seok gently drew away and whispered, "Enough playing the nature girl. Come and have breakfast and then we can do some real fun activities."


    A veritable feast lay on the table inside. First, she was served with a steaming cup of the best hot chocolate she had ever had and then a stack of fluffy pancakes. The two people ate in comfortable silence, shooting small glances at each other. Finally Xie Eun raised her eyes and asked, "Yu Seok, will you teach me to cook?"


    Actually Xie Eun had been thinking something for the past few days. Ever since they had been together, a thought had been going on in the back of her mind. They had not used any protection.. That meant that she could be pregnant at this moment! She felt a tickle in her stomach as she thought this and was already worrying how she would eat healthy if she did not know how to cook!


    She felt too shy to talk about this so she could only ask him about learning to cook, He agreed readily, pleasing her no end. Finally after the decadent breakfast, Yu Seok held her hand and the two people trudged through the snowy terrain. Xie Eun looked at him with twinkling eyes and asked," Where are we going?"


    Yu Seok smiled and flicked her red nose before answering, "We are going to make a snowman!"


    Xie Eun laughed at this, assuming he was teasing her but soon they reached a small place where a lot of snow had gathered in one place. Her eyes widened and she was amazed that he really had planned a snow man activity for her! She did not know whether to laugh or cry. Giggling she looked at him and asked, "Did you by chance schedule a snow fall just so you could give me this surprise.?"


    Seeing this, she ran to the pile of snow and taking o her gloves, she shoved the`m into her pocket and started to give it a shape. Once two big balls were placed over one another, Yu Seok handed her a few rocks for eyes and a traditional carrot for the nose. Xie Eun stepped back and got a look at her handiwork with pride. her face had turned rosy with the work she had been doing and she looked at Yu Seok and grinned, "See our cute kid! Our little pride and joy!"


    Unexpectedly, she had once again blurted out her thoughts but she never seemed to realize it. Yu Seok looked at her in amazement and irony and a little thoughtfully. She carefully took off her scarf and wrapped it around the snow man. The next moment, She was captured in her husband''s arm and was being kissed out of her mind. After kissing each other passionately, the two people moved back a bit before simply hugging each other in the silence and staring at their little ''kid''.


    A little while later, Xie Eun looked up into Yu Seok''s eyes and asked," Yu Seok? Will you always pamper me like this? Spoil me? Just like this?"


    Yu Seok looked down into her eyes and nodded, promising her, "As long as I breathe, I will always pamper you!"


    Yu Seok hugged her again, holding her against his chest and savoring the warmth of her in his arms. hearing these words, Xie Eun promised the same to him in her heart. Yu Seok closed his eyes and vowed to himself, "Come what may, he would always love her and treasure her just like this. And they would be together forever."


    But neither of them could have thought that the life ahead was going to be full of tests and tribulations, testing their resolution at every turn. And they would at times have to fight the world to prove their love..

 Chapter 160 - Contented

    The week passed in a blur and soon it was time to go back. Xie Eun frowned as she felt that their trip had been too short. But she knew there were many things that awaited their return. She also understood that Yu Seok had brought her here for a reason. And now that they were going back, that too would not be without a reason. But she did not want to leave this beautiful place. She was going to miss the serenity and peace here. She knew that it was not just the place but the time they had together without interruptions was what attracted her to this place.


    As a result of all these thoughts, she pouted at Yu Seok and whined ,"Yu Seok. I want to live here. Let us give up the worldly things and just live here. We can grow our own food and maybe rear some animals. We can just watch the sun rises and sunsets together." Yu Seok glanced up and smiled at her thoughts and flicked her nose. "We can do that when we are older. But we have other things to do now so living here is out of the question!" Her face immediately broke into a scowl and she accused, "A spoilsport is what you are, Yu Seok! I don''t want to think about work things. I just want to live here in this fantasy world! With only the two of us!"


    An eyebrow raised, he questioned, " Who talked about work? Were you not the one who told me that you wanted to see the world on our wedding night? What happened to that dream? So tell me how are you going to stay here and see the world?"


    This sentence took the wind out of her sails and she stared at her husband once again. Did he remember everything she ever told him and make plans to fulfill them? But it made her realize how she had changed. First she had changed these dreams as a compromise for Si Jing and then she had even forgotten about them as she learnt new things by Yu Seok''s side. But now she realized that with him she dreamt of more! She did not just want to roam around the world but she wanted to do it while holding his hand. Sigh! He was really too sweet and meticulous, making her greedy for more at every turn.. She sighed in her heart again. She wanted to do the same for him. Fulfill all his heart''s desires the way he fulfilled hers. Thinking this, she placed her chin on her palm and asked, "Yu Seok? What have you wanted the most in the world?"


    Without even pausing to think about it, Yu Seok replied,"You."


    A minute later he paused in taking he middle of taking a sip of his juice as he saw her stupefied face. That was when he realized, that her company had rubbed off on his making him blurt out things that came to his mouth without thinking them through! But it was the truth so..


    She stared at him with wide eyes and uttered a single, "Oh.." That was one quick, unexpected answer.


    Inside, however, Yu Seok started to panic. He has said too much. After all they had been taking everything slow..(Author: You call this slow?). He raked his fingers through his hair and said, "I...shouldn''t have said that. It sounds like I am obsessed with you and that is not the case..I mean I am obsessed with you but not in a scary stalkerish way.. I have everything that I want but your heart is what I have desired the most for a long time... so this just slipped out."


    For the first time in his life, Yu Seok wanted to hit himself. How did he become such an expert in slapping his own face?


    Seeing his panicking look, Xie Eun let out a giggle and leaving her sear she gave him a hard peck on the lips, "You are so cute!"


    With that, she escaped the dining room, because she knew that wouldn''t be getting any straight answers from her man. And she really needed to wipe away those pesky tears that had come into her eyes. (Xie Eun: Ha! I am not crying author! you are!) Yu Seok watched her go and his look seemed a bit dazed wondering if he had somehow scared her.


    As they drove back, Xie Eun felt her heart ache at having to say good bye to such a place. Once again she looked at her husband and then extended her hand, "Yu Seok, we must come here at least once a here. You ask the owners for advance bookings please?" She lay her head on his shoulder and looked ahead as the peaceful scenery was left behind.


    Yu Seok grinned and gathering is wife in one arm,so that her head was laid on his chest, while his other hand on the stearing wheel, he answered, "Your wish is my command! I will get to it right away! So Mrs. Yu? My wife and I would love to visit this place every year. Would that be alright with you?"


    Xie Eun looked at her husband in amazement understanding his words and turned speechless. He had already bought the place while she was only thinking about renting it! He''d never stop to amaze her. But this also are her realize that she would have to be careful in the future! If he kept spending his money on everything she ever fancied then they would soon be penniless! She remembered that she had read the news about him buying out a pizza company...


    If Yu Seok had heard his wife''s thoughts, he would have laughed and assured her that they would not be impoverished any time soon and even handed her his own wallet so that she could handle their household finances!


    As they drew closer to the city and the calm of the hills was left behind, Xie Eun also started to experience disturbance within her heart. Finally, after a lot of thinking and avoiding, she asked the question she had dreaded the answer to, all week, "Yu Seok. What are we going back to? Are there going to be more such attempts?"


    The attack that time had given them a scare and made them realize the need to act fast. What if they had lost each other. She had seen the half life her father had lived in the absence of her mother! She doubted that she could even live that much without him! And Chairman Lu was not going to give her a chance to survive and grow stronger. The only reason she had been able to live ''peacefully'' was because she had not been considered a threat. Even then Chairwoman Lu had taken preemptive measures by sending Si Jing her way. Only the fates knew what she would come up with next!


    Yu Seok threw a glance at Xie Eun and sighed,"Eun-a. We have not yet been able to find who was behind this attack. We were under the impression that it was the Chairwoman but that seems not to be the case. Chairwoman Lu is presently with us and she has been tortured almost out of her mind but she has still not confessed. Same goes for her brother. That man was also behind out kidnapping but even in that case both of them firmly believe me to be dead. So wither they are very god actors who can survive such torture or there is someone we are missing. Yoo Shiro has been pretending to be me this past week but there have been no attacks. So we can only think that the person''s target is you and not me. Which is even more baffling because you have no enemies other than the Lu''s. We are keeping an eye on the others also but until now there has been no movement from their side."


    Xie Eun pondered this very carefully. It was true that she had never had any enemies as far as she could remember. The only people that she could have offended were the Lu''s. So who was this that was targeting her? And the big question was why? She squinted her eyes and threw out a few wild suggestions, "Could it be someone else that would profit if I and the Lu''s both lose out on the company? Or it could be some competitor who would benefit? Or someone who is offended because of me? Or maybe my father''s enemy? Or maybe someone who wants you and has guessed our relationship and wants me out of the picture?"


    Though Xie Eun had thrown out her thoughts randomly, she failed to notice that Yu Seok''s expression had suddenly stiffened as if he had just thought of something and the temperature around had turned freezing! Yu Seok looked at his wife in amazement that she had casually guessed the person who wanted to attack her!

 Chapter 161 - Revenge

    A multitude of people in black stood at attention waiting for further instructions. Yu Seok and Yoo Shiro stood side by side with their arms crosses as they stared at the two people who had been tied and held in separate rooms. The two men with their identical features and auras were a sight to behold as even the most elite soldiers shivered at the hatred pouring from these people. The only person who was not so affected was Cheng Mo. And not because he had a strong heart but because he had a strong imagination. He was repeatedly assuring himself that he was only seeing things double and there was only one dangerous creature present. And this reassurance was working as long as the two people did not speak!


    Cheng Mo glanced at these people and then the sky. He wondered what game fate was playing by making sure that there were two such people co existing in this world! And right now he was having trouble focusing because both these people were staring at him.. Why were they staring at him? Were they not just observing the Chairwoman and the other man just now? Cheng Mo''s blank face caused Yoo Shiro to be amused and Yu Seok to be irritated finally causing him to growl," Cheng Mo? What have you found out about the other matter?"


    Cheng Mo: "Oh.." So this was what they were asking. Nodding his head, he started, "Sir, as you both planned, Wu Tao believes that Chairwoman Lu is the one who had shaken hands with grandfather to get him out of the way. Lady Lu had been pretty confident but now even she is not too sure. But she has tried to bribe and threaten our people to help her escape. With out focus on these two people, we can be sure that neither of them was behind the recent attacks on Miss Xie.. I mean Mrs Yu.." Cheng Mo immediately changed the form of address after a glare from his boss and continued, "On Mrs Yu and boss. The two other people who you pointed out yesterday are now being kept an eye on but until now they have shown no movement to reveal themselves."


    Yoo Shiro glanced at his brother and raised an eyebrow, "What makes you think that any of these two people could be behind the attacks. I can understand you doubting that dumb Lu Yeona but what about the other person? It most certainly does not seem likely because they gain nothing from hurting Xie Eun or you for that matter. And from everything I have found about this person, they look like someone who is content with what they have."


    Yu Seok looked at his brother and said,"It is because this person seems content that I have started to doubt things. It is human nature to always crave more than what they have. Take me for example. When I first started to understand the world, I wanted to just live. Then I wanted to live well. Then I wanted to get the woman I loved and now that I finally have her, I want her to be happy. With every goal that I fulfilled I wanted more. Now think of yourself, "At first you would have been happy just to see me alive, then you were greedy to know more about me. Then you wanted to get my forgiveness. Tell Me Shiro.. were you content with what you have? The only difference between us is that we crave family but this person has grown up surrounded by money and hunger for power so why would they not want Xie Eun out of the way? "


    Yoo Shiro looked at his brother in amazement. He had forgotten that his brother used to be so philosophical even as a kid but just now...If someone other than him had said all this, Shiro would have been laughing his a** off. But hearing all this from his own brother was like being shown the mirror. Seok was right. Humans always wanted more..


    Another person who felt enlightened was Cheng Mo. Suddenly he felt as if his boss had turned on a switch in his head. His boss could write spiritual guidance books! And he used to think the boss only knew how to make money! The things you could learn every day.. Cheng Mo shook his head in wonder.


    The silence that followed was broken by the grumbling sound from a screen. The two brothers once again looked at each other and then in tacit understanding decided on their first prey. The two had held in the grudges and hurts inflicted by these two long enough.


    Yoo Shiro moved forward and ordered his men," To Wu Tao."


    The ten men nodded and walked in a line towards the small dank room where Wu Tao was held. Wu Tao had actually not suffered much during the time he had been held here. This was because the two people had wanted him to suffer under their hands.


    When the men walked in, Wu Tao looked up smugly from the chair he was tied to. What? The old man and my dear sister finally grew some balls and now sent you people to beat me? Does the old man want revenge? I must say I thought that when he had left the underworld, he had grown too cowardly. But it seems he was too insidious and waited for a long time. But he does not understand that I am not the same man who was in a power struggle with him then! I have the power now, even if I am held here, I will be rescued and then I will teach the old man a lesson! Tell him, I will help him bury his second grandson also!"


    The men paid no attention to Wu Tao''s rambling. The leader looked to the side and two guards broke the formation and walked ahead. They walked to the two side walls and brought out two thick metal chains attached to the walls. Immediately, the ends of these were attached to the hands of the man replacing the roped with the handcuffs. In the next moment, a button was pressed and with a groaning sound the metal chains were pulled hard so that the man was suddenly pulled out of the chair forcefully. For the first time since being held here in this place, Wu Tao tasted fear as both his hands were pulled in opposite directions forcefully and his body hung in air.


    As he opened his mouth to scream, a bucket of cold water was splashed over him. His eyes closed he coughed and spit out the water. And that was when he heard the cold voice, "So Uncle Wu. How are you? Long time no see."


    Wu Tao''s eyes snapped open and he looked at the cold green eyes in front of him. Seeing the man in front of him, Wu Tao suddenly started to laugh!"Haaa! So it is not the old man but the brat that wanted revenge. You have grown up well boy. Too bad it was at the expense of your brother''s life. So she shook hands with you? My dear sister''s standards have fallen! If she had to betray me at least she should have doe that with someone courageous. Not someone who had begged me to spare his life!" Wu Tao''s crazy laughter echoed in the room but there was no reaction from Yoo Shiro. Finally when Wu Tao had turned silent, Yoo Shiro looked at the man in the eyes and asked, "Did I? Did I really beg? I don''t seem to remember.. but since you say so, I will make sure to make you beg.. But before that, why don''t we have a friendly chat? You gave me the option of choosing my brother''s life over mine. So why don''t I give you the same chance."


    Yoo Shiro then turned on the television and the video of the chairwoman started to play from when she was screaming to be saved from the rats. Yoo Shiro naturally had no expectation of any sympathy for the woman but Wu Tao was even more unexpected. The old man started to laugh loudly as he watched his sister struggle until tears of happiness streamed from his eyes! He looked at Yoo Shiro with cruel sadistic eyes and said," This woman dared to betray me! She has been a thorn in my side for so many years! Do you think I will ask her to save you! But I am very pleased today. In fact I will die a happy man if you kill me. Because I have succeeded if this happens. The old man wanted nothing to do with the underworld and the breaking of laws and now his grandson has taken the law into his own hands. Let me tell you boy, well done! But it should not be too hard for you! After all, you already have blood on your hands. Your brother''s blood."


    But this time before the man could continue, another eerily similar sound echoed, "Are you sure of that? Uncle Wu?"

 Chapter 162 - Kidnapping A Little Girl

    "Are you sure of that? Uncle Wu?" Wu Tao was shocked when he saw the person that had just voiced the question. Rather even shocked was also an understatement to the feelings he had at present. How was this possible? He had been sure that the other Yoo Seok brat died. He had even buried his dead body with his own hands, not even giving the old man a chance to be able to see his own grandson. But right here in front of him stood the other twin. It had to be a trick.


    He glared at Yoo Shiro and said," Do you think I would fall for a trick like this? What a juvenile idea. So I should see your dead brother and tell you everything? With the state that my older sister is in and the way you have all these people lined up, it is clear that I am not going to get out of this alive. Death is an old friend of mine. I really don''t care about all this. But what I do know is that I am not going to give you what you want. So go ahead and kill me!"


    Before Yoo Shiro could say anything, Yu Seok was the one that interrupted him, "Really Uncle Wu? Actually you are right about everything, almost. But I really am Yu Seok. It seems someone fooled you and for quite a while, I think. How pitiful. But you see, the thing is we are not going to kill you. After all we don''t want to dirty our hands. Not, at least, with your blood. We are only going to torture you until you give us what you want. But there is someone whose blood I would not mind having on my hands. See, Shiro gave you an option of choosing between yourself and Lady Lu. Naturally, you would choose yourself. But I have another option for you."


    With that Yu Seok pressed another button on the remote and the screen changed. This time the screen showed the picture of a young girl, barely ten years. Her sweet eyes and open smile seemed to be laughing at the person in the camera. Wu Tao felt his eyes widen. Because he recognized the girl. It was his daughter. The daughter that he had been so careful to hide from his enemies!


    How had these people discovered her. This time his reaction was fiercely violent. How dare you? How dare you touch my daughter! I will kill you bas*****!" Wu Tao pulled at the chains that were pulling at his hands and kicked everything that came within reach.


    Even Yoo Shiro was shocked at his brother''s threat. He never expected his twin to be so ruthless as to target a child! Even he himself felt a little uncomfortable at the thought of this. He had only seen his brother as a gentleman. He had forgotten that his brother was also known as Wolf... But even so he wanted to point out but he also realized one thing. Wu Tao really did not have any breaking point. Until now, he had only laughed at whatever they did. This was the only time he looked agitated. As a result, Yoo Shiro kept quiet. He had to trust that Yu Seok would not go too far.


    Finally after a lot of screaming, threats and curses, Wu Tao seemed to get a handle of himself. The man panted as he stared at them with hatred. "So you have a picture of my girl. Do you think that she is unprotected? She is surrounded by shadow guards twenty four seven! You will never be able to touch her! Even if I die, those guards are only loyal to her!" Wu Tao stared at him with crazy eyes but refused to believe that his baby girl was in danger.


    But Yu Seok still remained calm and nonchalantly conversed, "Yes. But you seem to have forgotten that you too once successfully kidnapped us from under the nose of our guards. But that is not what is important. The important part is what happened after you kidnapped us. You see, I plan to treat your daughter the way I was treated. So, I wonder if after she is tortured a bit and left on the streets,how long will she survive? Do you think she will be able to fight with dogs for food?"


    The picture that Yu Seok painted gave every one the chills. The person who felt the most was Yoo Shiro who could only imagine how his brother had suffered torment. He wished he would have searched harder for him instead of believing him to be dead. his hands clenched at his sides and the hatred he felt for this an increased ten fold. before Wu Tao had a chance to say more or get angrier and spout more nonsense, another video appeared on the screen. She was tied to a barrel and crying pitifully. Her hair was matted to her face and she kept repeating, "Uncle, please let me go..."


    This turned Wu Tao insane and his murderous aura increased as he screamed, "You dare to touch my daughter! You bas****! I will not let you go! You better kill me because if I get out of here alive, I will tear you apart with my bare hands!


    It was only as he had shouted the threat that Yu Seok said," Your daughter will be perfectly safe and returned to her adoptive parents none the wiser if you give us all the information we want. You have a few hours to decide. The faster you decide, the faster your daughter will be taken to safety."


    With that Yu Seok walked out of the room without a backward glance. Yoo Shiro looked at the retreating back of his brother. He wanted to tell him that he had gone too far but he had suffered longer and naturally he would be more angry.. Finally coming to a decision, Yoo Shiro looked at his men and ordered," Let him give the information and cross check everything. After everything has been found out, I will let you know what to do with him." Realizing that Yoo Shiro, too was leaving, Wu Tao pleaded and begged and threatened for his daughter until the door closed behind him.


    Yoo Shiro looked at his brother who stood outside the room. His brother had really become a formidable man. He cleared his throat wanting to request Yu Seok to let the kid go but he realized that ha lacked the courage. But he knew he had to talk. Because he did not want such a thing on his brother''s conscience. Yu Seok looked at him when he heard the slight sound and raised his eyebrow in a question. Yoo Shiro took a deep breath and said, "About the child.."


    But before he could say anything more, the man turned back to face the wall. But in the next moment, a mobile phone was thrown towards Yoo Shiro who caught it just in time before it smacked his head. He looked at Yu Seok angrily but then looked at the screen of the phone in his hand. The video was on pause until the part that had just been played out. He looked up at his brother again but the man still did not turn around and said, "Just play it and you will have all your answers."


    Yoo Shiro looked down and pressed the play icon. Immediately the pitiful voice sounded again. After seeing this for a few more seconds, Yoo Shiro was about to throw away the phone snappily when a clear voice from the video said, "Cut!" Immediately the girl''s expression changed and she was back to her vibrant self. Her hands which were seemingly tied to the barrel, came forward and she looked at the camera excitedly, "How did I do aunty? Will I be able to get a role into the drama?"


    The soft voice of a woman sounded from behind the camera," Of course little girl! You are one of the best child actors I have come across. I am sure you will be selected. Here take this." The person behind the camera handed the little girl an ice cream for which the girl thanked the person and skipped away, humming a tune.


    Yoo Shiro looked in amazement. What the hell! He had never imagined tricking that man like this! Wow! He needed to kowtow to his brother. And here he had actually been worried about the mental scars that the girl would suffer due to the kidnapping. But his brother had turned this into a role play for her.. He was right to have trusted his brother in the first place. He placed the phone down carefully and once again cleared his throat, "I don''t even know if I should be amazed at your cunning or scared of it. But..uhh.. well done."


    Before he could say more, the leader from the officers inside, walked out," He has agreed to tell us everything."


    Yu Seok smiled satisfactorily and walked out. It was time for Lady Lu now..

 Chapter 163 - Lady Lu

    Xie Eun sat in the car with her head bent down. She had pleaded with Yu Seok to let her question the old woman. Because she needed to learn to be strong to face the turbulent times ahead. Tonight they were going to expose all the dirty deals done by the old woman under the guise of Lu Enterprises and once it was made known, regaining the old reputation was going to be her only goal. But Xie Eun wanted to look at the woman before her and ask her why she did all those things. Her brother had exposed all her dirty deeds and Xie Eun hated the woman who had brought her family so much harm. She wanted to look at the woman and show her how she and Yu Seok were slowly going to dismantle the empire she had built. But even as she thought these things,she knew that looking at the woman was going to be painful for her.


    Just then Yu Seok came out of the warehouse with a grim look on his face. Walking to her door,he opened it and waited patiently. She could see the sympathy in his eyes. He understood all the dilemma that she was in. On one hand she wanted to avenge her mother and grandfather whose death had been caused by this devious woman and on the other she did not even want to look at her face. Yu Seok always understood her and knew that even if she did not want to do this,she would have to because this was her only chance.Tonight would spell the end of the Chairwoman Lu. And she would never again have a chance for revenge. She inhaled sharply and nodded,indicating she was ready to go in.


    She had just taken a step,when a pair of warm gentle hands held hers in assurance. This simple gesture gave her the strength to go forward.


    Her first look at the woman gave her a fright. The always elegant and haughty Lady Lu looked like a mad woman. Her hair stood at end in tangled knots around her face and her eyes were wide in fright. She was crouched in a corner and looking around continuously. Her face was pale and she looked like a frightened child cowering in a corner. Xie Eun gulped and looked at Yu Seok questioningly. She had wanted to see the old woman lose her temper but the current situation made her realize that she would not even recognize her at the moment.


    Frowning,she called out,"Chairwoman Lu?"


    The small sound echoed in the room but the older woman had no reaction other than letting out a scream and shouting,"No..Take them away from me. Please take them away from me. She started to rub her arms and jump in place as if trying to get rid of something. Finally, Yu Seok pulled Xie Eun out of the room and closed the door behind him forcefully and pulled her towards the car. Xie Eun frowned and asked,"I thought that Elder Yoo was only holding her hostage but this? Xie Eun did not understand how the old woman had reached this stage when they were only supposed to get a confession from her. Yu Seok sighed and explained," It seems Grandfather focused on her weakness and let out a few rats into the room to scare her. However after that she seems to have lost her mental balance and is cowering from anyone and gets aggressive if anyone approaches her."


    Xie Eun widened her eyes and asked,"You mean that she has lost her mind?"


    Yu Seok stared into a distance with his eyes narrowed before explaining," Lady Lu is a very cunning woman. We have no idea if she has really lost her mind and is suffering a mental breakdown or if it is a trick to escape our clutches. Grandfather Yoo thought that maybe seeing you would give them a hint but she has not recognized you. Either she is a very good actress or this is real.


    Xie Eun thoughtfully stared at the door before suddenly an idea struck her. She looked at Yu Seok and said,"Why not use the same trick on her? The kind you played on Wu Tao.."


    "You mean Lu Yeona?" Xie Eun did not have to say further and Yu Seok soon understood. Yes. They could use Lu Yeona to lure the truth out of the old woman. But how much she was attached to the girl was questionable after all a person like Chairwoman Lu probably loved herself the most.


    Before they could think this over,another thought had struck Xie Eun and she walked into the surveillance van that Yu Seok had shown her earlier. The guards recognized her and immediately let her in. She talked to the person there and after talking to him knew about the speaker in the room. Immediately, she turned on the microphone and said softly,"Grandmother Lu?"


    No Reaction.


    Once again,she called out,"Grandmother Lu.I have a special present for you but it seems that you cannot accept it."


    Deliberately, Xie Eun made her voice more gloating and carefully looked at the woman for a reaction.But even now there was none.


    So she began to talk," I think you must have one burning question in your mind. Why did elder Yoo turn against you? It is an interesting question, I think. Well let me enlighten you. You see,because of your schemes in the past, Elder Yoo lost a grandson. And then because of your scheme against me, Elder Yoo also found his grandson. You see my husband is Elder Yoo''s lost grandson,the one all of you assumed to be dead..."


    This time there was finally a reaction. A minor one but it did not escape the eagle eyes of Yu Seok, who stood behind her. He nodded to Xie Eun and she continued,"Interesting is it not. You wanted me killed and decided to use the ace card that you had carefully held for so many years. But that ace itself caused you trouble in the end. But you need not worry. The family has finally reunited and they will definitely pay you back with interest.. Now let us talk about the business side and all that you have done against me. I am rather disappointed that you have lost your mind and do not understand all this, But still I would like to get this off my chest. Your dear brother has exposed every evil deed that you did over the years,with proof by the way. All this will be exposed to the media. Now this naturally spells the end of you and your criminal empire but since this legacy is created by my grandfather, I will protect it by sacrificing you. Now tomorrow when the world id angry at you, the police will arrest a person who looks like you, for questioning. At the police station,the look alike will naturally confess all her crimes and suffer from dementia. Now this was not part of the original plan but you helped us this way. After the furor has cooled a bit, we will naturally stage an epic drama of you losing your mind and killing yourself. Naturally, a cunning woman like you, I cannot give you a chance to make a come back. And no court will charge you if you have lost your mental balance. But then again there will be no need for the courts because justice will be served personally by those you have harmed."


    "So? What do you think about my plan? Ingenious isn''t it? Oh I almost forgot the another side part,"Lu Yeona? Your beloved granddaughter that you have protected all your life? She will be the next one to suffer. Because all this that has been cooked up by you,needed a little spicing up. So I decided to use Lu Yeona as the seasoning on this dish of revenge. As your other crimes will be revealed, we will also reveal false evidence that you forced your dear granddaughter to sleep with many men from a young age so that she would get business for you. Of course they are false but who is going to probe more deeply into all this in the face of other evidence. And naturally, your granddaughter will have to live like a prostitute for the rest of her life. I will make sure that she lives like a high class prostitute instead of having to serve some low class ones. Maybe I will ask my husband to look for an old gentleman.."


    Finally the madness from Lady Lu''s eyes faded fully and she screamed out,"You bi***!I will kill you! You think that you can outsmart me!It is not going to be so easy! Even if you kill me, I will continue to haunt you and make your life a living hell!"

 Chapter 164 - The Takeover

    The morning brought with it the biggest financial scandal that the world had seen in a decade. The Police made simultaneous arrests of various mangers and small and big businessmen all over the country, The people were in a disarray and the media seemed to be having a field day as more and more evidence was provided and the names of the crimes detailed. The senior journalists and the editors who had received the big piles of evidence even wondered if they had enough space to publish all this. Many received phone calls with bribes and threats to suppress the news but they dared not. Because the person behind the news was Miss Xie Eun. Though this name had no value on it''s own,when coupled with the knowledge that this person was the mentee of the great Wolf and also the person behind all this,they dared not accept any bribes. Everyone knew the ruthlessness of Wolf and Xie Eun too, was an unknown quantity, But the company that was worst hit was Lu Enterprises as their shares plummeted sharply and many employees and their families sat outside the company offices,protesting against the corrupt management and cursing them for their greed,while questioning the fate of the company and themselves. Suddenly, a company that had just started to regain it''s momentum and morale, was brought to a halt in a single night,


    Finally, after a few hours, the press received an invitation for a conference. And immediately some of the best financial journalists were sent to cover this. Many predicted that this was the end of Lu Enterprises while many supported this move of reporting the corruption, It was clear that if the company had continued with it''s regular operations then these matters would never have come to light. Another set of vicious and angry protesters stood outside the Lu Mansion calling out and shouting obscenities at the immoral residents.


    At The Press Conference:


    The press was gathered inside the conference room of Lu enterprises. Because of the severity of the situation, the small hall was packed to the point of bursting and reporters even stood surrounding the perimeter of the wall.. The security had carefully vetted the personnel before allowing anyone inside to avoid any trouble.. Suddenly, a careful path was cleared between this and many guards in black entered the venue. Three seats had been placed on the podium and everyone could not help but wonder who would be presiding over this meeting.


    The first person to walk in was the interim CEO that had been appointed by CEO Wolf. This man was in his early forties and a well known financial genius in the business world and many believed that he was the one who had discovered everything that was wrong with this company and would lead the conference tonight.. However the people inside were even more shocked when another figure walked in. This person was dressed in a simple grey suit and held a few files in his hand. But everyone recognized this person simply by look. This person was known as the messenger of the great CEO. Whenever this person opened his mouth in the past,it was on the ''imperial'' edict of the great CEO Wolf. Manager Cheng Mo.. Suddenly, everyone considered the relationship between CEO Wolf and the heiress of Lu Enterprises. Were the previous rumor that Lu enterprises was being sold to Alpha Companies true? Otherwise, why would two of the most influential people in that company be here?


    Suddenly an air of anticipation spread through among the people. Because the next person to walk in could very well be the elusive CEO. But it wasn''t. However it was someone comparable. The person walking in had an undeniable aura of power. Her hair was pulled back in a stylish knot at the nape of her neck while. Her business suit defined her slender figure but also highlighted her features, exposing this person to be a cold beauty. Her eyes cold and determined,she had mesmerized all the men as soon as she walked inside. An alluring mix of power and elan..Obviously this person was none other that Miss Xie Eun, The reporters wanted to surge forward to question her but by the time they came out of the trance she had already been escorted to the stage by the guards.


    The two men on the stage stood straight and only when she was seated did a person walk out from behind the stage and ordered the people to maintain their silence. The first person to be invited to the speak was the interim CEO who explained the crisis to the general public in layman terms,trying to ease the panic of the people who were watching this broadcast being live streamed. After a few minutes,he dropped a shocking bomb as he announced that after today Miss Xie would be taking over her rightful position. as the CEO and then invited Xie Eun to speak and then indicated that the press would soon get a chance to question her. Many people felt that this decision would be the final nail in the coffin for Lu Enterprises and shook their heads at this decision. At this time the company needed an assuring leader instead of a figure head.


    The soft voice that spoke into the microphone was soft and alluring instead of dominating and cold as expected of a business person. Xie Eun started her talk with a crisp apology on behalf of the company and everyone who had suffered causing a wave of approval to pass through the common people. She then talked on to explain the impacts of this scandal to every relevant person and then the steps that would be taken to bring the company back to it''s former glory. Many people who had watched this live stream felt that they did have hope. And as she talked,everyone felt as if they had suddenly been covered by a warm blanket in the middle of the shivering cold. This was no empty headed heiress. The way she talked clearly showed her vision for the future of the company. She understood the implications of everything and had already taken steps to protect the innocent employees and customers. With the entry of a young blood like her,everyone believed that this person would usher Lu Enterprises into the new era.


    Finally a round of applause broke out inside the conference room as well as among the protesters outside who were watching on their screens. They felt as if they had been given sudden hope. This was not the end but maybe a new beginning. Though it was doubtful that this person would be able to successfully implement everything she promised but if she succeeded by even a small percentage,many families would be saved from ruin. Of course many even believed that ths was only talk for the time being and once the matter had settled a bit, this CEO would have disappeared with all the people''s money.


    After the applause, it was finally turn for question and answers by the press. At this point, the microphones in front of the people were turned on and Xie Eun, to took a seat in the middle, ready to answer questions. The first person called out by the emcee actually questioned Cheng Mo,"Manager Cheng? Dies your presence indicate that CEO Wolf is going to be handling the business from now on?"


    Cheng Mo gave a charming smile to this person and without refuting or accepting anything,he said,"My presence here is only to support my junior sister here as she takes over her position. You can otherwise ignore my presence."


    With this reply,Cheng Mo had clearly set the boundaries for further line of questioning and this time the questions were more related to the legal battles the company would soon be facing. Finally, a reported asked about the biggest culprit until now, Chairwoman Lu.


    Xie Eun, who had been answering confidently,suddenly paused. Her expression changing to a sad one she then explained that when her grandmother ad been informed of Xie Eun''s decision to take this tough call, she had lost her mental balance and was suffering from dementia. She was now being held in a safe holding cell and being treated by the doctors and top psychologists. Her expressions showing the sadness in her face as well as her determination to still continue on the right path,won the hearts of many common folk as the meting was brought to an end. She had won the first of many battles.


    And as the cameras captured the woman bowing to the people to say goodbye,the person who wore the proudest smile was Wolf who had never had such an expression on his face even when he himself had made his first billion dollars. Thankfully Cheng Mo was not around to witness this and Yoo Shiro had to endure this huge serving of dog food.

 Chapter 165 - Exhausted

    Late into the night,the lights in the offices of Lu Enterprises were still high. every employee,investor and customer who had woken up to the horrifying news of the scandal, was personally re assured by Xie Eun and the two people who had been lent to her by Wolf. As a result,every question was answered and every doubt cleared withing a few hours. The people who swarmed the office finally started to leave after receiving the reassurance from everyone that things would change and they would receive all answers to any queries they might have. While the press conference suppressed the furor,everyone in the media still continued to curse at the old Chairwoman. Some people who only saw the negative aspects also cursed Xie Eun asking her to resign and appoint someone competent.


    However these voices were soon silenced and by the end of the office hours the share prices of the company had stabilized even though they continued to remain at an all time low.Finally as everyone left,Xie Eun walked into her office casually and almost collapsed into the chair as soon as the door was closed,. Her first day of work and she was already exhausted. She closed her eyes and lay back her head. She had no strength to keep them open. She was about to fall asleep when suddenly she was pulled out of the chair. She almost screamed as she felt the sensation of being lifted but relaxed when she felt the familiarity of the embrace. She wanted to ask when he came there and how she did not know but feeling tired to her bones,she simply wound her hands around his neck and closed her eyes,laying her head on his shoulders. Soon afterwards,even as she was placed into the car she simply kept her eyes closed and let her husband adjust her as he leaned in and pushed the seat back so she could lay there comfortably. Xie Eun slept deeply on the way home.


    Once there,she was once again carried inside and lay on the bed. She smiled sleepily and snuggled into the soft bed. This was nice. She could fall asleep..But, alas, the next moment, the husband did something that simply woke her up. Slowly, he took off her high heeled shoes and discarded them to the side, Next up his hands went under her skirt,directly on the elastic of her sheer stockings. Carefully,he rolled down the stockings,his fingertips stroking her bare skin. The shock that traveled up her body made her eyes snap open and she stared at him. Her overactive imagination made her wonder if he was going to have s*x with her even when she slept. She had woken up once with him inside her when they were on their honeymoon.. Her body heated as she thought of this and suddenly she felt energized. But instead of doing anything else,the man grabbed her pyjamas and slid them over her legs covering them properly even as she raised her hips to help his slide down the skirt and pull the pyjamas to her waist. It was only after her lower body was covered that Yu Seok looked into the watery and shiny eyes of Xie Eun and gave her a smile.


    "You are awake..Good.Why don''t you change into this soft t shirt and I will bring you something to eat."


    She watched him leave but made no move to change the rest of her clothes. He had magic hands which had caused her to wake up. Well now she was not so sleepy so she was only going to lay here,doing nothing.


    Soon after he came back with a plate of stir fried vegetables and rice and placed the tray in front of her. Xie Eun looked at the appetizing food and the fragrance wafting from it made her drool. She realized she had not eaten anything since this morning. No wonder she had no strength. Even as she stared at the food, Yu Seok picked up a bite and brought it directly to her lips so that all Xie Eun had to do was open her mouth and eat.


    Finally after the last bite was over,Xie Eun could feel her lost strength regaining a bit. She wanted to ask for more of the food but knew that if she overindulged at this time that she would have to suffer tomorrow. She pouted at the door from where Yu Seok had walked out and then at the t shirt that was laid there. Lethargically, she unbuttoned her coat,taking it off and throwing it aside.


    She glanced down at the silk camisole she wore and wondered if it would be ruined if she slept with it on. Yes it would be..Sighing she hooked the hem and slowly brought it up but as soon as it covered her face it got stuck in the pins that had come loose from her hair bun. And as a result this is what Yu Seok came to when he entered the room.


    His sexy wife,with her breasts displayed to the full cupped in beautiful lace,her arms raised and her face covered as she fought to get out of the dress. He smiled a bit. Now this kind of clumsiness he could enjoy to the fullest..Walking forward silently,he stopped her struggling arms by placing a warm hand on them. Xie Eun felt as if she had been rescued and whined from inside,"Yu Seok! Help me get out of this!"


    But she had forgotten that in this position, she was displayed really well.. While his hand stayed on her arm, Yu Seok did not help Xie Eun remove the camisole. Instead,he slowly bend down and suckled on a breast through the bra. Xie Eun exhaled sharply as she realized the position she was in and stilled,her eyes inside the camisole widening and her her mouth opening in an ''o''. Before she could come to her senses, her other ni**le was given the same treatment,making her hyper aware of her body and the heat of the man that clouded her senses. After laving them properly, Yu Seok moved a bit and this time,the clasp on the fabric was undone. By now,every sense in Xie Eun''s body had come awake and she was looking forward to what would happen next. However,the next moment,she was freed and pulled forward in to the lap of her husband who was now sitting cross legged on the bed. She wondered what they were going to do next but he simply pulled on the pins that held her hair messily and threw them aside. His fingers gently massaged her head easing the pain that she was not even aware of. She lay her against his shoulders so that he was forced to continue the massage with one hand and her own fingers crawled over his shirt,feeling the muscular strength in them. She slowly unbuttoned the first button,clearly indicating where she thought they were going with this. But just as her hand touched his hot skin,Yu Seok held her hand stopping it from continuing it''s exploration. "Uh huh..You are too exhausted and need to sleep."


    In the next moment, Xie Eun was dumped on to the bed unceremoniously and her husband had wrapped her tightly in a blanket. She blinked up at him shocked. Kissing her lightly on the nose, he said,"I am going to go change and you close your eyes until then."


    Before a word of protest or indignation could leave her mouth, Yu Seok had already gone. Xie Eun cursed him for leaving her like this and wondered if she would be able to sleep now. But after a few minutes, her exhaustion took over and she had fallen into a deep sleep. Soon she felt her husband slide in with her as he pulled her into his chest, spooning her lovingly.


    The next morning, Xie Eun woke up to kisses as her hungry husband had his morning snack, nibbling small kisses over her back..Her eyes opened slowly at first and instinctually she arched her back and moaned sluggishly.


    Yu Seok slowly turned her over, continuing to kiss and nibble before he reached her neck and bit lightly, suckling carefully leaving a strawberry colored mark over the pale skin. The barrier of clothes had already been discarded and Xie Eun''s body welcomed his openly. Ever so slowly, he enteredbher, pacing himself, slowly at first and then faster and faster.


    It was only after a long time that the two people woke up again. But even then Xie Eun was not able to escape her husband who focused on environmental preservation and insisted that they do this by taking a shower together where the two indulged in another bout of snacking with Xie Eun being the main appetizer.

 Chapter 166 - An Interruption

    Xie Eun leaned back in her chair,exhausted once again. She frowned at the time realizing that she had stayed in the office past midnight again. This seemed to have become a habit that she would have to get rid of. She was missing her hubby. Even though they spent their nights together she somehow felt that there were miles between them. This was because most of her time was spent in the office and attending classes. The only time she was him was when he came to pick her up and even then she fell asleep most of the time,much to her consternation. The last few weeks had been too much on her and she wondered how her poor hubby handled everything for so many years. She wanted to tell him to not pick her up but the selfish part of her wanted him because that was the only time they would get to spend together. Looking at the date,she realized that soon it was going to be a long weekend and this time she was not going to spend it inside the four walls of the office. Picking up her jacket,she walked out of the office with a determined look on her face. She was not going to come here in the next two days.


    In the underground parking, a small car was parked in an inconspicuous place. The driver in the car,leaned back in his seat and his eyes were closed. The opening sound of the elevator doors had him open his eyes as he looked at the face of his exhausted wife rushing out. Straightening up,he opened the door and walked around the car to open the door for her. But instead of getting in as she usually did, Xie Eun ignored the door and hugged her husband straightaway. Her head resting on his chest,her arms wound tight around him,she simply closed her eyes and breathed him in. A smile graced the face as he looked down on his wife''s head and an unknown stiffness left his body as Yu Seok too was able to simply hold her after so long.


    They were still in the newly married stage and now had to face so many hurdles in their path,cutting into the time they could spend with each other. There were times when he saw her struggle and wanted to take over so that she could just relax. But he knew that something like this would do her more harm than good. And now he could see the results of the sacrifices she had made as Lu Enterprise went back on track and would soon finish it''s first quarter under her leadership.


    Finally, Xie Eun lifted her head and looked up into her husband''s eyes,"I love you."


    It has been so long since his girl had said this and Yu Seok smiled as he realized that he would never get tired of hearing her say this. Pecking her on the nose, he finally moved back and guided her into the car and drove off.


    As was the norm, Xie Eun fell asleep in the car and was carried into the room bu her husband. Sleepily, she wondered to herself that her husband really pampered her too much. She really needed to do the same for him. And she will..in the morning. She moved into him when he finally joined her and slept peacefully.


    The next morning the two people slept until the sun was high in the sky. Xie Eun had carefully switched off her phone so that she would be unreachable. Opening her eyes, Xie Eun carefully looked at her husband. She realized that she was not the only one who was exhausted. He too had suffered because of her. Staring at him,her fingers tips slowly caressed his face as she realized how thankful she was for having him by her side. Guess it was time for her to pamper him as well. It had been really remiss of her..


    Leaving the warmth of her bed and her husband, Xie Eun walked out of the room. Today she was going to work hard on pampering her husband. Walking into the kitchen she opened the refrigerator door and looked inside. Spying the bread there,she took it out and a few eggs. She then opened the search engine and carefully looked up a recipe. In her little interactions with her husband''s assistant she had understood that sweet bread was one of the dishes that her husband usually had for breakfast when they were working. She had never even known that her husband had a sweet tooth! after the ingredients were gathered, she breather deeply, closed her eyes and joined her hands praying that no mishaps occurred and slowly broke the eggs into the bowl. She almost screamed in joy when the first egg broke properly. And then the second and then the third.


    The next thing,she looked at a recipe and added the milk and castor sugar and essence before whisking it thoroughly.


    "Cut the bread into slices and dip in batter one by one and then place on the iron griddle."


    Her eyes squinted,she peeked at the recipe again and again before placing the bread on the griddle. Feeling jubilant, that she was nearing success, Xie Eun then crossed her arms and waited for the sizzle and aroma that the recipe talked of. She waited and waited but could see nothing. She frowned and sniffed deeply, why was there no aroma of the sugar caramelizing? After staring and staring she finally found the reason and wanted to kick her self!She had not turned on the stove! Pouting,she turned it on high and the first toast thus resulted in a burnt, charred ''french'' toast.. Discarding it, she then tried another batch this time on the slow and observing the toast properly. Finally she was able to find success in the third try and carefully plated the dishes on a tray.


    Just as she entered the room, Yu Seok had started to stir. Placing the tray on the small coffee table in the nook, Xie Eun tiptoed to her husband intending to tickle him awake. But just as her hand extended to tickle, her wrist was grabbed and she was pulled under her husband.


    "Aiyyyaaaa" Xie Eun screamed before her husband buried his face in her neck. She felt herself reacting wildly and knew that if he had his way their breakfast would go wait. She poked at his naked shoulder and tried to push him off with all her might! But he simply snuggled closer and said,"You smell like my favorite breakfast..let me eat you a bit."


    Xie Eun simply rolled her eyes at this and poked him again," That is not me!I made you breakfast! Your favorite! It is thankfully quite simple and I only burned a few toasts before succeeding.." This had Yu Seok''s eyes snap open and he jumped up to check over. "Are you alright? Did you hurt yourself?" His sharp eyes scanned her from head to toe looking for any injuries that she may have caused herself. She simply rolled her eyes and said," I am perfectly unharmed. Look there."


    Her eyes sparkled as she used his distraction and jumped out of the bed. With a flourish,she presented,"Breakfast in bed for my awesome husband."


    Yu Seok was stunned at this and could only stare at the surprise had prepared for him. Smiling at her, he gently took the tray from her and placed it aside and then kissed her deeply before murmuring,"I had no idea you were such a cheesy romantic, my little Eun-a."


    Soon after the breakfast, the two people lazed about,sitting in each other''s arms just soaking in the peace. But this was soon interrupted by the ringing of a bell. Yu Seok frowned at the interruption but walked out to check who had dared to come. Of course it was none other than his own brother. Before he could even fully open the door, Yop Shiro had swiftly entered their home, honing straight towards Xie Eun. Spying her sitting, he said,"Sister in law! Save me from my brother! I did not mean to disturb you but I am simply a messenger and once I have delivered the message I will leave you two alone." Yoo Shiro had already spied his brother''s black face and understood the situation correctly when the door had opened. Giggling at him and this totally unexpected behavior, Xie Eun let him hide behind her. Shaking his head at the antics, Yu Seok ignored his brother and picked up his laptop to work. These last few weeks the bond between the two brothers had strengthened and Yu Seok had slowly come to accept his brother''s ridiculous personality..Xie Eun looked at the childish man in astonishment and asked,"So Mr Messenger?What brings you here?

 Chapter 167 - A Birthday Party

    Yu Seok smiled at as he watched his wife agonize over clothing. The last time they had planned to visit Grandfather formally, she had dressed prettily in a cheongsam but now she was muttering about,"I have no clothes. Really? Your brother is useless. If the party had been planned earlier,what was he thinking coming to inform us today? How could he have forgotten!Would serve him right if I went there dressed in a business suit and complained to Elder Yoo!" She spied Yu Seok smiling as he heard her rant and turned her anger onto him."Yu Seok!How can you smile at a time like this! I don''t have any clothes." This caused his to laugh as he teasingly uttered,"Sigh! How I wish you had no clothes!" A salacious wink was directed at her after this, causing Xie Eun to forget her anger and blush cutely!


    But after a minute she walked over to him and plopped into his lap,"Hubby!I have no clothes." Holding her naturally, Yu Seok pointed at the entire wardrobe which had been taken over by her clothes while his had been pushed to one corner. Xie Eun pouted up at him,clearly frustrated with his inability to understand! Just then the bell rang and Yu Seok leaned back and said,"Go..There is someone there for you."


    Intrigued that he could guess that whoever was at the door was here for her,Xie Eun opened the door and in walked a man, dressed in neon orange shirt with flower prints and a white pants. He looked her over once and nodded approvingly,"So you are the one who is going to be wearing my clothes tonight. Well at least you have good figure!" As Xie Eun stood there, with her mouth gaping, the man clapped and soon a bevy of assistants brought in big bags and even racks were carried in. Xie Eun stared in apprehension as she stared at the colorfully dressed man. She now understood why Yu Seok had been so laid back as she had continued to crib! While she had been whining,he had already found a solution for her.


    But this man was dressed in such loud colors,she wondered if he would suit her taste. She obviously recognized the famous fashion designer Ming Ma but she had no idea about his designs. But since Yu Seok had chosen him,she could wait and see.


    Once everything was set up, Ming Ma walked over to her and holding her hand brought her to the center. Once again he looked her over and then started to talk,"Now,Mrs Yu, I have brought a dozen dresses for you to choose from and they are all the best since they have been designed by me. But if you have any sense then you will wear the one I am going to show you." With that pretentious statement, Ming Ma turned back and slowly walked to the last piece that was being held high. He gestured the assistant forward and two others forward and slowly brought down the zip of the bag. Just like Ming Ma had said,"If she had any sense she would choose this dress''..because it was one that she fell in love with at first sight. It was traditional and modern. Perfect for her first venture into society as CEO Wolf''s wife. Instead of a modern dress,it was a cheongsam made of lace. Seeing her stupefied look,Ming Ma proudly introduced it," Do you see this? This piece is made of the finest silk and the laces of the phoenix and the dragon are handmade. The buttons are carved from gold and will go with the innocent aura, you project. Would you like to try it on?". Xie Eun nodded eagerly and soon rushed into the room to try on the dress. The assistant helped her with the dress but it was only after wearing did she realize that why the dress was so modest. It was illusion. The front of the dress covered her from shoulder to the toes,like a traditional qipao but the back was missing! The daring backless qipao was held together with a two simple chains of what was probably diamonds.


    How was this dress innocent? It was actually a..She had no words for it. She marched outside with the intention of confronting the designer and came face to face with Yu Seok. The man looked her over once and his eyes gleamed in approval. Snorting at him in a totally unladylike way,Xie Eun turned around and showed him her exposed back.. But instead of objecting to the dress, Yu Seok''s eyes heated even more and his soft voice announced,"Well done Ming Ma. Leave the accessories matching this dress here and you can collect your contract from our company."


    Ming Ma grinned at this and did not leave this opportunity to brown nose the CEO a bit,"Sir,Ming Ma is really lucky that such a beauty is going to wear this dress designed by me. And I will leave the accessories here but I have also brought something special. Here is a Suit for men. Though this shade is darker than Madam''s, the pocket square and a few studs on the shoulders will make it a perfect couple worth outfit. It would be an honor if you would try it out.."


    Ming Ma waited expectantly to receive approval for his thoughtfulness but the CEO ignored him. But instead of being offended, he smiled and left the couple alone. The CEO was really an aggressive wolf..the way he was staring at his wife,Ming Ma was pretty sure that was the way wolves looked at their preys. It was better to leave a hungry wolf alone.


    Xie Eun also sensed the danger and hunger emanating from her husband and moved back a few steps unconsciously even as her own body responded. His hands landing on her naked back, slowly glided up and down and he leaned close to her ear,whispering,"Tonight.."


    It was both a promise and threat and Xie Eun realized that she looked forward to it very much. In a daze,she nodded her agreement and then realizing what she had done,ran back to the room. Soon afterwards an army of hair dresser and makeup artists arrived and then it was time to leave.


    As they crossed the place where the attack last time had occurred, Xie Eun felt her heart race and she almost broke into a cold sweat. Understanding her apprehension, Yu Seok held her hand and slowly held her hand tightly. Soon they had crossed the area and reached their destination. Her first glimpse of the mansion had Xie Eun raising her eyebrows in fascination. It looked like an old palace with its tilted and slanting roofs and the lights that highlighted the old red and gold color. It was a testimony to Elder Yoo''s pride in his history and roots and she felt even more exceptionally glad that she had chosen a traditional dress.


    A long line of luxury vehicles entered the ornate gates one by one and Xie Eun suddenly realized the magnitude of the ball tonight. At the gates,she was welcomed by traditionally dressed women who guided the way into the hall. Xie Eun walked in hand in hand and behind the people and soon the big doors of the ball were opened. the old doors made a huge groaning sound and everyone''s faces turned towards the door. The couple that walked in mesmerized everyone and many of the old men in the party immediately realized one thing..the reason why the Yoo villa was holding a celebration after so many years..The second master of the Yoo family had been found. Many old fogies were happy for the old man and many were disappointed that the old man was so lucky. But these people were even more disappointed when they realized that the second young master was not just a simpleton but also the feared and renowned CEO of Alpha Companies-Wolf. And still others recognized the woman on his arm as she had recently been in the financial news for her success in changing the fate of a falling empire.


    Just then Elder Yoo came forward and welcomed the couple in a booming voice,"My dear grandson and grand daughter in law are here! I have been blessed to celebrate your birthday with you after so long."


    With that Elder Yoo clasped his hand''s on Yu Seok''s shoulders and wished him,"Happy birthday my grandson!Thank you for returning to this family and bringing this beauty along to the family,blessing me with a granddaughter!!"


    Xie Eun was surprised and as she turned to see the face of her husband,she realized that he was equally stunned. It seems he had never known his own birthday...and today they were going to have his birthday. Elder Yoo failed to notice the couple''s surprise but a woman, not far away from them noticed everything.

 Chapter 168 - The Best Birthday Gift (1)

    Nora Xu frowned at the couple''s reaction who had just entered. He still looked just like Yoo Shiro but his eyes were more closed off, just like he was the serious one when they were kids. And just like when they were kids, her heart would fasten for him and even now that was indeed the case. She never understood that why she never felt the same for her Yoo Shiro since both the men looked the same. Maybe her heart had always known and recognized only him. Nora shook herself out of these thoughts when she glimpsed at the woman that held his arm and almost snorted. The delicate looking lily was Yu Seok''s wife? He really did not seem like someone who would fall for such a simpering innocent miss. But the way his hand was continuously around her waist as he spoke to the various guests that were introduced to him proved that he really was one for innocent misses. She snorted inwardly and thought to herself that the woman''s dress was really crass. Who wore such an old fashioned Cheongsam to a formal party? Did the woman think that it was ancient China. Nora shook her head and thought that this girl needed to be taken under her wing or she would be ruined in the high society fashion where baring skin was a status of symbol these days.


    Nora carefully checked her own slinky black and off shoulder gown embedded with precious stones so that it looked like she was dressed only in them and compared it to the pale blue color of the dress.. The girl should have chosen a traditional bright color and gone all the way traditional!


    Meanwhile Xie Eun had no idea that someone had formed such a negative opinion of her and stood with a smile plastered to her face. If someone were to aske her what the discussion was about she would be blank because all her senses were focused on her husband''s hot hand that rested on her bare waist. Though he made no hand movement, his fingers were ever so subtly caressing her soft waist, making her unable to focus on anything else.


    Just as a few guests walked away and Xie Eun was about to scold the naughty Yu Seok, a beautiful woman walked over. So enchanting and bold were her looks that even Xie Eun was shocked at the stunner. Her eyes were painted in an ever so subtly smoky hue and her bare shoulders and long neck made her look like a noble. She was so photogenic! Xue Eun was sure that the camera would love this woman.


    However any so called liking her camera could have for the woman was dissolved in the next moment when this beauty came forward and hugged her husband directly, making jealousy rise in her heart. Luckily for him, Yu Seok kept his hand to himself. But in the next moment, Yu Seok raised his hands to the woman''s harm almost causing Xie Eun to burst a vein! But once again she need not have worried as the woman was thrown away directly and rather rudely. But before she could be dumped, Yoo Shiro walked over and caught her. Looking around, he observed that not many people had observed this embarrassing scene but his brother looked ready to murder. His grandfather also noticed and immediately hurried forward to handle the situation. As he saw the hurt expression on Nora''s face, he felt that the child would have received quite a shock since she did not know that Yu Seok was alive. Elder Yoo felt guilty that he had totally forgotten the little girl..


    Before anyone could say anything, Elder Yoo cleared the misunderstanding, "Yu Seok, this little girl is your childhood..fi ..friend Nora Xu. She has only just returned after studying abroad and must be quite shocked to see you! Since you would naturally not remember her when she was a little one with pigtails, let me tell you not to worry she meant you no harm or insult." The few people who had observed the episode and the scene also understood that what happened was really an accident and the matter did not go to any discussions. Though any talk would make no difference to the Yoo family, he felt that the little child was already hurt by them and there was no need to add to it. Elder Yoo apologized to Nora Xu politely," Child. I hope you are not hurt. Yu Seok does not like to be touched by strangers. I hope you will forgive him."


    With moist eyes, Nora Xu gave him a watery smile and assured, "Grandfather Yoo. You are being too polite. I understand and I have been too forward. I only hope Yu Seok will not be unhappy."


    Soon she changed the topic and was formally introduced to Xie Eun. Both women smiled politely at one another but Nora''s gaze held a triumphant smirk that she hid well. Today was the day, that Yu Seok had re united with his family and she had firmly linked his name with hers for tomorrow''s headlines. Soon everyone would talk about how she had been so happy to see her childhood sweetheart that she had cried.


    A few minutes later, a waiter walked to her side and after whispering in her ear, he placed a small box in her hand and slowly walked away. Nora Xu turned gracefully back and gave a hesitant smile," Yu Seok, I have a special gift for you. I know that you do not remember me but I had promised to give you a gift before you disappeared. And now as fate would have it, the gift I prepared then, can reach the rightful hands on this wonderful occasion. I hope you will consider my feelings and accept this."


    With that she presented and ornately carved box to the man. By saying such things, the woman had put him in quite a farce. Yu Seok looked at the expectant face of his grandfather and sighed. It was really bothersome to have familial connections, you had to give them face too! Before he could open his mouth to accept or refuse, Nora opened the lid of the box and many people were shocked to see what was inside. It was a Patek phillippe Star Caliber watch! That was really a precious gift. Nora Xu and Yu Seok must have shared quite a special relationship. Usually fiances bought watches together.


    When, the gift was not accepted, Nora felt extremely humiliated and was about to lower her arms when Xie Eun extended her hand and complimented, "Miss Xu, you have exquisite taste. This is a beautiful watch. We thank you for your consideration." She nodded to the waiter to collect the watch.


    But Yoo Shiro quietly left the scene. Because he felt that Nora was behaving very weirdly. She had known that his brother was back and yet she chose to pretend that she was shocked. By making Yu Seok push her away, she had set up the scene so that his brother would look too arrogant if he refused her request. Yoo Shiro shook his head and tried to assure himself that he was probably over thinking but he also reminded himself to warn his brother of his and Nora''s childhood ''relationship''. Yoo Shiro picked up the watch in his hand and then pressed the button on the side and right there was what he feared. There, carved into the metal were her initials carved with Yu Seok.. Sighing at her childishness, Yoo Shiro made a call and soon after the rare engraved watch was replaced by a plain one that she had given him when they were kids...Satisfied with the exchange, Yoo Shiro walked out with a lazy smile and indifferent face. He would have to keep a keen eye on the beautiful Nora.


    Meanwhile, Nora had succeeded in her plan to firmly link her name with Yu Seok as that is all people could talk about. they discussed the childhood friends who would have been more, had the fates not torn them apart. They talked of the loyal Nora who had kept a gift promised to her friend for so long and preserved it so well. Nobody had much to say about the beautiful woman on his arms..


    But the insidious talking of a few people would never be enough to disturb the love birds. Soon the evening passed and everyone moved to have dinner. But suddenly, Yu Seok who had never moved away from Xie Eun for the whole night, felt her go limp in his arms. Shocked, he immediately picked her up in a bridal carry and marched out of the ballroom shocking everyone inside.


    Worriedly, he ordered Yoo Shiro to call for a doctor and started to check her vitals. He cursed himself for not recognizing that his wife was too exhausted to attend this celebration tonight..

 Chapter 169 - The Best Birthday Gift Ever

    While Yoo Shiro ordered the family doctor to reach the villa urgently, Elder Yoo went to handle the guests tonight. Though he gave a gracious explanation, there were still murmurs of excitement among the crowd as people whispered among themselves. But most of the murmurs were about the romantic scene that had just occurred. No woman was impervious to romance and being carried out of the ballroom by your husband and stirred a longing in many hearts. The most disgusted person was however Nora Xu who was finding it increasingly difficult to maintain gentle expression. As a few young girls approached her, carefully urged by their mothers, she gave them a fake smile and passed a few "mmm''s" and nods that she was listening to their inane conversation. But just as she was about to excuse herself, she heard the girls say, "Did you see CEO Xie''s dress?"


    At this, she swallowed the words she was about to say and looked at the girl with starry eyes. It was just a cheongsam wasn''t it? So what was so exciting about it? She did not have to ask as another commented, "Was she trying to impress Elder Yoo with such a traditional dress? What a foolish move. Who wears such clothing these days? Does she think she is attending a celebration during the Qing Dynasty?" the other girls giggled and just laughed cattily at this.


    But the girl who had just commented shook her head and took out her phone while saying, "Really, Li Na, even if you know nothing about fashion, you need not flaunt it! That dress is the most coveted dress of this season by Designer Ming Ma! He even refused to let the biggest star Sun Luo try it on. That dress has won him many awards but no one was allowed to wear it! It is said to be one of the most sensuous dresses this year! Only the front of this dress is like our traditional cheongsam! Did you notice that CEO Wolf''s hand was on his partner''s waist throughout the evening? Can you guess why? The dress CEO Xie was wearing is a hundred times more tempting than any which blatantly shows skin!"


    With that, the girl showed her phone''s screen towards the others and everyone could only gasp. The demure and plain design from the front gave way to a tempting view from the back. No wonder the man''s hand had stayed around his wife continuously. The girls even blushed as they realized that everyone had been fed dog food tonight. Even Nora could feel her face turn red but this was due to anger. She suddenly felt that those words had been directed at her. After all her skin was also exposed to a great degree.. But she was even more angry that her plan had failed tonight..


    On the other hand, the doctor gave a thorough check to Xie Eun who still lay on the bed asleep with a pale face. After a few minutes, the doctor looked up at the man who was hovering behind him and motioned him outside. Once there, the doctor wrote a few things on the paper and handed it to Yu Seok," Boy, your grandfather is going to be really happy tonight. It is not just his grandson had come back but he had even brought two more additions to the family."


    Yu Seok stared at the paper in his hand blankly and then at the doctor who was looking at him strangely. Two additions? He looked at Yoo Shiro only to see that the other man was also as confused as him. Not liking this, he frowned at the doctor and asked, "Doctor. Please don''t talk in circles! How is my wife doing? And why has she not yet come around?"


    The doctor paid no mind to the intimidating man and instead laughed heartily making Yu Seok scowl more and Yoo Shiro to be pleased! Now he would know how he had been treated by all these old fogies who were his grandfather''s friends! They never took him seriously and now his brother would suffer the same treatment!


    Before Yu Seok could actually kill the doctor the man said, "My dear boy, your wife is pregnant! Almost two months! You say she has been exhausted and busy these days so you young people must have not realized that! I have written a few medicines and tomorrow you must take her to a doctor! I have even recommended her name right here! My friend is going to be a great grandfather!"


    With that bombshell, the doctor knocked Yoo Shiro upside the head, "And you are going to be an uncle!" and walked away, leaving behind two men who stood there frozen in shock..


    Suddenly, for the first time in his life, Yu Seok had the unique state of his mind going blank. He tried to breathe in the air and even told himself that he needed to be happy or something but his mind was a blank.


    While Yu Seok''s brain remained a blank, another person collapsed and fell to the ground with no one to catch him! This was like getting three things for the price of one. Not able to absorb this information overflow, Yoo Shiro fainted with a "THUD!!"


    Yu Seok however paid no attention to his fallen brother and walked over him to where his wife was resting while the guards who had stood at a discreet distance rushed forward when they saw their master on the ground. So the little one that would come into the world would hear the story about how when their father received the news of their brother, was calm and how their uncle had gotten himself a bruise the size of a goose''s egg on his head.


    Yu Seok slowly walked to Xie Eun''s side and picked her limp hand as if it was made of glass. He had dreamed of having a family with her but every time they took a step in that direction he felt worried and scared, wondering if all this was real or was it a dream. Would he wake up one day with all these things gone? He caressed her delicate wrist carefully and closed his eyes. Kneeling beside the bed, he bent forward and placed a sweet kiss on her forehead. Thankful and worried for her at the same time.


    Slowly, Xie Eun came to and opened her eyes slowly. She looked at the room with a frown and wondered where she was and what she was doing. The last thing she remembered was coming to the party.. her eyes widened when she realized that she had fainted suddenly and she looked around in alarm. Only when she felt her hand clasped in another warm one did she sighed in relief and looked at the head that lay beside her hand. She smiled and wondered why she had suddenly fainted and vowed to take a better care of herself in the future.


    She must have made some sound because Yu Seok soon woke up and stared at her. She frowned when she saw his glazed eyes, as if he was in shock. Just what had happened in the party that he had such a look? Before she could question him, he came to her and picking her up slowly put her in his lap, holding her close to him. He then began," Eun-a. Today I have received the best birthday gift from you.. thank you."


    Xie Eun made a face at Yu Seok and poked him," Have I entered some sort of a parallel universe? I did not even know that it was your birthday silly! How could have I given you a gift? Are you mistaking me for someone else?" She put a finger under his eyes and pretended to check and continued, "Is something wrong with your eyesight or is it a memory problem? Do you think I am your childhood friend who gave you an expensive and rare gift?"


    Xie Eun had actually started to talk foolishly because she knew that she was in for a lecture from Yu Seok for ignoring herself for these past few months! But that last part had just slipped out and that too in such a jealous tone! She wanted to hide herself! Could she pretend to faint again? Even as she had such crazy thoughts, her cheeks were cupped by Yu Seok who made her look into his eyes and announced,"Eun-a, we are going to be parents soon."


    Eun-a who was still lost in her thoughts nodded her head agreeably before she realized what he had said. Widening her eyes,she asked,"Wh... What did you say? Can you repeat this?I think I heard something wrong.."


    Yu Seok gave her a big smile and obediently, "We are going to be parents.."


    Her mouth stuck in an adorable "O", Xie Eun then had a reaction very similar to her brother in law and fainted, falling back on the bed, making Yu Seok wonder if this was some sort of a custom..

 Chapter 170 - A Happy Or Unhappy News?

    Xie Eun could hardly believe that she was going to be a mother. And she had never even realized this! She had always believed that she would be the first to know when this happened but the last few months had taken a toll. She glanced at Yu Seok trying to judge his reaction and see if he was happy about it. After all it had only been nine months since they had officially come together and now this...but his face showed no emotion making her give him a worried frown.


    But the worried frown was also misinterpreted by Yu Seok who wondered if Xie Eun was displeased at this. She had wanted to explore the world and she was so young. They could have waited for a child a bit longer. This was his fault for failing in his duty to protect her. What if she felt caged with their baby? He wanted to reassure her that just like when they married, she would have no restriction, he would never stop her from following her dreams. He could be the primary caregiver.. But these words were stuck in his throat because he was not too sure that he could take care of a new baby...on his own..


    While these two people were stuck in their own thoughts, there was a crisp knock on the door and Elder Yoo entered the place with a big smile on his face. He had received the happy news and it was taking all his control to not break out into a happy dance. After so many years the Yoo Mansion was going to echo with a child''s laughter.


    He marched into the room, almost swinging his stick about like a cartoon character and following him was a butler, carrying a tray.


    Elder Yoo looked down into his grand daughter''s hazed eyes and laughed heartily! "My little child! My wife also had a similar look when she discovered she was pregnant! You are a very lucky child to our Yoo family! First you brought my Yu Seok back and then I got such a pretty daughter in law and now a great grand child! The heavens have truly blessed me!"


    Since, his newly found grandson had already done this important job, Yu Seok was relegated to the secondary status as he was hit upside the head and scolded, "Why do you have such a mean face, boy? Are you trying to get my great grandchild to be scared of you? If you dare to bully this little girl or my great grandchild, I will have you whipped!"


    Xie Eun''s eyes widened in disbelief when she saw the way Elder Yoo simply disregarded her husband and he let him! She was pretty sure even her own father who was Yu Seok''s mentor would never have dared to do something like this! But she was happy that her husband was getting to experience this also. This type of brusque love was really valuable..


    While she was pondering this, Elder Yoo was also observing her ever changing expressions and was even more satisfied, almost beaming with approval. He gestured to the butler who brought forward the tray. Elder Yoo picked up a file from the top and placed it in Xie Eun''s hand, "This is a house for both of you! Yes I know that you have your own place but still I want you to have this place also. This place was where I spent the happiest times with my wife and has a very good feng shui! So even if you don''t live here, I want you to have this and hold onto it in life. This is my first time meeting gift to you."


    Even as Xie Eun tried to refuse this, Yu Seok caught her eye and signaled her not to. All this was not money but the blessings of their elders. Next he handed her a thick red envelope and said, "This is for you and my future great grandchildren. You cannot refuse this also! I have no idea how long I will live so I want you to have this! And, child, you must promise to visit me in the future! Don''t worry, I have already bought a place near the area that you live so you will not have to travel too much."


    Before Xie Eun could say anything to this, another voice chimed in, "Yes. Extremely nearby! This old man has brought the property that is adjacent to where your land ends, sister in law. So you have a new neighbor!"


    Elder Yoo scowled at his other grandson and snidely commented," So you have woken up, eh? How can you even call yourself a man, fainting at such a happy news! And that too when you are going to be an uncle! If you were going to be a father and had fainted then I could have still tried to understand! Useless boy is what you are! No sense of responsibility .The elder brother and still single! Only knowing how to play games on the computer! As if that will help him find a wife and an heir! At least I finally have a sensible grandson."


    Yoo Shiro grinned widely at his grandfather and said, "I could use my computer and gaming skills to give you a few robot grandbabies. Would you like them grandfather? And I do have a few wives in the games I play! So really why go for one when you have a harem.."


    Xie Eun was about to break into giggles when someone coughed delicately from the door and said," I think I may have come at the wrong time.."


    The icy voice, brought a smile to Xie Eun''s face and she squealed from the bed while Shan Shan gave her a smile and greeted the others, "Hello Elder Yoo. I am Wen Shan. I am sorry to have interrupted your family time. I came here with my grandfather and when I heard that Xie Eun was unwell, I could not bring myself to leave so requested your staff to bring me here. I hope you do not mind. I can see that Xie Eun is doing well for now so I will just take my leave."


    Elder Yoo smiled at the girl, even while his eyes looked calculatingly at his mischievous grandson and warmly welcomed the other girl. He naturally knew what was going on in each of his grandson''s life. The two people ignored the man who stood there looking as if he had swallowed a ball of fire and Elder Yoo said," No No! It is perfectly fine! We have been remiss in attending our guests tonight. You sit here and we will see them off. Come Yu Seok and Yoo Shiro."


    Yu Seok looked at his wife who was looking down and then at Wen Shan. Giving her a polite nod of acknowledgement, he followed his grandfather while Yoo Shiro stood there looking lost, as if a ton of bricks were tied to his feet. He wanted to clarify that he was just teasing his grandfather but no sound seemed to be coming out. And then he observed that the girl was not even glancing at him and he remembered the cold treatment that she had given him after their one night and day together, he gathered his ego and walked out of the room. It was only after Yoo Shiro had left that the stiffness in Wen Shan receded a little and the two girls started talking casually. Xie Eun carefully avoided the topic of pregnancy because she wanted to be sure of her husband''s feeling on this matter. Soon, Shan Shan was also called away and Xie Eun lay there alone staring up at the ceiling. She tried to analyse her feelings slowly. Her life was really changing too fast. She had never expected to become a mom in her twenties! It had always been somewhat in the distant future but she realized that she had also grown in these few months. Earlier she would have panicked and maybe even been unhappy with a pregnancy wondering if she would never be able to chase her dreams. But with Yu Seok by her side, she knew that she would be able to do everything she had dreamed of and things that she had never dreamed of achieving.


    But Yu Seok''s reaction was what worried her.. was he really unhappy. However in the next moment, her own resilient self spoke up,"Well! It''s not like I got pregnant by myself! So if he thinks that he can be unhappy over their little bean then she will... tickle him to death!"


    Xie Eun placed a hand on her stomach and spoke loudly, "Don''t you worry little bean! I''ll set your daddy right very soon."


    This little conversation was however heard by the "little bean''s " father who felt only relieved at this and was soon seen grinning at a wall pretty loonily! All was well in his world..

 Chapter 171 - A Friend

    After a refreshing and surprising weekend, Xie Eun went into the office fully recharged. The only difference that could be seen was that instead of the high heeled torture devices, she was wearing comfortable flats. Since the couple had spent the weekend together, they had however not realized that there was now news circulating about them. When the lost heir to one of the most powerful family turns up suddenly with an even more precious identity, it is next to impossible to hide such explosive news. Soon, news articles had appeared on various online media about how the second young master and the CEO of an international conglomerate had turned out to be the same person. Some people even nodded that this was really true blood, coming back to the bosom of your rich and powerful family with equal riches and power. While some people could only shake their heads at this story. After a while many persevering journalists finally found the truth about how the heir had gone missing.. And though these facts were bare bones, they were enough to jog many powerful imaginations. From the boy on the streets to his marriage everything was researched. And this research brought about another shocking fact. The marriage of the recalcitrant CEO. The person who was coveted by many women, who was the bachelor number one was actually never a bachelor and had married his wife the day after she turned legally eligible for marriage!


    This was practically a romance novel about young love! Every woman who aw this could only sigh in appreciation! And there were many girls who were disappointed! But then they came to know that his wife was the hard working CEO of Lu Enterprises, they could only look at themselves with inferiority complex. All this happened over a span of less than thirty six hours and thus this was one of the hottest topics at present. The employees at Lu Enterprises could only stare at their CEO wide eyed and appreciate that this person was the big bad Wolf''s woman. Their CEO was really sweet, most of the time!"


    Many female employees wanted to approach her and question on how she handled such a person when another piece of news broke out, about how her husband waited for her in the office basement every evening. Suddenly, Lu Enterprises was going to have lots of hard working employees who would be working over time!


    But at present, Xie Eun was unaware of all this as she walked towards the office, seemingly unaware of the gazes that were fixed on her. It was only after they had entered the private elevator did she turn to Cheng Mo and ask,"Assistant Cheng? Is there something that I am unaware of? Why was everyone staring at me?"


    Cheng Mo cleared his throat and presented his tablet to the CEO, "Mam, this is the reason why you are being stared at.."


    As Xie Eun read, an amused smile graced her face. It seems these people were really good! They had at the very least found fifty percent facts! And what they had not, they had used creativity to the highest. Sensing his chance, Cheng Mo decided to seize it to satisfy his curiosity, "Madam? Is it really true like the rumors are going that Sir married you without seeing you?"


    Cheng Mo of course knew that this was not totally true. Because his boss had known his wife and if he was bold enough he would even say that the Beast had been in love with this beauty when they married. So there was only one question that he had been unable to find an answer to, "How and when did the boss and Miss Xie meet for the first time!"


    Xie Eun gave a sly smile and mimed as if she was zipping her mouth much to the resentment of Cheng Mo who had repeatedly tried to get this information from both parties! Cheng Mo glared at the back of the Boss Missus (his name for the boss'' wife) and sighed repeatedly following behind. (Author: *cough cough* Does that mean that the new baby is going to get the moniker boss baby?" Cheng Mo: Yes! all with the background music of Despacito! Wait! There is going to be a boss baby coming soon? *eyes rolling back..* Author: "you are not allowed to faint!")


    Soon the morning had passed in a blur and it was almost lunch time when the receptionist frantically called up, "Assistant Cheng! A lady is here! She is insisting on meeting the CEO even though she has no appointment! And she insists that she is the CEO''s husband''s childhood friend and Madam will not refuse her. Her name is Nora Xu."


    Xie Eun, who was about to leave for lunch, since she had promised Yu Seok that she would not be skipping any meals, frowned as she heard the name. Honestly, with all the excitement from that night, Xie Eun had not remembered this person but once Cheng Mo mentioned that she was a childhood friend, she suddenly had the recollection of that strange woman hugging her husband! Her eyes narrowing from, she agreed and soon said," Assistant Cheng Mo, we will be having our lunch here itself. Please make the arrangements after escorting Miss Xu here. "


    As Cheng Mo went to welcome Nora Xu, Xie Eun wondered at the purpose of this woman. Somehow, with her instincts carefully honed by Yu Seok, she instinctually knew that this person had ulterior motives in approaching her. The question was what?


    Xie Eun welcomed Nora Xu with a careful smile and gestured for her to take a seat. Nora, too was polite and immediately after sitting she asked about Xie Eun''s health. " We missed out chance to talk to each other that night and I realized that I really had been remiss. I hope you do not mind, Miss Xie.", Nora said sweetly.


    "Mrs Yu.", Xie Eun corrected her at once. She normally did not use his surname but somehow, with this woman she felt hardpressed to somehow remind her that her husband belonged to her alone! She could only be the Mrs Yu in front of this woman. This interruption almost made Nora falter but she immediately composed herself and corrected her self,"Mrs Yu, then! I hope you are fine now! I believed that you would take a few days to rest and recover! But you must be really diligent to come back to work so soon. So, do you have time to spare for new friends? I am relatively new here and thought that instead of trying to make new friends, I would rather get in touch with old ones! I hope you are not offended that I visited you so suddenly. Actually, it was impulse. I was out shopping when I realized that I had not given you a first meeting gift. So I brought this for you."


    With that she placed a small box on the table. Xie Eun looked at the box and then again at the person in front of her, "Miss Nora, while I appreciate your kindness, I will have to decline this gift. We are not yet friends and though you may consider my husband your childhood friend, the fact remains that he has no such memories. So for now, please take my advice and make new friends instead of reminiscing over the past."


    Nora felt as if her face was going to burst from anger! This woman was too much and did not even accept a token of kindness! What an arrogant human! And then she suggests that she should make friends elsewhere! What audacity! She needed to be brought down a peg or two and Nora was just the person to do it. With a thin smile, Nora got up from her chair and said, "MISS Xie, I was just trying to be friendly. But it seems you were not worthy of it. Let me remind you, by refusing my hand of friendship, you have also closed the doors to many inter personal connections. How long do you think you can survive in this cut throat business world without the protection of your husband''s name? Remember, men are fickle creatures. Today, he is with you and tomorrow he may be with me.. what will you do then?" With that, Nora walked out of the office with a straight back and her head held high.


    Xie Eun finally gave a smile. She had succeeded in getting the answer to her questions from Nora Xu! So she wanted to snatch my husband, eh? Let her try! She would make sure that Nora knew her place soon. Xie Eun looked at her stomach and pointed threateningly, "Little bean, come soon and then you must help mama in protecting your father! With the two of us, no other woman will be able to get into a meter''s distance of your father." Xie Eun''s expression was set in a pout as she spoke to her stomach but her eyes were so cold that if Yu Seok had seen this he would have been extremely proud of his wife!

 Chapter 172 - Hua Ying And A Trap

    Soon after her departure, Nora Xu and her words were forgotten. But the problems facing Lu Enterprises were yet to be reduced. As the head of departments of advertising, marketing and Finance came together to discuss a new hitch. after several months of hard work under the guidance of the new Chairwoman, the company was set to launch new products for the emerging markets of E sports and their fashion statements but their brand ambassador was now refusing to endorse the products. They had already lose their female brand ambassador as Lu Yeona and her brothers had gone missing soon after the money laundering scandal had erupted and they were yet to finalize any model that could replace her. And now if their male celebrity backed out at the last minute.. preparing and redesigning the campaign within the date was going to be next to impossible and would result in many losses. However after many discussions with the superstar''s agent, they had not been able to reach a satisfactory answer. According to the contract, the actor was willing to pay the termination fee also but this would still result in incredible losses financially as well as wastage of their resources.


    Finally, just before the closing hours, this matter was brought to Xie Eun''s notice. A few minutes after studying the summary, she looked up and ordered curtly, "Find the whereabouts of Hua Ying and arrange a dinner for tonight. Cheng Mo nodded and went about to follow the orders. Xie Eun glanced down again in thought this time. It was clear that the man did not want to really break the contract but he was not above using dirty tricks when he wanted to get his way. And since he had waited so long to raise his head, it showed how patiently calculating the man was. She did not doubt for a moment that Cheng Mo could not arrange this meeting. For one, she was sure that this man was actually waiting for her to contact him and the second that Cheng Mo had received training from her husband and had his own way to get people to cooperate. Leaving her chair, she messaged Yu Seok that she would not be at the company tonight, explaining the circumstances marginally because she had promised him to not over work herself from now on, and went to the small room adjoining the office. There she changed into a simple black dress and applied some make up thinking of herself as a knight wearing his armor, ready to go fight a war. She sighed, wanting to wear her comfy clothes and lounge back at home in Yu Seok''s arms. She could lay her head on his chest and sleep. Pouting, she cursed Hua Ying.


    A few minutes later, Cheng Mo arrived with a venue and announced, "Hua Ying has agreed to see Madam at The Imperial Crown hotel in an hour." Though this was relayed normally, Xie Eun detected a bit of unease in Cheng Mo''s voice and raised an eyebrow," What''s wrong?"


    Cheng Mo cleared his throat and explained, "I am not too comfortable with you meeting Hua Ying alone but that is the condition he has placed for meeting you. He has also threatened that if you do not come alone then he will not negotiate. This is totally unprofessional of him Madam and something really degrading to you as he would not have dared to lay such a condition to a male chairperson." By the end of this conversation, the agitation in Cheng Mo''s voice got louder and louder. Over the course of working here, Cheng Mo had come across and handled many such degrading demands on her behalf much to his own disgust. No wonder the boss had wanted him to be here. Wolf had known that Cheng Mo would take this to heart and thus sent him here. He had been right.


    Cheng Mo looked disapproving on the face but he felt sad that people who were considered Idols by the common people would also behave in such a despicable way. Hua Ying was one of the biggest and most respected actors in the country. He had even been termed the nation''s husband by many. Having played a world saving hero in most of his movies, Cheng Mo too had been a fan of the man and looked forward to working with him. And thus Cheng Mo too felt completely disillusioned.


    Seeing Cheng Mo behave like an over protective, disapproving big brother, Xie Eun was touched as well as amused. She smiled at him in an assuring way and said," Cheng Mo, do you think your boss would ever let anyone bring me harm?"


    "Of course not!" Cheng Mo immediately scoffed. To Cheng Mo and even Xie Eun, Wolf was omnipotent and thus both of them were immediately calm.


    Cheng Mo drove Xie Eun to the hotel and said, "Madam. I will be waiting right here for you. Please do not leave your phone and call me immediately if you feel uncomfortable."


    Xie Eun nodded and soon left the car. This time, even though Xie Eun seemed to be walking leisurely, her senses were all on high alert. She too was not in favor of meeting this man and seemed to be having a bad premonition. As she got closer to the room that the man seemed to have booked, her sixth sense started to ring with alarm bells and she had to forcefully suppress the urge to turn back and run. Just before they reached the door, Xie Eun suddenly stopped, seeming to have lost her balance and leaned against the wall. The hostess who had already stepped forward did not notice this but another guest did. He rushed forward and asked, "Miss, are you alright?"


    Xie Eun looked up at the stranger and nodded before trying to straighten up and thanking the man. The man gave her a polite nod and extended his hand to help her a bit. Once sure that she was not hurt, the man removed his support and the two people went separate ways.

 Chapter 173 - Hua Ying And A Trap (2)

    Inside the room, a tall and lean man sat carelessly on the couch. His long fingers, held a cigarette in one hand as he casually took a hit every few minutes. His suit jacket was casually discarded on the side while his clothes were almost in a disarray. But even though the picture he presented looked as if he was someone in the middle of debauchery, his half closed eyes were glittering in anticipation and violence, like a hunter waiting for his prey. And perhaps, that is what he was tonight.


    Hua Ying glanced at the Rolex on his wrist and then grimaced. It seemed that the Chairwoman he had so much about was too much a chicken. In another two minutes it would be their appointed time and it seemed she was not too keen on this contract. He had no intention of waiting and was about to leave but just as he would have stood up, the hostess opened the door, indicating that his guest had arrived. But no one entered behind the hostess.


    Hua Ying felt his brows furrow and he wondered what game the woman was playing. Even the hostess looked confused. However, before the hostess could say anything, Xie Eun entered the room, right on the appointed time. Without looking down at his watch, Hua Ying smiled at the woman and said, "Miss Xie, you are right on time. What a pleasure tp see you."


    His eyes scanned her from head to toe and he suddenly felt energized at the thought of the night ahead. A dinner with such a beauty was going to be really pleasurable. His eyes boldly scanned her from top to toe, stopping to caress every curve highlighted by the dress. Even though the gown covered every inch of her skin, it was sexy and seductive to him.


    Meanwhile Xie Eun felt as if a thousand ants were crawling all over her body. His lewd gaze and the smoky smell in the room was making her nauseous. She covered her expression of disgust and said,"Mr Hu, could you please stop smoking while we discuss business? I am rather allergic to smoke." Actually Xie Eun was more worried about inhaling smoke and harming her baby but she somehow did not want this man to know anything about her.


    Giving her a charming smile, (at least according to him), he ashed his cigarette in a nearby tray saying flirtatiously," As the lady pleases. Please have a seat, Miss Xie."


    Xie Eun looked at the couch with even more disgust and deliberately chose a single seater couch. But she had already decided to break the contract for her company. They did not need such a loathing brand ambassador. Heck, if this man even begged her for the contract, she was not going to give it to him and if anyone had a problem with that she would simply fire them! But even as she thought all this, her expression remained cold and indifferent. She was just channeling her husband''s aura, Xie Eun thought to herself.


    Hua Ying frowned when he noticed that this girl was not falling under his spell and gave another smarmy smile." Miss Xie, what would you like to eat? This Hotel is known for it''s delightful sea food as well as its beautiful lamb roasts in wine. "


    But Xie Eun, who had already made her decision, directly said," Mr Hua Ying. I have no interest in sharing a meal with you. I am here, as you requested so you can simply state your terms and if I find it agreeable then we will continue with our partnership otherwise we can always part ways amicably."


    By talking about her willingness to break the contract, Xie Eun had made it clear to Hua Ying that even if he were willing to pay the breach fees and other losses, she was willing to terminate the contract at the cost of her own losses. This gave Hua Ying a pause. Even though he had been paid to create problems for Lu Enterprises and he would get a good deal, if the contract was terminated then he would suffer losses in the long run. He was an actor already in his declining years and it would be really impossible to get such a lucrative deal after this. His eyes cleared of all the lust and muddled thoughts and he sat up straight.


    "Chairwoman Xie. I thought we were here to discuss new terms so why talk about distasteful things like termination. We can just talk things out so that both sides ae happy."


    Xie Eun smiled at the change in the man''s tune and said," Mister Hua, if you really had been interested in negotiating then you would have responded to the many overtures made by my company''s representatives. Your attitude in the past and tonight has made it clear that you are out for trouble. I have no intention of talking and wasting my time with troublemakers. So we can end this co operation whenever you wish. You will also not be endorsing our new range even of you decided to stay and will be put on the back burner until your contract with us expires, which is in a few months'' time. So. Mister Hua, it has been an interesting experience meeting you. Goodbye."


    With her piece said,"Xie Eun got up to leave and left the flabbergasted Hua Ying in turmoil. However her triumphant smile disappeared when she walked to the door. Because the door had been locked from the outside. Her eyes narrowed and she turned back coldly to the man who was now sitting on the couch with his head bowed. Scathingly, she said, "Mister Hua Ying. I did not expect for you to fall to such disgusting lengths! I don''t care what games you are playing, but get this door opened right now!"


    At this time, Hua Ying''s head snapped up and he looked at the door in consternation. "Chairwoman Xie, what are you talking about? I have not locked the door." With that, Hua Ying walked over and tried to turn the handle and found it to be indeed locked.

 Chapter 174 - Not My Plan

    Hua Ying tried to turn the handle again and again but it was stuck! With a panicky expression, he turned to Xie Eun and announced, "Chairwoman Xie, please trust me. This is not my doing! Look, I desperately needed the money and so I accepted the bribe. All I needed to do was invite you here and take some questionable pictures to smear your name. But please I am not someone who would stoop to such levels. Let me just call the maintenance people here."


    Even as Xie Eun''s eyes narrowed, Hua Ying had turned and was now using the house phone to try calling the security. Xie Eun looked at the cell phone in her hand which had no signal and sighed.. Really! This was too bothersome! Whoever planned this, did they take her for a fool and think that she would come here unprepared! What novices. Hua Ying returned to where Xie Eun stood impatiently and caught her hand in both of his, saying," I..I don''t understand what has happened but the in-house phone is also disconnected. Chairwoman Xie, I really apologize.."


    Xie Eun rolled her eyes at the man''s whiny voice and ordered snappily,"Mr Hua, please stop all this and straighten your clothes. It seems whoever hired you did not really trust you so they took their own measured to make sure that their plan does not fail. With the room locked and the way your clothes are rumpled, you don''t even need to do anything. Once the media sees this they will have quite a time with their imagination."


    "Chairwoman Xie.." Hua Ying started to protest and come closer but the next moment he found a thin needle like blade pointed at his neck. His eyes widened in horror and he looked at XIe Eun stuttering, "Chairwoman Xie, please. I already told you that I meant you no harm. I was just bribed to create problems for your new campaign and ruin your reputation! Please don''t do this!" He started to feel the cold sweat bead on his forehead as he saw the deadly intent in the woman. He had not expected this! He wondered if she was bluffing and if he should call her on her bluff. But before that, he had another question.. how was she able to smuggle this weapon in? The security here was very strict ad would not have allowed anyone to come here.


    Xie Eun smiled at his panic and said,"Mr Hua! Do you really think you are the only one who can bribe people? Yes weapons are not allowed inside. But the employees are not checked as seriously. Just like you bribed someone to lock this door, I bribed someone to hand me this once I was inside. And don''t waste your breath about trying to convince me! You are really cunning, Hua Ying. You want to have your cake and eat it too! By creating a scandal with me you want to please the person who bribed you and by making yourself a poor victim in front of me, you want to keep your place as the ambassador safe also! You can''t have it both ways Hua Ying. And now, I am really sorry.."


    The next minute, Hua Ying fell to the ground as he was hit on the side of his neck by the very ash tray that he had used for his cigarette. His head banging against the floor loudly caused a loud noise and Xie Eun winced on behalf of the poor man! It never paid to be a coward and greedy. You needed to be brave to fulfill your greed also.


    Xie Eun glanced at the watch on her wrist and realized she would not have much time to escape and the paparazzi would be here soon. She inserted the blade into the thin space between the door and the frame and slowly cut through the lock. But she was only halfway there when the lock started to turn, alerting Xie Eun. She quickly moved, plastering herself against a wall so that she would be behind the door when it opened.. Her fingers around the blade tightened and this time she wondered what would happen. She did not want to have a confrontation as this could directly harm her baby. For Hua Ying, she had the advantage of surprise, but whoever entered now would see Hua Ying on the floor and would be ten times more alert..


    The door started to close slowly and Xie Eun raised her hand to attack but before she could move much, an awfully familiar voice sounded, "Eun-a?" The fight flowing out of her, Xie Eun brought down needle and rushed out from behind the door, straight into her husband''s arms. Her taut muscles ready to fight, loosened causing her to almost fall into her husband''s arms. "Thank you for the weapon. " Like Cheng Mo, Xie Eun too had been uncomfortable about the meeting and messaged Yu Seok her feelings only to receive a curt reply. "Once you are near the private room, pretend to feel dizzy." And that is exactly what she had done. And in the next moment a stranger had come forward to ''help'' her, handing her the thin needle carefully.


    Yu Seok patted her head and kissed her forehead, "Good girl! You knew what to do with your blade. And now we must leave." Xie Eun agreed with Yu Seok and nodding her head, let Yu Seok walk her outside. But instead of walking towards the main entrance, Yu Seok walked her towards a service elevator. Just as the door closed, Xie Eun watched another door on the opposite side open and a man walk out. Her eyes widened as she recognized this person and then her heart hardened. It seems she had been too kind and thus they had used this opportunity to create problems for her. But the question was why? Why was this person out to harm her. He would not gain anything by hurting her or her image! In fact, with their biggest backer gone, shouldn''t this family have already left? With an arm around her, Yu Seok helped her into the car and just as they drove out, they saw a few media vans rushing in.


    Wolf glanced in the rear view mirror and shook his head at the poor sods who had failed their plan and were now going to be caught in a scandal. Did they really think that he would not be able to find out the real owner of The Imperial Crown. If only these people had not targeted Xie Eun he would have let them survive but now it seems they were too eager for their destruction. Well they could thank him later.


    Yu Seok turned to glance at his wife who sat with her eyes closed and her fingers clenched. His hand went to hers and intertwined their fingers in gentle reassurance. XIe Eun smiled with her eyes still closed. She knew that with today''s fiasco, her days ahead were going to be even more hectic but for now, she could simply breathe in her husband''s presence, in their own small world. With her eyes closed, Xie Eun never realized that Yu Seok was not taking her towards their home but the car was driving in the opposite direction.


    As her thoughts were in a whirlwind, a thought suddenly struck her. She opened her eyes and looked at her husband," Yu Seok. I need to clean up these messy people within a short time and in one fell swoop. So you need to help me think of something!"


    Giving her a swift glance, Yu Seok agreed with an, "Of course."


    It was then that Xie Eun realized that they were not on the road home. She frowned and looked at him, "Where are we going?"


    "A surprise."


    "When did you plan a surprise? And why?"


    Yu Seok threw an ironic glance at his wife who had never asked questions before and said, "Do we really need a reason for a surprise?"


    Xie Eun pursed her lips observed her husband carefully. He was a man of few words but she over time she had understood some of his nuances. Though he treated his words like treasure, he usually did not mind teasing her and coaxing her. But at present apart from his fingers which loosely held hers, his eyes were emitting a cold light and his jaw was clenched. Sudden realization struck her. Yu Seok was angry at this moment! Really really angry! But she could not think of a reason for this and finally wondered if he was angry because she had almost ruined his surprise.. Her brows furrowed and she tried to think of a way to soothe his anger. Something that she had never done before. She looked down at their hands and then back up to his face that was looking straight ahead at the road.. Turning over his hand, she quickly traced something over his palm with her index finger..

 Chapter 175 - Worried And Angry

    For a while, silence reigned in the car. Xie Eun threw careful glances at her husband, trying to think of how to pacify him. She could see that he was hanging onto his temper with a thread. Just then they passed a small roadside cafe and and an idea struck her.


    Turning to him, she poked him in the arm with her finger. He ignored her. Poked again. Ignored again but his eyes seemed to be getting narrower and narrower. Finally made a loud puking sound and pretended to throw up in the car. Immediately, he threw a worried glance at her and moved the car to the side to stop it. Thankfully, they were driving on an abandoned road or they would have been in an accident. The moment the car was stopped, Xie Eun clicked open a button,letting the seat belt go and in the next moment, she was sitting in his lap, facing him. The horn on the steering wheel started to sound and Yu Seok pushed back his seat to create more room for her. For the first time she had the pleasure of seeing his wide eyed look as he stared at her. For a moment she wondered, if this is how he had looked when she had jumped onto his back when they were teenagers. But before she could lose herself too much in the past, Yu Seok''s brow furrowed and as he was about to open his mouth to question her, Xie Eun sealed his lips with hers in a smacking kiss.


    She could actually feel the tension leaving his body, and just as he would have deepened the kiss, she moved back and poked him in the chest, "What is wrong with you?" Immediately his gaze turned a bit cold and he stiffened. But before he could bring up his barriers, she held his face in her hand and made her look up, into her eyes. In this position, Xie Eun was naturally taller and thus he had to look up at her.


    He clammed up. Xie Eun could actually see the process where he simply closed the door to his thoughts. It was like experiencing a cartoon in which the character was hit with a door closing in his face and he could see stars. Xie Eun felt a bit hurt at this but in the next moment, she imagined herself as Minnie Mouse carrying a big hammer to break down the door! Well that is what he deserved! She wound her fingers in his silky hair and pulled hard, nearing him, "Hubby, we can sit here all night until you tell me what is eating at you. I don''t mind, but the little eager Yu Seok that I can feel under me will definitely suffer." She wiggled a bit, teasing the part of him that was poking her and continued," So hubby, you better tell me why you are so angry! Is it because I ruined your plans? Or is there something else that is eating at you?"


    This time Yu Seok''s eyes narrowed at her bold move. The dress had been pulled up, exposing her long legs that sat around him and he held them, stopping her from moving and teasing him. "Eun-a, don''t do this. Just give me some time and I will be back to normal." Xie Eun looked into his eyes which showed a mixture of frustration and pleading to give him some space. But Xie Eun knew that if tonight she backed off, then she would never be able to make him see her as his equal. She wanted him to be able to share her burdens with him and that would not be possible if he clammed up every time and she backed off. He deserved the same unconditional support he gave her.


    Stroking his head, Xie Eun looked into his eyes," No. This is going to be out new normal. When you feel worried for whatever reason, we will talk it out. You will not handle it alone! Yu Seok, I want to stand with you equally. That means not just in terms of wealth and status but also the fact that just like you are my strength, I want to be your strength too. I know that you are used to solving your own problems. But like I have promised to tell you everything, you must also promise to tell me everything."


    Yu Seok closed his eyes and laid his head between her breasts, breathing deeply. He understood what she was asking. But he also knew how difficult it was for him to promise. He looked up and grimaced, "I promise... to try.."


    Xie Eun let out a small giggle. He was even unwilling give her a white lie to pacify her. Poor naturally reticent soul...


    Hearing her giggle, he once again buried his head into her bosom and his arms wound around her tightly as he whispered, "You have no idea, Eun-a, how scared I was when you messaged me the name of the place you were going to and the reason. If anything had gone wrong, I would have lost you both! Eun-a, till the time I was alone, I never feared death. I have actually brought death to aplenty. But the thought of losing you brings me to my knees. I know I have promised to let you handle the matter but I am finding it more and more difficult to control my fears. I want to swoop in and kill them all."


    Xie Eun felt his worry seep into her bones. Her slow pace and all this was actually eating at him and he had been finding it more and more difficult to control himself. She sighed and hugged him to her even tighter. "Hubby. I promise to not dawdle too much and will put an end to this chapter, soon enough."


    Xie Eun too had realized that after the fiasco tonight, it was useless to let these people be. Just because you let a rat live does not mean that it will not try to take a bite of your cheese.


    The two people hugged each other for a little while and at this point only did Xie Eun comprehend the extent to which her husband cared for her. He must have troubled himself with things that could have gone wrong.


    Xie Eun tightened her arms around him and slowly whispered," Nothing went wrong. Nothing can go wrong till the two of us are together. You are my Wolf- my mate and protector. Just let go of your worries. You have shaped your wife into someone undefeatable."


    Unknown to Xie Eun, Yu Seok''s eyes had gathered a bit of moisture at her words. Even though he had found his biological family, to him, she was the only true family. After carefully manipulating the world and fighting numerous obstacles, he had finally found a place in her heart and now the thought of her leaving him was like stabbing him with a knife multiple times!


    Finally, a long while after holding her, did Yu Seok re gain his normal calm and raised his head away from her. He looked into her eyes that had matured so much and placed a small kiss on the corner of lips, "Thank you, my love."


    Xie Eun smiled beatifically at him and kissed him back in a similar way whispering," You''re welcome, my love."


    Slowly, Yu Seok helped her back onto her seat and started to drive towards their destination. Once again, their fingers were intertwined and each gave comfort to the other. Seeing the tension leave his face, Xie Eun smiled and asked him once again, "Where are we going?"


    This time Yu Seok gave her a teasing smile and answered, "It''s a surprise."


    Xie Eun pouted," Tell me."


    A boyish smile lighted his face as he said," Then it will not be a surprise any longer."


    Once again Xie Eun poked his arm and said, "I don''t care! I want to know."


    With a mock grimace, Yu Seok let go of the wheel and rubbed his arm, "Are you trying to drill holes in me?"


    "Hold the wheel!", Xie Eun snapped and then poked his arm with her finger some more, "I will keep on doing this until you tell me!"


    Finally Yu Seok shook his head in surrender and said, "Fine fine! You will know once you look around."


    It was at this moment that Xie Eun realized that the car had stopped. She whipped around her head and stared outside. However she saw nothing but darkness. Just as she was about to turn her head and complain, a soft cloth covered her eyes and his soft voice whispered in her ears," A few more minutes, my love."


    With that, the sound of a door opening and closing resonated in her ears and the next moment, her door was opened and Yu Seok helped her out of the door. A flurry of butterflies seemed to have made their home in her stomach as Xie Eun followed his lead.

 Chapter 176 - A Surprise

    With her fingers held in his, Xie Eun followed Yu Seok''s lead. He guided her carefully, so that she would not have a misstep. The butterflies in her stomach seemed to have doubled as Xie Eun wondered what he had in store for her. She realized that his surprises were always amazing and something that she could not help looking forward to. She tired to concentrate on the sounds to help her know where they were but all she could hear was the sound of the light breeze and the chirping of crickets.


    Finally, they stopped. Xie Eun moved her hands to take off the blindfold but was stopped by Yu Seok, who moved behind her and hugged her. Slowly, he took off the blindfold himself.


    Slowly, she opened her eyes and once again was shocked. There a few meters away, stood a massive half sphere dome tent. She turned her head to look at him and questioned him, "What is this? "


    "Walk inside and you will know."


    Excited, Xie Eun walked out of his arms and into the small tunnel like door. And all the past surprises could not have prepared her for what waited inside. It was pictures. Thousands of pictures of her from the time they became friends to the time they were married and one of them, she was sure was as recent as a few days back. She walked automatically to one side and extended her hand to a picture. It was a candid. And there they stood in front of the altar. Yu Seok and her back was turned towards the photographer but she could see Aunt Su and her father''s profile. Her eyes moistened as she ran her hand over her father''s picture. This day was her biggest regret. Her father had been right in his decision but at that point she had hated him. If only.. she had been a little bit wiser. She closed her eyes and thought of her father, promising him that she was doing well and if she could rewind time back to that day, she would thank him for not listening to her and not behave so childishly and coldly. After spending many moments with all the pictures from that day she could only shake her head in nostalgia.


    Calming her emotions, Xie Eun looked around at all the pictures and saw one where she had been grinning widely, staring into space." She wondered what she had been thinking sitting there but could not for the life of her remember. She turned around to ask Yu Seok but then realized that he was not there behind her. Her eyebrows raised she wondered where he went and walked back towards the entrance again. But just then the entire dome turned dark.


    She stopped again. And this time there were words on the surface. She started to read the words and her heart soared. This was his love confession! The official one!


    She read the words again and again. Committing them to her memory.


    "It''s bad that I can''t stop it. Every moment and every hour, you are the only one in my thoughts. It felt like a punishment but it is actually a reward that I finally have you. My love for you is unstoppable. You are my paradise. You are my dream. You are so dangerous yet the sweetest for me. Like the pied piper''s song, I can only follow you. You''ve taken over me. I love you my Eun-a, my life."


    Xie Eun turned around and around, her emotions overflowing, looking for him. And there he was. On one knee. She walked to him. She ran to him. The tears in her eyes now flowing freely.


    In his hand he held a placard. She paused and looked questioningly at the blank sheet. And then he turned it around. There on the plain pater were the words that she had given up on listening when she had accepted their marriage. "Will you marry me?"


    She smiled and nodded her head before jumping into his arms. It did not matter that they were already married. It made no difference that they did not hold a ceremony again.. What mattered was that he was the perfect person who just somehow knew all her dreams. He had promised to fulfill all her dreams and he had done that. Whether it was her career or her girlish dream of receiving a romantic proposal. He had given her everything and was giving her more with every minute. Her arms tightened around his neck as she thanked the fates for choosing this man for her.


    She whispered her love for him and once again the surroundings changed. This time they were surrounded by shiny little stars against a dark sky. After a while, Yu Seok picked up his wife and carried her towards the small, air inflated bed, placing her there as if she was a treasure that he had discovered. Xie Eun pulled her to him, making him lie next to her, not able to let go.


    Soon the two people started to kiss and the sounds of silence in the dome changed to moans of pleasure as the two people started to make love.


    Xie Eun woke up a little while later, and stretched lethargically. She looked down at her clothes and sighed. Yu Seok had really spoiled her. Every time she was with him, all she had to do was be lazy. Even now, when she had been exhausted, after they had made love, he had fed her dinner lovingly and now she was dressed in his shirt covering all important parts of her. She turned her head and looked for him, only to find him missing. This man really was too silent! And had the habit of slipping away when she was asleep! She wondered what he was up to now. She winced a bit as she moved. Last night, he had been even more gentle but she still felt as if she was a bit sore.


    Wondering what other surprise he had in store for her, she lay back down and then sat up again. Because there, taped to the small side, was a note. Picking it up, she read, "Thank you for agreeing to the marriage. There is something you must see before we plan our wedding. Open the laptop, Eun-a."


    Eun-a glanced at the laptop and wondered what it held that he had placed it here on such an important occassion.


    Opening it, she clicked on the play button and soon froze in shock as she stared back at the smiling face of her father.


    She gulped as he started talking. This was possibly from the time when he made the marriage arrangement.


    "Eun-a. My little princess. If you are watching this video, then it means that you are now finally happy and safe. My child, I am sorry that I was not able to stay with you during this tough time, but I have done my best. I hope you will forgive me for forcing you and ruining your big day. I remember when you were a little girl and had come to me, pouting about how you will click good photos at your own grand wedding. You had so many plans to marry your prince charming and how I must dress to walk you down the aisle. Let me tell you my little girl, even though I had hated the thought of giving you away, I too had dreamed of handing you to a good man who would be worthy of you. And selfishly, I made sure to fulfill my dream before I went on to after life. But I have no regrets if you have really fallen for him. Wolf is a good man that I have watched grow up and I have seen the struggle he had faced. I feel assured in leaving you in his care. But that is not the only reason I have chosen him for you. I knew that he liked you. I had seen him pretend nonchalance whenever I talked about you. The silly boy thought that he had covered it well. I hope my Eun-a who is full of love will give also give him all the love he deserves. I have one final request of him, before I die and that is that he must help me fulfill my princess'' wish of a grand wedding. So even though I will not be there to walk you down the aisle, all other aspects that you had dreamed of will be there. Because that is what my daughter deserves.


    For this reason, I have already hired a wedding planner and handed her all the ideas that I want my princess and her knight to have. Because this is what my children deserve and this way, I will once again be a part of your wedding arrangements. Xie Eun, I hope in the next life, I am lucky enough to have such a wonderful child like you. I love you my beloved princess."

 Chapter 177 - Did You Know This?

    With tears in her eyes, Xie Eun looked up from the air bed to where her husband had just walked in. Giving him a watery smile, Xie Eun asked, "Did you know about this?" Yu Seok had naturally not seen the video but he could guess what the General had recorded, so he shook his head and said," No, I did not. The General had simply ordered me to contact a person when you were ready to accept me. I had totally forgotten this order until a few days ago. When I called and explained, she passed this recorded video to me and then proceeded to try and explain things like flowers and fabrics in wedding plans to me, in detail!" Though there was no change in his voice, Xie Eun could probably guess how he would have been disgusted at talking about all this. If there was one thing her husband would not be good at , it would be flower decorations themes! He probably had no patience for it!


    Seeing her giggle, Yu Seok sat in front of her and shook his head, explaining,"Eun-a. I know that you find this amusing but let me assure you that I cannot marry you while sitting on a camel! I don''t even know where the wedding planner will get the camel from!"


    Xie Eun felt her mouth fall open as, at first, she felt lost at Yu Seok talking about camels but then she remembered that when she had been ten, she had been obsessed with dessert and eastern fantasy.. Her father had remembered. Unable to stop herself, she imagined Yu Seok on a camel and laughed even harder finally having to hold her stomach from uncontrollable laughter.


    Yu Seok scowled at first and then simply flicked her on the forehead, "You can laugh because it is your imagination. But you have no idea how shocked I was! And I can just imagine the stoic General laying out the demand to the wedding planner." Yu Seok cleared his throat and then proceeded to do a perfect voice imitation of her father," I want my daughter to have everything for her wedding. You must also buy a fleet of camels.."


    Helpless, Xie Eun could only roll on the bed in laughter while Yu Seok gave a boyish smile at seeing her carefree laughter. He hoped that from now on she would be able to think of her father without having that regretful look on her face. Moving forward, he pulled the laughing girl onto his lap and stole the laughter from her lips with a quick kiss.


    Xie Eun''s hands automatically went to his bare shoulders and she quickly immersed herself in the kiss. However , before they got too lost, Yu Seok pulled back and picked up the breakfast tray he had placed on the side. The two people had a leisurely breakfast as the cuddled with each other in bed.


    Finally, the two people lay down and Xie Eun rested her head on Yu seok''s chest, listening to his steady heartbeat. Drawing circles on his chest, Xie Eun wondered if she should ask him what she was thinking. But before she could gather her courage, Yu Seok caught her wrist and questioned, "What is going on in that head of yours?"


    Xie Eun looked at him in surprise but then quickly looked down, "Yu Seok... are you really happy?"


    Yu Seok smiled at the way she asked him the question. Really nervous looking as if he could answer that negatively! He wound his hand in her hair and tenderly pulled her head up, making her look into his eyes," I am so happy that I don''t think I have ever been so happy in my life! My love, my life is right here with me in my arms. What more can a man ask for? And then I am going to have a little version of you and me together so that makes me even more happier." Xie Eun grinned up at him and teased, "Are you sure that we are going to have a little girl? What if we have a little boy?"


    Yu Seok shrugged and said, "That would be even better. He would be around to protect you and then later his baby sister! We can even have both you know. There are twins in my family, you know."


    Xie Eun''s wild imagination sparked, she thought of herself surrounded by many sets of twins and almost fainted. Her comical expression caused Yu Seok to grin at her. This expression however left her in a daze, staring at him. The boyishness reminded her that he too was just someone in his twenties, even if he behaved more maturely.


    Just like he did, she stole his grin with a kiss. But once again another problem came to her mind and she almost screamed," Yu Seok!"


    Surprised at her sudden shout he looked to see whether she had just seen something but she was only looking at him with a worried expression. Before he could ask her what was happening, she started to cry fiercely, leaving him shocked.


    He kept trying to ask her the reason for it but she simply shook her head and continued to sob. Yu Seok thought back to all the pregnancy books he had read in his office these past few days and wondered if this was the mood swings that the books talked about. His heart ached when he could do nothing to stop her crying and he simply hugged her. Finally, when Xie Eun had calmed down a bit, she looked at him with a red nose and red eyes," Yu Seok! I cannot marry you!"


    Yu Seok almost felt the ground disappear from below him when he looked at his wife incredulously. What did she mean she could not marry him. As various scenarios started to run through his head that would cause Xie Eun to refuse to marry him, he did not expect the reason to be what she uttered.


    "I will look hideously fat for our wedding! I have seen pregnant women who look like whales and if I am carrying two babies then I will look like the biggest ugliest whale and then all the women will pity you for marrying me and then some enterprising girl will snatch you away with her good looks and cunningness. And then I will be left heart broken! So I won''t marry you!"


    Yu Seok could only stare at his wife''s logic. She refused to marry him because of this? Exasperated and at a loss at this sudden unexpected turn of events, Yu Seok took the wrong route and logically pointed out, "We are already married!"


    And this logic resulted in the couple''s first ever ''fight'' where Xie Eun stared at him in shock for a few moments before she burst out," You disgusting rascal! You are supposed to assure me that no one can snatch me from you! Or you could even lie that no matter how fat I get, I will never look ugly."


    Poking a finger at his chest, she pouted and with her lower lip stuck out like a child, cried harder, much to the consternation of Yu Seok who tried to repeat just these things but was then accused of not being honest. Realizing that his ordinarily unreasonable wife was now behaving even more unreasonably and everything he said would be used against him, Yu Seok shut his mouth and let her exhaust her rant.


    It was only after he gave up in surrender that Xie Eun looked at him and then started to giggle at his expression. Realizing he had been pranked quite thoroughly, Yu Seok pulled her even closer and started to tickle her mercilessly until she was forced to surrender and call Uncle before they proceeded to make some more love..


    A really really long while later, Xie Eun once again looked up from his chest and pouted," But Yu Seok, I really will look like a whale on our wedding.."


    Yu Seok, opened one eye narrowly and closed her mouth with his hand, "You will not look like a whale even if you dress like one. and we will be getting married within a month before you start showing too much. You have three days to handle the other business or else I will handle it for you and then you will spend half of your time in planning our wedding. Anyways most of it has already been arranged by the General and you just need to give an approval!"


    Xie Eun nodded in agreement and her eyes held a determination this time. Lady Lu had offended and hurt both of them so they had all handled that collectively. But these people had targeted her alone so she needed to handle them alone as well. And she will.


    Seeing her determination, Yu Seok knew that this time there would be no danger to his wife due to her soft heartedness.

 Chapter 178 - The Imperial Crown

    The press stood outside the gates of The Imperial Crown Hotel as they tried to get the latest scoop. A famous celebrity had accused the place for assault and had even provided the records of his presence and to prove that he was in the place, eating peacefully when the attack occurred. Coupled with the medical reports he had furnished, and his own pristine reputation, The Imperial Crown Hotel had incurred the wrath of many fans of Hua Ying. This new scoop, however had put a dent on the hotel''s reputation while Hua Ying''s flagging reputation had shot up again as people commiserated with the man that was once the nation''s favorite.


    Inside the hotel, two men sat staring at the headlines, with their eyes narrowed, looking at the headlines that this fiasco had created. While one man sat staring coldly, another was trying to connect with some of their investors to help them get out of the mess. But all he received was rejection. Lu Qianjin looked at his desperate brother and snorted sardonically," You know that our plan has been discovered. That is the only reason, Hua Ying would turn against us."


    Lu Chang looked up from his phone towards his elder brother and rolled his eyes. "Our plan? Yeah right! Of course, she has discovered us. I told you to wait! Revenge is a dish best served cold. But did you listen? No! You wanted to do everything your way! And then your stupid plan failed and you did not even have any back up! Have you once thought about how our grandmother was easily conquered? It is because she under estimated that village girl! And you did the same thing! If I had known that you were going to do this in my absence, I would never have left you in charge! If you even wanted to do something like this, the least you could have done was do it somewhere away from our territory! Qianjin ! We are no longer a part of the strong Lu family! We were never the heirs but at least we were acknowledged by the high society! But now we can only take refuge in this hotel which I have started without Grandmother''s help and knowledge! And with one useless move, you have finished everything that I have worked so hard for! Mum and Dad have fled with Yeona while you have been hiding here! Our only source of earning is this hotel and now you have put this also on their radar! Are you trying to finish off what Grandmother started?"


    After being talked down by his younger brother, Qianjin banged at the table in anger! " Revenge! Wait! Do not try to fool me Chang! You are a coward and scared of taking revenge! You need courage for that which you do not have! You never had the courage to tell grandmother that you wanted to become an heir too so you secretly opened this small hotel to gain your own personal foothold! Do you think that just because this place is doing well, you can restore the past glory and live a leisurely life! With grandmother gone, you want us to to live the rest of our lives in hiding! And do you think that I am unaware of the little love affair you have! You want us all out of the way so that you can live happily with your wife and baby! The ones you have kept hidden all these years because of your fear of grandmother! You must have been the happiest when Grandmother committed suicide! So, why don''t you stop with all this big talk and go become that villager''s lapdog! She will definitely throw you some crumbs! And since your wife is also a village bumpkin, she might even keep her as a maid!"


    Lu Chang narrowed his eyes at Qianjin as he realized that the secret he had kept so guardedly for the past few years had been discovered by his brother. But he had known that one day it would be discovered and he realized that now he need not fear his grandmother''s interference. If his brother had mentioned this in the past, he would have been worried that Qianjin would blackmail him. But with their grandmother who saw them as tools for business deals gone, he had nothing to fear from Qianjin who was only like a dog barking! "It is better to live with your head down, humbly if you do not have the means to fight! What is wrong with trying to protect my family and living well! I don''t see the need to be greedy if we can live honestly on what we earn! If only grandmother had not resorted to underhand deals, would she have been humiliated? And revenge for what! For justice! You are wrong that I would be happy about Grandmother''s death I am just as saddened. But I am also clear that she got her just dues! And revenge! You take revenge for someone who has been wronged but Xie Eun was the one who was being wronged! Do you think I am unaware of the games that all of you played against her?"


    Just as Lu Chang was about to move out of the room, Qianjin''s voice stopped him cold," Lu Chang! Do you think that you can escape responsibility with all these righteous lectures? Remember the foundation to this hotel was also laid with black money that you used to receive as pocket money from out grandmother! So I have every right to use the means here to avenge her! And what about our beautiful sister! She will soon have to be sent to that despicable Gu family who now think that they are equal to her! Let me warn you Chang, if my sister is forced into someone''s bed because of your cowardice, then your wife will find herself in someone else''s bed! And with a coward for a husband, she might just fall for the man who spreads her legs!! Heck, she will do that soon enough anyway!"


    Just as Qianjin finished speaking, Chang had already walked forward and punched him in the face, causing his nose and mouth to bleed profusely! Grabbing him by the collar, the usually mellow Chang, pushed his own brother against the wall and growled, "You must pay more attention to what I tell you! the only person we must fight with is someone we have the capability to defeat! You have been grandmother''s puppet all your life so you know nothing! But let me tell you, I may not be able to attack the mighty Wolf and Xie Eun but I can certainly handle a pesky family member like you! You forget we share the same blood. The money that you have been throwing at these people belongs to me! And I can use it to turn them against you too!"


    As Lu Chang said this, he had slowly pressed Qianjin''s neck, causing him to lose his breath as he struggled to breathe and his face slowly turned blue.


    Just as he was about to lose consciousness, Lu Chang left him and walked out of the door. But even then the taunting voice of Lu Qianjin echoed in the corridor as he laughed madly, "We may share the same blood but we are different my brother! We are different because if you were in my place, I would not have hesitated to kill you! So you can only bark like a dog and not kill!"


    Lu Chang banged shut the door of his car and punched the wheel angrily to his car. How dare he threaten his family. Taking out his cell phone, he first called his wife. When she did not answer the phone, he wondered if she was putting the baby to sleep and decided to call the accountant, "Cut off all requests for money from my brother! He is not to be given a single pound until and unless I give you a written permission!"


    After making sure the accountant understood everything, Lu Chang once again called his wife. Once again the phone was not answered! This time, with dread in his heart, he started to drive towards his family home while he made repeated calls at home. Finally, he called the neighbors who then told him that they did not know what happened inside but there were a few police cars outside his home! Swearing and praying for the safety of his wife and child, Lu Chang broke all speed limits as Qianjin''s words echoed in his ears. If he had known that he had kept this kind of a snake with him, he would have forced Qianjin away when the rest of their family had fled! he cursed his brother as tear of fear and regret flowed out of his eyes. Finally, he reached the gates of his small family home and shuddered at the sight of the ambulance and police car standing there ominuously.

 Chapter 179 - Fear And Cowardice

    Lu Chang felt his heart almost escape his chest when he saw the ambulance and the police cars outside his home. Many neighbors stood outside gossiping but they only pointed to him, not telling him anything to indicate his wife and child were safe. Regret like never before flashed in his heart and he cursed the time when he decided to let Lu Qianjin into his house. All the precautions he had taken over the years now seemed like a waste because of one moment of weakness.


    But he knew that if that man his so called brother had harmed even a hair of his family then he would not hesitate in killing them. Once inside, he looked around wildly and tried to find any hints of what could have happened. But there was no one inside..


    Just then, he heard the clacking of heels on the floor and turned around wildly ready to hug his wife but he stopped short when he saw the person walking in. Unconsciously, he took a step back, before rage like never before engulfed him. He had never imagined that this girl would attack his family. He rushed forward, not even thinking about his actions only intent on finding his family. However before he could step too close, a man stepped from the shadows and caught hold of Lu Chang, pushing him away heavily, causing Lu Chang to fall on the ground panting!


    Stepping in front of his own wife, Wolf glared at Lu Chang menacingly making the angry man almost shrivel up. The fall and the aura of danger around him made Lu Chang realize that his family was really in danger and ignoring his own pride, he kneeled down and folded his hands in supplication. "Please. please spare my family. All this is my fault. Please."


    Lu Chang knew that there was no point in blaming Lu Qianjin. He was the one who had sheltered his brother. His money was used against Xie Eun and his hotel was where she was attacked. There was no way he would be able to escape the wrath of these people. His only hope was that his wife and child were safe. He had already made provisions for them when he married her and he had always lived in fear of being discovered. Even when his grandmother passed away, he did not dare to let go of the fear. Seeing Lu Chang on the ground, Wolf simply stepped back, letting Xie Eun do the talking. Today he was here to only protect her physically.


    When Wolf stepped aside without saying a word, Lu Chang who was a smart man immediately understood that the final decision to spare his family or not was in her hands. He begged, Xie Eun please. I am your culprit. Please let my family be."


    Xie Eun stared at the man coldly feeling nothing for this man who was her half cousin. She actually pitied the man who did this. He had done nothing to her. And yet he was the one who had been caught in the crossfire. But even if he did nothing to harm her actively, he did look the other way when others used him to harm her.


    "I did let your family be! I let your parents escape. I let your siblings go without any punishment. I never even cast a glance at your business or family. But in return for that, what did you do? You attacked me and tried to have me killed multiple times. I have never had a moment of peace because of you all in the name of revenge! So I should punish you and let your family go so that tomorrow someone else can come after me for revenge? Oh, I know you are not the person behind all these. With your acumen and brains, you would not be so foolish. But the fact remains that it is your money that is being used against me. "


    "How easy it is for you to look the other way when someone else''s family is being harmed while when it comes to your own, you are even willing to beg! Well since you are so worried, I have two options for you. Since you are so filial, I can give you an out. It is very simple, you will go out of this country and live anywhere peacefully without returning to this country. In return for this freedom, I want you to give up on your siblings, parents and your business. The Imperial Crown will not belong to you anywhere and as long as you do not provoke me, I will let you live peacefully. Yes it will be a hard existence but it will still be existence. Your other option is even more simple, inside that room, my people have subdued the goons hired by your dear brother. I will simply let them go and let them do what they have been ordered. Oh they have already confessed to what they were supposed to do so you can go and ask them again. Your wife and son are in the room upstairs. Oh they are also tied up but what is done with them depends on you." On the inside, XIe Eun felt as if she was dying on the inside as she saw the broken look on the man''s face as he considered his dilemma. But she also felt disdain as she saw him trying to choose. Wasn''t it a clear choice?"


    But what was clear for Xie Eun was not so easy for Lu Chang. Even if he was someone who did not agree with his grandmother, he had always been a rich heir. Giving up all this could also mean giving up his life and living as a poor man. But in the end, he knew what he had to choose. Wiping the tears from his eyes, he looked up at Xie Eun and nodded once, "I am willing to leave everything for my family. But I want you to promise me that once we are gone from here, you will never interfere in our lives."


    Xie Eun raised an eyebrow. So he really did have some guts that he could negotiate at this time. Nodding, she gestured Cheng Mo to come forward. In his hand was a blue file that he placed in front of Lu Chang.


    With shivering hands, he accepted the file and opened it. There in black and white were all the details of every property he held. Of every account he or his wife had in their names. And there under it, was the agreement to gift it all away to an orphanage. Gulping, he signed away everything and then raised teary eyes at the two heartless people in front of him," You have proved that I am indeed a coward. Please let my family go now."


    Xie Eun''s hands clenched behind her back as she heard the accusation resonate within her. She knew that she was being heartless and for the first time she realized how difficult it was to do this. She could only imagine how it would have hurt Wolf to have been like this for so many years! She wanted to give the man some hope as she saw the defeat in his eyes. Her hands almost extended to tear the file and just let him leave. but before she could bring them forward, Wolf stopped her and shook his head, glancing pointedly at her own stomach, reminding her that she too was doing this to protect someone.


    Wolf walked forward and clasped a hand on the man''s shoulders. "It takes a brave man to put a stop on the circle of revenge. A coward would rather sacrifice his family as long as he achieve his own goals. We promise you that you will be safe from us as long as you keep your end of the promise. Your family is already on their way to the airport. But before you go, the goons are inside for you to do what you wish with them. Maybe what they had planned for you, would help you gain a measure of control of your emotions and maybe even help you assuage the guilt that you are letting go of the past."


    In a daze, Lu Chang followed Cheng Mo to the room that was once his son''s nursery. The scene inside gave him a pause and he looked fiercely at the people who were tied together. Lu Chang remembered how they had decorated the entire place with so much love and how these people had slashed it! Mindlessly, he attacked the people who had dared to attack his family and finally, with his own fists bruised, he left the place without looking back! Even if he had to live in poverty, he would keep his family safe! And he had enough business acumen to once again earn the money, even if they would not be filthy rich, he would make sure that his family was not poor, wherever they went.

 Chapter 180 - Why Deceive?

    As she watched Lu Chang retreat, Xie Eun looked at her husband with questioning eyes. She had planned to handle Lu Qianjin and Lu Chang but not like this! Not until Lu Chang was so broken. As guilt assuaged her, Xie Eun felt her stomach churn and her head ache. She wanted to know why they had to be so ruthless to someone who was just a by stander. It was Lu Qianjin who had attacked them and him who had planned and executed everything. Yes, it was Lu Chang''s money but Qianjin had been careful in his planning. He had taken care to use only so much that would not arouse too many suspicions. Wasn''t Lu Chang''s biggest mistake in trusting his family. The same way she had?


    Without her saying anything, Yu Seok placed a hand on her back, massaging it comfortingly. He knew what was going on in her head and would let her try to handle it until she was ready for the answers. Yes, it was indeed disturbing to her and would weigh on her conscious but some things needed to be done.


    A little while later, Cheng Mo drove Wolf''s car while Xie Eun lay with her head on her husband''s shoulders, her heart heavy. Wolf looked at his wife''s downtrodden expression and sighed. Why did it look as if she was the one who had been at the losing end? He knew that she had planned to only take Lu Chang''s hotel and let them escape with the rest of the money. Heck she had even prepared some compensation money for them. He would have let her get on with it but when he had been told about the attack Qianjin had planned and realizing that Xie Eun was walking into the trap set by the man for another person, Wolf had realized that as long as there were innocent people involved, his wife would not be able to become hard hearted. And as long as she had a soft heart, she would draw the short end of a stick. He could only be grateful that her guards had caught on that something was off and Cheng Mo had been unusually sharp and informed him immediately. It was also why he had rushed to the place even after the goons had been caught. Rubbing his forehead, he explained," Eun-a, what do you think would have happened if you had come a little while later?"


    Xie Eun literally shuddered to think of the wreckage she would have arrived to if she had been a little later. Those goons had been trying to tear at the girl''s clothes and the little child was being forced to watch even as he struggled to escape and go to his mother. Such an innocent child who knew nothing... She looked at Wolf with wounded eyes as if asking him why there were such horrible people in the world.


    Wolf shook his head at her naivety and wanted to groan about the unfairness of having such a soft hearted wife. "Eun-a. You are still thinking like a human! And these people are less than humans. And to bring Lu Qianjin to his knees and defeat your enemies once and for all, you have to think like them! Because they are low life''s who have no limits and no morals. Why do you think Qianjin targeted the woman and the kid? Lu Chang was supporting them and Qianjin had everything he wanted. Then why? Because he understood that they were Lu Chang''s weakness. Once he lost them, he would turn irrational and all Qianjin had to do was brainwash him to make him believe that this was your fault. Qianjin thought of using this weakness against him. Qianjin wanted control and thought nothing of sacrificing his brother''s happiness and two innocent lives in the quest for it. Now you have saved these people today, and Lu Chang escape, thus Qianjin and Lu Chang will turn into enemies. By taking away all his hard earned savings, we have directly blamed the main culprit that is Qianjin. At this present, the person who Lu Chang hates the most is Qianjin. The reason we have made him choose is so that he would remember that this was his choice. By letting him know about his brother''s plan we have appropriately reminded him to be on his guard always. From now on, if something were to happen to his family, the first person to be blamed would be Lu Qianjin. By making Lu Chang believe that he was going to live in poverty, we have aptly directed his attention to survive. And his wife has not left empty handed. Your people have provided them enough money that they should be able to live comfortably for at least a month if they spend it wisely. This will be our kindness to him. A new chance to survive and live peacefully. What they make of it is up to them.. So my dear Eun-a put your mind at ease and think of handling Qianjin. He is currently in Lounge A, enjoying his brother''s impending doom. "


    Eun-a looked up at Yu Seok gratefully. She would never cease to be amazed at this man''s thoughtfulness. He took with one hand while giving with another. She looked up and placed a small peck on his cheek whispering," You are such an amazing man."


    Yu Seok looked down at his wife with a smile and nodded in acknowledgement, "Now you know!"


    Xie Eun stared in astonishment at this comment to her compliment and remarked, "And a conceited man."


    Grinning now, Yu Seok murmured. "Of course."


    Her mood uplifted, Xie Eun smiled and cuddled even closer to her husband. Cheng Mo, who sat in the front driving wondered why he was being punished by this dog food! Why? Why did the boss have to choose him to drive today?


    He actually felt as if he was an old man watching young children flirt.

 Chapter 181 - A Doctors Appointment

    Cheng Mo drove the couple to their next destination. While Xie Eun thought that they were going to handle Lu Qianjin, the truth was something else. Yu Seok had decided to let Lu Qianjin have a fun day today because they had other priorities that his girl seemed to be avoiding. Xie Eun had closed her eyes as she tried to prepare herself for the battle ahead but when she opened them, the battle she faced was one she was unprepared for.


    They were at a hospital. She looked at Cheng Mo accusingly as he stood staring ahead. Meeting her murderous glance bravely, Cheng Mo pointed towards the Boss. Ha! Let the boss handle his own missus'' wrath. Narrowing her eyes, she glared at Yu Seok who gave her a charmingly innocent(according to him) smile and helped her out of the car. Once out, she stood frozen as she asked, "What are we doing here? Are you sick?"


    But she knew why they were there. She scowled as she remembered their conversation from a few days ago when he had questioned her for going to the doctor''s for a check up and she had specially vetoed the idea.


    "Of course, I am not sick, my love! I know you do not like hospitals but we really need to get you some nutritious medicines and to get you tested."


    Xie Eun''s scowl deepened further and she refused to budge. Yu Seok leaned closer to her and whispered, "Baby. we are going inside whether you go willingly or I could carry you in there.."


    Xie Eun glared at the man who seemed to enjoy threatening her and lifter her foot, viciously stomping her foot on his before harrumphing and walking in! SInce they were already going inside, let him have a reason too! Grimacing from being stomped on, Yu Seok shook his head and followed his wife into the hospital.


    The anger that helped her march in, drained out as the first smell of the ''hospital'' kind hit her nose and she froze once again. But once inside, Yu Seok held her hand and when Xie Eun would have turned to register herself, Yu Seok guided her straight to the VIP lift. they reached the head of the gynecologic and obstetrics department. Two people stood waiting for the VIPs and Yu Seok and Xie Eun were guided inside straightaway.


    The doctor was a kind woman in her fifties and smiled at the couple. But the next moment her smile turned frozen and she stared at the man that had just entered. Yu Seok narrowed his eyes at the doctor''s sudden change but said nothing as the doctor directed her attention to Xie Eun. Smiling kindly at the girl, Doctor Ji started to casually ask Xie Eun her age and the rest before slowly directing her questions towards Xie Eun''s medical history. Then it was time for Xie Eun to get herself tested. The doctor called in a nurse who took a rather nervous looking Xie Eun towards the small lab where she would be taking the blood samples. Once Xie Eun was out of the room, the temperature suddenly dropped a few degrees. The kind looking doctor turned a deathly glare at the man sitting there. She then clenched her hands and pointed at the man sitting opposite her,"Mr Yu. Let me tell you I hate scumbags like you the most! How dare you! Just yesterday you came here pretending to be in love with your pregnant girlfriend ! And now you have the gall to bring another girlfriend to me! Mr Yoo, I must say you are an extremely good actor! You even had an experienced doctor like me fooled! But let me tell you the patient from yesterday and this sweet girl from today are now both under my care! And if you dare to continue to cheat, I will expose you to the two innocent girls!"


    Yu Seok could only raise his brows in astonishment at being scolded like this. At first he did not understand why the doctor had suddenly changed her attitude but then he guessed and without saying a word, he took out his cell phone and typed something, "This is the girl?"


    The doctor however interpreted this as even more insulting and angrily stood up,"Mr Yu! Are you telling me that you have so many affairs that you do not even know that which girlfriend of yours is pregnant. How preposterous!"


    Yu Seok suddenly felt a headache coming and thought of a few ways to kill his brother! Just as the doctor was about to lecture Yu Seok, Xie Eun returned and immediately sensed the rather tense atmosphere. Raising her brows she wondered if her husband had threatened the doctor by any chance. Seeing her patient come in, the doctor composed herself and with a final glare at Yu Seok turned to see her patient. "Miss Xie, I have prescribed some prenatal vitamins for you and once your blood works are in, we will see if you need to be prescribed anything else. You must be careful in doing physical work and avoid emotional stress. And if at anytime you need to talk to anyone, you can always call your doctor." Xie Eun stared at the doctor in astonishment wondering just what her hubby had done that the doctor was looking at her with such pity and sympathy. She turned to look at Yu Seok with raised brows.


    As she said this, she directed a glance at Yu Seok. Shaking his head, Yu Seok knew that he had to clear the misunderstanding right away or else he would have to suffer from the glares throughout the pregnancy. And the glare was so astonishing that he even felt like he was being scolded by an elder and he wanted to hunch his shoulders and stare at his shoes! No he needed to clear the air! So he turned to Xie Eun and remarked," It seems, I am cheating on you, my love."

 Chapter 182 - Yoo Shiro

    While Yu Seok amazed the disbelieving doctor with the story of identical twins, much to the amusement of Xie Eun who looked on while the doctor''s glare looked at the two of them as if they had lost their marbles, Yoo Shiro was trying to convince his girlfriend to become his wife. Of course he seemed to be failing miserably.


    He looked at the woman in his arms who had her eyes closed and sighed, "Why won''t you marry me, Wen Shan Shan?" One eye opened and started at him before closing again and came a cryptic reply," because of who you are for a start."


    This cryptic reply put a black frown on his face as he started at her,"What is that supposed to mean?"


    This time Wen Shan opened her eyes fully and stared into his beautiful green eyes. Briefly she let her gaze rest on his high cheekbones and beautiful eye lashes that would put a woman to shame. She wondered why she felt a deep tug towards him, something she never had previously felt for any other man..not even that one who she knew had broken her heart...but even as she was conscious of that, she ignored it and explained,"Shiro, you are a rich playboy who has women falling over him. Look I am not blaming you for your past but neither of us can be sure of the future. This is the modern age. We can raise the baby together without the shackles of marriage. Yes, we are both attracted to each other but this is just lust. It will pass. And what if we marry now and then fall in love with someone else? A marriage will only end in one or both of us getting hurt."


    Unknown to Wen Shan, Yoo Shiro''s expression had changed even more as she mentioned falling in love. A red haze seemed to form in front of his eyes when he thought of her in the arms of another man, loving him. Without another thought, he held her face and kissed her. Their lips melded and tongues twined, sliding together sensuously, making them both heady and drunk with pleasure. Wen Shan could feel the frisson of pure excitement that sent her pulse racing, something that happened everytime they were together. The potent attraction, the heightened senses drew her in like a magnet. It made her fall for him even as she every instinct inside her screamed that he was dangerous to her sanity. It had been like this from the beginning. Perversely, these same instincts also assured her that she was safe with him. Was it any wonder that she felt so conflicted?


    Sensing her distraction, Yoo Shiro shifted, leaning over her as he deepened the kiss, letting her feel his desire. She felt his hunger and a compulsion to feed it rose inside her making her feverish. The wanting increased steadily, with each beat of her heart, her hands going about him, her fingers running through his thick hair. . Her fingers itched to hold him in place, to encourage him.


    And yet even as his assault on her senses increased she tried to retain some awareness of herself but failed helplessly. One of her hands fell on his upper arm while the other on his shoulder. Her fingers flexed, desperate to touch and yet deny the urge.


    But just like the first time, the many previous times, his muscles shifting under her hand enthralled her, seduced her.. But this knowledge brought her back to the earth. Reminding her that she had already committed this same mistake... many times before. And she withdrew mentally.


    Shiro sensed her emotional withdrawal. His hand closed over her breast. Beneath his palm his nipples were like a hard button and yet her retreat was obvious in their kiss. In the sinking of her senses. He understood the female body too well.. Immediately, his lips hardened. The kiss now changed from hungry to ravenous. He wanted her complete surrender that seemed so close yet too far. But he had to withdraw. Because he wanted her to accept that they were making love and not satisfying lust. He panted hard as he withdrew. And cursed inwardly. She was going to be the death of him, he was sure.


    Her eyes opened. Glazed with passion and desire, the stared at him, taunting him and frustrating him no end. He cupped her cheeks, letting her see the torture he endured for her sake, and said, "We have a standoff, it seems, Shan Shan."


    This time Shan Shan gathered her composure like a cloak and attempted a look of hauteur. "Indeed?"


    His lips thinning, he growled a promise or rather a threat, "Indeed, because I have no intention of changing my mind. You are going to be mine. I will make sure of it."


    As Yoo Shiro marched out of her home, he missed seeing the desolation on her face. He did not get to hear what she said as she closed her eyes and lay back, "Shiro, You cannot change my mind. Because I am already yours. I don''t know how it happened. But it did. And now the only thing I can do is protect myself. Because I don''t think I will ever be able to recover if you ever cheat on me. I would rather watch you from afar. So that you do not feel shackled."


    Wen Shan remembered what she had heard on the night when she had gone up to see Xie Eun. And those words had reminded her exactly where she stood with Yoo Shiro. She was one of many. But a novelty because she had resisted him. And once the novelty wore off, he would start to look for the next challenge.


    But reminding these things to herself repeatedly seemed to be losing effect as she kept feeling that every time he asked her to marry him, a part of her resistance would crumble. Suddenly her eyes snapped open and she looked up something on her phone! She needed to harden her defenses and the best way to do that was to run to where he could not catch her..

 Chapter 183 - Yoo Shiro

    Yoo Shiro stared dejectedly at the screen of his play station, his mind not on the game. He felt like pulling his hair out because of frustration! Why was she not listening to him? Why did she do this? They were obviously well matched and had everything going! Heck, they even made a baby together so what was wrong with marrying each other! And what was that bull**** about falling in love one day!


    He wanted to talk to Xie Eun about her friend but remembering the last time he had tried to exhort information always gave him shivers. If she told Shan Shan that he had been questioning her, then he could only imagine what Shan Shan would do to him.


    Just as he was imagining the consequences, his eyes widened at the sight in front of him. Standing in front of him was the woman of his nightmares- Xie Eun. Rubbing his eyes to make sure he was not hallucinating, his mouth fell open in surprise when he saw that the woman in front of him really was his sister in law- who seemed to be really angry with him.. Giving her a nervous smile, he said, "Hello little sister in law. How are you and my little nephew or niece doing? What brings you to my humble abode?"


    For this polite greeting, Yoo Shiro was rewarded with the smack of a pillow on his face. Stunned at being hit, he looked at Xie Eun and then at the pillow now in his hand. After this, Xie Eun glared at him and gritted out," You bas****! How did you get my friend pregnant?"


    Yoo Shiro widened his eyes at this and realized that his sister in law had discovered their secret! Did Wen Shan stop him from telling anyone so that she could tell her herself? But seeing the angry look it did not seem as if Wen Shan had explained the situation properly..


    But he had found a solution to his problem and so he gloated, " You are pregnant yourself. Do I really need to explain the procedure. I don''t really mind but I doubt my little brother would appreciate it."


    " You insufferable brute! I am going to kill you." And Xie Eun who was just fuming, would really have attacked him but was held back by Yu Seok who had just entered the door.


    Placing her back, he went forward and slapped his brother upside the head. This caused Yoo Shiro to glare and complain, "Hey. I am older than you!"


    "By a minute! Now, would you like to tell us why Shan Shan is pregnant and you are hiding it from us? Or would you like my wife to torture you first."


    Whining, " The two of you are well suited. Both only know violence! Your friend just happens to be my girlfriend! I really did fall for her when I was pretend dating and she seemed to like me! But as it happens she just liked my body! She is pregnant but refuses to marry me! Do you really think I would faint because you were going to be a father! That was the time I realized that we too had not used protection! It is why I was shocked! I have ben trying to convince her into marrying me but she insists that we can co parent without getting married!" With that, Yoo Shiro explained the entire details of their torrid affair( minus the X rated version) and then looked at the couple helplessly. When the two did not speak even after having heard everything, he made puppy eyes at Xie Eun, almost begging, "Sister in law! Help me! I don''t know how to woo her! I feel that I must kidnap her and just make her marry me!"


    "If you do that, you will find yourself behind bars before the ink on your certificate has dried. From all the carcass that you have explained to me, would you like to tell me why have you not confessed your feelings to her."


    Xie Eun felt frustrated at this brother in law of hers. Throughout the entire explanation, he had not once made it clear that he liked and may have fallen in love with Shan Shan. Even though Shan Shan would never say anything, Xie Eun had already seen the feelings that had started to develop in her when they were pretend dating. And even after her explaining everything to Shan Shan the girl had been with him was a clear indication of her having fallen deeply for him too. She looked at her husband and then her brother in law. In spite of the two people identical looks, it was pretty clear that her Yu seok had bagged all the EQ as well as the IQ. She was so lucky.


    Yoo Shiro who had been looking at Xie Eun was forced to eat dog food when he saw the smitten look she was showering on her husband. What? They were discussing his problem so why was she looking at his little brother! He turned to complain to his brother and saw that the man was busy staring at his wife. Did these people come into his home to rub some more salt on his already festering wounds. Getting up, he banged on the table, "Are you here to make me feel like a lightbulb in my own house?"


    Before anyone could say anything further, however, Yoo Shiro''s phone started to ring,which after answering he let out a long streak of curses and complained," Now, you guys keep looking at each other and my bride to be is running away! She just booked a flight to Jeju Islands! Now what am I supposed to do?"


    Xie Eun finally felt a bit sympathetic and advised,"Do what you must! Just kidnap her and confess. Don''t come back until you have her confession! She has been badly hurt so you have to show her that you will not hurt her. And when you come back, we will have a double wedding!"

 Chapter 184 - The Fall Of Lu Qianjin (Any Young Readers Please Avoid.)

    Lu Qianjin walked to his room in a drunk haze and fell face first onto the bed, unaware of his surroundings or even the people who had thrown him into the room. Of course, even if he had known the danger he was in, he would not have been able to do anything to defend himself. After the two people had thrown him onto the bed, a few bulky men entered the room and a blanket was thrown over the man''s head. Next they took out the sticks and bats and went onto hit the person rolled in the blanket. The drunkard tried to defend himself but was useless so he could only lie there and scream in pain before passing out. Once he had been adequately hit, the goons then removed the blanket.


    Next was the time for clothes. The goons then proceeded to remove the clothes of the man and continued what he had planned for his sister in law and done to many other women. This time, Lu Qianjin was in such pain that he could not even wake up.


    Soon the morning seemed to arrive and the goons left peacefully, leaving the man unconscious and bleeding painfully. As a result of the assault as well as the alcohol, Lu Qianjin continued to sleep into the next day. It was only a day later that Qianjin woke up. His eyes opening blearily, he tried to move his body but stilled in the next moment. Because he was in pain. He could feel the smell of dried blood on his body and started to take inventory of his injuries. His eyes flashed with hatred as he realized that his brother had not even cared to look for him. Then he remembered what his brother must have been home to and his eyes glittered with perverted maliciousness. But in the next moment, as he was about to move, he realized another point of pain inside his body. His eyes widened and his hand slowly moved to check his a**.


    As if a switch had been turned on, his eyes widened in horror as he recollected every inch of pain and humiliation that he had suffered. He relived the horror, this time with his eyes wide. He tried to get up, scream or even call the hotel management but he realized that he had no strength. With a maddened expression, he hoarsely screamed and tried to thrown a small vase on the side with utmost power. But no one heard the screams and the vase simply fell onto the carpeted floor with no sound.


    Despair and hatred running through him gave him the power to get up. Just as he had stood on his feet, the door opened and a few people rushed in. Imagining it to be the hotel staff, Lu Qianjin tried to scold them but when he saw the look of the men he tried to move backwards only to fall backwards on the bed again.


    The leader of the goons gave a thin perverted smile and said, "You still have the strength to stand up. It seems we have not done our work well. But we are not ones to leave our work midway. You see we were ordered to make sure you could not stand." He then gestured to the goons behind him who walked forward and forcibly turned over the weakly struggling man before beginning their torture again. This time the screams of the man could be heard all over the room and these screams were recorded and sent to Lu Chang as a special gift. After this round of torture, the goons once again retreated, leaving the room. With a face drenched in sweat, blood and tears, Lu Chang got up on trembling legs. His only thought was to clean himself and then kill and get revenge. But before he could understand the direction he was headed to, he slipped and this time fell straight over a window, shattering glass and falling down from the thirteenth floor.


    As people screamed at the sudden fall, someone informed the ambulance and the police but no one dared to go closer. Once the police had arrived, they shooed away the crowd that had gathered and barred the place. Once everything was clear the dead body was taken away for an autopsy. a police officer, then sat in his car and sent the information of this incidence to a private number.


    Wolf, who had been preparing breakfast for his wife frowned at the message tone and soon his brow cleared as he read the message. It seemed he needed to be thankful to Lu Chang, who had saved them from dirtying their hands. Qianjin seemed to be a perfect example of the saying that you shall reap what you sow.


    Deleting the message, he went on with the cooking since for him nothing had changed.


    It was only later when the two people prepared to go to their work place did Xie Eun read the news about the accidental death Lu Qianjin. Her eyebrows raised she looked at Yu Seok with a question mark, clearly asking him if he was the one behind this. Yu Seok simply shook his head before muttering, "Both the brothers share the same blood. The only difference was the Lu Chang had a little bit of morals."


    Though Yu Seok put this incident out of his mind, Xie Eun pondered over this all morning. She had an uncomfortable feeling that if Lu Chang could do this to his own brother in the name of revenge, did they make a mistake in letting him go? But as always, Yu Seok who was always aware of her thoughts sent her a reassuring message of how Lu Chang''s identity as a person from their counter had been erased and there was no was he would be able to come back.


    Relieved over this, Xie Eun could finally concentrate on her work and breathed sighs of relief as all their enemies had finally fallen..

 Chapter 185 - The Rise Of Nora Xu

    As Xie Eun''s pregnancy progressed, she immersed herself in the wedding preparations. Her father had thankfully chosen the venue and decorations for her and with Wolf''s influence they had been able to get a date for next month. As a result of this she just needed to work on making the guest list and choose a dress for herself. She was prepared to have another cozy wedding but that idea was vetoed by Elder Yoo who was on cloud nine ever since he heard the dual good news of her pregnancy and their plan to wed again. She was very sure that if they allowed, their wedding would snowball into an event of the century kind of a thing.


    She leaned back in her chair and opened an application on her phone, checking the progress of her company. Slowly things had come back on track and Xie Eun leaned back in her chair. She had an idea brewing in the back of her mind and wondered if she should broach the subject with Yu Seok. Mindlessly, she wondered what his reaction would be to her suggestion. Just then she looked down and her eyes widened at the new headline. Clicking on the article, she skimmed through it and was impressed at the woman''s achievements in such a short while. If she had been a little less in love with her hubby or a little like her old self, she too would have felt that she was not qualified for Yu Seok. This made her remember that she had not told her hubby about Nora''s.. threats.


    The Rise Of Nora Xu:


    With her return from overseas after more than a decade, Miss Nora Xu, has taken over the reins of the biggest banking network in the country. The position was earlier held by the lady''s maternal grandfather who has now announced his retirement. Miss Nora can now be considered one of the youngest and most influential women in the country. She has studied from..


    Xie Eun looked up from her phone with a thoughtful frown. It seemed that she needed to consider this opponent really carefully.


    Just then another news article popped up on her phone and this time her eyes widened in astonishment. She had just repeated a past mistake and been laid back in ignoring the thread. This woman definitely worked fast. The news of her takeover was released and just after that, the announcement is released of an impending joint venture of NX Banking Group with Alpha Group and the Government.


    Her eyes sharpening, she dialed Cheng Mo''s number and gave the instructions," I want all information on NX Banks and their current deals as well as the terms of the new venture with the Alpha Group." Cheng Mo raised his brows at the instructions. Since when did Missus boss become interested in the deals done by Alpha Group?"


    But following the instructions, he did as he was told and within the next thirty minutes had prepared the summary, "Madam, Sir Xiao is the current chairman of the NX Banks. This venture is his dream project and the final deal he has signed for the Company. If this venture goes as planned, Alpha Group as well as NX Banks will have make profits with billions in net worth and be considered a global superpower. And naturally with the Government''s support, the country will also benefit greatly. The project is to be jointly headed by Boss himself and Miss Nora who is set to overtake the Bank. The project begins next month and this is the most crucial time where everyone involved will have the biggest burden. Naturally as Miss Nora is the daughter of a dignitary and she has been a great help in acquiring the government''s co operation, she is considered suitable to lead."


    After Cheng Mo had finished his summary, he looked at Xie Eun for any hint on what could be on her mind but he remained clueless as she looked lost in thought. Just as he was about to ask if she had really listened, she questioned him, "What would be the course of action during this month?"


    This caused Cheng Mo to frown as he answered, "It is actually very unusual for the Boss to participate in such events so I can''t say for sure what the course of action will be. He is usually very reticent and no body dares to approach him lest they offend him. But otherwise, usually team building activities are held by both companies and official gatherings are held but outside the offices where the officials can come to understand each other''s expectations."


    This piece of information caused Xie Eun to scowl ferociously and confused Cheng Mo even more. So Miss Nora had already played her card! She planned to co operate with her husband and get close to him under the guise of business! Really! As if!


    Xie Eun narrowed her eyes at Cheng Mo and said, "Cheng Mo. You are very good at your work, aren''t you?"


    Puffing his chest in pride, Cheng Mo nodded and said, "Of course, I am! It is why boss told me to follow you and listen to all your orders!"


    "Very Good.. very good.."


    Suddenly, Cheng Mo felt as if he had just put his neck in a noose and then his premonition turned true when he heard the boss missus'' orders.. Gulping with difficulty, he wanted to ask if he had offended her in some way and that was why she was punishing him, but she had already dismissed him and turned to walk out of the office.


    Cheng Mo walked out of the office, unsure of what to think. His boss had given him two orders before coming here," Listen to all her orders and report anything untoward to him.." And now the lady boss had given the order to go back to the boss'' side and report anything untoward to her! Why was he stuck in the middle? And both the people had the same reason! To protect the other party!

 Chapter 186 - A Gloomy Night

    Xie Eun dragged herself home from the office with a sad face. The weather today was really gloomy and though she usually liked rains, today she was finding it too bothersome. Getting in, she slumped on the couch and just lay back. She wondered if this was the mood swing that everyone talked about, that she was supposed to have during her pregnancy. She looked down at her stomach which was soon going to bulge up and spoke to her baby, "Little bean.. are you in a bad mood and that is why I am feeling so down? Don''t be sad okay! Daddy will be here soon and then we will have fun. Anyway, what do you think of Mama''s plan.. I am going to pester your father to teach me how to cook. So that we can eat healthy even when your father is tired from work. Beanie, are you going to like mama''s cooking? I doubt I can be as good as your daddy."


    Xie Eun could feel her mood improving as she spoke to her little bean. She smiled a bit and wondered at what the doctor had said about caring for her food. Yu Seok, who had always been on the look out for her had started to care more for her. Sometimes Xie Eun could hardly wait for the baby bump to show and sometimes she dreaded it. She had even chosen a dress that tightened just under her breasts before slowly flaring out so that even if the bump started to show, they would not have to make any alterations. Just as she was about to fall asleep, her phone started to ring. Lazily stretching her hand to pick it up, a smile graced her face as she saw the name on the phone. But before she could answer, the phone was cut off. Frowning, Xie Eun wondered why Yu Seok would cut off the call and waited for him to call again. It was what he usually did when she did not answer. Her frown turned darker when she no call came and so she decided to call him back.. The phone was unreachable.. Hmm.. Maybe that is why the call was cut off, he must have gone into a no network area. Shrugging her shoulders she placed the phone near her and continued to prattle to the little bean. Soon, an hour had passed and Xie Eun started to fall asleep on the couch.


    As her head lolled for the nth time, she finally moved and rubbed her eyes. Another side effect of this pregnancy was that she started to feel too sleepy, all the time! Stretching slowly, she looked at the time and realized that it was too late. It seemed her hubby was really busy. An occurrence like this was too rare and thus Xie Eun walked towards the kitchen and opened the refrigerator that was filled with Yu Seok''s cooking. Heating a plate of noodles and a side of fried meat she walked to the table and mindlessly chewed on the food. She looked at the torrent of rain and wondered when her hubby would be back home. Xie Eun hated nights like these where she felt alone. Unable to eat after a few bites, she threw the rest of the food into the trash and walked into their room. She needed a hot bath, she decided. Carrying the clothes, she filled up the bath tub and soon was immersed in the soothing water and closed her eyes with a sigh, letting herself soak comfortably..


    Once again, she had almost fallen asleep when she heard the sound of the door closing. Just as her eyes snapped open, they were met with his glittering ones. His gaze gave her a thorough once over ,stopping to where her breast would be under the water, and he leaned closer to place a peck on her lips. "This is the best sight to come home too."


    Forgetting that she was supposed to question him, Xie Eun gave him a sultry smile and invited," This can be better if you were to join in."


    Giving her a smile of his own, Yu Seok accepted the invitation and threw his clothes away slowly, giving her a strip tease performance along the way. But just as he threw away the shirt, Xie Eun''s gaze fell on a slight pink mark and her eyes narrowed. Ignoring the alarm bells ringing in her head, she welcomed Yu Seok with a deep passionate kiss. However, before they could go further, Xie Eun pulled back. The doctor had asked them to be careful so that they could only torture themselves. After playing around for a while, which resulted in a sore wrist for Xie Eun, the two people went to the bed. After laying her in bed, Yu Seok kissed Xie Eun lightly on the forehead before moving back, ready to step out of the room. Xie Eun frowned at this and looked questioningly. Sighing Yu Seok, explained," The new venture is full of minute but complicated details that I need to study. A single misstep or mistake could result in us being screwed over. There is no margin of error. I still have work to do.." Xie Eun nodded her head in understanding and gave her husband an encouraging smile. But the moment, Yu Seok had stepped out of the room, Xie Eun stealthily got out of the bed and walked into the washroom. "Witch!" Nora Xu actually had the gall of taunting her like this! Well she will show her!


    Walking out, she picked up her phone and messaged Cheng Mo, "Send me tomorrow''s schedule."


    Tomorrow seemed to be a perfect day to surprise her hubby.. Just as she had expected, NX Banks had a meeting scheduled just before lunch. What a K-drama type of idea Miss Nora had! Let the meeting extend into the lunch break and then propose to have lunch together.. But as Xie Eun glanced at Yu Seok''s schedule, she also felt worried for her husband. The way his days were packed, she had no idea how he had even managed to take so much time to think of her. Her poor hubby. She thought back to his tired face and then with a huff, marched out.


    Looking down at her tummy, she frowned and talked to her kid, "Little bean. I know you are sleepy but your daddy needs some Tender loving care. We need to show your daddy how much we love him, don''t we? "


    Preparing a cup of green tea, Xie Eun walked on and knocked on the small study where her hubby was burning the midnight oil. When there was no reply from inside, she opened the door to see Yu Seok leaning back on his chair with his eyes closed. Shaking her head, she walked forward and glanced at his files and forgot to move away her gaze. This data was riveting and almost an overload of information. They would have to check each clause and then recheck it. Just as she was about to pull a chair and continue some of his work, a notification popped up on his screen. Her eyebrows raising, Xie Eun felt a smirk come on her face. This woman actually had the gall to video call her husband at the midnight hour. Hmm! Leaning forward she declined the call and moved back only to see her husband open his eyes. Smiling sunnily at him, Xie Eun caressed his face and tutted,"My poor hubby. Are you trying to kill yourself with work?"


    Stretching a bit, Yu Seok pulled Xie Eun into his lap and rested his head on her chest." Just getting this out of the way so that we can have our wedding properly.."


    Grinning at him she complained, "If you work like this, you will look ugly on the day of out marriage! And then I might just faint from fear!"


    Reiprocating her teasing look, Yu Seok asked,"Mrs Yu, are you threatening me that you will not marry me if I I don''t look my best?" Even though they were only playing with each other, Yu Seok''s voice dropped an octave as he nuzzled his face into her bosom, sniffing deeply.


    Giggling, Xie Eun got out of his lap and stood behind his chair, "Of course I am not. It would be a wonder if you were able to look ugly! And now, let me give you a head massage and you sip on the green tea, after which you can get back to work."


    Enjoying the feeling of her fingers on his head, Yu Seok let her massage him. When he would have opened his eyes at the sound of another notification popping in, XIe Eun ordered him to keep his eyes closed and leaned forward. This time she did not decline the video call and instead let it connect. And just as her silly opponent came onto the screen, Xie Eun leaned forward and kissed her husband deeply, in full view of the camera..

 Chapter 187 - A Scene

    e As was the case always, once these two people were together, they would often forget their surroundings. As Xie Eun was pulled closer to Yu Seok to deepen the kiss, she forgot that there might be someone who would be watching them and gave in to their need. Xie Eun had only wanted to make a point to Nora that her childish games would make no difference to her relationship with her husband. She could not have expected that this scene would only instigate Nora and make her more obsessed.


    Nora, who had just been about to greet Yu Seok with an excited face, froze on the screen. Her fingers clenched and her eyes breathed fire as jealousy roared through her. That was supposed to be her place! She was the one who was supposed to be in his lap! Even as this girl still struggled to be his equal, Nora believed that she was already on par with him and the only one who deserved to be with him, stand by his side. The false fawning of the Bank executives and Board of Directors had gone on to fan the flames of her misconception and sense of superiority.


    Inappropriately, Nora continued to watch the scene instead of a decent person who would immediately disconnect the call when seeing such a flagrant scene. Nora shamelessly continued to watch as the man''s fingers clenched over the woman''s hips and he seemed to be bringing her closer. The passion with which Yu Seok held her was a testament to his real personality, a direct contradiction to his otherwise cold personality.. Nora felt her throat dry up, as she started to imagine it was her in Xie Eun''s place. She remembered the warm feel of him and the strong muscles when she had fallen over him after the meeting today.. An obsessive fire started to burn within Nora as she lost all her objective reasoning. She looked at the woman''s body in his arms, comparing it to hers and found Xie Eun lacking in this department too. When the screen suddenly turned blank, Nora had promised herself that soon she would be in that woman''s place.


    Thankfully, Xie Eun seemed to remember what she had done and so breaking off the kiss, she closed the laptop suddenly and then turned to Yu Seok, "Do the work in the morning." Even though they had just satisfied each other''s needs, Yu Seok followed Xie Eun as if being led by a Pied Piper.


    Early the Next Morning:


    Xie Eun woke up a little early to a cold bed. Glancing at the time, she realized that Yu Seok must have woken really early because they had hardly had a few hours of sleep. Washing her face, she walked to the library with heavy feet and quietly pulled along the chair to sit by his side. Before he could protest, Xie Eun silenced him with a finger on his lips and picked up a file with some pending evaluations. The two people worked side by side so that as a result the work that was initially supposed to take a few hours was completed in a couple of hours. At seven in the morning, Xie Eun stretched her arms high up and leaned over and laid her head on his shoulder.


    "Sigh, hubby! We are finally done."


    Pulling his wife to him, Yu Seok rubbed her shoulders and kissed her on the forehead, "Thank you my wifey! For rescuing me from this paperwork."


    Grinning, she beckoned him closer and announced, "I have a selfish reason for that." before pointing to her stomach which growled as if calling out for help.


    Rolling his eyes, Yu Seok tweaked her nose, asking, "What would you like to eat, your highness?"


    But this time Xie Eun shook her head. "Uh huh! This time I don''t want you to make anything for me! This time you have to teach me.."


    Apprehensively, remembering the many moments of his wife''s clumsiness, Yu Seok agreed to teach his wife how to cook a few basic dishes. Though he was tempted to extract a promise from to never enter the kitchen alone without supervision.


    Shaking his head, he seived the flour into a bowl and instructed his student to add the water slowly to make a firm dough.. In the next moment, the sound of his phone ringing could be heard and thus he walked out...


    And thus as soon as his back was turned, Xie Eun proceeded to add more water to the dough trying to make it into a dough but succeeding in making it look more like a puddle. As if this was not pitiful enough, frustrated at not being able to get the right consistency, she hit her own forehead in frustration, resulting in having the flour smeared all over her face. This is turn made her groan in frustration and angrily, she placed the bowl on the kitchen counter with a huff. However, since the universe was conspiring against her learning to cook, the bowl tipped so that the entire contents of the flour paste were now on Xie Eun. And this was the scene that Yu Seok came back to. Controlling his urge to laugh at his wife, Yu Seok gave a very grave frown which caused Xie Eun to see through him and understand that she was being laughed at. Angrily, she stomped her foot like an eight year old and whined, "Yu Seok!"


    Covering his lips with his fingers he muttered, "What?"


    This caused Xie Eun to narrow her eyes and with a hmpf, an egg was thrown at Yu Seok. Missing it by an inch, Yu Seok ran to his errant wife and held her in his arms, rubbing her against him. Before she could understand his reasons, Yu Seok was as ''soilt'' as she was. Happy now? Xie Eun looked at her own messy clothes and then his before giggling, finding the situation extremely funny. But in the next moment, she pouted and complained, "But I failed miserably at making a dough."


    Shaking his head, Yu Seok gathered another bowl and this time held his wife''s hand as they slowly kneaded the dough together.. and then proceeded to make the dumplings together. while ruining the entire kitchen in the process.


    While these two people had a fun filled morning, Nora too had woken up with an excitement of the day ahead. Dancing to the beat of, "I''m a bomb'' ,she prepared her self for the meeting at noon. She was going to have a meal with Yu Seok today. She wondered and practiced how she was going to ask him out. She had arranged this meeting after really careful planning and she needed to proceed with caution. From being careful about instigating her grandfather to manipulating the people who had prior arrangements with Yu Seok so that she would have the time she wanted available, everything had gone smoothly. After a long sensuous bath, Nora chose an off white colored silk camisole and a deep blue jacket and a short blue skirt. The clothing style was impeccable and one could see the success radiating from her persona. Carefully spraying the Chanel Grand Extrait perfume, she put on a lightly seductive makeup as she hummed a song. After the long morning routine of prepping herself, Nora donned her heels and was ready to take on the day. Since calming down after the episode of last evening, Nora had understood one thing, she had underestimated her nemesis. That woman had purposely arranged the scene for her to see. That woman must have seen the mark on Yu Seok''s shirt and this is what she had answered with. Fine. It was only a matter of time before she had what she wanted. Because there was never a time when she did not get what she wanted. And it was because of her faith, she was sure that Yu Seok had returned. She had known him first, waited for him longer and loved him the longest.. It made no difference as to who the woman in his life was at present. She had been the first woman and she would be the last. Even as she went to the office, she was planning the meal they would have during the day..


    But just as she was about to reach her office, she received a panicked call from Yu Seok''s assistant, "Madam, former assistant Cheng Mo has returned to his position a few days ago and he is now the one handling the Chairman''s meetings. I have just received instructions that your meeting will have to be pushed back to after lunch because the Chairman sir has some urgent matters to attend to."


    Her voice turning cold, Nora questioned the junior assistant but received no helpful reply.. Angrily, her phone was thrown away harshly in a fit of anger. Clenching her fingers, Nora vowed," I will not give up so easily. Picking up the spare phone, she called her grandfather and complained, "Grandfather, Alpha Group needs a warning! It seems they do not want to collaborate.."

 Chapter 188 - Shan Shan

    Shan Shan paced the length of the room throwing worried expressions at the bed now and then. What was she supposed to do? She had no idea. She had run away here to get rid of Yoo Shiro. Who would have expected that he would chase her right here and wrestle his way into her room. Speaking to herself, she tried to convince herself, "Shan Shan, you are a successful lawyer who is experienced in handling manipulating and lying jerks! You are going to be a mommy soon! So you need to handle this man! Talking and convincing people is your profession! And you are good at it!" However even after the pep talk, Shan Shan realized that she was finding it increasingly difficult to find reasons to refuse him. But.. she needed to think¡ªto be sure, certain, that she wasn''t being led by the nose¡ªno, not his nose, but rather her hormones¡ªinto committing a deed she would later regret. She had to take a stance, one that she knew was right.


    Her biggest fear was being cheated on and being not loved. The trick her ex and Lu Yeona had played on her had caused her to form a barrier around her heart to protect herself. In hind sight, she realized that it was her teenager self that was mostly humiliated and her heart at least had still been safe. But at this stage she also realized that if she agreed to marry this man then she needed everything. His commitment, heart, mind, and soul, might not be a customary requirement, yet for her, with him, these simply had to be.


    She cast a glittering glance his way, the one who had stolen her sleep and was now resting peacefully. She marched to him and extended her hand to wake him up. Then stopped herself. No, if she was within reach when he woke up, she would be under him before she could draw in a breath. Walking around, she leaned over and shook his ankle..


    Within a minute, Yoo Shiro had jumped up on the bed, ready to attack, only to fall back when he saw the woman who stood staring at him with her arms crossed.


    Raising his eyebrows he looked at the little woman and smiled charmingly, "Darling, why are you out of bed so late in the night. Come to me.." His sleepy seductive voice almost made her forget her resolution and she only moved back at the last moment so that Yoo Shiro''s extended hand grabbed thin air. He looked at the disgruntled woman in frustration and asked, "What is it?"


    "We need to talk!" The ever dreaded statement of the entire male species resonated in his ear and he almost screamed in horror at what she needed to talk about. Stubbornly, he shook his head. He was not going to take another no from her. Mirroring her stance, he set him own mouth in a pout and argued, "We can talk in the morning. There is no need talk in the middle of the night."


    Just as he was about to throw himself backwards, Shan Shan muttered, "Fine! I was thinking of accepting your proposal. But since you do not want to talk about it we will just consider this off the table.."


    Before she could say anything more, a wide eyed Shiro stood in front of her, with a big smile on his face, "Darling! You should have told this from the beginning. Any time is the right time to talk about our wedding as long as you agree with it.."


    In an about turn from few minutes ago, Shan Shan''s hand was held and Shiro walked into the sitting room and stared at Shan Shan with wide expectant eyes.


    Suddenly nervous once again, Shan Shan up only to look into his almost ageless omniscient green eyes and pulled in a deep breath. Her mind whirled as she tried to lay down her demands. He was a man who was hedonistic enough that he would throw himself in any fray with a passion that would make any sane opponent think twice. She too had barely held on. And she was sure that he had yet to release any on his tricks.


    Clearing her throat, she muttered, "I am willing to marry you..bu .. "


    Before she could utter the ''but'' Shan Shan screamed in exasperation as she was lifted from the sofa and given a twirl. She clutched at his shoulders in terror as her head started to spin. And then when she had yet to catch her breath, he brought her down and kissed her hard, before promising, "Thank you Shan Shan! I promise to you that you will never regret your decision!"


    Finally, Shan Shan''s mind cleared from the sudden assault and she pushed at the man, hard. Almost in a shrill voice she shouted," Shiro! At least listen to me!"


    Shiro froze and this time looked at her with bated breath.. He had naturally heard the ''but'' coming .. and had been doing his best to avoid it. It seemed this but was going to be difficult to deal with.


    Seeing that he was finally serious, Shan Shan continued," But I have some conditions."


    Shan Shan glared at him when he immediately started to nod his head before she had even listed the conditions. "At least listen to the conditions before you nod mindlessly, you dumb fool! So that I would know that you are not just agreeing to pacify me and make me agree but really paying attention!"


    Shiro opened his mouth to spout some flowery words about how he was ready to accept all her conditions but her glare made him shut up.


    Finally, Shan Shan began," First, if we marry, we must always be able to be honest with each other! If you ever feel that you are not happy, then you must tell me directly! Second, you will have to be loyal to me! If you feel you are attracted to someone else, or want to flirt with someone else, then let me tell you that if you dare to cheat on me, I will cut off your fuc**** ba***!"


    This threat caused Shiro to wince and even as he wanted to protest that he would never cheat, he knew that his image as a playboy had been set in her mind and the only way to change that would be through actions.


    Seeing that he was yet to protest, Shan Shan nodded and continued, "If we marry.."


    "When."


    "Huh?" The sudden interruption caused Shan Shan to pause mid sentence and she looked at him questioningly to which Shiro explained," Not if.. when we marry.."


    An eyeroll later, "When we marry, we must be in love with each other! So we will marry later and until then we must control out hormones and date each other seriously! You can move in with me or I can move in with you and then we can see if we are compatible! I thought I would be in a marriage of convenience or be a spinster all my life so I did not have many expectations! But after seeing Anna''s happiness, I don''t want a loveless marriage! During this time, we can see if we can fall in love with each other! And if we can''t we will just go our separate ways and do co-parenting!"


    A moment of silence ensued and Shan Shan looked down at her intertwined fingers, waiting for his reply. This was of the most important condition to her and she did not know what she would do if he refused to agree with her. When he did not say anything for a few moments, she looked up to see that the place where he was sitting was empty. Her eyes filling with moisture, she was about to get up when Shiro came back in front of her.


    He then kneeled in front of her and held her left hand in both of his," Shan Shan, I agree with all your conditions but the last. I cannot fall in love with you in the future."


    The tears that had been held back, started to flow out of her eyes as she heard the words. She tried to tell herself that she was not hurt. That she must appreciate his honesty. But it was of no use. She felt broken inside.. So broken that it took a few minutes for his next words to sink in," Because I already love you. So I cannot wait for the future. But since you wish for us to live together then Iwill make preparations to live together so that I can make you fall in love with me.. The night you stole my phone was also the night you stole my heart."


    Shan Shan looked up with shocked eyes, straight into his emerald ones. She tried to gauge if he was lying to her but she could only see the sincerity in his eyes. And a little bit of uncertainness that she would not love him back or even look down on him for being unable to get her love. The tears flowing at an even more speed, she replied, "Silly, you cannot make me fall in love with you in the future also! Because I already love with you!"

 Chapter 189 - Sir Xiao

    Cheng Mo raced towards the elevator as he was informed of the arrival of the esteemed Sir Xiao. When he had pushed back the meeting, he had not expected Sir Xiao to grace the meeting himself. He wanted to groan in exasperation. It was not like he had pushed back the meeting purposely. The boss had decided to make himself take an impromptu leave for the morning!


    And now this...He was so happy with the Boss missus. Thankfully he reached the entrance doors, just in time to bow deeply to the personage. Sir Xiao may be a man who was more than eighty but his straight spine and sharp eyes belied the ferocious personality of the man. His white hair only added to his aura making him look all the more powerful. With a customary smile, Cheng Mo guided the entire entourage towards the conference room. Even as he led them, he internally prayed that the boss would be here soon!


    It was only after Sir Xiao had settled in that he noticed the lady that was part of the entourage. With a polite nod, Cheng Mo greeted her. And many things became clear. Regarding the boss missus'' sudden current interest in the latest dealings of Alpha Groups and the reason why the boss had suddenly been delayed today. The hospitality team was spot on and soon refreshments and beverages were brought in. Once everything was laid down, Cheng Mo once again bowed deeply and said," Sir Xiao. CEO Wolf has been inexplicably delayed. We did try to rearrange the meeting but it was too late. We are really sorry for the inconvenience. CEO Wolf is on his way and will be with you shortly. He sends his apologies and requests to please let us have a chance to serve you. We have some of the country''s best chefs."


    Sir Xiao nodded in approval and leaned back in his chair, waving his hands for the others to eat something. In actual fact, after deciding to retire, Sir Xiao did not have much to do during the day. He had heard a lot about the young man and so was curious to meet him. Under normal circumstances, no one would dare make him wait. But he could not blame today on the young man. He had not initially planned to make an appearance. But his granddaughter had called him, asking him for help.


    He glanced at his grand daughter who looked so impatient. Though he had stopped going to parties and balls, he had heard about the instance that took place at the Yoo''s. And since old man Yoo and him were especially friends, he also knew somethings that his granddaughter did not. He knew why his granddaughter had taken a sudden interest in business. She thought that she had hid it well. But he knew. After all she was his own blood! His daughter''s only daughter! But he also knew that Nora had been spoilt rotten! And it was their fault. For pampering her in the excess. Her paternal grandfather and him, they had tried to take care of the little motherless girl as much as they could, and this had resulted in her turning out like this. And even though they were some of the most astute businessmen, they had failed to see what kind of a two faced person their granddaughter had become. The sweet, obedient girl that they thought they had raised was a vicious cunning woman under the veneer.


    Unfortunately or fortunately, he did not know, he had discovered her true face accidentally when he had decided to give her a surprise visit when she was overseas. He had tried to find excuses for his little girl''s behavior but his heart had been painfully in doubt. He thought of when he had hired the private eye to probe deeply and been shocked. After that he had been unable to keep himself in denial and had only been able to clean up after her.


    When he heard the news of Yoo Seok''s return from old man Yoo and then subsequently Nora''s he had immediately guessed her reason. But this time, he decided to not clean up after her. If he was not mistaken, from what he had heard of Yu Seok''s reputation, he had the means to control his errant granddaughter. But then he heard that the man was married and going to be a father soon. This had given him pause. And he started to keep an eye on the couple and discovered that Yu Seok''s was also a powerful woman in her own right. Just like his granddaughter, he too had made keen observations. And came to the conclusion that, this couple was capable of making Nora give up. Maybe once she lost something, she would learn. Though he had his doubts.


    After a while Nora felt her grandfather''s gaze on her and turned to give him hesitant smile. His gaze suddenly gave her the chills, making her feel as if her own grandfather was plotting against her. But when she looked at him again, he gave her his patent benign smile which she could only return unwillingly.


    Nora wanted to demand and know Yu Seok''s whereabouts but with her grandfather there, she could not throw around her weight. But she also knew that if not for her grandfather, they would have not been able to get a meeting today.


    Outside the meeting room, Cheng Mo breathed a sigh of relief as after re arranging the schedule for the ''n''th time, he was told the boss was here!


    Yu Seok walked into the office building hand in hand with his wife. Though it had been a known fact that the man was married and many people had also been served the occasional dog food by the couple when they sent each other things but this was the first time they saw the scene with their own eyes. The two people walked leisurely as if they were in a world of their own. The boss who was always fast paced, kept pace naturally with his wife. The beautiful lady boss they had only seen pictures of was even more beautiful in person. Many people who had assumed that the beauty of the lady boss was only due to make up or photoshop were even more amazed at the beauty. it was clear that there was no makeup on her face. They felt that it was very unfair that this woman had been blessed with everything.


    And that was the way they walked into the conference room. Hand in hand. When Sir Xiao noticed the couple walk in, he felt his brows raise. It seemed the war had already begun. The busy Chairwoman Xie of Lu Enterprises had come to the Alpha Companies today. He thought of the many similarities she shared with his granddaughter. Both the girls had inherited their position from their maternal grandparents. Both the girls had lost their mother at a young age. And both the girls had fallen for the same man. And yet both of them were so much apart. One had made sacrifices to bring her company back to it''s formal glory while the other planned to use her company to fulfill her own selfish motives. Even at the cost of millions of people who worked for them. Of course it could be said that he was just as selfish for putting the bank in jeopardy but he had already made provisions. He knew that this project would never be finished as long as Nora was obsessed with Yu Seok. It was doomed for failure. But this was the price he was willing to pay. Only by shattering his own dream project would he be able to make her dream of being Yu Seok''s wife break too. Let her try her best. For he knew that this couple was strong.


    Yu Seok walked forward and apologized,"Sir Xiao, sorry to keep you waiting."


    Nora, who was waiting expectantly was ignored as after the crisp apology to her grandfather, Yu Seok turned around and introduced his wife to her grandfather. When Nora watched the two people together, she almost felt the smoke coming out of her ears. The scene from last night started to play in front of her and she had the sudden urge to tear away the couple''s hands from each other.


    Sir Xiao smiled at the couple and generously forgave them,"I am an old man who had nothing to do all day. I only came here to pass some time. And your hospitality has been great."


    Yu Seok nodded in acknowledgement and invited,"Then I would like you to join us for lunch since it is almost time. And then we can get back to business after that."


    Sir Xiao smiled his acceptance and bringing Nora forward said,"Sure, we can have a small meal and catch up with everything."


    Sir Xiao smiled and dismissed his employees while guiding his granddaughter to go out.


    Nora who had succeeded in snaring a meal like she wanted could only seethe in frustration.

 Chapter 190 - A White Lotus

    In a dimly lit room, Xie Eun and Yu Seok sat side by side while Nora and her grandfather sat opposite them. After a few pleasantries and some general questions from Sir Xiao, the four people discussed the financial markets as they waited for their meal to arrive. To show his regard to Sir Xiao, Yu Seok had arranged the exclusive restaurant to cater to them and only their specialties were to be served. Out of respect for Sir Xiao, Yu Seok had let the guest order all the items and spoke only to him. Nora Xu at his side was neither ignored nor given any attention. Because if she had been purposely ignored, then she would have let herself feel important. But that was not the case as she was simply side lined and unable to contribute much to the discussion.


    Soon, however, Xie Eun started to feel like a white lotus from a manga or romance novel. And this was because of Nora''s continuous forlorn glares. She almost felt like Nora was the protagonist and female lead and she was someone who was snatching away her first love. And in a way it could have been true if the two people had grown up together. But as it happened, even if Nora had been chosen by Yu Seok''s family, the two people had hardly known each other. In fact since everyone believed that Yu Seok had perished, it made no sense for Nora to claim him! But her pitiful act now, a direct contrast to her real nature that day was quite amusing. Anyone looking at her would feel as if she and Yu Seok were bullying her..


    Xie Eun wanted to shake her head and get rid of the fantasy! Because she realized that it was indeed quite thrilling to be a vamp! After all she had planned like one and her plan had turned around too much! In reality, she had planned to let Yu Seok teach her how to cook and then she would have given him a surprise during lunch time effectively making Xie Eun unable to approach him for lunch! And then they would have spent some quality time together. But this had turned into a big mess thanks to her own clumsiness and miscalculation. And usually when things spiraled out of control, her and him ended up in bed. Since they were not allowed to do much, it was her wrist that was getting all the exercise and her body ending up with small red strawberries as he teased her to pleasure. And they would have remained like this, spent the day lazing around if not for the urgent message from Cheng Mo regarding Sir Xiao''s impeding arrival. And that was when she had realized that her plan had failed completely! So she had plotted her way into letting Yu Seok let her join in for the meeting.. And from there began her journey as a white lotus! Because as was his habit, her husband was presently cutting up the meat for her, even as he spoke to Sir Xiao. And this was hurting the poor Nora who looked like she was the one being cut up. And her awkward glances at Xie Eun''s neck where the marks were a bit visible (on purpose of course) made her feel really wicked. To add to salt to her wounds, Xie Eun continued to bask in her husband''s love and left no stone unturned in touching him intimately and possessively, gloating and showing off to Nora. Xie Eun realized that seeing Nora''s lipstick on his shirt had made her impossibly angry! And even though she could guess very well, that Nora must have done this on purpose, she still wanted to show her who owned Yu Seok.


    Finally, unable to take more of Xie Eun''s gloating, and true to her victim personality, Nora excused herself from the room with almost tears in her eyes. Seeing this Xie Eun paid no attention to Nora and continued to eat the bites that Yu Seok made for her. However when she looked up, her eyes met with Sir Xiao who gave her a knowing glance. This knowing glance made her utterly embarrassed and she almost flushed before excusing herself hurriedly. Sir Xiao watched her go before he turned back to Yu Seok who was now eating his own food.


    Sighing, he said," CEO Wolf, you and your wife really are ruthless for teasing my granddaughter like this. Neither of you are unaware of her feelings for you and yet both of you are cruelly showing off your love in front of her!"


    Even though Sir Xiao had hoped that Nora would be defeated by them, he felt really hurt when he felt the rolling emotions of his granddaughter and was unable to stop himself from complaining. This was only the beginning and still they were already so ruthless.


    Yu Seok stared at the man in front of him and raised his eyebrows. SO the old man was aware of his granddaughter''s reasons and still chose to support her. Coldly, he said "There is a saying, Sir Xaio, for a tree to grow fruits, the roots should be bitter and if you make the roots sweet, then you will only enjoy bitter fruits. If you had been ruthless and cruel then me and my wife would not have to use this. As it happens, it is out of regard for you and my grandfather, that I have let your granddaughter live peacefully. But with the underhanded things she has been trying to plot, I fear that, I will not be able to give you any face in the future."


    Sir Xiao had lived in the world long enough to understand the words that Yu Seok did not say. He was well aware of the man''s reputation of silencing people who dared to offend him. His grand daughter was actually being used by this man to help his wife sharpen her claws! And the moment, Yu Seok felt that the girl was a threat to his wife, she would be taken out of the picture without showing any consideration to him.


    Meanwhile, Xie Eun walked towards the washrooms with the intention of completing her role as a white lotus! What was a white lotus until she did not catch the heroine alone to bully her. With her hips swinging and a wicked smile on her face, Xie Eun entered the washroom to see Nora with red eyes, carefully putting on her make up again. Walking nearer, she purposely hit her with her shoulder so that the lipstick that Nora was applying was spread out and the tube fell from her hand. In a move so fake that every green tea bi*** would cheer for her, Xie Eun gave a wide eyed glance to her ruined makeup and apologized, "I am so sorry! I did not mean to ruin your make up!"


    Nora pulled out a make up wipe and glared at Xie Eun, saying nothing. Gloating Xie Eun, turned on the tap and simply washed her hands, ignoring the lasers coming out of Nora''s eyes. But just as she was about to turn back, Nora took the bait and her poor victimized mask was taken off as she viciously uttered through her teeth," Do you think, that with these small tricks, you can make me lose? You can only wish! He is going to be mine!"


    Xie Eun shook her head and smiled back, "It is not me that is playing petty tricks but you. I was not the one who had to fall on a man to get my lipstick on me! Incidentally, what crappy lipstick are you using in today''s modern times that you would leave stains? Would you like to send some lip stick brands that you know stick to your lips? Or I can lend you mine." With that, Xie Eun took out a tube of lipstick and extended her hand towards Nora. Angrily, just as Nora was about to snatch the lipstick and thrown it against the wall in fury, Xie Eun pulled back the lipstick and with scandalized eyes said, "No! I will buy you a fresh one. You see, I had to reapply my lip stick just before I came here because Yu Seok had kissed it off my lips. So if you use this it would be you indirectly kissing my husband.. And I cannot allow that! His lips belong to me! In fact, the entire man belongs to me.. You did see enough last night to be sure of this.. right?"


    Having done her job well, Xie Eun applauded in her mind and wanted to dance in excitement, the moment she was out of the washroom. And just when she had walked a distance away, the sound of a mirror shattering had her smile widen like never before..Oohh it was so much more satisfactory to be a white lotus than the main female lead!

 Chapter 191 - A Plan

    Pretending that nothing out of the ordinary had happened, Xie Eun made her way back to the private room where the two men were waiting. With a smile she joined went back to her seat, enjoying a peaceful moment as the two men continued to chat. Soon after, she felt Sir Xiao''s inquisitive gaze on her. Giving him an innocent glance, Xie Eun quietly ate her dessert.


    A few minutes later, a crisp knock sounded on the door and one of Sir Xiao''s guards walked in and before bending and whispering something in the old man''s ears. His eyebrows raised, Sir Xiao threw another glance at Xie Eun before nodding to the guard. After which, he placed down the cutlery in his hands and excused himself," My grand daughter is feeling unwell. She had recently returned from overseas and is not used to the change in the seasons. I hope the two of you will excuse me. Our discussion, it seems was not to happen today."


    Yu Seok and Xie Eun stood out of respect for the old man and watched him go. Once the door had closed behind him, Xie Eun sat back down and continued to eat peacefully.


    Yu Seok sat close to her and smiled in amusement. After almost finishing the plate, Xie Eun looked up and her gaze narrowed as she saw his look. Raising her brows, she asked," What has you so amused that you are smiling to yourself?"


    " You have me amused."


    This caused Xie Eun to scowl as she poked him, asking, "What do you mean, I have you amused?"


    Even as Xie Eun spoke, she pulled Yu Seok''s dessert plate in front of her and continued to dig in absent mindedly. Shifting closer to his wife, Yu Seok whispered in her ear," I like you like this! When you show your sharp little kitty claws. It makes me want to capture you and make you surrender to me.."


    Shocked, Xie Eun almost spit out the petit four in her mouth and looked at her husband with rounded eyes! Dam* it! She had assumed that she had succeeded in handling this without letting him know! Still she decided to be innocent and thus putting on her patently fake, shocked expression, she asked, "What are you even talking about? What claws? What surrender?"


    Taking the dessert fork out of her hands, Yu Seok, placed a petit four in her mouth and said," Since when did I become ignorant that I would not know that my dear wife is in a whirl about something? Do you rally think that I am fool enough to believe your silly excuse to bring you along for the meeting? he had been uncomfortable with the girl ever since he had learned the fact that she was supposed to be his ''childhood'' fiance and sweetheart. " And the fact that Nora Xu sought a meeting with you just before her chairwomanship was declared had been enough for him to have alarm bells ringing in his head. Anything that could be a danger to him and his wife''s relationship needed to be taken out. Seeing her still shocked face, not stuffed with an unchewed petit four, Yu Seok shook his head and continued, "Heck, Nora is as subtle as a flying brick! It is not just me but most of her executives are aware of her intentions. Even her grandfather has an idea of Nora''s plans and was hoping that we would teach her a lesson about losing while giving him face at the same time. I got him rid of the notion immediately! And it seems so did you.. So my darling wife, just what did you do to Nora Xu that she had to escape so soon?"


    But by now, Xie Eun had come out of her shock and floated cunningly, "Of course I did nothing. What do you take me for?"


    In the next moment, Xie Eun had been picked up from her chair and was placed in her husband''s lap who placed a hand on her waist, keeping her in place, before remarking," I like you when you do these things, do you really believe that you can fool me? As the person who has been used by you, quite mercilessly, do you really think that you must lie to me.."


    A thrill passed through Xie Eun at his dangerous tone and she mischievously continued to pretend innocence. "I have no idea what you are talking about. Who would dare to use you and that too without your knowledge? You are the mighty wolf and I am a mere sheep! There is no way I can be so daring.. You are surely teasing me.."


    After making this claim, Xie Eun had a hard time keeping her lips straight to stop herself from breaking out into laughter and thus she tried to stuff her mouth with the last bit of the petit four but just as her lips closed over it, his lips fused with hers and his tongue entered her mouth forcefully exploring her mouth and robbing the petit four from her mouth.. Once the piece was gone, Yu Seok''s hands entwined in her hair as he pulled them back so that her neck was exposed to him and his lips slowly landed on a small strawberry mark that was exposed on her neck," So, you forgot to cover this love bite with your make up this morning? And you accidentally turned on the video call last night? Or maybe not eating during the meeting so that I would be not be able to stop myself from feeding you? And when you were having trouble from keeping your hands to yourself during the lunch? All these must have been coincidences.. hmm? And naturally Nora Xu who was just fine before excusing herself, but suddenly got sick after you came back? They are all coincidences.. Correct?"


    Xie Eun''s eyes widened like saucers when she realized that he was aware of all her tricks.. She tried to look around, avoiding meeting his gaze as she bit her lips.. But Yu Seok did not let her..


    Once again, in his dangerous voice, he brought his lips close to her ears and whispered," You are a she wolf in sheep''s clothing.. you can fool the world but not me.." Just as Xie Eun was about to pout and complain, Yu Seok continued," But I like this you much better.. I like the sharp claws and the soft sheep skin.."


    His hand which had been resting on her waist, slipped under her jacket, caressing the warm skin there and slowly rested on her stomach, " It makes me feel reassured that you will be able to protect our children well.. Sharpen your claws as much as you want, Eun-a, I like them as much as I like your sweetness..."


    Xie Eun felt touched as and hugged her husband tightly. He was the only one who pampered her and accepted her no questions asked. With all her silliness and quirkiness. Leaning and burying her nose into his neck, she placed a small kiss on his sexy Adam''s apple and let herself feel well loved.


    Wolf smiled at his wife who was a volcano one minute and a soothing stream the other and let her cuddle into him. He had no worries that they would be interrupted because he had already instructed the staff to remain inconspicuous while they were here. But he could not have expected another sort of an interruption in their time.


    A few minutes later, in an unexpected mood swing, the girl in his arms changed from a sweet cuddly one to ferocious who glared at him and complained, "I am hungry! And it is all because of you! You thief! You stole my petit four! How could you do this to your pregnant wife.."


    She then looked down at her still barely there stomach and continued, "Little bean! Do you see this! Your father does not love me anymore! He even stole our dessert!"


    Rolling his eyes at his wife who was now resorting to passive aggressive ways to ask for food, Yu Seok pressed a button on the side and ordered all the desserts in the restaurant to be brought in. She could have as many desserts as she wished, lest he be blamed for depriving her of that. His wife could hold a grudge! He was well aware of that...But he had his own ways of getting revenge..


    And thus when the desserts were brought in, Xie Eun who tried to escape to her own chair was forced to sit in her husband''s lap and blush continuously... She pouted at Yu Seok in a silent complain, but he simply grinned and picking up the little dessert, placed it near his wife''s lips. Since she seemed to have enjoyed that little bit of exhibitionism, he was going to let her have it.. Xie Eun soon forgot to pout as she was fed with delicious dessert by her husband who had switched to feeding her with his mouth after that first bite!

 Chapter 192 - Butterflies

    Xie Eun woke up with an unmatched excitement in her eyes. Today she was going to have her first ultrasound. She had been tempted to search about what to expect from the first one but in the end, she decided to sit on her own hands to stop herself from doing some research. She wanted the element of surprise!


    Munching on the dumplings and the cereal, Xie Eun waited for Yu Seok to drive her to the doctor''s clinic. She could hardly believe she was already nine weeks pregnant! She knew that Yu Seok had read almost everything there was to read about pregnancy as if this was a project that needed thorough research! It was a wonder that he had let her eat so many desserts that night! Because she realized that he was keeping an even more keen eye on her nutritional needs than he did in the past. A little while ago, she had tried to see if she had a little bump but it was not yet visible! But still she could feel that she had gained weight! And her already ''healthy'' diet had suddenly multiplied.


    Finally, Yu Seok drove her to the hospital where this time the doctor conducted, what was called a ''normal'' health check consisting of a thousand questions. After confirming her weight and blood pressure, Xie Eun and Yu Seok were guided towards the room where her ultrasound would be done.


    As the doctor applied the cold gel on her stomach, Xie Eun clutched her husband''s hand tightly.


    Yu Seok, on the other hand, had already gathered the information regarding what to expect during the ultrasound. According to the information he had read, today they would be able to see a little bit of their baby and hear it''s heartbeat. She almost shivered with excitement while the doctor fiddled with a few switches. When the doctor took too long to bring the machine close, she was tempted to take the wand out of his hands and hear the sound herself.


    She looked up at her husband who stood by her side as if to complain when the sound of a heartbeat echoed in the small room. The two people stilled and their eyes widened. A grainy picture appeared on the monitor and they could only stare at the screen. The doctor, who was experience with countless first time parents, smiled and excused herself, once she had checked the child''s heartbeat and growth, after saying," You can hear the child''s heartbeat for a few minutes and there is it''s picture. You will be getting a recording of both so please do not worry."


    Suddenly, Xie Eun felt a a tug on her hand and looked up to see Yu Seok and was stunned. While she could feel the importance of this moment, the look in Yu Seok''s eyes stupefied her. His green eyes stared at the small screen with an undefinable emotion as he tried to assimilate his feelings. He could hardly believe that he was hearing the heartbeat of his own child.


    While Yu Seok stared at the screen, Xie Eun could not take her eyes off from her husband. Through out the time that she had known him, this was the first time she had seen such a disbelieving yet hazed expression on his face. And she realized that from the moment he had heard of their pregnancy, he had gone about doing everything by the book. Literally! Even though she had accepted that he was happy, knowing that and seeing this emotion with her own eyes, made her accept that this child was just as important to his as it was to her...


    Gently she pulled his hand and placed it on her belly, next to the place where the doctor had placed the ultra sound wand. The touch was like an electric shock to him that brought him out of his stupor. His eyes met hers and slowly his hand spread on her stomach. With glittering eyes, he looked at Xie Eun and kneeled down almost falling to his feet. The reverence in his eyes paralyzed Xie Eun so that she could only stare at him wide eyed.


    Yu Seok brought his lips close to her forehead and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead and then a few gentle ones on her eyes. Slowly he touched their foreheads and his hands cupped her cheeks, "Thank you. Eun-a. I had never imagined that I would ever be able to have a wife let alone a family. But you have given me so much and still are, that I can only feel grateful.."


    His hands caressed her stomach as if holding a priceless gift and he leaned forward and caressed her tummy where the baby was evidently.. His voice a little choked, he said, "Little bean.. that is what your mama calls you, hmm? I am your daddy.. we are awaiting your arrival, so we can hold you in our arms. And I want you to know that daddy loves you the most!"


    Xie Eun felt her heart ache as she heard her strong husband sound so weak in front of her. She reached out and caressed his hair as


    have a wife let alone a family. But you have given me so much and still are, that I can only feel grateful.."


    His hands caressed her stomach as if holding a priceless gift and he leaned forward and caressed the baby. His voice a little choked, he said, "Little bean.. that is what your mama calls you, hmm? I am your daddy.. we are awaiting your arrival, so we can hold you in our arms. And I want you to know that daddy loves you the most!"


    Xie Eun felt her heart ache as she heard her strong husband sound so weak in front of her. She reached out and caressed his hair softly and lovingly. He was always so strong and so silent that she sometimes forgot just how much of a deep thinker he was. She would have to do something about her husband who kept all these emotions to himself. She sighed and made him look at her, "Yu Seok, I should be the one thanking you for everything and not the other way round!"


    Before her husband could have corrected her, there was a slight knock on the door and the doctor soon walked in. Without looking at the couple, who was now in the same position as when she had left, the doctor asked them to wait outside for their file.


    The couple walked out hand in hand and once they took a seat outside, Xie Eun, unable to help herself, leaned her head against his strong shoulders and closed her eyes. She had hoped for an element of surprise but she could not have expected that the first glimpse of their child would shake them so much.. Soon the couple was handed over their papers and they walked out of the hospital..


    As the Maserati drove out of the hospital, a timid nurse clad in the hospital uniform walked out of the hospital from the back door. The woman carried an inconspicuous envelope that carried the logo of the hospital signifying that he had some patient''s reports in his hands. Once outside, the report was passed into the hands of a man who then gave the nurse a hefty bundle and advised her to leave the city at the earliest. The nurse nodded and returned while the man went to his car and passed the envelope to the woman who sat in the back seat..


    The many rings on her hand glittered as Nora tore open the envelope, anticipating and hoping that the woman had contracted some sort of a disease or even a sickness. She was already planning on bribing the doctors to aggravate the sickness. She was already imagining consoling Yu Seok through his wife''s death and making him falling in love with her. And that is when her eyes fell on the words mentioned in the report and her eyes turned red. She screamed in anger as she tore the report into tiny pieces and ordered the driver to start towards the house! This woman had now dared to put another obstacle in her path! Well! She was going to make sure that the child and the mother would both get out of the way! Dialling a number, she ordered, "I want a report on a doctor. She is a gynaecologist! Dig up every kind of dirt on her, enough that she can be blackmailed! And if there is no dirt then make some so that I can use it to threaten her! And this is the only way you will be able to save yourself and get another job in this country!"


    After finishing the call, Nora Xu threw the phone in her hand onto the seat and closed her eyes, looking down at her own stomach. She was the one who was supposed to have been there with him! That baby should have been hers. And if she could not have Yu Seok''s baby then no one could. She would make sure of that..

 Chapter 193 - I Want To Go Too

    Xie Eun watched Yu Seok as he fastened the cuff links on his cuff and sighed in appreciation at her husband''s handsome physique! She wondered if there was anything that he did which was not seductive to her? The fact that he was only fastening what was essentially a button, made her mouth drool, was something to be noted. She wondered why she was so fascinated by him even now! She glanced at his long fingers and frowned. It had to be his strong hands that always kept her distracted. Her eyes followed them like they were nirvana. Whether it was simple actions like buttoning or even when he was simply straightening his tie. She pouted at this apparent awareness that she had of him even now that she was pregnant..


    Their eyes met in the mirror and her pouting face brought out the heat in his eyes.. Making her realize that he was just as susceptible to her as she was to him, this pleasing her immensely.


    Turning around, Yu Seok walked over to her and sat against her, slowly lifting her foot, placing it in his lap and caressing it lovingly. This time, Xie Eun let her feelings show and whined," I wanted to go too! But this stupid incident had to have happened!" Xie Eun glared at the bandaged foot that was placed in Yu Seok''s lap and sulked. Tonight, had been the big launch party of Lu Enterprises Campaign where they were going to show the new face of the company. Instead of going for a famous actor, this time they had changed their ambassadors to various rising stars who excelled in their fields of sports, specially e sports, thus aligning their products with the people who actually needed and used them. But, in spite of being careful, her clumsy nature had reared it''s head in the afternoon, when she had been leaving the office and almost taken a fall from the stairs. Thankfully, she had been able to catch the balustrade and save herself or she shuddered to think of the consequences. As a result of the near disaster, she had been rushed to the hospital and been thoroughly checked. But this had resulted in her getting a good scolding from the doctor for the ankle sprain and a strict order for a complete bed rest. And now there was no way that she could attend the party! And this made her feel really irritable!


    She realized that it was her who had convinced Yu Seok to attend on her behalf even though they had already made preparations to announce that she was indisposed for health reasons. But now that he was going and a nurse had been called to look after her for the time period, she did not want him to go.. And the reason was pretty obvious! She could just imagine the number of socialites who would try to use this chance to get closer to him!


    When Yu Seok said nothing to her whining, she was even more roused and complained, "Can you not be a little ugly? You know just a bit? So that girls would find you a bit unattractive?"


    Yu Seok, still saying nothing, slid closer to Xie Eun on the bed and placed a finger on her lips to stop her from complaining continuously. Once she looked at him carefully, he simply asked her, "Were you very scared?"


    Her eyes filling up, she nodded her head and was then enclosed into his arms. She had tried to remain strong and rational through out the time from when she was taken to the hospital to the time she was brought home with him. Because she had responsibilities of the campaign and the image of the leader to uphold! But in actual fact, she felt as if her heart had yet to return to it''s normal pace. Her knees still felt like jelly to her and she could still feel the sensation of the fall.


    So many times she had been tempted to just jump into his arms and break down and cry but as a leader she could not have done that! And she knew that he was just as scared as she had been. She had seen the terror in his eyes when he had reached the hospital. And just like she was trying to maintain a strong front for everyone, he was trying to maintain a strong front for her. She was twelve weeks pregnant now, and if she had taken a fall, then the baby would not have survived... Xie Eun shuddered in his arms as the thought went through her mind again and she tried to control her sobs.


    Finally, after a few minutes, she breathed deeply, his soothing presence and calmness making her feel safe as she reassured herself over and over that their little bean was fine. In his arms, she could also feel the slight stiffness of his body going away as he let her vent her emotions. She understood that holding her, soothing her was his way of letting go of his emotions that he bottled up within him.


    Finally, she sniffed deeply and said, "I am fine now. You go! Shoo!"


    Yu Seok held her face in his hands deeply and looked into her eyes. He was worried about her. Much more than she could guess. When he had been informed by Cheng Mo he had felt as if his life had collapsed. And seeing her sitting there on the bed with vulnerable eyes and her foot tied in a bandage, he had felt immense relief course through him.. Never had he believed that seeing her hurt would bring him any measure of relief. But that was the one thought he had in mind, that even though she was hurt a bit, they were both safe. And that was what mattered to him.


    To distract her, Yu Seok teased, " Is my wife worried that I will be enjoying myself with other beautiful girls."


    Just as he had expected, she glared at him with red eyes and frowned, " Do you really think that a few beautiful giggly senseless girls, throwing themselves at you and fawning over you will get me worried? If I had to doubt you over this then I would be a fool.. The only beautiful girl you are going to ever fall for is me! So go and stand in for me, husband dear!"


    His prideful words were a direct contrast to her expression which told him that she knew what he was doing. And that she was thankful for it. Turning to the bed side table, he picked up a bottle of water and her medicine, which she took quietly even as she made a face at having to eat such supplements. And then like a little child, she was tucked into bed and ordered, "Now, you need to sleep." She nodded her head and closed her eyes obediently before she was kissed on the forehead and Yu Seok was ready to leave. She watched dim the light and leave with semi closed eyes and pouted the moment the door was closed by him.


    Outside, Yu Seok paused to look at the woman who had been keenly suggested by the hospital. She stood there quietly while awaiting the instructions. He gestured to the woman and ordered, " Take good care of her. Pay attention to what she needs and you will be rewarded. And inconvenience to her and you will regret living." The order and the threat were both given naturally and conversationally as if a person was discussing the weather. The nurse felt scared for a moment but then she composed herself and bowing gently agreed, "Yes Sir. Madam will not get a chance to complain."


    Yu Seok nodded and left the house, closing the door behind him. As the nurse heard the sound of the car driving away, she walked back to the chair she was sitting on and continued to read the book that she had with her. Since the patient was asleep, all she could do was wait.


    After a while the nurse closed the book and started to scan her cell phone. She came across the news of the grand launch party of Lu Enterprises and started to watch the live stream of the red carpet..


    She watched in awe as many of the celebrities walked in one by one as they were greeted and questioned by the media. Soon after, the journalist broke into excitement as she was informed of the impending arrival of the business tycoon, CEO Wolf and the journalists were informed that he would be attending in the place of his wife.


    The nurse watched in excitement, as the man who had walked out of this house walked onto the red carpet. He was surrounded by a bevy of security guards and even though many reporters wanted to clamor for his attention, no one dared to approach him. Seeing this, the nurse felt better that she was not the only one scared of him and closed her phone.

 Chapter 194 - A Ball

    The ballroom was stunning¡ªhuge chandeliers cast dancing beams of light on the beautiful people beneath. On the side, stood a huge podium, where the new products and posters of theof the campaign were displayed. The people who were mingling about glanced in awe as the most awaited man entered the ball room.


    No women could not stop themselves from gazing at the man who had walked in. His green eyes held an austerity and aloofness that they longed to break through. His cold demeanor as he ignored the fawning model who had approached him, made him a challenge that they longed to win..


    But no woman was able to get with a meter''s radius of the man. Somehow, the man seemed to slip from their clutches time and again.


    Only the old men who held a place of importance to Lu Enterprises were able to talk to the esteemed CEO Wolf.


    While the ball continued, the nurse on the other hand glanced at then last steaming news of the arrivals before she left her seat and walked into the kitchen. There, covered under a silver foil was a platter of food, that had been left for the patient. Ignoring the platter, the nurse filled up a glass of water and walked out towards the patient''s room. Knocking lightly, she peeped in and once she had affirmed that her charge was asleep, she went back to her chair. Opening her cell phone, the nurse continued to surf the internet until the light suddenly turned dark.


    Her face illuminated by the light of the phone, the nurse looked around worriedly. Slowly,with the help of the flashlight, the nurse looked around and walked around trying to find a door. Finally, she was able to find the door and opened it successfully only to be hit with a hard object in the head..Even before she could scream, the nurse had fallen onto the floor in a faint and two men camouflaged in black entered the residence on silent feet.


    Meanwhile, at the ball, the emcee welcomed the guests and employees before playing a video address by their chairwoman. On the screen Xie Eun spoke," I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the honoured guests and our employees who have worked hard to ensure tonight a success. Along with that Inwould also like to pass my apologies that I am not able to attend the ball due to doctor''s orders. I had a long speech prepared to bore you all with but since Inam not there physically, I will leave the honour to my husband, CEO Wolf to make a few announcements."


    Folowed by applause, the video turned blank and the stage turned dark. And then the dashing man walked to the stage. Wolf walked to the microphone slowly and really as his gaze sweeped over the hundreds of people in the ballroom.


    Like a king looking down at his subjects, he spoke, " On behalf of Chairwoman Xie, I extend to you all a warm welcome. As she just told you, she had a long speech prepared for you, which I will now be delivering on her behalf. Firstly, to celebrate the success of this launch, the company would like to promise it''s members a few gifts. Secondly, because of the scandal that the company faced a few months ago and to thank all the employees and shareholders for standing by our side, we would like to announce the opening of the "Hope Foundation" which will be an independent none-profit agency funded by Lu Enterprises to support those who have lost hope in life. This is to re affirm the fact that there are times we all have lost hope in life and only when we have fallen to the lowest can we rise to the highest."


    A thunderous applause broke around the ballroom as this news was released. Some of the jaded people shook their heads believing it to be a mere publicity stunt but many were stunned and applauded their Chairwoman and CEO Wolf. Because the guests tonight were not just a few second generation heirs but people who had fought tooth and nail to reach their position. Just as Wolf would have walked down the stage, his cell phone started to ring and with a glance at it, he answered but before anything could be heard, someone bumped into him and the cell phone took a fall, shattering into pieces. The technician who had made the mistake immediately fell onto his knees and grabbed the big man''s thigh, "I am sorry Sir! Please forgive me."


    Many people who had been staring at the big CEO felt fear invade them when this incident happened. They had seen it for themselves that it was indeed the technicians mistaken but they were worried at being witness to it and hurriedly turned away their faces. Just then a beautiful woman in a red gown walked forward and placed a hand on the man''s sleeve and purred," CEO Wolf. He is a poor man..I hope you." Before the woman could continue, Wolf threw a dirty glance at the hand that was placed on his sleeve and without a word backed away showing an expression as of he had been touched by slime. His cold voice then penetrated the otherwise silent ballroom,"It was an accident. There is no need to over react.."


    Yu Seok then turned to glance at Cheng Mo who had been his silent shadow all evening and understanding the look, Cheng Mo guided Yu Seok to the dressing room that had been prepared for him in advance.. This was not the first time that a woman had dared to touch his boss. This was the reason CEO Wolf hated going to such gatherings and the rare times he did, Cheng Mo always had a few spare suits ready for the man. Because other than his wife, he loathed being touched by any woman.


    Inside the private room, Cheng Mo brought forward the jacket with the same cut that the Boss had on him while the CEO discarded the jacket he had been wearing. Seeing that the CEO had calmed down, Cheng Mo continued,"Sir, your spare phone is in the car. Would you like me to bring it for you?"


    Wolf nodded as he fastened the button on the suit jackets and his eyes narrowed in thought. Walking to the dressing table, he felt some niggling sense of impending doom. To calm himself, he poured himself a glass of water and drank it in a go. It was only as the last bit of it had been finished that he realized the taste of the water was off. His eyes hardened as he became aware of his own stupidity and he would have walked out that moment but his limbs froze and he soon fell to the floor. He analysed his body and realized that he had been given a drug that would keep him conscious but unable to move. His movement lethargic, he tried to move his hand and bite himself but his limbs were unable to respond to the messages from his brain.


    He lay there, trying to muster his energy and attack whoever came to kidnap him. Because he was aware someone would come. They would have made arrangements to apprehend Cheng Mo even of he had not drank the water. Calmly closing his eyes, he pretended to be unconscious when the kidnappers came in. Even though they tried to walk silently, Yu Seok heard the get closer. And tried to test his response in case he was able to move. But the kidnappers, two men, stopped a few feet away and a discussion ensued," Wasn''t the man supposed to have been awake? Why is he unconscious?"


    The other man replied impatiently,"What business is it ours as long as he is alive. The young madam wants him at any cost so isn''t it better we don''t have to worry about his struggling. Anyways we are not the ones who drugged him. So whatever happens because of the drug is not our problem. Now come on, we need to move fast before that Assistant comes back. A black cloth was thrown over his face and the two men lifted him and placed him into a trolley. Wolf realized that he had been moved into a room service trolley and his green eyes opened and glittered under the cover of darkness. While her man was drugged and kidnapped, Xie Eun slept and two more men slides into her room. The metal of the knife glinted in the moonlit darkness as one of the men raised his hand to attack the person on the bed. The other man locked the door and ransacked the room, trying to create a scene of apparent robbery. The thick blade came down with a quick swish and the lump on the best was stabbed accurately in the middle where the stomach was supposed to be.

 Chapter 195 - Nora

    Nora stared at the man that lay on her bed with a look of triumph in her eyes. Tonight, she had taken out the biggest obstacle in her path. Their would be child. She had bribed the people for it to look like a robbery but in such a way that Xie Eun would survive while their child would not. Tonight, when Xie Eun needs Yu Seok the most, he will be here, with her and this will make Xie Eun hate Yu Seok with all her heart.


    Nora smiled as she re thought of the steps of her plan. Everything had gone off without a hitch..Xie Eun had been stabbed and her emergency contact had his phone broken. Tomorrow''s headlines will high light how CEO Wolf spend the night in another woman''s room and Xie Eun who will have just woken up from the trauma of losing her child will start to hate Yu Seok and force him out of her life. It will also be accompanied by the picture of the beautiful woman who had even calmed down the CEO''s anger and how the couple had shown their love for each other. She looked at the picture which had been clicked from the perfect angle where the woman in red was seen almost trying to calm the CEO. Nora gloated and decided that she had indeed chosen an amazing photographer that he had captured the split second''s contact so precisely.


    Her fingers wanted to caress the man who slept on the bed so peacefully but she dared not. She looked at thevial of another type of drug in her hand. The one that would force him to be with her as long as she wanted. The one that would make him mad with lust. But she did not use that. Because she did not want their first time to be about lust. He would have to make live to her the way he did to that slu*.


    Her fingers closed around the vial tightly. But this would be used on that slu*, not that the horny woman needed it but in a few days, she would need some comfort and the handsome doctor would help her get over her grief. And that would solve her other problem, Yu Seok would soon start to hate his own wife. Carefully, she placed the vial into her purse and with one last glance turned to look at the man who slept in the bed. She opened the door to let the woman in and gave her a once over.


    " You don''t have to look so well dressed. Throw the gown on to the floor and get in the bed with him. The moment you hear the voices outside, take off the cloth from his eyes. And once the photographs are clicked, I want you to disappear from the country and even the face of the earth. Let me tell you if you are found by Wolf or anyone, you will not be able to take your next breath."


    The model nodded dutifully and walked into the room. Just as she was about to take-off her clothes, she glanced at the man sleeping on the bed and asked, "Madam, wouldn''t it be better if the man''s clothes are off too? Otherwise it will not make a very good impact..."


    Nora hesitated at the door. Her hand that was just about to turn the handle paused there and she said indifferently," Take them off then."


    The model immediately turned to the man and almost raced to take-off the clothes. It was because she had felt that controlled power in the man''s arms when she had tried to touch him. She had been sleeping with so many fat men for money and this was the first time she would be able to get money for undressing such a handsome and powerful man. However just as her hand touched the man''s shirt, she heard the other woman say,"Hey you, let it be. I will handle his clothes. You go in to the washroom and take-off your clothes. Don''t come out until I tell you to."


    Disappointed the woman nodded but she dared not to argue. After all the woman was her employer. She trudged to the bathroom even as she inwardly gloated, "So what if she takes off his clothes? I will be the one ultimately getting into bed with him."


    Nora walked back to the bed, getting a swift control of her jealousy. She realized that she hated any other woman touching him. Slowly, her hands extended to the buttons on his shirt...her fingers caressed the exposed skin near the collar and she marvelled at the sight of her pale hand against his tanned neck.


    Slowly, she unbuttoned the first button and her nails caressed the sensitive skin. Unable to control herself, she leaned closer to him, her hair falling over his face. Sniffing deeply, she closed her eyes and rejoiced in the feel of him. His musky smell made her crazed, as if it was more potent than any drug. She placed her hand on his muscled hard chest and fingers opened another button, exposing more skin. Unable to control herself, she placed her lips near his adam''s apple, kissing him slowly. Nora felt seduced by her own imagination. She wanted go pick his lax hands and place them at her waist. Make his fingers clench over her stomach the way they did over hers.


    This thought that invaded her mind made her angry so that she angrily snarled and pulled at the next button. Just when she would have caressed him some more, she heard a few voices outside the door. Her eyes snapped up and she looked at the time. The reporters were here earlier than expected. No. She could not be seen leaving this room if they were outside. Because these reporters were not ones that she could bribe. She has in fact chosen these people because even though they were entertainment reporters they had a reputation for being honest.


    Hurriedly, she stood away from him and rushed to the washroom...pushing out the other woman with urgency, she ordered," go fast and lie down. And don''t let anyone check the bathroom! Understood?"


    The moment the model was out of the door, the bathroom door was closed and a lock a slid into place.


    The model too hurriedly walked out and paying no mind to the now dimly lit room, she slid into the bed. In the darkness, she slid closer to the warm heated man and threw away the bathrobe she had adorned. She then took of the blindfold and lay on the man''s bare chest, waiting for the reporters to arrive. As she lay on the bed, she dreamed of the peaceful life she would have with all the money she had gained from this. So what if she was could not get famous, she would get rich. And maybe in a foreign country, she would be able to marry a rich man who could protect her.


    On the other side, at the launch party, many people seemed to have noticed the absence of the CEO and talks ensued. Though no one dared to say anything openly, they were disappointed by the fact that the CEO had disappeared so suddenly and not even waited for a little while. Just then another shocking news broke out on the internet and many people who had been gossiping suddenly understood the reason for the CEO''s absence.


    There had been an attempted robbery at the CEO''s home! And reports said the Chairwoman Xie who had been resting at home, unable to move had been stabbed and was on the brink of death while the nurse who had been caring for her was severely injured and currently lying in a coma. Everyone started to sympathize with the couple and wondered if they had an enemy on the loose. Many people knew that chairwoman Xie was resented by the Lu family but from what they understood, everyone in the Lu family had absconded once news broke out about the chairwoman''s real relationship with CEO Wolf. They wondered if this was an old enemy of the CEO who was trying to use the chairwoman as a instrument for revenge. After all, even if no businessman or competitor dared to go against the man, no one knew where the man had come from. It was said that CEO Wolf had many enemies from his messing with the underground people.


    Even as they enjoyed the hospitality of the Lu Enterprises, all these respectful (shameless) people, made someone''s misfortune their entertainment for the evening.


    Inside the hotel room:


    The doors to the hotel room slowly opened and many people stood at the ready with their cameras in hand for their scoop of the story. There was a buzz of excitement in the corridor as the reporters waited like vultures while inside the bathroom, even Nora shivered with excitement..

 Chapter 196 - A Disaster

    Nora glued her ear to the door as she tried to hear the sounds of the reporters that must have by now invaded the space. Her eyes glittered and she was almost tempted to peep out of the door.


    But she heard no sounds from outside. She straightened and wondered if it was the hotel''s soundproofing that was preventing her from listening to what was happening outside. She imagined Yu Seok''s roar of anger. The way he would trample everyone in his path when he walked out of the room. She regretted her momentary weakness of not leaving on time. Then she would have been better able to enjoy this show. She surfed the internet for news of the scandal and was pleased with what she read about Xie Eun. She speculated why the scandal had not yet broken out yet. It should have been exposed by now. Maybe it was because Yu Seok had used his power to suppress the news. Dam* it! Now she would be stuck here for a few hours waiting for everyone to leave and unable to pull strings to get the news broken. Now she could only wait. But, she decided, she would make sure that the scandal was uncovered and her plan was not jeopardized.


    About two hours later, the door to the bathroom slowly and soundlessly opened. Carefully, Nora looked out and immediately frowned. The room was shrouded in darkness. What the fu**. Frowning, she was about to close the door and move back in when a foot stepped inside stopping her from closing the door before pushing the door backwards causing Nora to almost to fall on her butt.. Soon the lights turned back on and she stared with horror into the green eyes of the man that she had plotted against. Behind him, tied to a chair was the model she had hired struggling to get out of the bindings.


    At this moment, Nora understood that her scheme had been exposed. But even at this, she felt no fear or shame. Because two of her goals had been accomplished. Xie Eun was out of her way and a scandal had been created. And now laying it out in open and fanning the flames slowly, was up to her. And if you had the biggest banking service under you, then no matter how powerful the other party was, they could be brought to their knees with a few carefully whispered words.


    If Yu Seok did not come to her of his own accord, then she would force him by making him loose everything he had earned. And once his protection was gone, his beloved wife and her company would also be fed to the wolves.


    Unfazed by the simmering anger in that gaze, she raised her chin and glared at the man with arrogance. Raising an eyebrow, she beamed at Yu Seok and asked,"What a surprise seeing you here."


    When he said nothing she snickered and asked,"What? Are you not going to run to your wife and console her for the loss of her bas****? I expected better of you. You should have at least gone to console her for the loss of her child."


    But even as Nora goaded him, unexpectedly, Yu Seok gave her an unexpected answer. He shook his head sadly and looked away,"Nora, little kid, I never knew you. My biggest regret is having told you of his return. I should not have been blinded by my childhood trust of you."


    Nora felt the ground under her shook...this man..was Yoo Shiro..how? She looked at the clothes he had on. The shirt that was the same as the one she had unbuttoned.. No. This had to be a ploy by Yu Seok to escape the scandal. Refusing to believe this, she snorted before saying," Yu Seok. Do you really think anyone believe that you are your brother? You are known for your cold and indifferent attitude while he is known for his laidback and playful one. By pretending to be Shiro, you are only trying to ruin him also. From what I understand, he has also just entered a new relationship. Are you going to be so heartless? Because even if you ruin him, I will not leave you alone."


    With the same disappointed gaze he said," You killed the cat that had just birthed the kittens when we were young. You promised me that it was an accident and I helped you hide it from everyone. But now I don''t think that it was an accident. You must have purposely killed it. Because it was Yu Seok''s favored pet."


    At this moment, Nora knew that it was indeed Yoo Shiro who stood in front of her. She smiled and said,"Yes Shiro. It was me. You see, Yu Seok is allowed to love no one but me. Not even a pet. and were you not the one who believed that Xie Eun is not worthy of your brother. So what is the problem now. After tonight, let everyone believe that it was Yu Seok here and not you. And then Xie Eun will be out of his life."


    Angrily, Yoo Shiro spat and disgusted with himself gritted out," Currently I hate myself for bringing you into my brother''s life. I assumed you to be a diamond while you are merely a piece of useless glass. Xie Eun will never be out of his life. Heck even if it had been Yu Seok here tonight, I would have happily taken the blame for everything."


    Nora clenched her fingers and argued back,"It does not matter who was here today! Both your reputations will be dragged through the mud! I will make sure of that. And I don''t understand why did you take his place today?"


    Once Nora started to believe that the person she had touched and caressed was Yoo Shiro as not Yu Seok, she felt disgusted. She wanted to claw this man''s eyes so that next time she would be able to tell the difference between the two. As long as Yu Seok had not been around, she had not minded Yoo Shiro hugging her because she had consoled herself and imagined him to be Yu Seok but now that she knew that man, she felt dirty at having touched another man and gained pleasure from it.


    This time, it was Yoo Shiro who smirked,"Did you think that after Xie Eun had been hurt, Yu Seok would leave her alone for even a minute? Naturally he could not have said this to Xie Eun and so she carefully planned everything and once he left the house, he went onside through the backdoor while I took his place for the launch party. And thank the heavens I did, otherwise a disaster would have happened."


    A madness filled laughter echoed in the room as Nora stared at Yoo Shiro with crazed eyes. Screeching now, Nora shot out," so what! Have you not read the news? Xie Eun has been stabbed successfully. She will have lost her child by now. Your brother may be consoling her now but when she comes to know that she lost her child because of her husband, she will hate him to the core! Even of you kill me now, I have already put the steps in place to make sure that Xie Eun is ruined. I can still drive a wedge between them from the grave!"


    Just then the door opened and Nora''s attention was turned towards it. Even as her disbelieving mind registered what she was seeing, her hands were captured by Yoo Shiro and tied behind her back. And that is when Xie Eun finally limped inside. Without saying a word, Xie Eun simply slapped Nora across the face, the sound echoing through the room. And before she could straighten, another cheek was slapped just as hard. Her fingers winding across the woman''s neck, Xie Eun tightened her fingers until Nora had turned blue and was gasping for breath. Her eyes bulging, she tried to untie her hands to stop Xie Eun from killing her but it was useless. Finally, when she had almost fainted, Xie Eun threw her onto the ground. While Nora drew in her breath desperately, Xie Eun continued to stare at her with blood thirsty eyes before she ground her teeth and gritted out,"How dare you cast your dirty glance on my baby! You B****! I let you challenge me when you threatened to steal my husband but you actually tried to steal my child! What kind of a monster are you? To attack an unborn baby? The only reason you are still breathing is because I don''t want to get my hands bloodied or I would squeeze the life out of you with my bare hands!"


    Behind her, Yu Seok who had entered with Xie Eun placed his hands on her shoulders, trying to placate her down and patted her,"You need to calm yourself. This is not good for you or the baby."

 Chapter 197 - How?

    Even as she lay fallen on the ground, panting hard, Nora had only one question on her mind. How? How did that slu* escape? When she glimpsed the way Yu Seok consoled her, the way that bit** leaned into him as if she was a helpless little girl, even as she had almost killed her, Nora felt herself break down and cried pitifully. Through tears, she painfully asked, "Hhhhow?"


    Ignoring her, Yu Seok carefully helped his wife to a nearby couch so that she could sit comfortably before turning back to the pitiful woman lying on the ground. His terrifying gaze then turned to the woman who was tied to the chair. In a cold voice he said, "Take her away. A man who had until now stood in the shadows came forward and pushed the chair outwards straightaway. The model tried to protest but the man simply grinned wickedly and growled, "Why? You had no problem climbing into bed with me? Since you don''t mind sleeping with strangers, I will take you to a place where something like this is appreciated. Don''t worry, you will not lack bed partners."


    This simple sentence was like another blow to Nora, who realized that whatever the photographers had clicked it had nothing to do with either brother. But when had they changed into another person? Did that mean that Shiro was not drugged? And he had switched places with the man when she had switched places with that woman? Despite the madness that seemed to be eating at her and the doubts that assailed her, she still only screeched one question as she stood up with difficulty and kicked at the small table nearby, "How? How did you escape and why?"


    Finally it was Xie Eun who answered," It was because you made an error in calculation that I was able to escape Nora. It was actually your idea that I used. You see, you are not the only one who can bribe assistants. The moment you touched Yu Seok''s people to use them, I bribed some people under you to be my spies. And that is what saved me. Amazing. Isn''t it? How money works. What are you wondering who dared to snitch on you? The thing is Nora, to carry such nefarious actions, you need people who are loyal to you and not to money. We purposely let this charade happen for two reasons. One, we needed to know till what length you were willing to go and second, Shiro did not believe that you were really wicked. He insisted on believing in you. And that is why he agreed to take Yu Seok''s place tonight."


    "And paid the price for it by being molested." added Yoo Shiro who realized that he had been disgusted while pretending to be drugged. In that moment he himself had realized two things, "One he hated being touched by another woman. And the sexual caressing that the woman who he had considered a sister had done had made him want to puke. He had barely held himself back from actually throwing her off him and off the bed. "But let me tell you, even we were not aware of what you had planned for Xie Eun, otherwise this would not have happened. You had kept this part of the plan very carefully had you not? Even I doubted that you were involved in trying to get someone to attack her. So now you must be wondering how she was not stabbed even though the news reports say otherwise. That actually happened co incidentally. Because when the lights at their home went out, Yu Seok replaced Xie Eun with himself while hiding her in the closet. This was because his acute senses warned him something was wrong. So when your man stabbed at the bed, it was actually Yu Seok, underneath there holding a pillow. The goons you hired are now under police custody and so is the nurse who opened the door for them. I must say she was very smart by letting the people attack her so that she could also play the victim. But had she been a real nurse, instead of opening the front door, she should have gone to the patient''s room. Why open the door of someone''s home without a reason?


    Angry at the way her plans had been foiled, she glared with hatred at Yoo Shiro and Xie Eun. her anger had reached such an extent that her nose started to bleed and she then looked at Yu Seok and asked him, "Why? Why can you not love me? Why did you have to forget me? I was such a good girl for you but still you had to fall for this woman who has been with another man. Why Yu Seok? I have waited for your return for so many years, why is my love not enough? Do you see what you have made me. I am the treasured heiress of my grandfathers and my daddy''s princess but you have made me beg for your love. Why are you so heartless, Yu Seok? Why? Even as this woman has struggled to stand beside you, I am already worthy of you. I love you the most in this world. You can see for yourself the extent to which I have gone. Please Yu Seok. Please can you not love me?"


    Her pitiful weeping made Xie Eun, look at the girl with pity. She could see that this girl was obsessed with Yu Seok. Probably had been since childhood. This kind of madness made XIe Eun shiver with fright. Because it made her realize that this woman would not give up. Her brain had only one thing in it. Yu Seok. And if she were not able to have him, chances were that she would try to destroy him. Such people had no sense of sanity or morality. Even putting her in a mental institution would not help them be rid of the threat she posed. She thought of the doting old man that had accompanied them for a meal that afternoon. He had told them that she was his only granddaughter. It was pitiful Nora could not cherish the people who loved her and would rather chase a man who was not interested in her. On one hand she wanted to ask Yu Seok to spare Nora and hand him to the old man to deal with as he saw fit. On the other, she was worried that the old man would be soft for his granddaughter which would then result in a disaster for them.


    But before she could talk about either, Nora had somehow escaped the rope that bound her and in an unexpected flash of speed, she picked up a fruit knife from a table nearby and ran at Xie Eun, wanting to finish off what she had planned. But before the knife could touch her, Yu Seok topped the blade by inserting his own hand and the blade pierced his palm and fingers. Xie Eun let out a scream and tried stand up but Yu Seok stood in front of her immovable until blood started to flow around the knife and then to the carpeted floor. Yoo Shiro hurriedly grabbed her wrist and applied force so that Nora was forced to let go of the knife. Finally, unable to take the pressure, she fell on her knees and looked at the hand of the man she had harmed while the knife fell without a sound. Immediately, Xie Eun had grabbed his hand and pressed a pristine handkerchief to his wound, slowly turning the white cloth red. This sight seemed to further break Nora who lost her mind and grabbed the knife, plunging it into her own stomach, happy that her blood was now mingled with his. If she could not live with him, she could become one with his blood and die peacefully. Her face full of tears and blood, she let the knife stay there and slowly closed her eyes before falling back. Even as her eyelids drooped, her eyes only looked at the man she had lived her life for.. Her Yu Seok. At first no one paid any heed to the person who had slumped but soon it was Yoo Shiro who realized what had happened. Immediately, he rushed to her and tried to stop the bleeding. He wanted to pull out the knife but dared not, in case he do her more harm than help. His heart ached for this woman that he had once called sister.. And there was a single sentiment in his mind, If only.. if only he had not informed her of Yu Seok''s return, all this would not have happened. Maybe she would have spent her life peacefully.. maybe she would have fallen for someone else. Soon, the paramedics rushed in but Nora had lost her consciousness. Nora was immediately transferred to the hospital while the paramedics urged Yu Seok to go to the hospital too.

 Chapter 198 - Tired And Worn Out

    Yoo Shiro came home depressed and with a headache that made him feel as if someone was hammering his head. It was almost morning now and he already loathed to even think about the day ahead. It had taken him a few hours to clean up the events from last night. And only as he drove home, did the fact that Nora had died sink in. And he could not help but blame himself for it. There were so many things he could have done to help her, to prevent this but he had been unable to. Yu Seok had received a few stitches and after dropping the two injured people to their home, he had driven himself home. The few minutes of silence had also eaten at him, the burden of Nora''s death too much for him to bear. He thought back to the time when she had sweetly hugged him and looked up to him. Behind her innocence had hidden such cruelty. He stared out of the car, his fisted hand resting on the wheel in front of him.


    He had no wish to enter his own home and was tempted to just go to a bar and get him self drunk. Another part of him wished to go to Shan Shan and sink himself in her warmth, letting go of all the burdens on his shoulders. But even this thought made him feel guilty as Nora''s last words that she said in the ambulance echoed in his ears, "Why could I not get his love?"


    For all intents and purposes, Nora had received all the love from her family but she had only ever craved Yu Seok love. Yes she had been a psychopath, but did that mean that se did not deserve love? He had helped her grandfathers and father grieve over her. Assured them that he would definitely avenge her death for they believed that someone had attacked her. Apart from Sir Xiao, the other two had been unaware of insanity and had only cursed the person responsible for her death. He had told Sir Xiao the truth and also given him the autonomy to portray Nora''s death as he saw fit to the world. Because she may or may not deserve their love, but the family she had left behind, the old men, deserved to be at peace about her.


    Just as arrived at the decision to go to a bar and drown his sorrows in alcohol, the light in his house was turned on and the door opened. For a moment he wondered if Nora had planned something for him also but then he noticed the woman walking towards him and his tiredness almost seemed to seep out of him. She was here and the truth he had been avoiding hit him. It was not alcohol he needed but her. He did not have to tell her anything, but just holding her to him would be enough for him..


    Immediately, he opened the door of the car and stepped out while a blast of cold wind him him in the face. Immediately, he frowned and walking to the woman, he held her hand and guided her inside, "Why are you stepping outside? It is so cold! Come on move in? And why are you even awake at this hour? You should have called me when you came over."


    By now, Yoo Shiro had walked in while guiding Shan Shan inside. But when he turned around to scold her some more, he realized that Shan Shan had suddenly frozen and was staring at him with wide eyes and looking almost ready to faint.


    He looked down and realized that he was covered in blood. Extending his hand to touch and comfort her, he stopped at the dried blood and sighed,"Shan Shan, the blood is not mine. Don''t worry." For a moment, she did not seem to realize what he had said. But when her brain did understand, she heaved a sigh of relief and almost crumbled on the floor. In a trembling voice she asked,"What happened?"


    Not wanting to explain but knowing that he would not be able to get away with it, Yoo Shiro shook his head saying,"Let me just freshen up. And then I will explain everything."


    Shan Shan nodded wide eyed and turned to go into the bedroom. Raising his brows, he followed her to the bedroom and then into the bathroom. He watched as she set the water to fill the bathtub like a little housewife. Once the wanted was filled, Shan Shan went on to add some herbs which she claimed were soothing and then walked to him. Her hands went straight to the buttons of his shirt. This simple action made him freeze and he unintentionally caught her wrist in a tight grip before growling,"What are you doing?"


    The sudden aggression shocked Shan Shan who looked at Yoo Shiro strangely before she cared to explain," I was just helping you get rid of the dirty clothes. So that you can get into the bath."


    Even though she said nothing, he could feel her gaze bore into him as he tried to avoid her gaze. He let his hands hang at his sides as she undressed him before she lead him into the bath. The warm water surrounded him and he leaned his head back, his eyes closing of their own accord while his hand kept a hold of hers. When she tried to pull away, he said,"Join me. Just let me hold you."


    Shan Shan observed him carefully. This was the first time she had seen such a defeated look on him. She wanted to pepper him with questions but the exhaustion on his face stopped her. She placed her other hand on top of his and said,"Relax.I am not going anywhere."


    Taking off his hand from over hers, she carefully sat next to the bath tub and sprayed some water onto his head.Squirting a bit of the shampoo, she massaged his head, making him groan with pleasure as he exclaimed,"Shan Shan! I feel like a king from the ancient times.. And if we had been born a few hundred years ago, then I assure you, you would have been my most favored concubine!"


    Seeing that he had gone back to his teasing, Shan Shan playfully tugged at his hair and answered,"Do you think so? Even if we had been born hundreds of year''s ago, I would have been the only one who could have tolerated you!"


    This caused Yoo Shiro to open his eyes and squint at her carefully before he finally caught her and carefully pulled her into the bath tub in his arms. He burrowed his face in her neck, breathing in her vanilla scent and agreed,"Yes. you are right.You really are the only one for me in all my reincarnations."


    Satusfied with his agreement, she let him hug her, even though her clothes were drenched. "What happened?"


    Closing his eyes, he narrated the entire incident from the time he had received the information to the time he had replaced Yu Seok. And then the events that took place in the hotel room. The events of the evening shook even Shan Shan as she realised that her best friend had been in such danger and she had even been unaware of something like this. She could also feel her man''s sadness and his heartbreak. And now she understood the mysterious message she had received from Yu Seok who had asked her to go stay at Yoo Shiro''s house. She shuddered at the lost look that she had seen on his face when she had been observing him. If he had come home to an empty house, he would have kept this weight in his heart and suffered by himself. She slowly rubbed her hands along his arm in soothing circles. Just when her small hands reached his shoulders, Yoo Shiro held her face and fused his mouth to hers. He wanted to get rid of the feel of another woman''s arms on him. He wanted to let her smell seep into him so deep that no one would ever get to him again. Soon, one of his hands slipped into her dressing gown and caressed her soft flesh and the events of the evening were left behind. Finally, the two people left the bathroom and snuggled into the covers, even as they whispered sweet nothings to each other. Finally, Yoo Shiro asked the question that he had wondered when he first saw her."Why were you here suddenly?Is everything alright?"


    Sleepily, she teased him,"Does that mean that I am not allowed here when everything is Ok? Silly man. Just like you were worried for your brother, he too was worried for you and sent me here. The last dredges of coldness were chased away from his mind at Yu Seok subtle care of him.

 Chapter 199 - A Surprise

    The sunlight that glinted off the beautifully decorated pond, reflected the beauty of the wedding a father had planned for his daughter. A wedding where she would be happy. As Xie Eun stood inside the small inlay, ready to go out, she could only marvel at her father''s arrangements and realized how deeply she missed him today. He had left no stones unturned for her last wedding also and for this one too. The willow trees, the roll of the lawns, a flower-strewn arbor and white runners flowing like a river between the rows of chairs¡ªwhite again, strung with little flowers. Everything looked formal yet not stuffy. But natural and elegant. The little flowers were laid in abundant bunches of natural arrangements by the floral artists. There, under their arbor they would be saying their vows as acres and rivers of white fairy lights would be lighted against the setting sun.


    Soon, the guests would be here and then this would be the beginning of their happy ever after wedding. They had struggled between having a grand wedding like her father had arranged or a smaller intimate one and finally decided on just family, friends and a few close business associates. Xie Eun looked at herself in the mirror, at the long flowy dress. This time, she had chosen the dress herself. Instead of a formal one, she had chosen a simple gown that cinched just under her breasts before falling in flowy waves. The ivory colored gown hid her little bump really well but even after all the precautions had tightened over her breasts, causing her to turn red when the seamstress had to loosen the dress a bit.


    Her hair had been left down, without a veil, letting it fall in soft and dreamy waves and a small flower was tucked just behind her ear.


    Soon, it was time for her to walk down the aisle and Elder Yoo stood next to her. But the first person to walk down the aisle would be Shan Shan who had agreed to be the bridesmaid. Sporting a similar bump, Shan Shan was dressed in a pale pink silk gown with a similar flowing pattern. Her hair was tied in a small knot on the top of her head as her creamy shoulders were exposed and as she walked down the aisle, Yoo Shiro who stood behind the groom as the best man, could only imagine their own wedding hoping the winters would arrive soon. Because Shan Shan had demanded a winter wedding and thus they had decided to wait. Of course, Yoo Shiro had already planned to elope and get their wedding certificates first.


    Soon the first strings of the piano started to play and Xie Eun threaded her hands through Elder Yoo''s and slowly started to walk down the aisle. Once again, it was Aunt Su who played the piano but this time the song had been chosen by Xie Eun. It was a song called, "Never Ending Love" and that is what she wanted to remember this day. Their day of never ending love.


    Her first glimpse of Yu Seok almost stole her breath away. He had chosen to match their clothes! Dressed in a similar Ivory coloured suit, her husband who always wore dark colors, loved exceptionally handsome. Even the flower on his lapel, matched the one that was tucked in her hair. She smiled brilliantly at him, all the stars in the milky way reflected in her eyes.


    His face which would usually look austere seemed as if it would never stop smiling. Proudly, he waited there for her. This time secure in the knowledge that his bride loved him. When they reached the small podium, he extended his hand and Elder Yoo carefully placed her hand in his. This time they would be saying their vows that they had written themselves.


    Yu Seok''s strong baritone soon resonated in the open, "The first time I saw you, I wondered if it was too soon to elope with you. And I was right. You made me wait for your heart and love but with every passing minute, you made me fall for you even more deeper, even more irrevocably. I promise to love you forever with all my heart and cherish what we have. I promise to keep trying to teach you how to cook even if we burn down the house a few times. But most of all, I promise to love you even more than I do now with all your perfections and imperfections."


    Even though, Yu Seok had added a dash of his sardonic humor in his vows, no one in the wedding present remained dry eyed for they could feel the deep love in his words. Xie Eun too was having difficulty keeping the moisture in her eyes at bay as she responded his vows, "The first time I saw you, I was scared to death as I hung upside down over a tree before promptly forgetting about you. And that I have realized was the biggest and silliest mistake I ever made. For if I had, I would have had your love sooner and fallen for you sooner. You patiently waited until the day I fell for you but you don''t know that I fell for you a little bit more, every time I saw you. And since we lost so many of our days together, I promise to love you twice the love everyday and be together with you for the next 36500 days of out lives till we grow old and grey and a hundred plus years old. I only want to hold your hand and love you my Wolf, my best friend and confidante. I love you and will continue to love you in the future in spite of all your perfections."


    The world soon faded into the background as Xie Eun and Wolf had eyes only for each other. Soon it was time for the groom to kiss the bride and this time he did not do the gentlemanly thing and pulled his wife into his arms for a long deep kiss amidst much cheering and clapping from the crowd before the wedding party proceeded for dinner and wedding pictures.


    While the bride and groom had their wedding pictures taken, Yoo Shiro took the opportunity and kidnapped his girlfriend to a secluded corner on the other side of the pond. Shan Shan was amused at his antics and tried to ask him what he was up to but he simply ignored her and led her a bit deeper into the woods. With his brother''s and sister in law''s permission, he had decided to propose formally to Shan Shan this evening. His reasoning was simple, they had come together because of them so naturally it was right to propose just under the shadow of their love.


    Amid the woods, in a small alcove, a lone circular table was placed, covered with a white cloth. On the table was a platter with a beautiful shaped mini cake designed in the shape of a cute heart. On the side of the heart was a little velvet box and as the couple walked hand in hand, the sound of a song being played could be heard. As Shan Shan stood stupefied at the sight, she finally felt her tears flow and she blamed them on her hormones! She refused to acknowledge that her silly Shiro would be so romantic! He had even chosen a song by her favourite band even as he was crazy jealous of them! As "Miss Right" by BTS played in the background, Yoo Shiro got down on both his knees and whispered, "Shan Shan¡­ We may have gotten off with a rocky start but I want the rest of our lives to be together so that we can face all the hurdles together. I believed you to be Miss Wrong for me but you are just right for me and I hope I can be the same for you. So Shan Shan, will you elope with me tonight? I don''t want to face another day being unmarried to you. So elope with me, please? I promise to have or dream wedding as soon as the first snow of the season falls!"


    Happiness beyond dreams seemed to engulf her as Shan Shan nodded and threw herself into her fiance''s arms. Yes tomorrow they would be husband and wife. Holding her tight to him, they caught the cake and eloped for their own wedding much to the amusement of Xie Eun and Yu Seok who came back to their missing maid of honor and bestman respectively.


    Soon after dinner, the bride and groom also drove away for their honeymoon. The last person left at the venue was Cheng Mo who looked down at the work tablet in his hand and consoled himself, that he atleast had his work to keep him company. Dejected, he turned the corner to walk to his car and bumped into a soft person who was walking with her head down¡­

 Chapter 200 - A Honeymoon (R-18)

    As they drove off, a newly married couple, once again, Xie Eun stared in the rear view mirror to the people who stood back cheering for them and waving at them. Her heart a little heavy, when she thought back to the past... the way she had not even given him a second glance...


    As was his way, Yu Seok understood his wife''s feelings and quietly held her hand. A little while later, when Xie Eun''s hand continued to stay limply in his, he spoke gently. "It''s hard, sometimes, to face happy times, important moments without someone we love, someone who made those times and moments possible. But he would not want this to cloud your feelings, when he only wanted to see you happy.."


    Xie Eun sighed deeply as her husband seemed to always know what she needed to hear," He would have loved all this for me. He was a mother and father both to me... so tonight I am somehow missing him even more.."


    "Me too... baby. Me too. I don''t think I had the chance to thank him properly.. for letting me love you... Even in my dreams, I never even thought of asking him for your hand... He would have shot me in the head before I could''ve gotten in a word edgewise." Xie Eun smiled at this. He was indeed right. Her father would not have let her marry any man so easily if there had been no hope for his survival. But he would have approved of Yu Seok and given him hell just for fun.


    As she pondered her father''s ways, once again a comfortable silence engulfed the small space until Yu Seok stopped at the helipad. Xie Eun turned in surprise at Yu Seok as she wondered what he had in store for her now. But since she knew it was going to be of no help asking him, she simply followed him. Once inside the chopper, they put on the noise blocking head phones as Yu Seok ordered the pilot to fly.. throughout the flight, Xie Eun''s eyes were riveted to the ground that had slowly slipped away. She glanced at the big buildings below that now looked so little and the lights in the city that looked like twinkling jewels. And once again, her camera was handed to her and she clicked the pictures.. but this time the journey was not too long and they soon descended the heights in an open field. A small complaint in her eyes, Xie Eun wanted to beg for some more time but when they were out, he simply said, "After the honeymoon!" The glint in his eyes warned her of exactly what he had in mind and she could only turn red. The last time they had visited the doctor, she had given them the go ahead signal as long as they were gentle...


    Within a few minutes, Xie Eun recognized the place where they were headed to from the field and looked at her husband in amazement as they reached outside the Hotel where they had spent their first night after their wedding! While she stared in amazement, Yu Seok picked her up in a bridal carry and started to climb the stairs quickly, while Xie Eun clung to him with a fast beating heart. It seems that her husband wanted a re do of their first night together. This time, Xie Eun was able to see the people staring at them in amazement. And seemingly he had already checked in since no one stopped him and he carried her into the same room! Deciding to give him the replay he wanted, she gathered her composure and in the haughtiest voice ordered, "Put me down.."


    And just like the last time, he slowly slid her down his body with his arms still around her.. And from there, before she could say anything else, he moved back and dimmed the lights, with only a few lamps left on and then he turned on soft music before holding his arms out for her. She stepped into them without hesitation as they indulged in their own version of a slow waltz. Soon his lips touched her ears and he whispered slowly, "Tonight, I am going to live a fantasy with you my Eun-a. The one that I have dreamed of ever since we spent the time here...


    With that, he slowly turned her in his arms and a blindfold covered her face, giving her the nostalgic feeling of deja vu before he once again turned her back to him. His mouth slowly touched hers, parting her lips with a thrust of his tongue.. With one of her senses covered, Xie Eun could feel the her sensitivity to his touch and the feel of his breath against her increase. Her hands clutched at his shoulders as she widened her lips, letting him have control of her.


    His hands slowly glided over her arms to her shoulders as he slipped the dress down her one smooth shoulder. His mouth followed the path of the dress, placing small kissed over her until only her breasts held up her dress now and soon the dress lay in a pool around her legs, leaving her exposed to her husband''s heated gaze as she stood there in only her underwear, shoes and a blindfold over her eyes.


    His hand then went to her thigh, sliding underneath the fine edges of her panties as Xie Eun felt burning heat spread through her. The music then changed to a different song and once again, Yu Seok carried her up, before gently placing her on the bed. She felt his heat leave her for a few minutes as she tried to guess what he was doing. But the music covered up all the sounds.. But soon she felt him again as he leaned over her, kissing each nipple slowly before moving away again.


    As Yu Seok bent down, he slowly pulled off her shoes, kissing each foot as he raised her foot to his lips.. Even as she felt dazed with arousal, she was charmed by his gentleness and once again thought that she was the luckiest woman to ever be born on this planet. He then stood up, tossing her shoes out of the way. Once again his mouth then found hers giving her the passion that he had held in check for so long... His teeth nipped her bottom lip, giving her a small sting of pain, which he laved away with the tip of his tongue before he pressed her back against the mattress.


    He then turned his assault downwards, taking her ni**le into his mouth, playing with it. The other sensitive bud tightened as if asking him to pay attention to that also...which he did...


    Xie Eun moaned, calling out his name, already pleading," Yu Seok... I can''t wait anymore..."


    "I want to play some more over here," he explained, taking the ni**le back into his mouth.


    "Ohhh," Xie Eun breathed as she started to get restless. Her thigh moved up, rubbing against his hip and she realized that he had already discarded his clothing.


    As the mattress underneath her head shuddered, she felt his mouth on the curve of her stomach, his tongue tasting her flesh before kissing it tenderly... Her hands clutched at his head, trying to get him to come back up...But soon he held her wrists and her arms were held up, stretching her taut on the bed... before a snap could be heard and she realized that he had handcuffed her to the bed! His hand cupped the back of her knee, bringing her leg up, spreading her slowly until his mouth touched her down there...making her buck. Her hands jerked, trying to reach him but she couldn''t


    Her hands went down to his head, but she couldn''t reach him.. Finally, when she was ready to scream or maybe she already was, he entered her slowly, before he started to move faster. Her body adjusted to his thrusts and she moved against him, goading him, wanting and demanding more...His hand toyed with her cl** as he moved against her, taking her to the edge again and again. Until she finally came around him, making him loose his own control as well..


    He breathed hard against her ear, but was careful to keep his weight off her as he lay down on her side.. Slowly, he pulled off her blindfold, kissing her on her parted lips as her eyes opened. Next came to cuffs that he clicked open, rubbing her wrists, to bring back the blood flow.. The love in his eyes had her raising her hand to touch his cheek.


    Lovingly, he tugged her to him, rolling her over so that her cheek was against his neck. She closed her eyes sleepily and snuggled into him...since they were doing fantasies, it was time, she decided, to act on a few of her own.

 Chapter 201 - Honeymoon (2)

    Xie Eun woke up with Yu Seok''s hands all over her body, teasing her and exploring her. With a humming sound, Xie Eun arched her back, pushing herself closer to him intuitively. Her husband it seems was intent on saying himself within a night. Even though she felt well rested, she had been aware of his naughty hands through the night.


    Finally, when his lips latched onto her breasts that were even more sensitive right now, she opened her eyes and blinked them sleepily. Tugging him upwards by pulling at his hair, she brought his face to hers and was about to reprimand him, but before she could protest, her lips were possessed by him...until Xie Eun finally lost herself and closed her eyes in pleased surrender.


    Finally, after the sun was high in the sky, Xie Eun sat in front of the dresser, drying her wet hair, glaring at her husband. Really, he was too much! He gave her a sidelong heated glance in response to her glare making her blush and turn away, while he walked into the bathroom-naked. Just then, she felt a strong kick against her stomach and she looked down shocked at her stomach. And felt the kick again...Thrilled and excited, she screamed out Yu Seok''s name, who came running to her with a panicked face.


    "What happened?What happened?" Not realising her excitement, he looked her over for injuries or discomfort that could have caused her to scream. Instead of answering him, she grinned and caught his wrist placing it on her tummy. And as soon as the hard and rough hand touched the soft skin of her belly, he felt the kick against it. Yu Seok seemed to have frozen in place when he realized what he had just experienced. At this moment, his heart seemed to be roaring like the first time he had seen Xie Eun. At that juncture, he had wanted to be the best man for her and this moment he felt that he wanted to be the best father for their little kid. Falling on his knees, he could only lean forward and kiss her belly, getting another kick in the face. This caused Xie Eun to giggle and she placed a small kiss on her husband''s face, our kid wants to kick you in the face. He looked up into her eyes and kissed her to thank her before Xie Eun broke into hysterical giggles as she said,"Our kid will be traumatized when he comes to know that first time his father felt him, he was buck naked..."


    Looking down at himself, Yu Seok rolled his eyes and went into the washroom. But in there, instead if entering the shower, he fell to he knees and joined his hands together, for the first time in his life, thanking the fates.


    After the morning and afternoon passed lazily, and in the evening, Xie Eun and Yu Seok walked into the small town market hand in hand. Seeing the small town that she has returned to after so long, Xie Eun felt a sense of returning home. On one of the old shops she saw the billboards of their latest campaign on a few shop fronts and pointed those out to her husband also, feeling a sense of pride. She showed him her favorite joints and then dragged him to a small ice cream place and ordered a big cone of the most odd flavors he had ever heard of.


    From there they went into a small store where Yu Seok was ordered to wait outside. When he tried to protest, she crossed her arms and turned a mutinous face to him, making him sigh and raise his hands in surrender. Anyway, he had already looked around and chosen a vantage point so that he could look inside and observe her.


    Xie Eun walked inside with determined steps. She knew that this looked like a simple hardware store, but her curiosity had told her it housed many more rather ''Unusual'' thingsm. Of course, when she had discovered this place, she had no use for these things but now... She was going to make a go of it and work on her fantasy too. She wanted to look around before walking in so that she would not meet anyone she knew..but she curved the urge otherwise her husband would definitely know something was on. Not that anyone would recognize her here.


    While inside the store, Xie Eun immediately ran to the ''special'' side and grabbed the things she wanted at a rapid speed. She then turned to the normal section ad looked around carefully for a small rope...She then took a deep fortifying breath and went to the cashier.


    Yu Seok, who stood leaning against the tree, frowned as he saw his wife stroll back into the view. His eyes narrowed as he saw her behaving like a thief...just what was she up to now?


    Just then, his gaze fell on a man who was entering the shop before turning back to his wife who was now paying the cashier. But then his gaze suddenly turned icy as he saw the man in the black leather that had just entered,make a beeline for her.


    The man looked like he spelled trouble and Yu Seok was tempted to go inside and lay a proprietory hand on his wife. He straightened, ready to match inside, but then he stopped himself and leaned back. His wife could easily handle any punks!


    What happened next, was something he could not even imagine. And his eyes suddenly turned red with jealousy...


    Because the punk approached and placed a hand on her shoulder. But when she turned around to give him her icy glare, her face suddenly tightened and she gave a big grin to the man, and then a high five before leaning over and giving the man a big hug and a kiss on the cheek! What the h***!


    Just as he was about to go on a killing crusade, the man took his hand off his wife''s waist and started talking to her earnestly with exuberant hand gestures to which she nodded enthusiastically. Taking out his cell phone, he scanned the man''s motorcycle plate and gathered the data on this person..And soon his green eyed monster was soothed as he read the information that his special software application gave him. Xie Eun was the wrong gender for him.. But still when the man looked down at her small tummy and extended his hand to touch her there, he decided he was going to kill the man with his bare hands. Thankfully, his wife had some sense and evaded the man skillfully.


    Soon, his wife came out with her handful of bags and a long brown wrapped parcel. He stepped forward and took the bags from her hands but she refused to relinquish her hold on the parcel, making him curious.


    On the way back she told him about the childhood friend she had met and he let her ramble showing his wife how understanding husband he was. And he comforted himself that he was being benign by not ordering someone to break the man''s hands!


    Back at the hotel, they enjoyed a leisurely dinner before going back to their room. And there, just when he would have pulled his wife to him, she evaded him with the order,"Tonight, it is going to be my turn!"


    Immediately, he understood his wife''s intentions and with anticipation running through him, he went and sat on the bed, while watching her collect the bags and skipping into the bathroom. He noticed that she left a couple of bags and the long wrapped parcel outside only but did nothing to satisfy his curiosity.


    His breathing stopped when she walked out of the bathroom a few minutes later. The black lace that she wore, made his heart race and his mouth dry. The dress, if it could be called that barely covered anything...the only thing the wisp did was to highlight her assets in all their glory. Slowly she walked around the room, doing nothing but still seducing him, she switched off the lights. Unable to stop himself, he stood up and was about to go to her but she shook his head and ordered,"Stand there."


    And then slowly she walked forward and put her hands on his shoulders. Starting into his eyes, she stopped him from touching her and slowly unbuttoned the shirt, one slow button at a time...and once all of them had come undone, she pushed the shirt off him, before she knelt down. Astonished, he watched her hands go to the button of his jeans before realising her intentions. And once he did, he had to forcefully stop himself from getting closer to her. This was her fantasy...he could not take it from her...but he was dam* grateful for it...Very grateful...


    A long time later, he finally asked his wife what was there in the other packages and she sleepily muttered, "That is a sword...you have to be a pirate tomorrow!" Raising his eyebrows, Yu Seok glanced at his now asleep wife and was already imagining the many possibilities of kidnapping his wife onto his ship...

 Chapter 202 - A Little One

    On a dark stormy night, Shan Shan woke up with her eyes snapping open suddenly. Her sleep had been sketchy these days due to the added weight of her now big belly. And tonight, it seemed the ''little angels'' who kept her awake were ready to come. Her back and stomach felt like they were being torn open as she blindly patted the bed side looking for her husband.. who was not there...


    She screamed out the name "Shiro!!!" at the top of her voice but could not be sure that she had been heard over the thunder. And she was right. Just as she was getting ready to call the ambulance herself, her husband ambled in, with a cup of mint chocolate ice cream in his hand. He came to an abrupt stop when he realized that his wife was awake and was presently glaring at him. Curbing the urge to hide his ice cream protectively from his wife''s laser gave, he gave a small smile and explained," Honey! I was feeling hungry. And you know that I cannot resist chocolate-mint flavor...Please don''t be angry!"


    Gritting her teeth, Shan Shan felt another wave of pain come over her and she silently let it pass, taking deep breaths as they had been taught in class. And once the wave had passed, she screeched," Shiro! I don''t care that you are eating a tooth paste ice cream! But if you do not get here right now, then your babies will be born before you can finish eating that thing!"


    This caused Shiro to freeze with his mouth still open and his spoon still stuck in mid air... After a few moments, he breathed with difficulty and asked, "Right now? The babies are coming right now? But there is a storm outside..."


    Shan Shan was just about to roll her eyes and pass a sarcastic remark about asking the babies to wait until the storm passed, but another wave caught her, making her clutch the bed in agony as she tried to not scream. Finally, Shiro gained his senses and immediately went in and held her hand waiting for this to pass. And when it did, he immediately picked up his wife and raced to the door.. The car was parked right outside so he immediately placed her there and went about adjusting the seat when another wave of pain took her over. Roughly timing up the intervals, he worried even more that they would not reach on time...And then starting the car, he proceeded to drive the car at the speed of a snail. Shan Shan who was leaning back in her seat, drenched in sweat, and snidely said," It seems you want your children to be born in the car! Drive faster.."


    Shiro nodded hi head but did not increase the speed," No. With the thunder raging we cannot risk driving faster.."


    "If you drive at this speed, then we will reach in time for the baby''s first birthday! Shiro, I am not asking you to race, but at least don''t make the car crawl! And if you don''t speed up, I swear I will come and drive the car myself!"


    Nodding his head, once again, they finally reached the hospital, where Shan Shan walked in gracefully, while Shiro looked panicky with wide eyes, his hair sticking out from all sides... Immediately the nurses guided her into the delivery room to check her blood pressure and vitals while Shiro paced outside.. All the stories he had read about child birth and things that could go wrong seemed to be going around in his head. He reached for his pocket, wondering if he should call Seok and the rest of the family, but then realized that he had forgotten his cell phone at home. Pacing around, he tried to figure out if Shan Shan would be well inside and if the babies had been delivered yet. Just then, his brother walked in, calm and inexplicably well dressed, in direct contrast to him. His eyes widened and he asked, "Is Xie Eun also inside?" "Would I be standing here if Xie Eun was also inside. She is at home."


    Stupidly, he then asked, "Why are you here then?"


    It was then that Yu Seok extended his hand and passed him a bag, "Go and get dressed properly. Your wife is worried you are going to scare the little ones, if you go inside looking wild like this."


    Shiro took the bag and glanced up at his brother before nodding his head and going to get changed. He was right. He could not scare his kids. Inside the washroom, Shiro closed the door and almost screamed in terror when he saw his own face! Thank the heavens no one had clicked his picture! He looked like a Zombie! He looked down at the ice cream stain and corrected himself," An ice cream eating Zombie at that.."


    Shaking himself, he washed his face and changed into the casual clothes his perfect brother had brought for him.. And as he walked out wondering how his brother kept his cool, he came across the scene of Yu Seok ready to pull his hair out...as he stood toe to toe with his Xie Eun.. who was supposed to be sleeping at home...


    Yu Seok stared down at his wife who while she glared up at him. She was supposed to be resting at home! The doctor had already asked her to be careful since she was over the due date and here she was traversing through the storm when he had specifically left her home with instructions to stay there.


    Shiro walked closer to hear the ending of what his sister in law was telling his brother,"Mr. Husband, if you think I am going to stay put at home when my best friend is in labor then you are highly mistaken!"


    While Shiro glanced at the two people, he realized his mind had been taken off from his wife. He turned his head to the delivery room, wondering what was going on. Just then a nurse walked up to him and asked,"Mr Yoo. Congratulations. It''s a boy and a girl." Shiro jumped in excitement before almost hugging the nurse who backed away before he went and gave his brother and Xie Eun a hug. The nurse instructed them that he could see the babies once they were transferred to the nursery and his wife once she was shifted into a normal room...


    Nodding like a jack in the box, Yoo Shiro grinned happily as he paced outside the room. The moment his tired but beautiful wife was wheeled out of the room on a stretcher he ran to her and kissed her hard on the lips.. She smiled up at him before scowling as she whispered ordered him," You are barred from my bed for the next twenty five years!"


    Grinning and not taking her seriously at all he followed everyone into the general room. Once there, the nurse carried in two little babies wrapped in a blue and pink cloth before passing one to each parent. Yu Seok and Xie Eun held hands as they saw this and smiled sweetly, knowing that they would soon be able to hold their baby too... Seeing that both the parents were fine and the babies too, the couple walked out hand in hand giving them a little family time. Outside, Xie Eun looked up at Yu Seok and sighed," They are so cute... Hubby! When will our baby come here?"


    Yu Seok flicked his wife on the nose and uttered, "He will be here soon enough! He takes after his mom being lazy and good at procrastinating!"


    Xie Eun pouted up at her husband but fondly thought of the last ultra sound they had where their little one had graced them with a big lazy yawn..


    As they waited outside the room, for their turn to hold their little niece and nephew, Xie Eun suddenly felt her eyes widen as she felt a little wetness seep through her dress. She glanced down and then up at her husband...pulling his hand hard. He looked over and seeing the expression on her face, understood immediately something was wrong.. Xie Eun raised her eyes and muttered," I think my water broke..."


    Jumping up from the seat, Yu Seok hurriedly raced to call the doctor and nurses who then prepared another delivery room for Xie Eun..Once Xie Eun was taken into the room, Yoo Shiro who had com out to look for his family had the unique pleasure of seeing his own brother have a panic attack as Yu Seok almost fell to his knees. Forgetting his own state from a while ago, he walked to Yu Seok and nodded sagely like an experienced man," Don''t worry! She will be fine soon and then you will be holding another ugly, red baby in your arms.. Would you like to practice by holding your nephew or niece in your arms?"

 Chapter 203 - A Little Bundle Of Joy

    Yu Seok paced the gallway, tracing the same path his brother had a few hours ago. Yoo Shiro called their grandfather and shared the good news with the old man that he was going to become a great grandfather, times three! He he... First he became a grandfather to two on the same night and now great grandfather to three on the same night! Anyone who would look at elder Yoo would think that this news had suddenly made him ten years younger as he dressed up carefully to meet his great grandchildren.


    Yoo Shiro felt as if his grin was stuck to his face and his jaw was already aching from laughing so hard. He a linked back to his room and saw his wife sleeping. He placed a small kiss on her forehead, patting back the flicks on her forehead. She looked so pale and exhausted. He then turned to the crib where his little babies were sleeping.


    Sigh..he hadn''t thought he would fall so hard..he caressed the small cheeks of his little girl and realized what everyone meant when they said love at first sight. This little red faced girl with her haze grey eyes and a small tuft of hair on her head had taken a place in his heart with a stronghold, he never expected to feel. And their little boy, he was sure would look just like him and make him proud. And he decided, his little boy would also help in beating up his sister''s suitors. After all, he was the elder brother by two minutes.


    Outside, Yu Seok stared at the door of the delivery room. The nurse had informed him that  they had to induce labor pains as they had yet to start and her crevix was yet to dilate. To put it bluntly, they would have to wait longer or opt for a caesarean section. The doctor would soon let him know..


    When Yoo Shiro came out, he saw his brother calmly sitting on a bench. Raising his eyebrows, he wondered what had happened that his brother had just calmed down? Looking down the hallway, he went forward and drew out two bottles of water from the vending machine. Opening one, he gulped it thirstily and then almost spit it out when he glanced at the screen and read what his brother was reading. Coughing and turning red in the face, he snatched the phone from his brother''s hand with bulging eyes. He was sure, if he were a cartoon,  his eyes would be hanging out of their sockets with springs..."Just what are you doing? You are searching about vasectomy?"


    With an indifferent face, Yu Seok took back his phone and put it back in his pocket with dignity...


    But this was too much for Yoo Shiro to let go so he made himself comfortable next to his brother and asked him,"Well, I could understand my wife barring me from the bedroom just after she suffered from so much physical agony. But why are you doing this?"


    Yoo Shiro waited for Yu Seok to answer and almost assumed that he was not going to get any when his low voice sounded, "She is in pain."


    Yoo Shiro could almost feel his jaw drop at the desolate voice of his brother. He looked at Yu Seok and muttered as he shook his head, "You would have given birth to the child if that was possible by nature!"


    You Seok ignored his brother. He never wanted to see his Eun-a in pain. And she was bearing it all silently as she waited for their child. No, if it meant that she would have to suffer so much, he was never going to risk it again...Seeing Yu Seok so depressed, Shiro could only shake his head and tried to lighten the mood,"I have a better and sure shot idea that would prevent Xie Eun from getting pregnant and would stop you from worrying about her being in pain."


    Fonally, Yu Seok looked at his brother and raised his eyebrow in question. Grinning, Yoo Shiro answered,"Don''t have se*..You see abstinence is good and all that."


    This cringe joke had Yu Seok glaring at his brother and threatening,"If you don''t want my nephew and niece to lose their father, you better escape."


    Not the least bit perturbed by the threat, Yoo Shiro freely smacked his brother on the head and said,"You must not take such decisions in the heat of the moment. Do you think, I did not feel pain when I saw Shan Shan? But when I saw the happiness on her face despite the exhaustion, I knew that everything would be alright. And you will see the same on your Eun-a''s face. Do you think if you take such a decision, your Eun-a will be happy? I am pretty sure she is going to want more children in the future..."


    "So little brother, show some of the infinite patience that you possess and let your wife enjoy the fruits of her labor..pun intended. Heh hehe"


    With that philosophical advice, Yoo Shiro went back to the room where his family was resting and observed them all with a moony expression on his face.


    Meanwhile, Yu Seok stared blankly at the wall as he waited for their little bundle of joy..and decided to follow the best advice his brother had given,"Enjoy his family."


    And to add fun to the mix, just then Elder Yoo came to the hospital with a big box being carried by the butler. Seemingly dressed for a banquet, Elder Shiro looked totally out of place but the spring in his step and the ruddy cheeks of the man belied his satisfaction and happiness. In a booming voice, he asked,"Where are my great grand children?


    Yu Seok sent his grandfather to visit his brother and then continued to wait.. He walked towards the window and watched as the world outside slowly came alive amid greatness from last night thunder and tried to calm his heart...

 Chapter 204 - Finally!

    A long while later, just when Yu Seok was at the end of his patience and ready to barge into the delivery room and check on his wife and child when the nurse walked out. With a smile she congratulated him,"Sir, you have been blessed with a little girl...We will be transferring the mother and child to the room soon sir."


    Elder Yoo, who had been sitting quietly behind Yu Seok laughed and patted him heartily, "I have two great granddaughters now! I have been blessed! Two little warm blankets! Both my grandsons are useless but my grand daughters in law are the best!"


    Yu Seok was stunned and paid not attention to his own grandfather.. A little daughter...just like his Eun-a. Closing his eyes, he thanked the fates for the blessings and then started to plan a few measures to protect her from boys who were going to cone around sniffing. They should have found the baby''s sex when they were asked during ultra sound! Then he would have had more time to take measures to protect his daughter! His heart beating fast, he walked to the room that had been arranged and decided to wait for his wife and daughter. Soon, Xie Eun was brought in, tired and almost unconscious. Feeling his heart ache, he walked to her the moment she moved to the bed and put her in his lap, hugging her close and caressing her hair. She snuggled into him and raised her shiny eyes at her husband a tired smile on her face. "We have a little girl. She is going to help me turn your hair all white. Then you will look all dignified, hmm?"


    Yu Seok grinned down at his wife and replied, "I have already planned to ready my shot gun..."


    Xie Eun shook her head and muttered, "I am sure you have. But it is not like you would need it.. I am pretty sure that she will be well trained in handling all sorts of people by the time you are done training her. And she already has a big brother and sister and all other siblings she has in the future are going to be a terror to the world in the coming days."


    Yu Seok looked down at his wife and rolled his eyes," If she is anything like her mother, no amount of me training her can help her! Her silliness is going to be inherited! And you are already thinking of future siblings? I thought you would be not even be ready to think of having anymore!"


    Xie Eun poked Yu Seok in the arm and said," Do you think I am scared of pain? I planned to have at least 5 kids but I am willing to have four only since she will have a few more playmates. But I never want any of my children to feel lonely. So now that is just three more to go."


    Xie Eun looked up at her husband and was dismayed at his look of horror. Saddened, that he may not want more children, she appealed," Well, I know we have not discussed this in the past but I really wanted a lot of children! And we can even afford them and...!" But Yu Seok''s expression remained the same so she could only let the words go quiet as she looked down.


    But Yu Seok could only shake inside as he thought of what his wife would have done if she had known of his thoughts. Thank the heavens Yoo Shiro had dissuaded him! He looked at her small face and then rubbed his cheek against her hair, "We can have as many children as you want! Think of all the fun we will have practicing when we make more.."


    Just as Xie Eun was about to scold her husband for his naughty thoughts, the nurse walked in with a little bundle in her arms. The baby was wrapped in a small pink blanket. When the nurse saw the new mother sitting in the man''s lap, the nurse was stunned and could only widen her eyes. Usually most couples were tired from the wait, but these two looked so content. She walked forward and placed the little sleeping baby in the new mom''s extended arms. Xie Eun brought her close to her self and she could almost feel her arms shiver in excitement so much so that she felt scared she would drop her little bean. Just then, Yu Seok arms cradled under hers so that they both held the baby together.


    Looking down at the little red, wrinkly face, both, Yu Seok and Xie Eun felt their hearts melt. A little tuft of her dark brown hair was visible from under the blanket and Yu Seok''s fingers gently caressed it. The little baby stirred and the man who is feared as Wolf snatched his hand back worried that he had somehow disturbed the little one.


    The nurse had been unable to help herself and clicked a picture of the new family with her cell phone. When she saw Yu Seok snatch his hand back, she went forward and showed the picture to him and said, "I will go and get a print for you, if you do not mind. But first, Mrs Yu, you need to feed your little baby. It is why she is stirring. Also if you need any help, please ring the bell on the side. For now, just hug her to yourself so that your baby recognizes you and learns to take feed.."


    Just as they nodded, the little girl opened her misty eyes and stared up at her father and mother taking their breath away.. Her eyes were green just like her father''s and would Xie Eun knew that they would soon clear up and shine like her father''s. As Xie Eun wondered this, Yu Seok had already made preparations for his little baby, by deftly unbuttoning Xie Eun''s hospital gown so that his little girl could fill her stomach....

 Chapter 205 - A Candid

    "Who Is the woman you admire the most?" As this interviewer questioned the young heart throb of our country, Lee Jong, about his taste in women, he surprisingly had to say that he admired a woman who was not an actress or a model but beautiful nonetheless. " I personally admire Chairwoman Xie a lot. She had brought her company to new heights and her beauty is extra ordinary. I would count myself a lucky man if I could have a woman like her! She is the classic example of a beauty with brains." This interviewer then questioned if he Lee Jong would work with the chairwoman in the future and Lee Jong had to say, "It would be an honor! And maybe I would be able make her fall for me..", he finished on a teasing wink...


    The latest entertainment gossip magazine, lay open in front of Yu Seok in his home office as he scanned it with narrow eyes. This was a most unusual thing for him but this time he had to see as this magazine had dared to link his wife with another man... even if remotely. And this man had a large female following who were now searching his wife''s credentials. He read the interview again and wondered if he needed to have the man taught a lesson. Of course he could not blame someone for having good taste in expressing a liking for his Xie Eun but the trashy magazine did not have to go about glorifying it. What is some crazy stalker fan of the actor decided to attack his wife? He thought back to Eun-a''s reaction as she had been claimed that she was flattered at being complimented by such a handsome man! His wife was the first one who needed her eyes tested, wasn''t he handsome? And did he not compliment her daily? He wondered if he should release a picture of their now 10 day baby and Eun-a so that this man would be reminded that she was a taken woman! Or maybe he should have a personal chat with the man...he would only use a few punches to chat, of course. Nothing much but a little broken nose ought not to be too bad. Of maybe a black eye. Then he would not be able to even think of seeing Xie Eun...


    Before he could decided the young actor''s fate and more blood thirsty ideas enter his head, he heard a faint cry through the baby monitor and went to check on his little girl before his tired wife woke up. Their little bean had been really fussy these past few nights resulting in the two of them turning haggard with the added pressure of their work. Also Xie Eun''s final exams were nearing so the his wife needed her rest so that she could study well and ace her exams.. Walking into the small room where the little bean was now fussing, Yu Seok picked her up in his arms and crooned, "Little bean? Is your stomach still colicky or are you hungry?"


    The little baby stared up at her father and gave him a small toothless smile, melting her father''s heart all over again. Before he was assaulted with a dirty stench. Shaking his head, Yu Seok grimaced and complained to his daughter," So first you melt my heart by smiling and then you want me to do your dirty work, eh?" The little bean continued to smile placidly and Yu Seok got to work as he pulled out a diaper, baby wipes and a fresh pair of pants. As he did, the usually quiet Yu Seok turned into a chatterbox as he talked to his little girl," My little princess. You have a beautiful smile. The doctors tell me that you just have gas and that is why you make such faces. But I have come to the conclusion that doctors know nothing. Now, are you going to give your father a bigger smile for cleaning you up?"


    He continued to talk to his daughter, as he picked her small feet and wiped her soiled bottoms, not even realizing the fact that he had now become an expert in something that just a few days ago had made both him and Xie Eun throw up. Once the little girl had been freshly diapered, she babbled a bit to her father who was carrying her in his arms and walking about.


    With the little girl clutched in his arm, Yu Seok walked back to the kitchen knowing what was coming next. His little daughter was just like his wife when it came to matters of hunger. At present she was feeling fresh after being changed, but soon, she would let out a loud cry that could torment the heavens, when she announced she was hungry. He heated the milk bottle and slowly tested the milk on the back of his hand, and judging it warm enough, he put the bottle in her mouth, averting a crisis as his daughter sucked lustily. Satisfied with himself, he then crooned a little lullaby for his daughter who drank her fill and was now falling asleep in the safe haven of her father''s arms. As the bottle almost emptied, Yu Seok took it from her mouth and burped the baby before walking to the small couch in his office. There, he lay down and let his princess sleep on his chest, while he closed his own eyes and hugged her to sleep...


    And that was the scene that Xie Eun came down to. She smiled as she watched her husband who had turned himself into a pillow. She walked to him and brushed back the lock of hair that had fallen on his forehead. The moment she straightened, Yu Seok caught hold of her wrist and pulled her to him, careful to pull her next to him on the large couch. It was a good decision to buy this large couch, he decided sleepily, as his Eun-a cuddled into him. With one arm around his princess and the other around his wife, Yu Seok forgot all about hunting a certain actor.

 Chapter 206 - Hair Pulling Drama

    Lee Jong stood rubbing a towel through his wet hair as he listened to the television running in the background. He turned around as the announcer mentioned his name along with Chairwoman Xie and stared at the big screen that occupied the entire wall. His attractive face showed a pleased smile when he saw the sensation he had created and his own picture showed alongside his ideal woman . Throwing aside his towel, he put on a pair of loose pants and t shirt before he walked out of the room to see his agent.


    The agent wanted to pull his hair out as he waited for his errant artist. He kept scrolling through his phone as he read the news that had been hyped up to this extent. He did not know what sins he had committed to have such a stubborn artist. The man was a brilliant actor and a genius but he was mad as a hen! They had just secured the contract with Lu Enterprises and before they could even announce the collaboration, the man had announced that he was the chairwoman''s admirer! Did he think that Chairwoman Xie was just anyone could link their name to? If CEO Wolf heard this, Lee Jong would be buried alive! And by default so would he. And what in the hell was wrong with these people who were airing the news continuously


    Did they not fear for their lives? Did they think that just because the great hunter was lying quietly, he was not lethal anymore?


    He glanced up at the main perpetrator walked out of the room, with not a worry in the world.


    He opened his mouth to lecture the man but was stopped when Lee Jong gestured to be quiet. He watched as the man walked to the refrigerator and drank up milk straight from the can..


    Lee Jong then turned to where he sat and leaned against the kitchen counter. His perfect figure was highlighted in this position as he said to the assistant,"It''s just gossip. Don''t take it seriously. If the big CEO was so insecure that he would react to a nobody like me expressing appreciation for his wife then he would be fighting men all the time. It''s just hype. Now shen we announce out collaboration, it is going to get even more publicity and some pre orders too! And anyways the esteemed CEO Wolf would have already suppressed the news by now if he was disgusted.


    The agent looked thoughtfully at the beautiful man in front of him and nodded in agreement. Yes. If it had been anyone else that the man had linked himself to then he would have whole heartedly supported him but he had been worried about this. Just then, his phone started to ring and he almost dropped it in horror when he saw the person who had called. It was the representative from Lu Enterprises.


    He showed the screen to Lee Jong and said in accusation,"Now you see what you have done? Do you have any idea how hard I have worked to get this contract? And now if it is canceled, it is going to bite us in the back."


    Lee Jong shook his head and pointed to his agent,"Joe, stop being ao over dramatic and just answer the dam* phone."


    Joe rolled his eyes at the man and in a silky voice asked,"Yes, Ms Cece? How may I help you?"


    Whatever the other party said, Lee Jong observed that Joe was not reacting and waited patiently as he sipped some more milk. Finally, Joe placed down the phone and rubbed his forehead before explaining,"Chairwoman Xie Eun has invited us to have a meal with her at her office tomorrow. Miss Cece has explained that the Chairwoman was on maternity leave and will only be returning to have a talk with us so we must not be late." Joe then looked at Lee Jong expectantly and wondered if he had understood the point. The woman he was talking about liking was a mother of a child. And Joe was finally relieved when Lee Jong just nodded and said,"That would be great. Let me know my schedule for tomorrow."


    Joe nodded and left, a bit satisfied with the mad man. But if only he had turned back...


    Lee Jong, who had just been smiling benignly, straightened jos face when the agent left. Placing the milk back, he walked back into his bedroom and opened his wardrobe door. His eyes softened as he glanced at the photograph that hid behind the door. Such a beauty. He had worked with some beautiful actresses but this woman was something else. To him, his liking was not about desire but admiration. Unlike the actresses who used their faces and bodies, she used her brains and smartness. This was the woman who deserved to stand by his side forever. So what if she had a child and husband?


    No one knew that the CEO looked like. He was pretty sure that the man must be ugly and monster like and that was why everyone feared him. Lee Jong then turned to look at his face. But him, no woman could overcome his lethal charm. Just look at the proof. He had just made a passing comment and the woman had already asked someone to arrange a meeting with him. He glanced at the rows of clothes in fromt of him and wondered what he should wear to meet her tomorrow. Whistling a tune, he glanced at Xie Eun beautiful face again and whispered,"Miss Beautiful...we will meet soon..."


    Lee Jong then sat on the recliner and closed his eyes. His agent was right. He was mad. He had been mad about work and worked hard for the last few years. And now, just when he was almost bored with the same old work, life had thrown him a new challenge. "Xie Eun...Xie Eun...Xie Eun."

 Chapter 207 - My Handsome Husband

    Xie Eun glanced at her husband as the man cooked bacon. The oil splitting made her wince and she walked into the kitchen, winding her arms around her husband and hugging his naked back. Her face nestled against his broad and warm shoulders, she breathed in her husband''s scent and sighed deeply. He seemed to be getting more and more sexy by the day while she looked like a...she did not even know what to call herself anymore.


    Smiling as her arms wound around him, Yu Seok turned the flame low and griping her wrist turned around in the circle of her arms, his own arms going around her.


    Xie Eun looked up at her husband and pouted,"Why are you shirtless? What if you get splattered?"


    Smiling, Yu Seok kissed her nose,"And Good Morning to you too wife. You are the reason I am shirtless. because you like to come and cuddle like a cat. And I don''t want to waste any opportunity where we can touch."


    Since she had never been able to resist him, she leaned up and touched her lips to his. Immediately, Yu Seok tightened his arms and the simple kiss turned passionate with Yu Seok''s hands slipping under the silk nightie that Xie Eun wore. A few minutes later, the two people separated, breathing hard. Placing his forehead against hers, Yu Seok stared into her eyes and whispered,"Eun-a, I want you."


    She looked up at her husband, knowing what he was feeling. It had been so long since they were together...Usually she would have felt shy and pleased at this but this time, her need for him was much the same. So she leaned close to him and whispered,"Then take me."


    Yu Seok widened his eyes at this. He knew what this meant. Wasting no time, he turned off the flame for the cooking breakfast and went to have his favorite breakfast. Picking his wife by the waist, he placed her on the kitchen counter and stood between her spread legs, before fastening his mouth to hers in a passionate kiss. This time, their love making held an edge to it since Yu Seok felt he was starved. And so was Xie Eun...


    Soon, the small nightgown was discarded and Yu Seok feasted on the breasts that were now bigger than ever as he bit then and then soothed the bite with his tongue.. As Xie Eun threw back her head in abandon, welcoming her husband''s loving, a passing thought fled through her mind, " Yu Seok would never find her ugly..."


    Feeling his desire for her, everything she had worried about from the stretch marks to the fact that she had put on weight were all relegated to the past. Her husband''s touch was like magic, dispelling every negative thought she ever had. And then she could not think anything as Yu Seok entered her in one swift thrust making her scream in pleasure and a bit of pain. This was the first time they were making love since the little bean was born. And this time made her feel like it was her first time again...In a frenzy now, they kissed and loved each other and finally brought each other to the height of pleasure before falling down the slope together...


    It was only a little while later that the two people separated. Xie Eun looked on with dazed eyes as Yu Seok walked towards the bathroom and that was when she realized that he had been wearing a condom... Her forehead creased in a black frown as she realized that her husband had been walking around the house with a packet of ''that'' in his pocket! Yu Seok came back after taking care of the business and gave his wife a satisfied smile before placing a small peck on his wife''s frowning forehead and boyishly said," Well, keeping this ready was the only way to ensure that I did not take advantage of you! You won''t hold it against me right? I am being a good boy by being prepared..."


    Xie Eun rolled her eyes at her husband who seemed to be growing younger in mind rather than older and throwing her arms around his neck said, "You ought to be thankful that I am a trusting wife who did not think that you were using those to fool around...Now take me to shower! I need to go to the office."


    With her legs around his waist and his hands on her bu**, Yu Seok carried his wife to the shower as he inquired," You are on maternity leave! why do you have to go to the office? If they still need you at a time like this then they are incompetent fools!"


    They had already reached the bathroom when Xie Eun noticed that Yu Seok had already prepared a bath for her as he proceeded to directly carry her into the bath. Adjusting herself so that she now sat in his lap with her back against his chest and as his hands played with her body lazily, she lazily answered, "They haven''t asked me to come back! In fact the company is running insultingly well! As if they never needed me! I just want to go and check out the new collaboration with Lee Jong and the PR has till now stayed silent on the media circus that was caused. So I want to take a personal look at everything before I give them the go ahead to take proper measures..."


    Xie Eun noticed the way his hands stiffened for a small second when she measured and turned her head nuzzling his neck, "Are you still jealous?"


    Yu Seok looked down at his wife who looked like a pleased cat at having made him jealous and did not counter her claim as he said," Of course I am jealous! A man admires my beautiful wife on national media and then my wife has gone out of the way to arrange a meeting for him so I think I have reason to be jealous! And you! You stop grinning so much! Your eyes have turned into crescent moons, you are so pleased at seeing me like this! "

 Chapter 208 - A Name For Little Bean

    Yu Seok tucked the little girl in his arms into the car seat that he had installed for her, before placing a small loving kiss on her forehead. His little princess sure was growing up really soon! It had already been two months since she was born! He could hardly believe it! She needed to be given a name soon! Or else she would be dubbed ''little bean'' forever! Xie Eun had left the responsibility of naming her on him and he needed to decide soon. But the problem was no name seemed to be able to match his princess! Sometimes, he wanted to name her after the purity of the moon when he saw her little round white face and sometimes he wanted to name her after a beautiful flower! He had a name in his head and he wondered if his little girl would like it. Slowly, almost as if he was committing a crime, he whispered the name softly in his little princess'' ears and was gratified as she turned her head to him even in her sleep. Taking this as a ''sign'' he immediately made a call to the Registration Bureau to add his daughter''s name to the household registry...


    Just as he finished the call, he noticed his wife walking out of the house. His eyes scanned the contours of her beautiful body and his eyes narrowed as he realized that the originally well fitted suit was now even more well fitted. Hmpf... His Eun-a was growing more beautiful by the day... Pulling the pair of dark sun glares over is eyes, he opened the door for her to climb in and then went around to sit in. Once inside, he started the car and then spoke, "What time is your appointment?"


    Xie Eun turned to Yu Seok, wondering why he was asking her but shrugged and answered," It is at 12..."


    Noticing that there were still a couple of hours left, Yu Seok turned the car in the opposite direction. Before Xie Eun could say anything, he casually glanced at his wife and said, "Don''t worry. You will reach on time. We have to go to the Household affairs bureau and add the name Yu Aika to the household register."


    Xie Eun who had been listening intently continued to nod her head. Just as she was about to ask who was Yu Aika and how the name was a beautiful one when she realized what he had said. Her mouth snapping shut, she spoke the name slowly and thoughtfully, before she looked at Yu Seok with shining eyes and patted him, "Good job Daddy! I love the name! Aika ! It is so beautiful! What does it mean? And it is much better than the previous suggestions!"


    As they had agreed before she had given birth that she would name their child if he were a boy and he would it the baby was a girl, she had been pouting and disappointed. But for the first time, Yu Seok had overlooked her complaints and even vetoed her suggestions. And just to antagonize him, she had vetoed all the names he had suggested. This had resulted in their princess being called ''little bean'' all the time... But she could not think of any complaint regarding the name. It was neither too long nor too short. It was neither too modern and not too traditional.. Just right.


    Feeling triumphant now that both his girls had given the approval for the name, Yu Seok explained," Aika means ''love song''."


    Love song...Xie Eun smiled in contentment. Aika was just the right name for their daughter... She was their love song! Just then they heard the bay gurgling in the back and Xie Eun called out to her little baby, "Aika...Did you hear the pretty name your father has chosen for you? Instead of choosing a boring name after a flower or something, he has given you the most romantic name ever! You are going to be teased so much in high school..."


    But little bean Aika just gurgled at her parents and before closing her eyes and letting the movement of the car lull her back to sleep causing both of them to laugh at their daughter''s cuteness at they stared at each other. Over the time, Aika''s eyes had slowly cleared revealing their brilliant emerald color just like her father''s while the little soft hair looked like her mother''s making her parents even more satisfied with her looks.


    Soon, they had finished the procedure and clutching the small book in their hand, they walked back to the car with the sleeping baby in their arms. This time, when Xie Eun buckled the little baby in and moved back, her wrist was clasped by Yu Seok. And then he extended his palm and Xie Eun could only look on in shock as he added another charm to her bracelet as he explained," This charm has our Aika''s name on it and a lock of her hair..."


    Uncaring of the people walking by, Xie Eun hugged her husband hard before clutching her new charm and staring at it with misty eyes. He really was too thoughtful!


    Soon they drove back to the office of Lu Enterprises and the family of three walked in causing chaos in their wake as women swooned over the man who followed his wife with a baby sleeping against his chest in a small kangaroo style pocket. And such a cute baby to boot. Every woman could feel their heart melt at the visual and envied their chairwoman for having the best luck in the world.


    Once inside the office, Yu Seok glanced at the time and the little baby who had started to turn her head around now, looking for food. Even Xie Eun could feel her breasts throb. Yu Seok walked over to his wife and helped her out of the suit jacket and then unstrapping little Aika placed her in Eun-a''s arms. "You take her and I will receive your guest. You still have time left before they arrive."


    Nodding, Eun-a walked into the small rest room which she had started to use during her pregnancy, trusting her husband to welcome her new business partner. And of course he would... The only difference was probably the definition of ''taking care'' would be very different...

 Chapter 209 - Lee Jong

    Dressed in a casual white shirt and black pants, with his top two buttons undone, Lee Jong walked into the lobby of Lu Enterprises with the charisma and confidence of a star. His wavy brown hair and the dimpled smile flashed as the women in the lobby once again stopped and stared. They wondered which God they had pleased today that they were blessed to see not one but two prime species of male Gods. From the powerful and mysterious CEO to the alluring and glamourous Superstar.


    Agent Joe who was following Lee Jong wanted to role his eyes as everyone stopped and stared. He wanted to warn all those women with stars in their eyes that their idol was a maniac. And there was no use making starry and moony eyes at him! Just then a perfectly coiffed woman walked forward and with a perfectly professional expression on her face walked out to them and greeted, "Welcome Me Lee. Welcome Agent Joe."


    Looking down at the extended hand, Lee Jong raised his eyebrow but clasped it for a second before letting go, "Miss Cece. How are you doing?"


    The woman gave a strained smile and answered," Well Enough. Thank you for asking. Please follow me to the Chairwoman''s office."


    With that she turned her back to the two people, letting them follow her. What she had actually wanted to say was that," No. She was not doing fine! Thanks to him! The idiotic man had gone and talked nonsense about their chairwoman being the woman he admired and then repeated that she was the woman of his dreams in another interview! She had worked hard for this contract! And now because of this big mouth man, she may be forced to let the hard work go drown the drain if the PR decided that this man was not worth the risk of ruining their Chairwoman''s reputation. Because if this venture went ahead and he continued to spout all this nonsense, their competitors would get a chance to make useless accusations and created disharmony among the shareholders. Of course when she entered the elevator and turned around, her face did not show her thoughts. She guided the people to the top floor before she briskly knocked and walked into the office. Since Cece was aware that CEO Wolf was also in the office, she was not too shocked but Lee Jong was surprised to see a man sitting behind the desk. Meanwhile Agent Joe, who had placidly followed the people started muttering prayers in his heart! Because he knew this man. After all who had not heard the warning that the mighty CEO Wolf had eyes just like his namesake and his aura too was very similar... They had been tricked into coming here under the name of Chairwoman Xie!


    While his agent thought all this, Lee Jong also had the same thoughts running through his head. Even though he had only heard of CEO Wolf, he could guess that only this man would have the nerve to sit in his wife''s chair. Smiling thinly, Lee Jong turned to the other woman waiting for an introduction, which she did. "CEO Wolf, this is actor Lee Jong and his agent Joe and Mr. Lee this is CEO Wolf."


    The two men had already taken each other''s measure and only nodded politely while Agent Joe thanked the lords that the CEO had not spared him a glance. But Lee Dong was unable to stop himself and mentioned," CEO Wolf, it is a pleasure to meet you. I didn''t expect that you would invite us in Chairwoman Xie''s name..." Though it was said as a passing remark, Lee Jong was pleased when the CEO''s eyes narrowed showing clearly he had understood the underlying taunt that he was too insecure and had thus invited a man who claimed to be his wife''s admirer under a guise. The air suddenly seemed to thicken. Agent Joe gulped and suddenly wondered if his actor had a sudden death wish...


    Understanding the underlying tension, Cece cleared her throat and guided the guests to sit on the comfortable sofa that was placed in a corner before explaining, "Chairwoman Xie is a little busy. She will be here in a few moments. Please enjoy our hospitality until then."


    Cece moved back a bit to go out and let the secretary in to bring in some refreshments while Joe muttered under his breath," More like enjoy the process of going to the hospital."


    Smiling, Lee Dong leaned back on the sofa, uncaring of the atmosphere while Joe sat straight as if he was attending a military briefing. Just then, Yu Seok stood up from his chair and walked towards where they were sitting. Lee Dong ignored the man while Joe shivered in his seat, cursing himself for eating a heavy meal for breakfast. He would have to die if he threw up on the CEO Wolf himself...but his stomach seemed intent on protesting. Just as Joe was about to lose the contents of his stomach, Yu Seok stopped a bit further and without saying a word, picked up the jacket draped on the back of the sofa and walked towards a small door on the other side. A few minutes later, Wolf walked out of the room with a little baby strapped to his chest. The image of the ice emanating aura of the man seemed totally incongruous to the little baby sleeping against him. Not sparing another glance at the two people in the corner, Wolf walked towards the exit. Just as his hand gripped the door handle, he turned back, "Mister Lee. I admire you for having good taste in women. But let me tell you something about my wife- she too has good taste in men...at least now. And between the two of us, I don''t need to worry. Enjoy your meeting and Congratulations on your upcoming contract."


    It wasn''t until the secretary and Cece walked in a few minutes later that the two people closed their mouths which had fallen open from shock.

 Chapter 210 - A Condition

    As the secretary served coffee, sandwiches and cookies to the two men, Lee Jong had a thoughtful look on his face. Ever since he had heard of Chairwoman Xie, he had admired the woman. He had been attracted to her looks as well as what he had heard of her personality. He had even thought of her her husband with disdain, assuming the man to be beneath her good looks. But he believed that the man called CEO Wolf was almost on par with him. Interesting... This was very interesting. It was always good to have a challenging nemesis.


    Just then the smaller door opened again and he placed the cup of coffee on the side table.


    His eyes glittered as he watched the woman he had only seen in pictures until now. But with the gaze of an experienced man, he noticed the changes in the woman as well.


    For a moment he wondered how he felt attracted to a woman who was obviously married and had in fact not even yet lost her pregnancy weight. But it was clear that this woman was not just powerful. Her natural glow showed that she was also very satisfied with her life. Joe cleared his throat when he noticed the man''s gaze and wondered if he should start looking for another artist. This man seemed intent on getting himself killed. Had he not seen the underlying power in CEO Wolf.. And he himself could see that Chairwoman Xie was already offended when she stored in front of them.


    Joe stood up and bowed swiftly, trying to suppress his urge to kick the man called Lee Jong. Even if he could not show respect to the Chairwoman, he could at least have some etiquette and stand up to welcome her. Ignoring the man who was sitting, Xie Eun nodded to her own people and then turned to look at the Agent, extending her hand,"Agent Joe. I have heard a lot of praise about you from my staff. You must be congratulated for earning this contract."


    Pleased and incredibly flattered, Agent Joe grinned and answered,"Chairwoman Xie is really kind to acknowledge me when all I did was my job. Uh..you must know Lee Jong here."


    That was when Xie Eun finally turned her gaze to the man that had just had the audacity to give her a once over when she had entered. Smiling, she extended a polite smile and was startled when the man suddenly stood up and extended his hand. Raising her brows, she extended her hand to shake his. But instead of shaking it, he instead picked up the hand and brought it close to his mouth before placing a somewhat chaste kiss on her knuckles. "I hope you were not too offended by my stare just now. I have only ever seen your pictures and must say that you look even better in person. You must have known that I admire you a lot. Please do not be offended. I was simply flummoxed by your beauty. It is very rare that you see such beauties outside of the industry..."


    Xie Eun wanted to roll her eyes at the extremely unprofessional and cheesy move but refrained. The only people who looked good doing the hand kissing routine thing were the French...


    Giving him a restrained look, she pulled back her hand and invited them all to sit, and assured,"Mr Hong, I must say that it is the compliment that I wished to give you. You really look much better in person."


    Pleased with the acknowledgement of his good looks, Lee Hong narcissistically thought that this was his triumph and responded, "Really? Have you watched my movies. I read in your biography that you used to be movie aficionado at one time."


    Once again Joe wanted to kick his artist who was shamelessly fishing for compliments. Lee Jong was what one would call a ''chocolate boy'' looks actor while everyone who researched knew that Chairwoman Xie used to be an action and thriller movies fan! But his frustration with Lee Jong flew out of the window when he heard the chairwoman''s answer and he almost stood up and clapped for her...


    "Uh...no Mr Lee. Regrettably I have not watched any of your movies. I have only ever seen you in an advertisement... the one wear you were walking around in your underwear... And like I said, you look much better when you are clothed..."


    Shutting him up for the good, Xie Eun then let Cece take over the talk and explain everything that had been finalized until now regarding his representation of their products in his name.


    Finally, when Cece had walked them through the contract, Xie Eun nodded in agreement and gave the go ahead to sign the contract. She just had to add one condition. But before she could say anything, Lee Jong interfered, "Since we are on the verge of signing a contract, let us celebrate with a meal, Chairwoman Xie."


    Xie Eun realized that the man had gotten over the shock of what she had said previously and agreed," Of course Mr Lee. We will celebrate but before that we need to sign the agreement. And before we put ink on the dotted line, I have one simple condition."


    Suddenly, Joe felt a sense of foreboding. The chairwoman had been too amiable and he could just feel that something was wrong...he just had to wait for the other shoe to drop...


    Lee Jong, however, felt no such thing and simply asked," What?"


    Leaning back, Xie Eun steepled her hands and said with a smile,"Mr. Lee. Our company and you are the one in collaboration. This relationship has nothing to do with me. So I hope you will refrain yourself from using me to create hype for yourself in the future."


    The sudden cold voice that sounded in the office made everyone else gulp as the two people indulged in a match of wills. Finally Lee Jong looked away and gave his signature dimpled smile,"I never have been able to refuse a beautiful woman... Of course Chairwoman Xie, my sincere admiration for you has resulted in too much of a hype. I understand."

 Chapter 211 - A Meal

    Lee Jong smiled thinly at the warning, before protesting, "Surely, you understand that this hype has been created by the entertainment people and not me. I only ever expressed admiration for you and your talent. It is just the negative effect of my profession that we have to face such gossip. It is the same with me. If an actress claims that she admires me then I must be having an affair with her is what they claim. But I understand that this is media''s doing and I don''t blame the actress. I don''t even blame the paparazzi because they too need to make a living and the only way they can do that is to sell news that might interest people. And thus I blame no one.  I hope you will do me the same courtesy. I can go and announce right now that this is all a misunderstanding. But what do you think will happen? They will only make more malicious gossip and trouble going as far as to imply that there are problems in your marriage and that is why you are doing this. Instead the Public Relations at Lu enterprises must be able to handle this with ease. So, I think chairwoman Xie''s warning is not required. But to put your mind at ease, I will refrain as much as possible in the future press relations. But if you don''t mind me giving advice, we can just claim to be good friends. Because even if in the future I were to not answer any questions about you, it would only result in more gossip. And you must know that with your elusive husband, every paparazzi is going to be hungry for news."


    Xie Eun wanted to narrow her eyes at the cunning man but simply raised her brows in reaction, letting him talk and then gestured to Cece to finish the contract. She was already missing her little bean... A small smile graced her face as she corrected herself in her thoughts calling her Aika. Of course Lee Jong misunderstood that she had agreed with him and signed his name on the contract without further ado. Cece, then placed the contract on the table and Xie Eun read through it at a glance before signing her name on it with a flourish.


    With a sense of success, he then looked at the beautiful woman in front of him. From today''s interaction, he had realized his mistake. He understood that he had made a move too early. And the second mistake he had made was underestimating the relationship between the so called Cold CEO and the chairwoman. To gain this beautiful woman, he would have to be patient. And tit seemed the rumor about the CEO Wolf being a cold fish was untrue as well.


    When Cece and Joe went to get the contract stamped, he looked at Chairwoman Xie and asked, "Chairwoman Xie. Would you please care to join me for a meal? To celebrate out collaboration but I would also like to apologize to you. My thoughtless comment regarding my admiration for you must have brought you trouble. Please let me treat you to a meal."


    Xie Eun, who just wanted to go home to her Yu Seok and Aika was about to refuse when he added in a challenging voice," Or are you worried about having a meal with me? Is CEO Wolf really so possessive and insecure that he would balk at the idea of you having lunch alone with a male business partner.


    The polite refusal that was at the tip of her tongue stopped as she answered," I would be happy to have a meal with you and accept your apology."


    Hearing this Lee Jong stood up and extended his hand, "Then please do me the honor."


    However, Xie Eun did not move as she continued indifferently," But not today. As you must be aware, I have only just returned from a maternity leave and so I have a few things lined up. But soon. You can ask my assistant to schedule a meal whenever it is convenient for you and for me. And since you have been so kind to advice me, let me give you a word of advice," CEO Wolf may or may not be possessive or insecure. But he does not need me to prove his strength of character. If you think I am troubled about the rumors or he would be then let me tell you something," If, right now I were to stand here and kiss you, even then my husband would trust me that I am not cheating on him. And it is not just because he believes in me. It is because he believes in us. So such minor things like rumors are nothing but pesky little flies that needed to be ignored or if they get too irritating then swatted. For now, I will ask my assistant to escort you outside. I hope you are not offended."


    And though, Xie Eun was only giving back what she got, she could not have imagined that the man would take her repeated warnings and threats as challenges instead of backing off. He would have to be really thick skinned not to see the strength of the relationship. She had unknowingly awakened the hunter inside Lee Jong and she had been marked as prey.


    As Lee Jong walked outside, he was met with Joe who bid goodbye to Cece and followed his artist to the location of their upcoming shoot. Soon they would be neck deep in promotional videos and appearances, he believed and his artist would have no time to ponder about celebrational meals. But unknown to Joe.


    Inside the office, Xie Eun then called Shan Shan ready to narrate today''s entire gossip to her friend who was probably bored at home with only the twins to talk to.


    What Xie Eun and Yu Seok could not have imagined that the person they had disregarded so carelessly could become the reason for the biggest test of their relationship one that could tear them apart ruthlessly.

 Chapter 212 - Troublesome

    After planning to meet Shan Shan at a nearby restaurant in the next hour, Xie Eun called in a meeting with her own staff, wanting to know how they were holding up and if they had any complaints or suggestions. Even though she had been in touch with them over video calls, seeing everything functioning smoothly gave her a feeling of satisfaction. It was only when there were ten minutes to the appointed time, did Xie Eun leave her office as she decided to walk to the restaurant.


    Outside the building of Lu Enterprises, a group of girls stood talking to each other. The girls were dressed in bulky jackets and jeans and seemed to be talking in whispers.


    "Mink, you are being silly. She is the Chairwoman of a big company! Do you think that she is going to just walk out of the office for you to attack her? And even if she does come out, do you think you can get to her with the posse of bodyguards that will be following her?"


    Mink, who was the leader of the other girls snorted and said," So what if she is some big chairwoman. She has dared to seduce out idol even though she is married! Does she want to sully his reputation and brand him a home wrecker? She needs to be taught a lesson. And today we are here just to scope the place. I have tried to find her home address but it has been of no use. So this is the only place where we can start to look for her."


    Just as Mink finished saying this, the other girl suddenly poked at her shoulder. Mink was about to blast her with a few curses when she followed the direction where her lackey was pointing in and noticed the so called big and powerful chairwoman coming out of the office building without security. She smirked at the other girls and said, "See. Even the fates want to see her punished. Otherwise why would she be without protection today of all days? And eww...Do you see her? She is so fat! What was our idol thinking in liking her?"


    Agreeing with Mink''s assessment, they too felt that this chairwoman must be very cunning. Another girl even remarked," Have you see her clothes? My father was telling me that many women sleep with their superiors to reach the top in their companies. She must be one of those women."


    The five girls agreed silently and then nodded in silent agreement and spread out to follow Xie Eun.


    However they were soon discovered by Xie Eun who had felt their gaze on her back. Stopping abruptly, she walked into a clothing store instead of the restaurant she was going to. She needed to know if she was simply being paranoid or a bunch of thin underage girls were really following her. And her doubts turned true when the two girls followed her in. And sighed. It seemed her husband could never be wrong...


    When the news had come out regarding Lee Jong''s admiration of her, she had teased him that she was happy that a good looking man was complimenting her and that he needed to be jealous. And he had warned her that this would attract some crazy fans...


    Xie Eun rolled her eyes and decided that this was too much! The first time she comes out of the house for a break and she is being irritated by these brainless girls. Picking up a random scarf, she walked to the cashier and got it billed before walking out of the store. Stopping, she slowly tied the scarf around her neck and let her gaze roam the street for the other partners in crime. Girls like these always worked in packs. And soon she spied the other three, pretending to look at an advertisement in a shop front. Taking out her cell phone, she messaged Shan Shan her location and that she had met some trouble and would be a bit late.


    Xie Eun then walked around the street before she had reached the now back side of the Lu Enterprises building. The back of the building was relatively quiet and this should give the girls the opportunity to attack.


    And she was right, the moment the girls realized that they were in an isolated place they gathered together and soon stod in front of her.


    Feigning terror, Xie Eun stopped and asked with a perfect helpless expression,"Who are you girls? Why have you stopped me?"


    Mink, the leader of the group was the one who felt most courageous as she stepped forward and snorted,"You don''t need to know who we are. You just need to know what we can do to you. Stop trying to seduce our idol Lee Jong with your fat ass! And your artificial face!"


    Xie Eun wanted to groan at the childish threat of the girls. What kind of bullied were they that they thought they could get away with treating her like this. They must be pretty experienced to be able to not worry about being reported.


    She shivered a little as of terrified and stuttered,"I...I am not seducing anyone. Him and I... We are just friends."


    Mink grunted at this and threatened,"Don''t you try and fool us. A fat ass like you does not even deserve to be his fan forget being a friend. Listen to us very carefully, if we ever see you calling him a friend or if you ever dare to get close enough to him to form a relationship withh him, we will teach you a lesson not with words but with sulfuric acid!"


    Mink felt adrenaline course through her as she stepped forward with each threat and the woman took a step back in fright.


    But as she uttered the final threat, she failed to realize that she had fallen into Xie Eun''s trap and the gaze that was scared a minute ago was now still as calm waters and was flashing with an unnerving cold light.

 Chapter 213 - A Trap

    Suddenly, Mink found her hand being caught in a strong hold and her wrist were twisted behind her back. She tried to break free of the hold but even as she screamed and struggled, Xie Ein did not let her hand go. When the other girls saw the sudden change in their circumstances, Xie Eun growled at them, "Don''t even think about it. I have already seen your ugly faces and I will not hesitate in having you thrown into a prison cell. And you, stop screaming like a banshee. You girls, you see those chairs there in the corner? Go and sit there."


    Once the four girls sat on the chairs, hugging each other and shivering, Mink was thrown to the ground by Xie Eun and then grabbed the scuff of her neck and pushed between the other girls. As the girls, now crying , looked at Xie Eun with their red eyes and ruined make up, Xie Eun straightened her clothes and stood back.


    " So, how about you all introduce yourselves nicely this time and we can try to have a civilized talk?"


    Now that Mink was not in so much pain and at a safe distance, she still had some courage and said," You will definitely know our names ! Don''t worry! I am going to sue you for assault! I don''t know what out idol admires in you!" She cradled her swollen wrist and glared hatefully at the woman. She had not expected this fatty to be so strong.


    "Seriously? Do you think I am a fifteen year old who is going to be scared of your silly threats? So you came to threaten me because your idol, Lee Jong, if I am not mistaken, expressed admiration for me? And so you were jealous? What you love his as a man and he only loves you as a fan so you want him to be unhappy? And you all have quite some guts to stalk someone and then try to pin a crime on that person. Let me tell you what is going to happen to you now.."


    " I had the intention of letting the five of you go with a simple warning and a lesson about bullying but you crossed your limits when you spoke about sulfuric acid. Do you even know the effects of your words or the acid that you are threatening me with? If as a teenager you can be so vicious, I can only imagine what you will do when you grow up."


    As Xie Eun saw the girl to try an open her mouth, she shot her a look and pointed to the most timid looking one. "You? What is your age?"


    But Mink interrupted her," You are just a slu* who has reached her position by sleeping with men! How dare you threaten us? It does not matter how old we are! We are underage and my father is a top lawyer so you cannot even touch us!"


    Xie Eun shook her head and was about to talk some sense into the girls when a soft ethereal voice broke in, "Are you sure that she cannot touch you? Because to me it seems she already has.


    Shan Shan, who had been bored of waiting at the restaurant finally followed the live location Anna had sent her and had heard the entire conversation. " Miss, your father is a lawyer you say? Well let me explain something about the law to you and you can then confirm if it is a fact. You are underage but that does not mean that you cannot be punished. Only that your punishment will be lighter. But before that, from your looks you must be seventeen already so that is almost an adult. If the transgression is severe the lawyer can push for the guilty party to be treated as an adult. Now, let us talk about your crime," First, it would be stalking. Since you followed the lady around with harmful intent. That can be proven with any surveillance cameras on the street. Secondly, verbal abuse and threats. And then trespassing. You are currently standing on Chairwoman Xie''s property. So all of these crimes are juvenile I would say not very severe. In fact with your father''s skill, he should be able to let you off with a small fine. But this will leave a mark on your social standing. I will make sure that the fact that you were a juvenile criminal is marked on your record. And you will have a police record. Now add in the fact that you are doing this because of your obsession for an actor, we will help you arrange a place in the psychiatric ward.. Oh and the assault? I will just prove it that this was an act of self defense."


    At this moment, the girls were terrified as they stared at each other in horror. Two of them even physically distanced them from Mink and tried to plead," Please. We did not mean any harm. We are not even friends. We are just some fans of Lee Jong. Mink is the President of our online fan club and she said that we should only take a look at the kind of woman Lee Jong admires. When we came here and saw that these three were planning to stalk you we only kept quiet because we were scared.. And even then we did not expect her to be so aggressive. Please. We were only curious. We meant no harm to you.."


    Shan Shan and Xie Eun looked at each other and coming to a decision, Shan Shan said," Leave your identity cards here. We will speak to your parents first and then decide what needs to be done. But take this lesson with you, following the crowd is not always safe. And the person you admire? Do you think that man would appreciate what you have done today? And even in the future when he has a real girlfriend and she is scared off by girls like you? Do you think if he fell for one of you, the rest of his fans would accept you?"

 Chapter 214 - A Meal Finally

    Finally having cowered the girls into almost pe*ing their pants, and promising to never break the law again, the two women went back for a meal. Glancing at the time, Xie Eun frowned. It had been so long since she had her breakfast...She was as hungry as a horse. And she needed to go back soon, if she wanted to save herself from ruining her favorite shirt with excess milk. "Those girls delayed our lunch by thirty minutes! Thankfully, you came there or..."


    Shan Shan picked up a piece of bread from the basket that the server had just placed and munched it hungrily. "Well they did. But you handled them well! And since we are on the topic, how is your hubby handling another man thirsting after you?" Just then the waitress walked over and Shan Shan gave a lengthy order of steak, house salad and a few pastries at the end.


    Xie Eun glanced at the menu, ignoring Shan Shan as she ordered a mixture of oriental and western food of " Salmon Sushi, Sea food salad with avocado, artichoke hearts and scampi. The waiter noted the order without a flick of her eyebrow even as she wondered if the two women would be able to even finish so much food. But the way they were munching on the bread seemed like they had been hungry for a while now... Shrugging her shoulders, the waitress away hoping the two ladies would not skimp on her tip.


    Xie Eun rolled her eyes and said," He is jealous as hell but is pretending that he cannot be bothered. If it was up to him, Lee Jong would already be six feet under the ground. Heck, if today''s incident becomes known to Yu Seok, he still might decide to bury the man. Shan Shan grinned and the two women toasted each other before they started chatting about their time with the babies and plans to restart their respective career. "Aika...What a sweet name...Are you serious that Wolf came up with that name? Well the little one is really lucky. I nearly killed Shiro when he came up with the names of the kids! If he had his way, our kids would be probably named after gaming characters instead of being called Kay and Oron!"


    Just then, Xie Eun felt her phone beep and taking it out she opened the message she had received and almost spit out her sushi. Seeing her reaction, Shan Shan was curious and took the phone from her hand as she glimpsed at it before breaking into giggles." I see what you mean when you say that he is jealous."


    Banging her head on the table, Xie Eun rolled her eyes and complained, "His sense of humor has gone more and more twisted since Aika has been born! But this is just..."


    Shan Shan shook her head and wiped her tears as she said, "This is hilarious!"


    Shan Shan glanced at the picture again and could only giggle some more. Because right there in the picture was a dirty soiled diaper full of brown poo* and Lee Jong''s face photoshopped onto it! Leaning back in her chair, Shan Shan complained," At least he had only photoshopped it onto that. What if he has this thrown onto him?"


    Xie Eun shuddered at the thought and whispered in horror," Don''t ever mention it! Yu Seok just might arrange it!"


    A long while later, the waitress came back with a tray of pastries and almost fainted when she saw the two women had polished off the food. And were now drooling over the pastries like starved dogs.


    Soon after the lunch, Xie Eun made her way back to the office ready to call her husband to take her back home. However, before she could have entered the office building, a man stepped out in front of her, blocking her way.


    Stepping back out of instinct, Xie Eun looked up straight into the face that she had just seen on poop. With a stiff smile, she said," Mr Lee? Why are you suddenly blocking my way?"


    Lee Jong smiled down at the beautiful woman and said charmingly, "Forgive me, Chairwoman Xie. I was still in the area when I saw you walking just now. I thought I could offer you a lift."


    He pointed to the car that stood at the curb and smirked at her. Xie Eun frowned and wondered if she had made a mistake in collaborating with this man but for now shook her head and said," No thank you. Mister Lee. Let us not make a spectacle. I just had a big lunch and wanted to walk it off a bit. Goodbye."


    But just as Xie Eun would have walked off, her wrist was caught by the insolent man. About to turn around and blast him for his impudence, she felt his finger brush against her skin and winced at the sudden burning pain. Her gaze going to her wrist, she noticed the nail marks against her wrist. It seems when she had subdued that girl Mink, she had hurt herself. Immediately, Xie Eun pulled her hand away with a jerk and was about to scold him when he said, "You are hurt. And these are nail marks. You need to get a shot and get the wound cleaned or it will be affected. Chairwoman Xie. Please let me take you to the hospital."


    Shaking her head, she replied firmly, " Mr Lee. Please stay within your bounds. If I need to go to the hospital, I can go on my own or ask my family to take me. You have no reason to take me there. Now please stop blocking my way."


    Her piece said, Xie Eun walked around him and walked away indifferently. But unknown to her, she had fallen into a trap laid by Lee Jong, who looked at her walking away with a gentle smitten smile on his face. He then fished out his cell phone and asked, "Did you get the pictures?"


    The other side responded positively and asked him a question to which he replied," No not yet. We need to collect some more incriminating evidence."

 Chapter 215 - Sadness (1)

    Walking out of the classroom, Xie Eun smiled as she passed by the people who were her classmates. Finally, the exams were over and she would be done with her formal education. She looked around as everyone walked say harried. It would take time for them to understand that the society they were about to enter was not as simple as they believed. So many of them had been protected by their families. She felt a wave of melancholy at such thoughts and clutched her bag tighter to her. Just as she had walked out of the building, she saw a horde of excited girls ran towards the entertainment building.


    Curiously she wondered what had everyone so excited when another group of excited girls walked by talking among themselves, "Oh my God! He is so handsome! His dimples are to die for!"


    Another one squealed, "Have you ever wondered how his eyes twinkle so much? Gosh, I can''t believe I am going to see him in person!"


    Ignoring the childish talks, she walked towards the gate ready to see her hubby and little Aika who were probably waiting for her at the gates. She was missing them so much!


    As she walked, her mind wandered as she thought about who she missed more her hubby or her baby. In her thoughts, she missed seeing the mob that was walking towards her and was almost trampled as she was pushed and lost her footing. Screaming, she flailed her arms which were caught by a strong hand before she could have met the ground.


    The hand pulled at her and Xie Eun was then thrown against a hard male chest. Using her own hand to stop her momentum, she barely saved her nose from being pressed into a strange chest. Immediately pushing her savior away and nearly throwing her self back to the ground, she raised her head to thank the person and came face to face with a pair of familiar eyes. The man wore a black face mask over his nose and mouth and yet nothing could distract from his handsomeness. Taking a step backward, she raised her eyebrow but thanked the man politely, "Thank you, Mr. Lee."


    Lee Jong smile happily behind his mask and commented, "Chairwoman Xie remembers me. What an honor."


    Smiling thinly, Xie Eun commented, "Mr. Lee. you are a public figure so of course I remember you. And now I must excuse myself or I will be killed by the hateful glares being directed my way by your followers."


    Lee Jong, however, stopped Xie Eun and said, "Chairwoman Xie. I just saved your life. Can we not even have a meal together? Even if you don''t wish to thank me, I would like to apologize for my fans'' behavior from last time."


    Impatient now, because she hated being started at for all the wrong reasons," There is no need for all this. And if you really want to insist on being a gentleman then please let me pass. And I have already thanked you for saving me from a fall which would not have happened if your horde of fans had not pushed me. So since you are the reason for my troubles, just move out of my way and don''t create more."


    Her piece said, Xie Eun walked around the actor and the girls who had been looking from a distance could only jealously stare at the retreating woman. Shaking his head, he waved at his fans and staggered his way to the entertainment building..


    Irritated, Xie Eun stomped her way to the gates muttering curses on the man''s head but soon forgot all about him when she saw her hubby standing there with their little one..


    Sigh....melt alert...her mind sounded...


    Once again the conversation of a group reached her ears and this time she felt a wave of possessiveness overtake her as she heard them.


    "That guy there is so handsome. And have you seen that baby! So cute. I used to think that I would never have children but with a prime specimen like that, I am even willing to be a stepmother. Even the baby is so cute and chubby."


    Ready to lay her claim, she walked to her husband and claimed his lips immediately to show her possessiveness...only to be punched in the face. Xie Eun glared at the little girl who had punched her and was not smiling at her toothlessly. Frowning at her, Xie Eun pretended to scold,"Aika! Papa belongs to me as much as to you. So you can punch if another woman tried to kiss papa. But you must not punch me! I am your mama!"


    She looked to her husband for support, who nodded sagely, " Yes princess! If you don''t let mama kiss your papa then you will not have a baby brother or sister.."


    The baby ignored her mother and turned her head to her father letting her mommy know what she thought of the claim but seemed to be agreeing with her father as she listened carefully..


    Rolling her eyes over being ousted from her place by her own daughter, Xie Eun giggled up at Yu Seok and quickly placed a peck on his lips, careful to keep out of their daughter''s reach.


    The little Aika saw her mother kissing her father again and was about to let out a loud cry of protest when she was distracted by her father''s soothing voice. She closed her eyes and snuggled in his arms, sure that he was singing her a lullaby.


    Xie Eun rolled her eyes at her moody daughter and watched as Yu Seok placed her into the baby seat with ease. It was only as they had settled into the car and he started to drive did Xie Eun question him,"What do you mean you have to leave tonight? Where are you going? When will you be back? Is it really necessary?" Should we go too? Why do you have to go? When will you be back?"

 Chapter 216 - Sadness(2)

    At the airport, Xie Eun raised on her tiptoes and kissed her husband hard on the mouth as she whispered goodbye to him. She hated staying away from him and could already feel nervous jitters in her stomach at the thought. She absolutely hated staying away from him. And she felt even more nervous at the thought of handling little Aika alone. She looked at the sleeping baby in the stroller and rolled her eyes," Tough luck kiddo. You are going to have to make do with mommy only for the next few days."


    Feeling sad, Xie Eun shifted Aika into her cot and to distract herself, started to work. Her work had suffered a setback as she had concentrated on her studies and motherhood. As she worked, the night slowly got deeper and she started to feel unsettled. Leaning back in her chair she closed her eyes to give them a rest. She wondered if she should try to sleep but her empty stomach reminded her that she had yet to eat.


    Walking to the kitchen, she heated her food and prepared a bottle of milk for Aika, all the while whistling a tune as she thought of the little angel that was her daughter, unaware that her life which was just getting back on track was about to be turned upside down. Xie Eun ate her own food and while feeding the baby. Once Aika was burped and freshened, the mother daughter lay down on the bed. Xie Eun talked to her daughter happily as the little princess kicked up her legs and waved her arms about. But soon she realized that she could not hear or see her father, which resulted in an enormous cry being raised.. Xie Eun who was about to fall asleep, woke up and that is when another test began. the test of motherhood. As Aika went from a full blown crying tantrum, undoubtedly treating Xie Eun as a villain for sending her daddy away to soft pitiful cries looking for her father to finally falling into an exhausted sleep only to wake up every hour, repeating the same process. Finally, after an exhausting night, both Xie Eun and Aika fell into a deep sleep clutching Yu Seok''s jacket to them.


    As the sun rose high in the sky, Xie Eun woke up with deep circles around her eyes. Slowly, she shifted so that little Aika who was sleeping on her arm would not wake up and then froze in horror when the baby stirred. Finally, when the baby continued to sleep, Xie Eun slowly got out of bed and then ''ninja'' walked her way to the washroom to take a shower.


    As the flowing water refreshed her, she continued to hear the sounds of a crying baby which caused her to keep peeping out of the bathroom again and again. Finally after a five minute ''long'' shower, Xie Eun tied her hair up in a messy bun and walked out of the bathroom, praying that the little girl would stay asleep a little while longer. Rubbing her eyes, she walked to the nightstand to check her phone and complain to her husband but could only frown when she noticed the black screen. The battery had run out! Putting the phone to charge, she walked out of the room. Just as she entered the kitchen, the doorbell rung, making her frown as she glanced worriedly at the door. And just as she had feared, the sound woke up the sleeping Aika. Ignoring the door and whoever had created problems for her, she raced back to her room and picked her up in her arms trying to soothe her before she broke out into a full fledged tantrum. As she hugged the baby, she suddenly realized that the baby was too hot. Soothing her and fearful that Aika had a fever, Xie Eun walked to the door and seeing the visitor almost started to bawl herself. Holding the now calm Aika in one hand, Xie Eun hugged Aunt Su hard almost collapsing in her arms.


    Aunt Su clucked her tongue at Xie Eun''s look and consoled the girl hugging both the baby and mother in her arms. Guiding Xie Eun to a nearby couch, Aunt Su gestured for Xie Eun to stay quiet and rest and without a word, walked to the kitchen not letting Xie Eun explain anything.


    Going in, she made egg porridge, immediately placing it in front of Xie Eun and taking the sleeping child from her arms. With moist eyes, Xie Eun looked at the peaceful baby and then at the food before she said in a low voice," Aunt Su, my Aika is sick! I did not even take care of her for a single night. I made her sick. Aunt Su I am a bad mommy.."


    Patting her little girl''s head who was so grown up, Aunt Su calmly said,"Eun-a! You are just like your father. He would also panic like this when you used to get sick! She is not even warm. It is just you being way too worried and scared. He too Your Aika is perfectly fine! Sometimes children are restless and cranky. That does not make you a bad mommy. And sometimes a mother''s tiredness seeps into the babies also. You are both missing your man! And you both need rest...This is the time for you to bond. And when Aika is all grown up, you can tell her how she missed her father and raised hell. Now eat and then both of you can sleep some. Good thing Yu Seok asked me to come here for a few days! Or else you would have driven yourself crazy!"


    While Xie Eun felt reassured and ate the porridge, Aunt Su fed the baby with a bottle of milk, burped and then cleaned the little one. And soon the mother and daughter had both been tucked into bed. Aunt Su dimmed the light and watched as the little baby snuggled with her mom.

 Chapter 217 - Babys Day Out

    Xie Eun and Aika woke up fresh after a rest and Xie Eun who had been at the end of her tether in the morning was feeling refreshed by evening. She talked on an audio conference call while occasionally glancing at her little one who was playing with in her playpen trying to catch the stars and the moon with her hand. She smiled happily and decided that she needed to bond with their little girl before Yu Seok came back and surprise him! She had spoken to him a little while ago and he had promised her to come back as soon as possible.


    Soon after, she was finished with her work and wandered over to the kitchen where a delicious fragrance had attracted her. Looking at the fish soup that was simmering and the veggies that were ready to be stir fried, Xie Eun sighed and commented, "Aunt Su, you are the best! I don''t know what I would have done without you! You just came at the right time! Did you have a premonition that I was going to need you?"


    Rolling her eyes at the still silly chit, Aunt Su commented," Your husband had a premonition that you were going to need me! Poor Yu Seok actually begged me to come back here to you! I was out enjoying a new romance...and I had to come here to you..."


    It was a wonder that she was not in a liquid state with the way her husband always melted her heart and looked at Aunt Su,t easing her," A new romance Aunt Su? Are these new ear rings given to you by your love interest?"


    Blushing like a girl, Aunt Su smiled and shooed her away," Just go, you silly chit! Take the baby and go out in the air! It is such a fine evening! Get out of my hair and have some fun."


    Seeing that it was still only five, Xie Eun nodded and hurriedly grabbed the diaper bag and her phone before saying," You are right, Aunt Su! We ae going to go to the Fashion street and do some shopping! See you later!"


    And Xie Eun was out with Aika before Aunt Su could say, "Wait."


    Shaking her head, Aunt Su muttered," The silly chit! Always doing before thinking! She did not even realize that she was wearing a worn jeans and stained top before rushing out like a lunatic!"


    It was only later as Xie Eun walked the street and garnered weird glances as she pushed the stroller that she realized that she was wearing such ratty clothes. Walking back to the car, Xie Eun wore a kangaroo pocket, put Aika in it and placed the stroller back in. Closing the car''s trunk that had been outfitted into a baby room by her husband, Xie Eun walked to the clothing store on the side as she spoke to her baby," Aika! You are my superhero! With you in front of me, no one is going to know how ratty my clothes are." Aika blew bubbles at her mother as she interestedly looked around the new places her mother was taking her to.


    Xie Eun stood outside the designer boutique wondering if she really should go shop. But she had been toying with the idea to surprise Yu Seok and this would be the best time. She could buy some sexy clothes and lingerie. But she felt hesitant when she glanced at her clothes. Places like these were really snobbish. Then reminding herself that she was a businesswoman not a green girl who had just reached the city, Xie Eun walked in...directly bumping a mannequin. "Sorry.", she said before realizing that it was mannequin so she rolled her eyes and said," I thought you were a person."


    And that is when Xie Eun realized that she must have completely lost her marbles because she was still talking to the mannequin! Looking around surreptitiously she heaved a sigh of relief that no one had witnessed her embarrassing moment and looed at Aika,"Shhh, Aika. You must not tell papa about this. Okay? It will be our little secret."


    Being ignored by the assistants who had dismissed the woman at a glance, Xie Eun shopped peacefully as she put checked the clothes at random. Finally an assistant saw her struggle and walked forward to help her, taking out and holding the dresses up for her. Choosing the dresses at random and enjoying the process as the assistant showed her the special mother-daughter twinning section, Xie Eun failed to notice the couple that had just entered.


    But the shop assistants did not. They noticed and recognized the couple in an instance and walked to help them shop, fawning over them. The man took a casual seat on the couch in a corner and instructed the assistants to help the beautiful woman. But just then his gaze fell on Xie Eun and his gaze paused over her. His eyes scanned her from top to toe before his lips lifted in a smirk. The saying that a beautiful woman could wear a sack and look stunning was true when it came to some women. Forgetting his own woman, his eyes followed the beautiful woman as she chose dresses at random. His eyes softened and he wondered if she was really a random shopper.


    Soo Bin carried a pink cocktail dress to Lee Hong excitedly for him to approve when she saw his gaze focused elsewhere. She thought that maybe some clothes had caught his attention and turned to check them out but froze when she saw the beautiful woman. Soo Bin could hardly believe the woman that Lee Jong was staring at. A wave of jealousy passed through her at the beauty while at the same time she felt disgusted that Lee Hong would stare at a woman who was obviously a mother. Specially when he had invited her to come here with him. Frowning, she walked over to him.

 Chapter 218 - Pay For It

    Lee Jong looked up from his musings when a shadow fell across him. The softness in his eyes vanished when he saw Soo Bin standing there glaring at him fiercely. Giving her a fake smile he said, "Soo Bin? What had you so cross?" Seeing that he was going to pretend to be ignorant, Soo Bin continued to scowl and complained," You invited me out here with you and yet you are looking at other women. We are supposed to be dating, Hong Hong!"


    The charming smile on Lee Jong''s face remained the same but his eyes froze as he stood up and leaned over Soo Bin. Pretending to be loving, he leaned down and whispered in her ear," Soo Bin. Are you delusional? Our relationship is only pretend in case you have forgotten. We are only together to promote our next film! And if you think that I will have to handle your tantrums then let me tell you we can have a lover''s tiff right here and you will know who is more important to the producers and the audience."


    The smile on his face remained unchanged even as he threatened the beautiful actress. Soo Bin was disappointed as she had started to weave expectations and hope that their hype relationship would turn true. But even her smile remained as she walked away from him with a smile as she said, "Don''t worry, honey! I will get a better piece that will satisfy you..." But Soo Bin had already found a target for her rage. The woman with the baby. She saw the woman perusing some dresses and noticed how her gaze turned to a particularly showy piece.


    Recognizing the look, Soo Bin walked faster towards the piece rather but even then both the women placed their hands on the black dress at the same time. Both women then turned to look at the other. While Soo Bin raised an eye brow, Xie Eun smiled gracefully at the beauty before turning to the assistant," Do you have my size in this dress?"


    The assistant shook her head before answering," No mam. This is a special designer piece. It has been made only in one size but the material is stretchable and would easily fit you."


    Before Xie Eun could say anything about the dress, her hand was rudely tossed aside by another assistant who was attending to Soo Bin. " Get your dirty hands off the dress! Do you even know how costly the dress is? Can you even afford to touch it? What if you leave a dirt mark on it? Who is going to pay for it?" Soo Bin looked at Xie Eun with disdain before commenting," You must not be disheartened. Stores like these, they do not usually cater to middle class people like yourself. Now if only you were as famous as I am.." And then ignoring Xie Eun with a look, Soo Bin turned to the assistant who then explained," Madam. Our designer has specifically designed this dress with a special thread and the shimmer you see on this is actually tiny diamonds. The dress is called Stardust and even though it looks opaque it is actually just the right amount of transparent. Would you like to try it Miss Soo? Our designer would be really honored if you would wear this. It is actually only a few thousand dollars...it would be pocket change for you... "


    Soo Bin gloating and extended her hand to take the dress and would have walked to the dressing room to try it when Xie Eun commented," Miss Soo. Are you sure you will be able to carry the dress. In case you have haven''t noticed the dress is indeed stretchable but you do not have the proper assets on your upper body to carry the dress. It might just slip and cause a wardrobe malfunction.. And anyway I was the one to first choose it. And I would have let you take it if you had been civil."


    "You bit**! Let me teach you a lesson.." Before Soo Bin could say anything more, Lee Jong walked over, which caused her to shut up. She glared hatefully at the woman who had insulted her and then looked at Lee Jong with complaint in her eyes. But he ignored the look and simply placed his hand on her waist as he looked at Xie Eun with a smile and said, "What a coincidence! We seem to be running into each other often."


    At this moment, Xie Eun realized that this woman was with Lee Jong. "Mister Lee. It really does seem to be a big coincidence. And let me tell you that I am not too fond of such coincidences." Her gaze flickered to the hand that was placed on the woman and her smile widened," Now I understand. Anyway, your girlfriend was about to teach me a lesson. But I have decided to be generous and teach her one."


    That said, Xie Eun walked towards the cashier and ordered," Bill the dress and all the other clothes to me."


    The cashier nodded and immediately started to scan the price tags while the other assistants looked on. They dared not say anything now because even if they were looking down on the woman, it was clear that the woman was someone affluent or else an actor like Lee Jong would not show her respect. As the cashier announced the bill, Xie Eun did not blink and opened the diaper bag on her shoulder to look for her card. When it took a while for her to search for it, Soo Bin could not help but snort and comment," Is that the lesson you are teaching? Are you going to make my boyfriend pay for your clothes?" Soo Bin added this comment because she saw Lee Jong was about to take out his card and felt increasingly jealous.


    But the next moment she had to shut her mouth as she watched take out a black card from her purse. With a reverent look, the cashier accepted the card and swiped it. As if the black card was magical, even the machine that usually stuck between transactions worked fast. Taking the card back, Xie Eun ordered, " Pack the dress separately, please." She then turned to Soo Bin and answered, "The lesson that you need to remember is this,'' stores like this cater not to celebrities but to credit cards. You understand? I will leave the dress for you, since you have been such a good disciple."


    With that Xie Eun walked out of the store followed by the shop assistant carrying a bevy of bags in a daze. Angrily, Soo Bin was about to follow Xie Eun but was stopped by Lee Jong who muttered, "Are you trying to get yourself killed? Do you even know who that woman is who you are trying to antagonize? Look up on the internet for the most powerful woman of this year. You fool. Instead of glaring at me you should be thankful that I saved your hide!

 Chapter 219 - A Plan For A Surprise

    Xie Eun returned home in a mood worse than the one in which she had left causing Aunt Su to stare at the girl questioningly as pots and pans were banged about. Well, she would have understood if the girl was cooking something but the food was on the table...Aunt Su winced at another loud bang and finally called Xie Eun to the table. Quietly the meal was served and Xie Eun chomped on it angrily. Even the tastiest dishes seemed to be unable to cool her down. Aika had seemingly sensed her foul mommy''s mood and was now sleeping like an angel instead of the little she-devil she had been last night.


    Seeing that Xie Eun was actually stabbing the food on her plate and not eating anything, Aunt Su cleared her throat and asked," Why are you so angry? Did someone steal your treasure?"


    Xie Eun looked at Aunt Su and pouted," No. I just had a bad encounter and even though I was the winner, I felt no joy. Without Yu Seok, nothing is fun. I want to tell him everything that happens with me but when he is away, life is just colorless! Food was supposed to be my first love. But the food is also not tasty. We have been together foe so long now Aunt Su, then why is this feeling increasing instead of decreasing? Isn''t passion supposed to fade? But every time we are separated even for a while it feels as if I am missing him more and more. And I have nothing to distract me Also. My company''s work is going well without me. Aika is also more settled. I don''t know what to do with myself!"


    Picking up the plate of untouched food, Aunt Su smiled and said," That is what happens when you are deeply in love. Time has nothing to do with the fading of love. Now, my husband and I, we were hardly together for a few years before he went to war and never returned. I still miss him to this day."


    "Aww. Aunt Su!" Xie Eun stood up and hugged Aunt Su from behind as the two women sighed with sadness. But before the atmosphere could get too melancholy, Aunt Su commented," Well, if you are missing him so much, you could just go and surprise him. Even if he is working, he would be coming back to the hotel for a while right? You can see him then. And you can surprise him too sometimes right?"


    Perking up at this suggestion, Xie Eun squealed and replied," Aunt Su, you are the best! You always have he best ideas. I already have his itinerary. Let me look it up."


    Happily, Xie Eun grabbed the plate that Aunt Su had placed on the side and got to booking the tickets and hotel. A little while later, Xie Eun threw her hands up in the air and stretched, calling out," Aunt Su! I hope you haven''t unpacked yet! We are going on a holiday! If you have already unpacked, then you need to re pack!"


    Hearing this, Aunt Su frowned and protested," What will I do there. You youngsters must go!"


    "No, no, no! We are all going together!"


    On another side of the city, a man smiled happily as he recounted the events of the day. Picking up the whiskey on his side, he sipped at it leisurely as he leaned back on the rocking chair. An open laptop was placed on a table in front on him. He re read the words that were written on the screen before frowning a bit. There was something still missing.


    Just then, the phone on the table started to vibrate and he answered it distractedly. A voice on the other side answered," Sir, Chairwoman Xie has just booked tickets to go to country B for early in the morning. Would you like me to make arrangements for you?"


    Hearing this Lee Jong let out a small smile before he said," Yes. Do it. And I will need some more thigs done. I will be sending the instructions in a while. Follow them carefully and if you make a mistake, let me tell you, I will not let you survive in the industry anymore. Understood?"


    The other person reassured Lee Jong hurriedly before disconnecting. Lee Jong stood up from his chair, shut his laptop and walked back to his bedroom. Opening the closet door he leaned against it and sighed," What is this? I wanted to use this opportunity and now you are running away? Do you think you can escape me? I will simply follow you, beautiful Xie Eun. And it is a good thing that we will be somewhere outside this boring setting. And your husband''s presence will make this challenge even more interesting. "


    Picking up the clothes he, threw them haphazardly onto the bed. Taking out the bag, he chucked them into it, before walking out of the room. Once the packing was done, Lee Jong switched off his phone and fell on the bed. He would have to leave without telling Joe about this or the man would obstruct him. So the best plan was to do first and tell him later. Poor Joe. He was going to come to pick him up tomorrow and be so disappointed. Playing the sounds of soothing crickets, Lee Jong slept peacefully, looking forward to the upcoming chase.


    Early in the morning, an excited Xie Eun checked in for the flight while little Aika stared around wide eyed. As they boarded the plane, Xie Eun was careful to send a voice message to Yu Seok to let him know that they were doing well. They had been playing phone tag for now and she did not want to risk that he guess something when he knew that her phone was switched off. At least it was only a few hours flight...


    But the poor Lee Jong was thrown into a mess because for the first time his agent had shown some forethought and locked Lee Jong inside his own home...

 Chapter 220 - Surprise...Seduction

    Yu Seok stared at the presentation in front of him with jaded eyes. Sometimes he wondered what these people were thinking when they compiled such uselessly crappy presentations. Did they take him for a fool? He was tempted to throw the pen in his hand at the presenter! First they did the basic mistakes of a rookie and not checking their equipment. After wasting an hour over bringing in other equipment, they then presented this.


    Finally after wasting away half a day, the presentation came to an end and the lights were turned on. All the investors in the room were nodding in excitement over the attractive percentages that were presented here. Wolf looked to his right and noticed that only one other person was frowning at the now blank screen. He should have known.


    The two men''s eyes met and Wolf slowly leaned forward towards the man he considered his senior," Ryu Long. What do you think of the projected percentages?"


    The older man sent him an ironic gaze. Instead of answering, he directly questioned, "Would you like to burst their bubble or should I?"


    Wolf shook his head and the two men watched the drama in front of them when the other lackeys that the two companies had brought with them nodded in satisfaction at the exciting prospects. The presenter looked at the two biggest investors with pride, expecting to see a similar impressed reaction from them but was flummoxed at their indifferent attitude.


    He looked towards the boss who simply gave him a shrug. "Sir?"


    Just when Wolf was about to burst out and give them a tongue lashing, Ryu Long commented," Mr. Brown? Who prepared your presentation? Do we look like a couple of fools to you who know nothing? You have not taken into account the basic inflation costs, the change in tax laws and human resources? The biggest flaw in this is that you have taken the maximum amount of capital with the minimum returns. And you seem to be proud of it."


    When the presenter tried to defend himself, Wolf was finally unable to take this and walked out of the conference room with a sigh. The stars seemed to have taken a turn against him. First, Cheng Mo had to take this time to go on his honeymoon and take a leave. And then his new assistant decided to fall down the stairs so that he had to come here with an incompetent assistant. To add salt to injury, he now had to spend two says with being given the wrong numbers again and again. If the land he wanted was not linked to this company, he would have thrown all these people so far away that they would not have dared to look at him let alone waste his time. They wanted his money? Ha! If this project was able to twenty five percent return in the first year they could change his name to the Biggest Fool to ever walk the planet. He just hoped that the silly assistant that he had left behind so that he would not be tortured by mindless chatter in the car, had at least completed the collaboration tasks!


    While Yu Seok cursed his bad luck, Xie Eun''s flight had landed and the three people were on their way to the hotel. She marveled at the beautiful architecture of the country that was a throwback to the beautiful Roman Empire and wondered how her hubby managed to come here and work! This was just the right place for some romance! Hmm. Maybe she could ask his to stay here a few more days after his work was finished and they could explore the quaint cafes and ride through the city in the ''gondola'' style boats. There were even horse drawn carriages...


    As she was thinking of all the romantic things they could do, they reached the hotel. Aunt Su stood behind as Xie Eun checked into the room for them and soon a porter helped them to settle into their rooms while Xie Eun stayed behind him as she explained to the receptionist that she wanted to surprise her husband who was their guest and asked for his room key. But after being told that could not be possible for security purposes, Xie Eun finally bribed a waitress and was able to secure the key card to the presidential suite by promising that the girl would not be impacted.


    Happily, Xie Eun planned pressed the button to the top floor, planning to hide in his room and then jump onto his back. She really loved it when he carried her on his back and then they usually ended up in some really nice bed fun...Her face pinkening, she carefully opened the door to the room and frowned when the room remained black. Usually hotels like these had motion sensors and the lights would turn on the moment one entered unless someone had turned them off deliberately.


    Worried and alert now, her eyes sharpened as she wondered if Yu Seok had stayed at the room or if someone was planning to attack him.


    Carefully, she stepped into the room and raised her eyebrows as a sultry sound sounded, "Are you back now?" Shocked, Xie Eun stepped back and looked at the name of the suite to confirm she had entered the right place. Maybe this was some sort of a prank. Maybe Yu Seok had discovered that she was coming here. Slowly, she stepped out of the room and was about to close the door when the voice sounded again, this time a little breathless, "Wolf?"


    What the? Did this woman call out for her husband? Was this a set up for seducing her husband? Walking in with a huff, she turned on the flash in her cell phone, marched in, her footsteps masked by the carpeted floor and turned on the bedside lamp.. only to see a seductive sight of a beautiful woman lying on the bed with a blindfold on her eyes and dressed only in a sheer red nightgown..

 Chapter 221 - Aaaaaa

    The first thought in Xie Eun''s mind was that she had not thought of surprising her Yu Seok with something like this. The second was where did the woman get the dress that fitted her so beautifully and finally the third one was who was this woman and why was she trying to seduce her Yu Seok? (Author: Could you have a normal reaction please? Angry somehow. Like take the woman by the hair and throw her away?)


    She extended her hand to take off the blindfold and question the woman when the girl changed her position on the bed, so that her breasts were thrust forward and said, "Are you not happy with the surprise? I thought that is why you left me behind today and told me to go to the spa. Is there something else that you wanted me to do? I know you are very dominant and at first I was going to tie myself up but I couldn''t do it alone.. Do you want me to address you as Sir?"


    Hearing this, Xie Eun paused with her eyes narrowed. So her husband asked this woman to go for a spa, eh? Looking around, she narrowed her eyes and walked to the bathroom. There, taking the belts from the bathrobes, she walked back into the room and took the woman''s wrist. The woman''s breath stopped and she almost jumped from the bed in anticipation. Shaking her head, Xie Eun tied the woman''s hand to the bed''s back while the woman trembled in anticipation and commented, "Sir, Your hands are so soft.."


    Done with tying up the woman, Xie Eun stepped back and looked at her handiwork. Nodding satisfactorily, she then crossed her arms and walked towards the chair, sitting down and crossing her arms, waiting for her scam artist of a husband! How dare he ask another woman to take a spa!


    Wolf stepped out of the elevator with a pounding headache and a dear wish to punch something to vent his anger. On the way back, he had received numerous calls from those incompetent fools, asking to give them another chance. But, he decided that developing this land was not worth the loss of his own brain cells. Let Ryu Long handle the imbeciles on his own and then he can invest with that man.


    Just as he rubbed his forehead, his steps paused as he noticed the door to his room open. Had the hospitality department ignored the do not disturb sign and opened the door to clean the room? Dam* it. He was going to throw everyone to hell if even one document was misplaced! Stomping to his room he walked in and then stopped short when he noticed his temporary assistant spread out, writhing on the bed and calling out his name. Angrily, he roared, "What the hell is going on?"


    The assistant shivered at the angry tone and wondered if she had done something wrong just now? Wasn''t he just fine when he tied her up? Was she supposed to have remained unmoving? But he had been so quiet since he entered and her hands were now starting to ache. She pouted and asked, "Sir? If you want me to follow your instructions then you need to tell me. I can hardly guess them? Sir?"


    Unable to process what was happening and almost wondering if he himself had died and somehow gone to hell, he roared out again, "Miss Miley, I am asking you what is going on? Why are you here tied to my bed?"


    This time the temporary assistant Miss Miley wondered if something was wrong. Hadn''t the boss tied her here himself? She itched to take off the blindfold and look at him when another voice sounded with irritation," How can you be so dumb? It is clear that she is trying to seduce you."


    Two extremely different reactions sounded from the room as Yu Seok whipped around to see his angry looking wife leaning back in a chair opposite the bed while the woman on the bed let out a shrill scream, "Aaaaaaaaaa."


    Turning around, Yu Seok looked at his wife who was wearing her worn out jeans and a loose sweater and felt his irritation melting away. Forgetting the woman on the bed, he turned to his wife and walked over to hug her when she moved away and dodged him. His forehead creasing in a frown, his extended arms fell to the side and he threw a confused look when the other voice from the bed sounded,"Wh.. What is going on?"


    Xie Eun smirked and walked to the woman before pulling off the blindfold. The woman blinked against the harsh light as she tried to adjust to the view and then looked into the face that was leaning over her. Xie Eun then looked up at her husband and pointed at the woman, "How do you like the surprise? Miss Miley has worked really hard for you."


    His face turning into a black scowl, he turned to the woman and gritted out, "Miss Miley! I will sue you for sexual harassment! How dare you! If you value your life, then I suggest that you run away right now and don''t ever show your face to me ever again."


    Before the woman could say anything else, Xie Eun protested," Why? Did you not tell her to go to the spa and await your return? Look at her beautiful clothes. She has worked so hard for you!"


    Immediately, Yu Seok realized that his wife was extremely angry, and so he had to explain," Eun-a! I just asked her that so she would leave me alone! This woman has been ruining my papers for the last two days! I can''t help it she has misunderstood! And you get out of here before I have you killed."


    Miss Miley finally realized that she had made a huge error in judgement and tried to apologize but then watched as the boss walk away. She looked tearfully at the other woman in the room trying to beg her to release the ties...

 Chapter 222 - I Hate You

    As Miss Miley raced out of the room, in tears and humiliation beyond imagination, Xie Eun threw the bathrobe ties to the ground and her eyes stared daggers at the bathroom door where her husband had walked into. Did he really think that she was so easily pacified with that simple explanation. She paced the room as she counted the various ways that he could have gotten rid of that Miss Miley, without suggesting a bloo** spa! Of course the woman misunderstood! And, she suddenly realized that not just this woman, nut many woman would be throwing themselves at her hubby regularly! He was too handsome and good looking! Maybe she should start asking for more greasy food so that he would turn fat and have a pot belly. That way she would not have to worry about him being a target. Just then her wild imagination provided her with an image of herself being obese while her husband remained fit thanks to his exercising! No! If he continued to age gracefully and she became a chubby then she could be abandoned for a young and lithe mistress! She then continued to imagine her husband, his head full of grey hair and his green eyes still as twinkling, being fawned over by multiple women, while her...


    Her eyes widening, she was about to march to the bathroom and bang when the door opened and out walked Yu Seok with only a towel wrapped around his waist and the rest of his body glistening with water droplets. Such a scene would usually cause her to melt and pass some flirty look at him but this time it only added to her simmering anger and picking up the pillow on the bed, she threw it at Yu Seok, who caught it deftly with a surprised face. He had not expected his wife to be angry when he returned from the shower! He had simply wanted to wash off the sight of another woman and hug his wife after freshening up. He was about to open his mouth to question her when another pillow was launched at him. As he threw aside the first pillow with one hand, clutching his towel with the other and dodged the second attack masterfully, he called out, "Eun-a?"


    But instead of receiving an answer, something hard was thrown at him and he heard the sound of it shattering against the wall behind him. Finally, he spied the lampshade that was about to be pulled out by his angry wife and shouted, "Are you trying to get widowed? Eun-a! You know that I am only ever faithful to you and the only woman to exist for me is you!"


    "Well if that is the case then why are you standing here naked? How could you have been sure that your assistant was not still in the room? Yu Seok! Have you become an exhibitionist? At least you could have worn a god damn bathrobe!"


    Shaking his head, Yu Seok walked over to his wife and swiftly unhanded the lamp before trapping her in the circle of his arms. He then raised his hand to caress her face and push back the lock of chair that had fallen over her brow and said, " I knew you would get rid of unwanted trash my dear wifey! And I have two valid reasons for not wearing the robe. One, there was no belt in the rope and second, it would have been cumbersome to take it off. Now I can hug you directly without any extra barriers!"


    Yu Seok then moved closer to his wife, whispering," And I have always been an exhibitionist where you are concerned! Heck I can even be a little pervy and flash you something interesting."


    Xie Eun pouted and putting her hands on his muscular chest tried to move away her upper body as much as possible, she complained," You just be quiet! I am angry at the moment! And jealous! I never imagined that there were so many women throwing themselves at you all the time! It is very disturbing."


    Caressing her back, Yu Seok comforted his wife," Rest assured, your husband is not so wanted! This was a one off because usually Cheng Mo is with me and he is quite competent without having to try and seduce me."


    Giggling at the thought of Cheng Mo dressed in a similar red dress, Xie Eun rolled her eyes and stared up at Yu Seok and complained," Are all the women in the world blind? Why would they not want you? You are the most handsome, charismatic man to ever walk the earth!"


    Yu Seok: ".." So his wife had a problem if he was desired and a bigger problem if he wasn''t!


    He looked down his wife in his arms wo was trying to put a distance between them and pulled her closer, trapping her hands against his chest as he pushed together their lower bodies, letting her feel how much she turned him on but she seemed to be in a mood to be antagonized and remarked angrily, "Yu Seok! Are you turned on by the thought of many women falling for you?"


    Laughing, Yu Seok kissed his wife hungrily before pointing out righteously, "Silly girl, my reaction is not because of some stupid thoughts, but your hands which are doing some busy work."


    Suddenly, Xie Eun realized that the hands that she had placed on his chest to stop him from approaching were doing their own thing and caressing him while paying with his ni**les.."Uhh..this is just muscle memory.." she excused her self and tried to get herself out of his arms. But Yu Seok gripped her firmly as he said, "Good! You have great memory. So you must know that once a little lamb is in the wolf''s clutches, she cannot escape easily.."


    That said, Yu Seok buried his face in her neck and nipped lightly before his tongue laved at the stinging spot, making her shudder. Xie Eun still tried to retain a semblance of sense and protested, "This is not fair. You are trying to seduce me into forgetting what just happened."


    Kissing his was from her neck to her small pointy chin, Yu Seok remarked," Wrong. I am not trying to seduce you. I am seducing you..."


    "Mmm"


    "Eun-a?"


    "Hmm?"


    "Where is Aika?"


    "Hmm?"


    "Aika? Our daughter? Where is she?"


    "In another room..."


    "Good"


    With that Yu Seok picked up his wife and took her to the couch to let her know for herself that she was the only woman for him.


    In another country:


    Lee Jong glared at his agent who was sipping at his drink casually, after making him slog for the entire day. After ruining his plans the man had even had the gall to then bring him to this stupid party!


    Placing the glass in his hand angrily on the small table, he called over a struggling starlet and whispered something in her ear. The starlet then looked back at her target and went to Joe while Lee Jong slipped out of the hotel. Hailing a cab, he went to the airport this time with the clear intention of booking a flight for now and going there directly before any other obstacle could stop him.

 Chapter 223 - An Accident- Sorry I Am Clumsy!

    Lee Jong arrived at the hotel early in the dark hours of the morning. With his unkempt hair and unshaven look, the messy half tucked shirt, the haggard angry look on his face, he looked more like a gangster than a famous actor. This worked in his favor as even though many people gave him second glances, they only believed him to be similar looking to a celebrity rather than connecting the dots. His jaw clenched, he gave off the aura of a bad gut, the kind that every woman dreamed of taming.


    However, unluckily for him, the receptionist at the hotel was a male staff who was immune to the man''s animal magnetism as they conversed, "I am sorry, sir! Both our presidential suites are booked and the entire fourteenth floor is closed off! We understand that you are a VIP but please let me assure you our Premium suites are also highly maintained and luxurious. Added to that our staff is highly trained and will provide with the most privacy, irrespective of the room size. But if you still feel uncomfortable, we have our sister hotel on the other side of the city. It is specially designed for peaceful and private holidays. I could ask if there are any available Presidential Suites there..."


    Lee Jong frowned and looked at the time before shaking his head, " No! Just give me the Premium Suite."


    Nodding the receptionist smiled and continued, "Sir, I would need your identification document for the procedure."


    Lee Jong extended his passport before he looked around and casually spoke to the man trying to extract information. But the man had been right and they really were highly trained in not giving off any information. Frustrated at the thought of not being able to find more about whether Xie Eun was here or not, he walked off towards his room with only his duffle bag hanging at his back.


    Xie Eun woke up lethargically from the bed with a stretch. Opening her eyes, she wondered if last night had been real or a dream. Because it felt like a dream as the two of them had attacked each other passionately. But as she moved, the ache between her legs reminded her that she had had a wild night last night.


    Just then her husband walked out of the bathroom, once again only in a towel and she was about to complain to him about last night when she spied the marks on his back and swallowed back the words. It seems he had suffered just as much.. Sliding down, she slowly hid herself under the covers as she tried to think of something to say.


    Yu Seok smirked as he saw her being shy and casually took out a shirt as he continued to dress up. Finally, when he had dressed up, he walked over to the bed and pulled the blanket down which she desperately tried to stop.. Shaking his head, he pulled her into his arms and kissed her deeply before saying, "Mrs Yu! I am very disappointed in you. Your husband is ready to leave for work and you won''t even look at me. I have endured such a difficult night and even had to fight for my life with a wild cat such as yourself and now you even refuse to give me a kiss? Aren''t you being too heartless in ignoring me after you have used me."


    This caused Xie Eun to be goaded just like he wanted and she glared at him just as he had wanted and she glared at him. Pulling him by the tie, she brought them nose to nose and complained," I am your savior! I saved you from your ''professional'' assistant last night and you only repaid your debt with your body! So I am not the one who used you but rather I gave you chance so that you don''t have to remain indebted to me!"


    Having made herself clear, Xie Eun then kissed her husband fiercely before climbing out of the bed and strutting to the bathroom buck naked making Yu Seok groan loudly as he watched her a** jiggle enticingly.


    Giggling at the sound, Xie Eun climbed into the shower, ready for the next best part of the day- the breakfast! She had read the breakfast menu offered and was salivating at the thought of the treats offered!


    A little while later, Xie Eun walked around the dining area plating the delicious food in her plate while Aunt Su sat at the table shaking her head at the girl. So grown up and yet she was so excited about the food. Aunt Su looked down at Aika who was also drinking milk from her bottle hungrily and had the thought," Like mother like daughter."


    Xie Eun had ordered a ton of food to be brought to the table and she immersed herself in eating the dimsums, when a small commotion happened at the door which went unnoticed by Xie Eun but caught the attention of Aunt Su.


    Aunt Su watched as the handsome man walked into the hotel room and the way the girls were looking at his with coveting eyes. She looked carefully and his face felt familiar but could not think of where she had seen him. Just then the man smiled at the hostess and it suddenly struck her," Eun-a? Isn''t that the famous superstar Lee Jong? The one that your company has just partnered with?"


    Xie Eun stopped mid bite as she heard this and looked up only to see him the man staring at her directly. Before she could even squint angrily, the man had walked over to their table and he smiled at her suavely," Chairwoman Xie! Fancy meeting you here."


    Wanting to curse at the annoying man, Xie Eun simply placed down her chopstick, giving him a thin smile before her hand slipped unintentionally and a bowl of the spicy sauce tumbled over making Lee Jong jump back and take back his hand that was extended to shake.

 Chapter 224 - Good At Shooting People

    Xie Eun glared at the man who seemed to have been prepared for the accident and apologized meekly," I am so sorry.." though her eyes seemed to be saying that she was not sorry at all.


    Not taking note of the undercurrent, Aunt Su smiled at Lee Jong and asked," Please excuse my Eun-a! She is a little clumsy. Always has been...You are Lee Jong? Yes? The actor? Are you here for work or for holiday? Please do join us in having breakfast."


    Lee Jong turned to Aunt Su and gave her his biggest smile full of dimples and sparkling teeth. "Hello! Are you Chairwoman Xie''s elder sister?"


    Aunt Su smiled and giggled like a girl totally flirting with the young actor while Xie Eun rolled her eyes at the man who could lie so easily. After refusing a bit, Lee Jong joined them gracefully and sat next to Aunt Su.


    Ignoring the man, Xie Eun immersed herself in eating her own food while Lee Jong also talked with Aunt Su. He showered her with compliments but remained completely professional towards Xie Eun. He even dared to compliment her Aika which earned Lee Jong a glare from Xie Eun. Luckily for Xie Eun, Aika was on her daddy''s side and when the man tried to pick her up, to show off that he was good with kids, Aika protested on the top of her lungs and helped her mommy by hitting the strange man on the face with her milk bottle.


    Lee Jong rubbed his nose in embarrassment and decided to look down and concentrate on his food. He extended his hand to pick up a hash brown when Xie Eun poked him harshly and glared," Get your own food!"


    Excusing himself, he smiled a bit awkwardly and went to get his own food. Aunt Su glared at the to girls and poked Xie Eun reprimanding her," What is going on? Is the man not your business partner? Why do you have to be so rude?"


    Pouting, Xie Eun retorted, "Well he is a business partner so I will be sharing the profits with him. Does that mean I have to share the food also? I absolutely refuse to do so! My food is only mine!"


    Aunt Su rolled her eyes at the girl who was still the same and shook her head. Getting Xie Eun to part with her food had always been a task.


    Just then Lee Jong returned with a plate full of fruits and meat, continuing to chatter with Aunt Su and ignoring the two others who had made him embarrassed. But just because Lee Jong had backed off did not mean that someone had forgiven him. After finishing her milk, Aika raised a fuss to be held and burped and before her mother could move, Aunt Su had taken the little girl to pat her back. Aika stared at the man as she rested her head on the comfortable shoulder and closed her eyes peacefully before making a loud sound and emptying the contents of her stomach on the unsuspecting Lee Jong.


    Lee Jong jumped from his chair as he felt the wetness seep through his t shirt and a sour smell assault his nose. Getting up, Aunt Su apologized profusely and handed napkins to him while Lee Jong grimaced and suppressed the profanity that was about to escape his mouth. Once again he excused himself and ran out of the dining room as if he had the hounds of hell following him.


    Once the man was gone, Xie Eun broke out into giggles and taking her daughter who had managed to keep herself clean while soiling the enemy and kissed the girl on her nose. Aunt Su also shook her head with a smile before remarking," It seems your daughter is even more clumsy than you. If she is going to have men run away from her then by the time she grows up, she will be just like you."


    "Aunt Su? I got the best man, didn''t I? If the man is good then no matter how many repellents you use, he is going to be like that insistent mosquito and still come closer!"


    Aunt Su simple face palmed herself at having failed to teach the child even proper metaphors! She had just compared her own husband to a mosquito!


    After that the rest of the breakfast passed peacefully. Xie Eun tried to get Aunt Su to go out with them but was declined by the latter as Aunt Su claimed to be tired.


    And thus, a little while later, Xie Eun and Aika were ready to leave the hotel to explore the city. Dressed in matching polka dotted dresses, Xie Eun clipped her daughter into the kangaroo pocket and styled a backpack to carry their supplies, ready to leave. But she was stopped at the reception when a woman in the hotel uniform stopped her, "Mrs Yu? Your husband has ordered this for you. We were about to deliver it. It was said that we give it to you urgently." Taking the box, Xie eun raised her eyebrow and opened the box. A wide smile graced her face as she pulled out the camera out of the bag and reverently said, "Wow! This is the Eos rebel T8 camera! Aika, your daddy is indeed the best."


    In her excitement to come here, Xie Eun had forgotten her camera which had anyway taken a backseat to Aika but her husband never forgot her and he had somehow known that she would want to take pictures of their first holiday! Sigh! And he had even chosen the lightest DSLR camera for her! Thanking the staff, Xie Eun turned around and placed the camera back into her bag before getting into the rented cab that awaited her at the door. But in her excitement, she once again failed to notice that another rented car had been waiting behind hers and soon Lee Jong had climbed into it, ordering the driver to follow her.

 Chapter 225 - A Prank?

    Xie Eun roamed the streets with her camera almost glued to her eyes while she clicked the beautiful cathedrals and paintings on the overhead roofs. Riding in a horse carriage, Xie Eun showed Aika all sorts of beauty in the world firmly believing that her little girl was going to be a connoisseur of arts when she grew up. But even as Xie Eun ignored everything, there was one thing that was ruining her mood. It was the guy who was following her. She had felt the gaze when she had first reached the church and since then she could feel it on and off. She knew exactly who was following her and she was reaching the end of her tolerance for this man. She considered if her daughter would be emotionally scarred for life if she saw her mother beat a guy up brutally. No. Maybe she should let Aika see it so that she would know not to tolerate stupid as*holes!


    Walking to a policewoman who stood nearby, Xie Eun pretended to ask directions while she asked the policewoman for help. She told the Policewoman that a strange man was following them and she needed to help to escape the man. Sadly for Lee Jong, the laws in this country were very strict towards the safety of women and specially when an outsider harassed the people in their country then he would be taught a lesson. The police woman guided Xie Eun to enter a cafe-style restaurant and let her know the way out of the back while she then went forward to handle the perverted man.


    Lee Jong could not have imagined that when the police woman approached him, he would be spending the rest of the day in a police station being questioned about his motives and suspicious behavior. While Lee Jong suffered the torture and tried to explain himself with his broken knowledge of local language, Xie Eun finally enjoyed the rest of the day peacefully. Finally reaching the hotel in the evening, ready to fall down and sleep. Just as she was about to fall asleep on the bed, the enemy of her sleep but the love of her life walked in, loosening his tie.


    Wolf walked over to his wife, Wolf leaned down to kiss his wife as he felt his tiredness from the day melt away. Just then the sleeping little Aika also woke up and started to wave her hands and legs for her daddy''s attention. Going to the little girl, Yu Seok leaned down and kissed his Aika on the head before carrying her in his arms and talking to the little girl in their coded baby language. Listening to the melodious voice of her husband and baby, Xie Eun closed her eyes and was about to fall asleep when her phone started to ring. Opening one eye, she turned her head to glance at the phone screen and then promptly silenced the ringing and closed her eyes again. But soon the phone started to ring again and this time it was answered by Yu Seok with raised brows. Xie Eun was about to protest when the man''s desperate voice broke through," Chairwoman Xie? How could you do this? I was just playing tourist and saw that you were also looking around. You and the little baby girl were alone so I thought to accompany you and protect you. But you instigated the police against me? And now they are not even letting me go until I have someone take guarantee for me. Chairwoman Xie. Please come here and assure them of my innocence."


    Yu Seok looked at his wife in amusement while she gritted out," Mr. Lee! you were not accompanying up but stalking us. I took the trouble to warn your assistant to keep an eye on you and not let you follow me. I have been ignoring all your antics but you are now going overboard! Well Mr. Lee. This time you have been caught. Thanks for informing me of your circumstances. I will make sure to let the media know about you being detained for eve teasing in a foreign country."


    Just as Xie Eun was about to disconnect the call in a huff, she heard Lee Jong''s panicking voice," Hey!! Chairwoman Xie. I am sorry alright. Please forgive me. Look I was only trying to do some research. You see I am writing a new script where I have to play stalker to a powerful woman. When we signed the deal, I thought this was a good opportunity. Chairwoman Xie, please come over and vouch for me. Please."


    Scoffing Xie Eun said scathingly," Mr. Lee! I had no idea you were a such an amazing story writer. You should be writing movies and not just acting in them. But I am no fool. And now please do not call me. Ask someone else to vouch for you."


    "Hey hey hey! I can prove my innocence. You can call your husband and ask. Do you think that he would have just let anyone follow you around. The stupid bas**** was sure that you would handle me and that is why he even covered for me and let me make a fool for my self! Ask your husband dam* it! Tell him I admit defeat and he can win the bet! And after that please come and get me out of here! This is what you get in return for being a good childhood friend!"


    After this, Lee Jong disconnected the call with a thump while Xie Eun looked at Yu Seok with accusing eyes. Crossing her arms in front of her, she glared at her husband and tapped her foot, before uttering one word," Explain."


    Smiling guiltily, Yu Seok scratched his head and said,"Eun-a. Before you pick something up to throw at me, please remember that our precious daughter is in my arms and you love me. Please don''t forget that I am the love of your life... You see it was a prank..."

 Chapter 226 - A Prank(2)

    Hearing the silence o the other end, Xie Eun slowly placed the phone down and looked at her sheepish looking husband. If she was not mistaken in her understanding then that Lee Jong had just indicated that her husband was somehow involved in this mess of a stalker-ish behaviour.


    After trying to defend himself while using his daughter as a shield, Yu Seok grimaced and tried to divert the topic," Ugh, why don''t I go and rescue that dunderhead first?"


    Just then a loud and panicky knocking sound rang at the door and a man''s voice sounded out, "Chairwoman Xie? Please? Are you in there?"


    Xie Eun looked at the door recognizing the voice of Agent Joe. Walking to the door, she opened it and saw the man looked as frantic as he sounded and rolled her eyes at the man, letting him in. Before he could start talking, she showed him her hand and ordered him to stay quiet. Shutting his mouth with a snap, the usually dense Agent Joe kept mum and quietly waited at the door.


    Xie Eun then turned back to her husband and said," Hubby.. We will continue this conversation when you have rescued your... friend. And you better have a proper explanation or the two of you will be accompanying each other in jail for the foreseeable future..."


    Cursing the man who had just ruined his plans to woo his wife tonight, Yu Seok walked back out of the door with stooped shoulders looking like a man in his fifties instead of twenties. Well, if his Eun-a threw him to the dog house as a punishment for accepting this stupid challenge, then he would just have to treat Lee Jong as a punching bag! Anyway the basta** had been too happy go lucky for a long time!


    In an abrupt turn of events, Xie Eun turned from hostile to hospitable towards Agent Joe who gulped and said," I am sorry, Chairwoman Xie. In spite of you already warning me, I failed in my mission. I actually did lock Lee Jong inside the house like you said but the man escaped later on my watch! I really did not expect for him to do that! I am so sorry."


    Ordering tea, Xie Eun led Agent Joe to sit and asked," If he is such a mess then why do you have to keep following him? Agent Joe? You are a successful agent and very good at negotiating. So why not take up an another artist?"


    Agent Joe looked scandalized at Xie Eun as if she had suggested something taboo and then after gulping said, "That.. I have my own reasons. The thing is he is indeed a difficult artist to manage but he is indeed a genius in his work and dedicated. When he is not trying to look for his next challenge, it is actually very nice to work for him. And he has also always supported me. Even when my mother passed away and I was a mess, he supported me and made all the funeral arrangements. In our entertainment world, most bonds are made with money, but our entire team follows Lee Jong out of loyalty! It is also one of the reasons we find him difficult to restrain. He is usually so head strong that no one can stop him! It is why I have come to you Chairwoman Xie. I don''t know why he has been stalking and harassing you but please let me talk to him and I''ll get him to go to a psychiatrist and if that does not work, I will make him break the contract with your company so that he has to pay you damages and he is so under debt that he has no time to think all this!"


    Xie Eun pondered everything that Agent Joe said and thoughtfully tried to piece together this new piece of information about this man. And came to an interesting conclusion. Over the time, she had been able to gather some information about Yu Seok''s time on the streets. Though he was usually reluctant to share much information, he had once told her about a friend who had been with him for a period of time before the two had separated again. She thought back to what Yu Seok had told her, "There was a boy. About a year older than me but behaved younger. He followed me around even when I told him not to. It made no difference even when I scolded him. He was not living on the streets but somewhere around in one of those shoddy houses though he was no better than us. He would bring bread sometimes for us to eat and even though it wasn''t much, he wouldn''t leave me alone until I had some. He followed me around for a few months before he suddenly stopped coming. I figured they had moved away but I guess he could be called a friend I once had. I never did remember about him until you asked.."


    With the information that Yu Seok had provided and the way Lee Jong had called Yu Seok a friend, she could only conclude that this was the same person. She could not imagine her husband being so tolerant towards anyone else. But what exactly could the purpose be behind having such a big charade? As the waiter brought in the tea, Xie Eun toyed with her cup and researched Lee Jong as she thought of the discrepancies'' in her husband''s usual modus operandi. Lee Jong was right about one thing, if her Yu Seok had felt that Lee Jong was dangerous to her then that man would already be buried six feet under. It would have made no difference if she could handle or not, Yu Seok would not have risked it.. Now the question was how did this entire scheme begin and why.


    And soon the two culprits had returned. Looking like two puppies who knew they had chewed their owner''s new shoes and were feeling sorry, the two grown men walked into the room quietly.

 Chapter 227 - A Script

    Xie Eun looked from the frazzled Lee Jong who looked like a guilty puppy ready to be punished to her own hobby who seemed to have regained his confidence and was now looking at her as if he was actually proud of his naughtiness. Narrowing her eyes at him, she looked at him in a threatening manner and then turned her eyes back to Lee Jong.


    Meeting her eyes, Lee Jong sighed in frustration before saying, "Firstly, I would like to apologize for the stalking and for worrying you, Chairwoman Xie. The thing is, I am currently planning my first movie production with my own script and I will be the director. For my movie, I wanted to use your husband as my inspiration. But he refused to even see me! I knew that this bas**** had recognized me. Even if we were only friends for a little while, it is impossible that he had forgotten me! But this ingrate, he never even agreed to meet me! All my breads that I brought for him as a kid were wasted!


    Finally to grab his attention, I had to target you! That is the only way he replied. And that too, he said that my plan would not work because you could handle me. It is why I had to be so aggressive! So that you would not be able to handle me! Because only then would give his consent! Sister in law, I realize my methods were not the best but please understand. This script is my dream! And If your husband does not agree to it then I will have no choice but to give up my dream... "


    Xie Eun raised her eyebrows and looked at her husband and then at Lee Jong who looked aggravated because she had indeed ''handled'' him and then again at her smug husband who had used her so easily and was now sitting proud as a peacock. Well, she would ''handle'' him later.


    She looked at Lee Jong carefully who had slumped in defeat. So this was the man who had left a mark on her husband when they were kids. She had read about him just now and realized that he too had brought himself out of the slums with extreme hard work, facing innumerable hardships and obstacles.. He really was known as a genius but also a manipulator. This guy had not given up his dream but was even now acting pitiful in front of her so that she would agree and help him convince Yu Seok. No wonder he was at the top of the food chain in the entertainment industry. He was a master at acting and negotiating.


    "Mr. Lee.. I feel really sad for you! If only I could help you."


    Xie Eun had to bite her lip hard to stop herself from laughing out loud when the man realized that his manipulation had not worked and she was not pitying him. She looked away as Lee Jong looked at her askance before the man finally let out a breath and begged directly. "It really is too difficult to get the two of you to negotiate! Can you please think this over? Look I have already done my research and let you look at the script also. I just need your husband''s consent."


    Xie Eun raised her eyebrows as the man had changed colors within a minute going from pitiful to businesslike and questioned,"Mr. Lee? Do you have the script with you?"


    This question caused Lee Jong to sit straight in his chair before he excused himself," Call me Lee Jong from here on, sister in law. And I''ll be back in a minute."


    Xie Eun''s question had given him hope as he rushed back to his room to get the script while Yu Seok looked at his wife with horror. As the door closed behind Lee Jong, Yu Seok looked at Xie Eun and asked," What are you thinking, missus? Look, you know he was a good guy and he did feed me bread when I was hungry so I let him be. But that does not mean that I want him to make a movie about me! How can you even consider something like this? Eun-a! Sweetheart. I know you are angry but really you don''t have to encourage that pric*!"


    Glaring at her husband, Xie Eun pointed a finger at him and said," You better be quiet, husband mine! You really are awesome! Don''t think you can fool me like you have fooled him. You sent him to me not because you wanted me to get rid of him. But because you wanted me to focus on him and not pay too much attention to what you are up to. Do you think that because this person has been harassing me, I have not paid attention to the fact that you are hiding something from me? You even used this time such that Cheng Mo would not be able to report anything to me!"


    Before Xie Eun could say anything more, Lee Jong had returned with a small suitcase. Opening the case, he took out a bundle of atleast thousand pages and placed it in front of Xie Eun. "This is my research that I have done over the years. I was a struggling actor when his name as a fierce tycoon shot to fame. I had an inkling that he was the same Wolf who was my friend so I have been researching him for a while now."


    Xie Eun carefully pulled out a random page from the thick bundle and it was a page that had a news article about Wolf''s success and first award as a businessman. It had been a controversy because her hubby had at that point refused to attend the ceremony or even thank the people claiming that he did not need awards. Shaking her head in amazement, Xie Eun then picked up the file that was placed on the top and read through the script.


    It was only as she had read through the whole piece, that she looked up and questioned," Lee Jong, Have you been stalking my husband?"


    Lee Jong shook his head and felt tongue tied. He actually had been stalking but it had only been because he had wanted to write the story.. He really had turned into a stalker...Xie Eun looked at his bashful face and then back at the script. She had always known her husband''s past was dark but seeing it described in such words had given her the shivers. It was a beautifully written script. "Lee Jong, I will convince Yu Seok to give his consent but I have a condition."


    Lee Jong had almost jumped in wonder at the words while Yu Seok had almost fallen off his chair before the two men sat back to hear the condition that would change everything...

 Chapter 228 - What Are You Planning?

    Once Lee Jong had jumped up to agree with the condition and after confirming that his sister in law had really forgiven him, Lee Jong left the room gloating with victory. The only person left in the room with Xie Eun now was Yu Seok who was staring at his wife with extreme apprehension. Because his wife had just promised something that he was extremely uncomfortable with. And had meant to avoid without having to outright refuse. Seems he had miscalculated a bit.


    Giving her a thin smile, Yu Seok walked over to his wife and pulled her into his arms. The best way to get what he wanted was to have pillow talk or no talk. Before Xie Eun had a chance to interrogate him, Yu Seok moved forward to kiss his wife, but by now, Xie Eun had become knowledgeable about his tactics and turned her head at the last moment, so that his kiss landed on her cheeks. Escaping from his hug, Xie Eun walked away and stared at him with narrow eyes, "What are you up to, Yu Seok? Are you still going to continue using distractions! Let me tell you about that after having spent so much time with you, I am well aware of your tactics."


    The challenging tone in his wife''s voice did not deter him for a minute but instead re-ignited his desire for her making him want to capture her. A small smirk crossed his face as he stalked his wife who moved away from him as her instincts screamed in alarm. "Wife-y. Whatever you maybe aware of, you seem to have forgotten that challenging me is usually futile and will result in you losing...Now why don''t you tell me why there is suddenly a movie being made about me and why are you the investor?"


    Even as they played tai chi as one moved forward while the other moved backward in sync, Xie Eun tried to explain, "Hubby! The scrips is amazing. I... I know you have not told me everything as you don''t want me to know about the darkness in the world. But that darkness is a part of the world and that darkness is part of what has made you. And Lee Jong has made the script a perfect balance. And I put forward the condition for being the only investor because that way we can have some control over the script. Other wise if someone else were to force him to make changes then the script would be ruined.."


    Before Xie Eun could continue, her back touched the wall and she stared like a wild animal at her husband who had closed in on her. His palms touching the wall on both sides, Xie Eun stared at him in apprehension before stuttering out," You are trying to distract me again. Yu Seok, tell me what you are up to. I just know you are hiding something from me."


    Smiling softly, Yu Seok placed a finger under her chin and brought up her face so that he could kiss the slightly pink lips. Rubbing his lips against hers, he whispered," You really know me too well. I thought I had hidden things well. Who would have thought that even as you expended your energy in evading Lee Jong, you would have time to keep an eye out on me. You have become even more cunning, Mrs. Yu."


    With that, his hands slowly slid off the wall and onto her waist, holding her in place. Xie Eun tried to think of what they were conversing about, but just like she had gained knowledge of his tactics, he too had found ways to finesse his techniques. As her arms wound around his neck, Xie Eun heard him whisper, "Soon, we will not have any secrets amongst us."


    The next morning, Xie Eun woke up next to an empty bed and a note on the bedside table, "Be ready at 2.00 pm. We have an appointment. Aika is going for a day out with Aunt Su."


    Xie Eun rubbed her eyes and wondered what her husband had in store for her before rubbing her eyes and slowly getting out of the bed.


    A leisurely breakfast later, Xie Eun dressed in the simple black dress that had been delivered for her even as she tried to guess what it could be. Was today the day when she would know what her husband was hiding from her?


    Just then a knock sounded on the door. Xie Eun walked to the door and was surprised to see Cheng Mo standing at the door with a big smile on his face. Pleasantly surprised, she asked, "Assistant Cheng! What are you doing here? Were you not on a month long honeymoon?"


    Cheng Mo looked at his Lady boss and wanted to complain but kept mum about his boss'' ruthless ways. His boss had sanctioned his leave for a month but then suddenly cancelled it a couple of days ago! He felt like a soldier who had been suddenly called on duty! His wife was also angry at him and had threatened him with only action movies and no *action* for the next few days! He had never imagined his boss would do this to him.. Did that man not preach that keeping the wife happy was of utmost importance. Keeping his grievances to himself, Cheng Mo consoled himself over the fact that his boss had gifted him with a couple world tour cruise towards the end of the year and also promised a paid leave of two months for both of them which had finally pacified his wife and smiled," Madam, my wife was bored with me so she threw me out of the house."


    The aggravated tone so in contrast with his words made Xie Eun giggle as she wondered if the fiasco from day before yesterday was the reason for poor Cheng Mo''s honeymoon being interrupted. Before she could question him more, Cheng Mo continued, "Madam, are you ready? I am here to drive you to the venue."

 Chapter 229 - An Exhibition

    Xie Eun was driven to the venue by Cheng Mo who chattered happily with her as he spoke about his wife. Xie Eun was almost tempted to roll her eyes as he described his wife and her personality. She wanted to point out that they had already met the sweet woman at the wedding ceremony but then kept silent. Let him ramble. It would keep her mind off the other things. She felt a small tickle in her stomach as she wondered just what her husband had planned for her now. She wondered if she would ever be able to get over his surprises. Even though she had detected that he was up to something, she still had failed to find out what! This was now her new personal quest. To discover his surprise before her husband executed it successfully!


    As she glanced at the paved way outside, she wondered how he could have planned a surprise here? Was he not here in this country for business? And he could not have expected her to come here to give him a surprise right? Unless Aunt Su had given him a heads up...No, Aunt Su would not have done that. Aunt Su was in her team after all...


    Just as she was pondering over this, the car slowed to a stop. Xie Eun turned her head as Cheng Mo came over to open the door. Stepping out she noticed the elegant board that displayed the name, Fiera National Exhibition and Convention Center. Her eyebrows raised, Xie Eun was truly surprised. The Fiera was known for holding world class exhibitions of art. Be it Paintings, photographed prints or even cultural relics, if the curator and members of the committee at Fiera approved and agreed to display your work, then you would be guaranteed success. She sighed in wonder at the beauty. The main beauty of this venue was that it was so elegant that anything that was displayed here would look beautiful. IBut what made it coveted was that Fiera opened it''s doors to the artists only once a year. And the work of the chosen artist was displayed here for the entire year. It was estimated that every piece that had once been displayed here would earn more that a hundred million dollars apiece.


    Xie Eun''s eyes glittered as she thought of her youth. She had once dreamed of displaying her work here. It had been the biggest goal in her life. She had even believed that the only way she would be a successful photographer would be when she was able to display her work here. Sigh! She had not even realized how things would change. Her dream had changed from getting her work displayed here to successfully handling her business and spend time with her Yu Seok and Aika. A pang of regret went through her heart but in the next moment she shook away the thoughts. Regrets for having the beautiful present were not a part of her life. Almost before she realized that she had thought of her dream in the past tense and decided not to regret, she wondered whose work she would get to see. It would be an honor to even visit the place and see for herself the beauty that was displayed here for this year. If she was not mistaken the famous jewelry designer, Pierro''s work had been displayed here with the finest pieces being bought by Royalty. And this year''s artist had yet to be announced.


    Just then, a tall woman dressed in a beautiful red skirt suit walked out of the Center. "French Girls wear it better" was the first thought that was in her head as she looked at the French woman who looked so beautiful even in a simple suit. No wonder the fashionistas loved French models. For the first time, she itched to photograph a woman.. She could randomly click this woman''s pictures and they would come out perfect.


    The woman smiled gracefully as she walked forward and air kissed her on both the cheeks and said in an accented voice," Miss Xie. It is an honor to welcome you. My name is Louise Follain and I am the Assistant Curator here at Fiera. I will also be giving you a tour today. Let me tell you, here at Fiera, we have a tradition that the first month an artist''s work is selected, we have a special preview for our paid members. Only after that the display is opened to the General Public. The Fiera prides itself on exclusivity and thus most of our members bid in advance. For the preview of this exhibition we have had some of the highest bidders and almost all the pieces have been sold out."


    Xie Eun smiled a bit awkwardly as the lady droned on. A feeling of sadness and envy made it''s way into her heart, making her realize that she had been fooling herself. She had indeed let go of her dream but she was not at peace about it. Somewhere, in the back of her mind, she had hoped to accomplish her dream. Was this what Yu Seok wanted her to realize? Is that why time and again he sent a camera her way. She had always felt that he did not want her to give up her passion and that was why he always made sure that she had a camera handy. But by doing this he had shown her the mirror. She may have relegated the camera to a hobby but her heart still held the dream of her work being displayed. her eyes moistened as she realized that her husband really did know her better than herself. Maybe it was time to let go of the reins of business into well qualified hands and pursue her dream. She had already saved the heritage her grandfather left for her and fulfilled her father''s wishes. It was now time to go back to her own wishes before it was too late.

 Chapter 230 - Shocked

    The first step inside the Feira Exhibition Hall had Xie Eun freeze in shock. Everything seemed to fade into the background as a faint buzzing sound sounded in her ears. Her eyes stared without blinking and her hand unconsciously touched her mouth.


    As her eyes slowly stared at the large prints that were displayed around the hall under the lights her eyes widened and she felt befuddled. Her emotions started to feel scattered and her eyes moistened. Her hand moved to her side as if in slow motion and she pinched herself slowly and then winced. She really was not dreaming even though she felt like it. Time seemed to have stopped for her as she walked like a sleep walker to the first print that was displayed. It was a pair of dolphins which had jumped out of the water with the sun casting a shadow over them...It was one of the first pictures that she had clicked with the camera that Yu Seok had given her. It was aptly named ''Beautiful life" and she just knew who would have named them. The next framed picture was even older, from their time in college when when she had been majoring in photography. It was the open landscapes from her home town from the time she had travelled there for the first time with Yu Seok. When she had only seen him as her friends. The open fields encased the pictures of the horses that grazed in the distance as well as a slow sun rise and spread it''s rays over the fields. It was half shaded with the light while the other half was still in shade. Once again it was aptly named ''Transition: From Dark to Light.''


    Her eyes started to water as she glimpsed every picture that she had clicked in the last few years. From flowers to the important people in her life. Just as she finally felt so overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude, a slim arm wound around her and she looked up into the eyes of her best friend. Shan Shan grinned at her friend and said," Anna sweetheart. You are not allowed to faint. Your hubby dear has worked his a** off foe this exhibition and made me work day and night with the legal formalities not so that you can faint! He is observing you from that room over there. So what do you want to do?"


    Eun-a who had still been feeling lost finally regained her senses and ran towards the room where Shan Shan had pointed. Throwing open the door, Xie Eun had a glimpse of the other pictures which were more recent before she saw her man standing there with a smile on his face. Wiping away her tears she ran and jumped into his arms unable to utter a word. She tried to talk but her words were incomprehensible and she could only kiss him as she tried to put every feeling into the kiss. Her eyes started to water once again through the kiss and she pulled back a bit to hold his face in her hands as her heart was filled with gratitude. With a soft and slightly unsteady voice, Xie Eun said," How? How do you know me so much? How do you know me better than myself? My dreams that I was not even aware of, you have made them all come true. This surprise is just too much. I have no words to describe my joy, hubby. You already own me heart, body and soul and I don''t even know what else I can give you to thank you for loving me. From today onwards I have no other unfulfilled dream left.."


    Her tears flowing uncontrollably, Xie Eun hugged Yu Seok, burying her face into his chest, letting his steady heartbeat calm her. Yu Seok hugged his wife, slowly patting her back before he moved back a bit and placed a finger under her chin making her look up. His own eyes slightly wet, he said," Today, it is the day our lifelong dreams that have been fulfilled. Because fulfilling your dream is the only dream that I have held.


    Xie Eun rose on her tip toes kissing him hard on the lips once again before she continued to hug him again. Yu Seok closed his eyes in contentment as he hugged his wife back.


    A little while later:


    Xie Eun stared at the many photographs that surrounded her in this room. These were, she was sure part of his private collection. And these pictures were also a summation of their own life. She caressed the picture that she held closest to her heart. It was their little Aika''s hand when she was a day old. Cradling Aika''s hand was hers and Yu Seok''s hand as Xie Eun had clicked the photograph single handedly. The picture was once again titled aptly as ''Lovesong'' .. Xie Eun hugged herself as she felt a chill through her. The Assistant Curator Miss Louis had congratulated her as she explained how her photographs had been praised for their artistic views and most of the members had tried to out bid each other. As she pondered this there was another thought in her head. She shook her head as she wondered of the greedy human nature. She had just told Yu Seok that all her dreams had been fulfilled but she already had another dream now. One that she was going to need a life long time to fulfill. The dream of a beautiful life with her Yu Seok...


    Just then, Yu Seok walked back into the private room and hugged his wife from behind with one arm, placing a small peck on her shoulder as he held her around the waist, as he held his other treasure in the other arm. With a smile, Xie Eun placed her hands on his entwining her fingers through his as they both stared at the beautiful picture and little Aika stared at her parents with wide eyes.


    With a contented smile on her face, Xie Eun thought to herself, that it was a good thing that the wolf caught the sheep. The catching and holding was nice but the loving and the never letting go-- was even better.


    --The End--