《PALPATE MY HEART: Dr. Wicked is My Wife》


 Chapter 1 - BEG

    Life''s best three teachers¨Cheartbreak, empty pockets, and failure.


    ...


    Thunders roared as the rain poured from the sky, washing up all the heat that has been plaguing the summer. The earthy scent of petrichor wafted in the air. People scuttled away like mice to take shelter from the rain. But a weak woman braved the rain and knocked at houses to beg for help.


    Qin Jingyi pounded at the door like a madman. A moment later, a burly man opened it and asked angrily, "What do you need?"


    The woman who was drenched with rain stuttered as she spoke, "Please help¡ªmy moth¡ªmother¡ªShe¡ª!"


    "Leave!" the man bellowed and pushed her out of the door before she could finish her sentence. She fell on her bottom and felt the moist ground when her hands tried to cushion her fall. With the impact of the fall, there was excruciating pain radiating from her bottom up to her spine. Her wounds from the beatings she received from the guards haven''t healed yet and added to her dilemma. Tears suddenly sprung out her eyes as the feeling of being aggrieved swamped in her.


    Qin Jingyi clenched her fist. Wincing in pain, she stood up, wiped the tears that were falling from her face and walked to the next door.


    "Please help my mother! Please" she begged but nobody opened the door even if she could see people''s silhouette from the window.


    "Help!" she yowled with her voice mingling with the sound of rain and thunder. While she thumped on the door, tears were rolling down on her face.


    Her hopes rose when a door opened but instantly shrank when the woman chided angrily, "Why should I help you?"


    "Please¡ªjust help my mom!" She kowtowed profusely which resulted in the botch of red appearing on her forehead.


    "What benefits would I get for this?" The woman scoffed. The woman was aware of her identity. When she saw Madam Qin days ago, she immediately recognized her and sent a letter to the capital. Any minute, the Imperial guards will arrive. The palace will give a hefty reward if Prime Minister Qin''s wife and daughter would be captured. Just thinking about the reward made her happy. So, she didn''t want to be punished for helping this despicable family.


    "Go away!" The woman banged the door on her face.


    Feeling defeated she turned away. Qin Jingyi looked up at the sky and let the raindrops fall onto her face, washing all the stains that marred her once beautiful face. Now, it''s just full of scars. The elegance she used to carry around was no longer evident. She looked gaunt and her hair lacked all the luster.


    Nobody could have ever thought that the once unreachable Lady Qin had been reduced to a beggar. The almighty Qin Family has fallen to the brink. The newly crowned emperor issued a decree. The Qin Family has to be executed. Their crime, abetting rebellion and colluding with the enemy to murder the previous emperor. The 2nd Prince who became the Emperor had forgotten that it was his wife''s family, the Qin''s that helped him achieve his goal. He even divorced his wife and married his favorite concubine on his coronation day.


    That same evening, Prime Minister Qin, the previous Emperor''s right-hand man was executed in front of everyone. Her siblings and relatives were beaten, tortured and dismembered.


    Jingyi and her mother were spared because one of her brother''s men were able to sneak in prison and let them flee. However, he sacrificed himself so they can escape unscathed.


    At this moment, she felt nothing but that gnawing numbness. Watching her family member executed one by one was like a poison slowly sipping into her veins, tormenting and giving her nothing but paralyzing pain.


    "At least for poison, there''s an antidote. This one? None."


    Because everything will be forever etched in her mind. Her father''s mournful begging to spare the younger children, her sister''s frightened screams and her brother''s torn expression as he watched his wife and children killed in front of him. Jingyi felt nothing but regret.


    And as if the gods weren''t contented playing with her. They were able to escape and took shelter somewhere away from the capital but Madam Qin suddenly became gravely ill. She collapsed earlier. She suspected her mother was poisoned. But with no silver at all, how could she ask the doctor to cure her.


    Jingyi felt tightness in her heart, remembering her ill mother. Unsure of what to do next, she stood from the ground and puttered on the dirt road. With her shoulders hunched down, she looked like a tiny lost kitten.


    "Where are you going in this rain?" An elderly shouted.


    Jingyi hurried to her door and told her the problem. After listening to her, the old woman limped as she entered her house in haste and returned with a tael of silver. She placed them on her hands.


    "Here, bring this to the village doctor and call him."


    Jingyi looked at it feeling embarrassed but thinking of her mother, she accepted and grasped it like it was gold. She used to spend money like it was nothing. Realizing it now, having no money to buy what you need is really horrible.


    "Thank you, grandma." politely, Jingyi thanked the old woman.


    "Don''t be so polite. Now, hurry and go." she smiled, showing her toothless mouth. At the same time, her mottled skin touched her shoulders as if she was telling, it''s going to be fine.


    The gesture made her tear up and sniffed in between sobs. What she''s doing now is a favor she will never ever forget in this life.


    "Go" the woman prodded. Hence, Jingyi scampered off the house.


    At this moment the rain stopped, but it left the road muddy and the scent of dewy night hung in the air. A weird thought passed her head when she noticed two pairs of prints leading to the tiny shack where she and her mom were living now. Her heartbeat raced as she entered the wooden house, making the floors creak. At the door, the hairs on her arms and nape stood for unknown reasons. The feeling of goosebumps intensified with the smell of something in the air. The sheer curtain that is being swayed by the half-open window added to the eerie feeling.


    Jingyi stood rooted to the floor when her eyes landed on her mother''s sorry state. She was suspended on air, the chair which she used to hang herself was flipped down onto the floor.


    "Mother¡ªmother¡ªmother!" Her clammy hands reached for her feet and they were so cold.


    "Did you hear that?" A man''s question made her jump in fear.


    She hid behind piles of wood and hugged herself tightly so as not to be seen. As their footsteps closed in, beads of sweat appeared on her forehead. Jingyi saw two silhouettes but can''t see their faces. There was a loud thud followed by a weird sound. Unable to sustain her curiosity, she peeked. Color was instantly drained from her face and she stifled the scream that escaped her mouth. They were stabbing her mother like they were butchering animals. Their laughter reverberated in the house. It was so unbearable that she turned back, crouched in a fetal position and covered her ears.


    I''m sorry mom. She repeatedly chanted.


    What seemed an eternity, the movements stopped.


    "Go find the woman. The emperor said we need to bring her head." His cold-blooded words sent chills down her spine.


    For the second time, she felt the knife plunged in her heart, breaking it into pieces. The new Emperor was her husband who divorced her on his coronation day. Jingyi''s muscles quivered and she gritted her teeth in anger. He was the man who promised the moon and the stars to her. Like an idiot, she believed him. Her happy ever fantasy was shattered right on their wedding night. But she refused to believe so she spent her glorious years making him fall to her. She went as far as poisoning his concubines.


    Is this my retribution? She asked herself many times.


    When Jingyi heard no movements, she took the opportunity to jump out of the window. However, she was seen.


    "There she is!"


    Instantly, adrenaline rushed in and she scurried away entering the forest. All she wanted was to flee. So even if her legs were hurting from running and her arms were gashed by thorns from the shrubs, she ran for her life.


    When she was distant away, she stopped to catch her breath. She reached the cliff without realizing it. Down below was the wide expanse of sea.


    Suddenly, waves of nausea assaulted her. After a few seconds, she was on the ground writhing in pain. It was hot. It felt like there were thousands of insects hissing and biting inside her body, tormenting her. The pain was too unbearable. Moments later, blood filled her eyes and her mouth.


    Poison.


    But how was I poisoned?


    The purplish discoloration on her hand answered her question.


    It was the silver. The realization was like a bomb that landed her heart one after another, blowing her heart into a thousand holes. She thought the woman was an ally. It turned out, she was wrong.


    "She wouldn''t have gone far. The poison would have reacted by now." she heard a voice said somewhere.


    Feeling unresolved of her end, she used whatever ounce of energy left in her and threw herself into the sea.


    Her body rolled, then touched the water. The coldness of the ocean sipped into her clothes and she trembled. At the same time, sharp pain pervaded inside her body, grinding every inch of her flesh and bone. Slowly, blood flowed out everywhere. Her eyes, mouth, nose, and ears. The poison was slowly taking over her senses. Her eyes filled with despair and unwillingness, were watching as the flurry of rain come streaming from the sky.


    She cursed him. She cursed the heavens. But it was only the waves and heavy rain that stood as witness to her stutterings.


    Why? She questioned her fate.


    Why have they fallen to this degree?


    Was her family''s death the price she has to pay for loving him?


    After sometime, her vision slowly turned blurry. Her consciousness was being pulled out of her brain bit by bit. Her eyelids were getting heavier each seconds passed. Not long after, she was no longer breathing.

 Chapter 2 - DO YOUR WORST

    The gentle tap on her shoulders and the sound of a soft voice stirred Jingyi up. In a groggy state, it took her a moment to realize she fell asleep. With her heart pounding erratically as a result of the dream, she raised her eyes to look at the woman in a white coat who was hovering over.


    "Are you okay?" the senior resident asked with a hint of concern.


    With her mind still caught up with her dream, she sounded stupid to ask the question, "What happened?"


    "You were screaming."


    Jingyi looked down for a moment and tried to remember. After her back to back surgery, she ran to her office to write reports but had fallen asleep and started dreaming of that horrible day. By reflex, she pushed the nail on her index finger to her thumb, marking the white skin with red. The pain helped her calm her nerves. Moments later, she regained her gaze on her. Jingyi apologized.


    "Was it a bad dream?" the other doctor asked as she handed her a bottle of water.


    The words ''it was'' was stuck in her throat. But she didn''t voice it out, after gulping half of the content of the bottle, she simply said, "It was nothing."


    The truth was, it was far from nothing. But she didn''t want to delve on it at the moment. She stood and entered the bathroom. Dr. Lin wanted to ask but as everyone knows, in the hospital, Luo Jingyi wasn''t close to anyone. Make a step closer and she''ll step back 5 steps farther. There''s always that impenetrable barrier around her.


    "Go and check your interns. Don''t just stand there!" came a yell from the bathroom. Dr. Lin left.


    Jingyi let cold water run over her face before grabbing a clean towel to pat it try. As she coiled her long hair into a workable ponytail, she stared at herself in the mirror.


    What''s staring back at her is the original body''s appearance which somehow looks like her old self but not quite the same. She is called Luo Jingyi. Where she was petite in her last life, the original was tall. Where she had an angular chin, this one has a perfectly sculpted v-line, making you think the original body had chin augmentation. However, she didn''t.


    With deep-set eyes and high cheekbones, the original is what people in ancient times would say calamitous beauty.


    Her trance was disrupted by a loud bang coming outside.


    ....


    "Don''t think because I''m a woman, you can easily bully me. " Luo Jingyi scoffed. Her hand gripped the man''s arm before his slap landed on her face and pushed him aside.


    The man fell on his bottom, feeling vague pain radiating from his coccyx up to his spine.


    He looked up and stared at her beautiful face which made him think she''s a perfect specimen. Beauty and brains.


    But Dr. Luo isn''t a gullible person so he scratched her name off the list of potentials.


    Chen Guozhi didn''t understand why she seemed to hate him. She didn''t mask her contempt and disgust when talking to him. She blocked him at any cost. One time, chased her but the woman told her, "I''ll never date skunks." This left a bad taste in his mouth till now.


    He is Chen Guozhi. As the son of Minister Chen, he can never allow anyone to trample him. Especially a woman. As proud as he was, he stood up and eyed her sharply.


    "Why has my application been rejected for the second time?" He was referring to the open position at the Medical University where Luo Jingyi lectures from time to time. He wanted that assistant clinical professor spot badly. But Luo Jingyi as the program director of medicine in that university passed up his application twice and given it to someone else. His father said, as long as he can take that position, his grandfather''s opinion of him will change.


    Luo Jingyi shrugged her shoulders and sat on her swivel chair. She looked at him in the eye and spoke coldly, "If you''re success outweighs your failure rate, come back and I''ll put it into consideration."


    "What do you mean?" With brows furrowed, he asked.


    "Up to your interpretation."


    His nostrils instantly flared and his face reddened. His ego couldn''t accept that. "Are you saying I''m an incompetent doctor?!"


    "Are you?"


    "Answer me!" Anger made him forget that the woman in front of him ranked higher than him in this hospital.


    "Well, if you think you are an incompetent doctor, then you are. After all, without your family behind you, you are nothing."


    The taunt in her voice and that mirth in her eyes made him snap. He slammed her desk, almost creating a crack on it. Nobody ever dared to say these things to him. People would always bow down their heads to him. After all, he is the son of Minister Chen. Then there''s his grandfather. Even if his grandfather retired from his political career, he can still influence lawmakers in their decisions.


    That''s why people would inadvertently treat him with respect except for this woman. Dr. Luo had always treated him blandly. While others clamor to be his friends, she refused him immediately.


    Being called ''nothing'' and labeled as ''inept doctor'' is a sore spot for him.


    "Take it back!"


    "Or what?" Luo Jingyi sneered.


    The man strode to the shelf that contains awards she won, papers she published and important books. He grabbed one by one and threw them onto the floor. Crashing sounds and pages being torn echoed inside the office.


    Luo Jingyi curled her lip in contempt as she watched him threw a fit in rage. He was like a child stomping his feet when he couldn''t grasp his favorite toy.


    "Very immature." she murmured.


    Looking at him, an image overlapped in her head. Someone in her past life. He looked exactly like the best friend of her brother. Like him, he was spoiled rotten to the core that when he didn''t get what he wanted, he threw a temper. And because of greed and jealousy, he backstabbed his very own best friend. In front of her and her brother, he defiled her sister-in-law.


    Her poor sister-in-law''s whimpers were ringing in her ears like it just happened yesterday. Without realizing it, her nails dug into her skin and her stomach clenched.


    Snap out of it!


    Snap out of it! A voice in her head screamed.


    Seconds later, she took a deep breath and calmed herself.


    But whether he was the reincarnation of him or not, that was not the deciding factor to turn him down.


    He trashed everything. But when he heard nothing from her, he turned and saw her resting her head on one palm like she was very bored.


    "Done?" Her voice was laced with mockery.


    He clenched his jaw. He can''t accept this.


    Seconds later, he reminded her. "I think you are forgetting something. I''m Chen Guozhi."


    "So?"


    "My family owns this hospital."


    Luo Jingyi let out a soft laugh and jeered, "Not anymore."


    "What do you mean?" His eyes blinked in bewilderment.


    "All of your grandfather''s shares are on my name now."


    "What?!"


    The Chen family owned the hospital in the beginning but they suffered setbacks in the past so they sold shares to other people. But still, with them holding the largest, they are the decision-makers in the hospital. To be precise, it''s his grandfather.


    All industries under the Chen family have gone bankrupt due to poor management of his children and grandchildren. Therefore, the old man became cynical and untrusting in parting his last shares to his family.


    "Impossible!" He shouted. He didn''t dare to believe what she was saying was true. If it''s gone, then the Chen family is nothing but an empty shell.


    "He will never give it to an outsider," he added seconds later.


    "It''s possible. All I did was give him a nudge." Luo Jingyi took out a brown envelope from her drawer and threw it to him.


    There was a foreboding feeling in him when her beautiful lips were drawn in an arc. Without hesitation, he opened it and his eyes instantly widened when he saw its contents.


    "Where did you get this?"


    Everything in this folder contained detailed records of his illegal dealings and transactions using company funds, including his other crimes. If his grandfather had seen it, then he''s really dead.


    "Don''t tell me you showed it to him?"


    "Of course. Why shouldn''t I?"


    When the epiphany sank in, his posture slackened as he shook his head. He screamed NO repeatedly. He can''t believe this. Everything he worked for will go to the drain. He must get the hospital shares no matter what. It''s all because of this woman that he couldn''t.


    "You evil wench!" The man fuming in anger marched to her direction, wanting to wring her neck. But odds were on him today because the door flew open and men in uniform marched in.


    "Chen Guozhi, you are under arrest for multiple murder charges."


    Chen felt his world crumble. Unsettled to the outcome of his years of hard work, he attempted to escape. He struggled even with handcuffs as they dragged him out.


    "Remember this, I, Chen Guozhi will never let you go. Just wait, I''m going to kill you!" his threat reverberated inside the office.


    "Do your worst." Luo Jingyi smirked.


    ¡­.


    "Dr. Luo, thank you for your cooperation." The man in uniform said.


    Luo Jingyi nodded. It was nothing because she wanted to deal with the Chen family. It was killing two birds with one stone. She got the shares she wanted. At the same time, she sent Chen Guozhi to prison for murder. He lured interns and used them as experimental specimens. The original body''s sister was one of his victims.


    When her assistant closed the door, Jingyi murmured, "Ah, it''s finally quiet." She told the assistant to leave the mess and give her 10 minutes on her own.


    Luo Jingyi ambled to the floor to ceiling windows and looked at the horizon. Towering buildings, billboards that advertise business and products, big LED TVs, multi-lane traffic, a large chain of stores greeted her eyes which weren''t as startling as they were the first time she''d seen them 8 years ago. Until now, she couldn''t believe how much the world has changed. Compared to ancient times, the present world lived in comfort and convenience. Luckily, the original body''s memory was retained. It helped her learn the ropes of this society.


    However, she''s left baffled. This bizarre phenomenon of rebirth was something science can never explain. Questions linger in her head.


    Why was she reborn in this body? For what purpose? Was it to relive her past life over and over again?


    Was she given the chance to right her wrongs?


    Or perhaps, the gods just pitied her?


    Whatever the answer is, one thing is certain. She, Jingyi will never waste this hard-won chance.


    And if there''s someone she''s grateful for, it''s this woman''s body. The original Luo Jingyi was silenced for the secrets that have to be buried into the graves.


    "Are you happy now? Go and be at peace. Your grievances, I''ll collect them one by one. I''ll let them get a taste of their own medicine." Luo Jingyi whispered as if someone''s around listening to her.

 Chapter 3 - SHUT UP

    "Are you happy now? Go and be at peace. Your grievances, I''ll collect them one by one. I''ll let them get a taste of their own medicine." Luo Jingyi whispered as if someone''s around listening to her.


    Her grandmother had once told her, the souls of people who died with grievances will linger on Earth, unhappy to depart. Hence, people would offer something to appease them. Although there''s no scientific explanation, there''s nothing wrong with believing in it.


    The original host called Luo Jingyi died unjustly in the hands of Chen family. The original suspected that they were behind her sister''s death. She secretly investigated but they killed her first.


    She, as the soul who entered this body, believes that the original host and her life are intertwined by fate and past grievances. And she came to this world full of them. Everything that happened was still fresh in her mind like it just happened yesterday. That boundless pain of being tortured internally. Her heart bled as she watched her family killed one by one. Then there''s that poison that tore every inch of her flesh with brandished claws. Then she died. But when she opened them again, a new world opened to her. It was perplexing to the point she thought she''d gone crazy.


    By reflex, she pushed the nail on her index finger to her thumb, marking the white skin with red. The pain helped her calm her nerves.


    Her eyes fell on the books on the table that the assistant managed to put after Chen Guozhi threw everything on the floor. The books were a constant reminder that she needs to keep learning to perfect her craft. The original''s memory is intact. However, in the world of medicine, you need to work harder than everyone else.


    All of a sudden, there was a beep from her pager.


    ....


    The sound of someone being paged over the intercom and sirens pulling up outside wafted her ears when Luo Jingyi arrived at the emergency room.


    "Doctor Luo, do you want anything for dinner?" The nurse who was pulling the curtains aside to cover the patient who was about to have rectal examination asked. She tried even though she knew that Dr. Luo would refuse like she did a dozen times.


    A furtive glance on her watch told her it''s already 5 in the afternoon. She originally intended to finish her report and go grab something to eat. But that was 3 hours ago.


    "No¡ª" she refused but suddenly remembered something. "Sure. Get me something healthy." Luo Jingyi said as she breezed in the trauma bay. This left the nurse wondering what happened to Dr. Luo today that she actually accepted her offer.


    Meanwhile, as the paramedic was wheeling in a patient, a junior resident asked, "What do we have?"


    "Yun Jian, 16-year-old male, GSWs to the abdomen. Unresponsive." He responded as he pushed the stretcher to the trauma bay, leaving squeaking sound as it glides on the floor.


    "Has long has it been?" Luo Jingyi asked the EMT who was performing chest compressions.


    "12 minutes."


    Time wasn''t wasted in idling. The minute the teenager was transferred to the bed, he was swarmed by residents and nurses. They checked for a pulse at the neck, groin, and wrist. Supplies were being yanked from protective packaging as a nurse was putting IV''s and pressure cuffs. Someone was cutting the blood-soaked clothes with surgical scissors. It happened all simultaneously.


    One by one, they called out. "No pulse."


    They all looked at Jingyi, waiting for her to make the decision. But it wasn''t something she would contemplate further. Although the protocol states that if a patient with a penetrating trauma doesn''t respond after 15 minutes of CPR, the patient is considered dead. But in her heart she knew, she must save him. As a person who died once, she will not resign to that fate. Her mantra, no patient is going to die on her trauma bay.


    "Let''s open him." Her voice was flat and cold.


    Betadine was splashed over the patient''s chest by a nurse before Jingyi grabbed a scalpel and quickly cut laterally along the left side of the chest. That''s from the breastbone all the way around her back. A quick assessment told her, the bullet did damage to his abdomen.


    Luo Jingyi then plunged her hands in between ribs and spread them before placing a retractor to hold them open. As time ticks every second, Jingyi moved in speed.


    "Give him epinephrine," Jingyi ordered while she put the vascular clamp on the aorta to shut the blood flow to all except to the heart and brain.


    Dr. Lin injected epinephrine into his left ventricle to stimulate the patient''s heart. After that, Jingyi used her hands and massaged the heart.


    "Intern B!" She called the attention of a first-year resident who stood frozen on the sides.


    "I''m here." A woman raised her hand.


    "Start the transfusion! Don''t just stand there!"


    "Blue girl, put a tube in his chest." She was called Blue girl because of her hair.


    Jingyi ordered this because she''s worried the lung had collapsed on his right chest. Blue girl moved but Intern B was struggling to get a line. In the end, it was the nurse who did it and started giving warm blood to the patient.


    After an unknown amount of time, there was a faint beat.


    "Another dose of epinephrine."


    After it was injected, she continued what she was doing until a minute later, the heart was beating normally.


    "We''ve got him back. Call the OR. Let''s go."


    The OR team was alerted immediately by the OR nurse. While the others pushed the trauma room bed to the OR. Ample amounts of blood were dripping and leaving unsightly trails on the floor.


    He was immediately prepped. Jingyi stepped forward and an OR tech draped her with a surgical gown and an OR nurse put her gloves on.


    However, she was stopped in her tracks when she saw one intern hovering over the operating table without wearing caps and masks. Her blood boiled instantly.


    "Put your damn masks on!"


    The head nurse shook her head and when she turned, the other OR nurse gave her that knowing look. They were both thinking of the same thing.


    ''How long will it take before the interns collapsed from Dr. Luo''s wrath?''


    Meanwhile, Luo Jingyi who has quite a reputation for terrorizing interns walked to the operating table. A sterile drape was already on Yun Jian.


    As she reached for the scalpel, she told everyone, "Let''s save him at any cost."


    Everyone nodded, which Jingyi didn''t see because she was already cutting through the skin on the abdomen. Then through the fascia and muscles next.


    Jingyi opened to an abdomen full of blood. Dr. Lin who was assisting Jingyi started packing in surgical sponges to absorb the blood so that Jingyi could figure out the source.


    As everyone did their roles inside the OR, intern B and blue girl were observing on the sides.


    "Not good." Intern B whispered so loud that it echoed to Jingyi''s ears.


    Everyone''s attention was suddenly on her.


    "What?" The intern asked because she doesn''t know why everyone was looking at her.


    Suddenly, the intern felt chills down her spine.


    Luo Jingyi gave her a chilling stare and muttered, "Shut up."

 Chapter 4 - TRAUMA SURGEON

    Taken aback, Intern B closed her mouth.


    Based on the injury itself, Jingyi knew it was going to be difficult.


    "Intern B, what do you see?"


    "Bleeding is coming from the main arteries to the intestines."


    "What would you do? "


    "Hmmm¡ªcontrol the bleeding¡ªthen¡ªhmm" She stammered as she racked her brain. She suddenly had a mental block that she couldn''t remember what she learned at med school.


    Here it comes. The OR nurse looked at the flustered intern who was struggling to remember.


    Which would it be? The OR nurse thought.


    What the hell are you doing here?!


    What the heck, Is that what you''ve learnt for 4 years?


    Idiot! Go back to med school.


    Hurry up! Do you think this patient has time to wait for your answer?


    But none of these came out of Dr. Luo''s mouth. Instead, she ordered, "Watch and learn."


    Everyone was startled. What happened?


    "Clamp. " The scrub nurse who was also waiting for harsh words to fall handed one to Jingyi.


    Luo Jingyi stared at the body in front of her and assessed the extent of damage in his abdomen. Multiple perforations of jejunum, bleeding coming from the superior mesenteric artery.


    With the limited time in her hands to save his life, she has to stop the bleeding and reconstruct the affected arteries before his body shuts down completely. It was a race against time.


    However, luck wasn''t on the teenager''s side. Because as soon as Luo Jingyi put the clamp on the major bleeder, the anesthesiologist called out, "No pulse."


    Jingyi looked into his still open chest and noticed that the heart was giving out and slowing down. Her adrenaline instantly kicks in.


    "You''re not going to die on me." she murmured as her hand held on the heart and slowly massaged it.


    "More blood! Stat!" Sensing the faint beat, she ordered. A minute later, he was back and stable. Only then did Jingyi return her attention to the abdomen.


    "Monitor his pulse. I''ll start reconstructing the artery. " It must be done with speed. If not, the boy wouldn''t have any blood supply to the entire small intestines. Once that happens, the tissue would start to die.


    People normally panic in this situation. But a look on her face says she was calm and focused. and like a rock, stood unwavering of her decision to save the child.


    It took some time to repair whatever has been damaged inside. Everyone gave a sigh of relief when she finished up.


    The interns inside, as well as those who were viewing from an adjacent room, looked at her in a different light. It was full of admiration. Dr. Luo Jingyi proved that speed and skills work hand in hand. With Yun Jian''s grave injuries, to begin with, he could have died. On top of that, his heart stopped many times in between surgery but she never gave up. The dying teenager was saved by Dr. Luo''s agile hands. Suddenly, each one desired to scrub for her.


    "Close him up." Jingyi told her resident. It sounded as a menial task but to be trusted to finish up was a great honor.


    "Don''t make mistakes. If you do¡ª"


    "You''ll kill me." He finished.


    "Good that you know." She said with a charming smile that can make your heartbeat fast.


    "Good that you know." She said with a charming smile that can make your heartbeat fast.


    Luo Jingyi gave the child a final glance and nodded to Dr. Zhao, the Chief of Surgery who was with the interns observing from the viewing glass.


    After that, she walked out.


    Standing outside the OR, she murmured, "Grandma, I saved a life."


    ...


    Luo Jingyi changed her scrubs as there was blood all over her. Her waterproof shoes were hosed off to remove the stains. After washing her hands at the scrub sink, she washed her face and fixed her hair which became messy.


    She saved a life today. Not the first but definitely not going to be the last. As a young child, while others busied themselves with the four scholarly arts, she was the opposite. She was riding horses and following her grandmother to treat people in villages. However, in ancient times, women practicing medicine wasn''t widely accepted. Hence, her father dissuaded her.


    When she woke up in this body, she was given a chance to re-discover her dreams. At that time, the host was a 2nd year resident in general surgery. Medicine had interest her even as a child. Given this opportunity, she grabbed the chance. But in the beginning, she struggled. Even if the original body''s memories were retained, there were many things new to her. After all, studying medicine is very complex. However, she didn''t let it be a handicap. She tripled her efforts and learned. She asked herself a dozen times, why choose a difficult path instead of taking an easier one. She knew the answer in her heart. She''s going to be a doctor to save lives. Perhaps it''s her way of saving her self.


    "You did well Jingyi." she reminded herself.


    ..


    Luo Jingyi grabbed a new pair of masks and went out. As soon as she pushed the doors open, two distressed looking couple rushed to her.


    "Doctor, how is my son?"


    Jingyi looked at the woman, thinking there''s something familiar about her but she couldn''t place it.


    Shoving it off somewhere, she informed them about their son''s condition.


    "On exploratory laparotomy, there were multiple jejunal perforations. Additionally, there was 12 x 6 cm size retroperitoneal hematoma. The bleeding¡ª" Jingyi paused when she saw their confused expressions.


    "I''m sorry. The bullet injured his small intestines but we were able to stop the bleeding in time. He went in and out but fortunately, your son is a fighter. He''ll be put under critical care for observation as there are postoperative complications like a motor deficit of lower limbs and deep vein thrombosis." Luo Jingyi explained. Sometimes she forgets that she needed to use simpler words to explain the situation. The last thing they needed was being overwhelmed with medical terms.


    Relief instantly flooded the two people''s faces. The woman touched Jingyi''s hand and murmured, "Thank you, doctor. Thank you."


    Jingyi simply nodded.


    "When can we see him?"


    "In an hour, he''ll be wheeled into the ICU."


    "I hope he will be okay." the worried woman muttered.


    "He will be." The one who answered was the Chief of Surgery. They never noticed his presence.


    He touched the man''s shoulder as he gave them reassuring words. "He will be fine Director Choi. He''s in good hands. Dr. Luo is the best trauma surgeon in this institution."


    Only then did Jingyi remember who they were. Director Choi was a famous director whose movies have been dominating the box office for the last five years. The beautiful woman albeit the messy hair was the CEO of Tattler Media. That''s why they were so familiar because the two had been plastered on tv as powerful couples.


    Hearing the assurance from Dr. Zhao, the woman''s face brightened. "That is good. "


    "Why don''t you two come to my office first?"


    "But we¡ª"


    "It will take another hour before you can see him. It''s better for you to wait in the office. " she prodded, wanting to escape.


    The couple agreed and followed the well-respected doctor to his office.


    Jingyi turned and smiled, but it disappeared when her name was called out. The Chief wanted her to go with them.


    Damn! She cursed.


    -----


    Luo Jingyi: Hello everyone, I''m the FL. Nice to meet you. See you in the future chapters.

 Chapter 5 - LEARN FROM THEIR MISTAKES

    Inside the office, the couple begged not to allow the news to leak out. The two have already a highly publicized life. If the press gets a whiff of what happened to their son, they''ll surely flock the hospital.


    This is also the last thing Jingyi needed. Reporters swarming in the trauma department.


    The Chief promised. But while listening, Jingyi smirked. She didn''t believe he will keep his word. Because Dr. Zhao was an opportunist. He will exploit anyone to his advantage. He''ll use the opportunity for publicity. Not the hospital''s but to put his name in the spotlight.


    A simper grew on Luo Jingyi''s lips.


    "As if I''ll let you have it," she muttered as she left the man''s office.


    As she surmised, reporters had flocked the hospital by the time she got to the ER. She told the nurse to call the guards.


    "Hmm¡ªI don''t know. He was shot on his abdomen. When he came here, he didn''t have a pulse. So we tried to¡ª" Intern B paused when she felt someone looking at her intently. When she glanced ahead, she saw Dr. Luo standing not so far.


    "Oh, there is Dr. Luo. She was the one who operated on him."


    Suddenly, the mics were in front of Jingyi.


    "Dr. Luo, what happened to Yun Jian? "


    "Doctor, will he recover? "


    "What injuries did he sustain? "


    "Why was he shot? "


    Multiple questions were shot at once.


    "What am I, the police? How would I know why he was shot?"


    The question startled the reporters. By the time they recovered, Dr. Luo was already steps away. The other doctor who was giving them information earlier was gone too. The guards suddenly appeared and threw them out of the hospital.


    ¡­.


    Inside her office, five interns stood with their heads down. Not wanting to look onto Jingyi''s eyes. While the senior and junior resident waited for Dr. Luo to scold them.


    Luo Jingyi sat quietly and was tapping her fingers on the table. Just sitting there made them uncomfortable.


    After much tension, Jingyi asked Intern B, "Dr. He, do you know what you did wrong?"


    "Not wearing mask and cap was just a simple mistake." she pouted.


    "Simple?" Jingyi''s eyes dimmed. She''s going to have a headache just dealing with her.


    "Dr. Feng, why do we need to wear appropriate attire inside the OR?" Jingyi asked blue girl.


    "It is to avoid equipment contamination and to ensure the patient''s safety and protection. If not, the rate of SSI will be high."


    "Did you hear that?"


    "But--ouch!" A resident stepped on her foot.


    Stubborn. Jingyi thought. Today was the interns'' third day but Dr. He was starting to annoy her. The only reason why she was accepted to the program was that her father was the VP of the hospital. He begged the Chief. Obviously, her being a spoiled brat thinks she can do whatever she wants in the hospital. However, what Jingyi hates the most are the privileged people. Those who can get what they want without lifting a finger.


    Internally, she let out air before scolding them. "Remember this and drill it into your head. When life is at stake, the simplest errors are the most unforgivable. This minuscule mistake in your eyes has serious repercussions. It was a miracle to save a dying child but you are going to ruin his survival rate because of post-op complications? What if he gets an infection?"


    Dr. He was unable to refute.


    "We are doctors. Our role is to save people not to kill them. That was in our oath. " Jingyi paused to glare at Dr. He and emphasized the following words, "Additionally, we are not at liberty to discuss a patient''s medical condition to the public. Unless the patient''s family gives a nod. Do you understand?"


    "I just wanted to explain because they were asking. The people have to know what happ¡ª" she stopped when blue girl nudged her.


    "It was me, Dr. Luo. I didn''t tell her the protocol." Dr. Lin who was in charge of the interns apologized on her behalf.


    "Dr. He, if you are not going to listen to your superiors, then this hospital is not the place for you." Jingyi''s annoyance was already plastered on her face.


    Dr. He Ling was quiet. Her father said the most difficult person to please in this hospital was Dr. Luo. There were rumors of her being hard-hearted to new interns but she didn''t believe them. She thought, if she could charm her stoic father easily, Dr. Luo would be the same. But apparently not.


    "I don''t want this to happen again in the future. Do you understand?"


    "Yes. Dr. Luo. "


    The interns nodded.


    "Go. Dr. Lin, stay."


    When everyone left, she told the senior resident, "Manage the interns well. Be tough if you have to. Don''t forget, we are here to save lives. If you have to break them, do it. They should learn from their mistakes."


    Dr. Lin bowed his head and murmured, "I am sorry."


    "Stop saying sorry. Do it."


    Dr. Lin admits that she was lenient to this group because of the Vice President.


    After exchanging a few more words, she left.


    When she was alone, Jingyi leaned on the chair and fell in contemplation. The reason why she''s stricter to the interns was for their own good. It''s to prepare themselves for the worst. Being a surgeon is a tough job especially in trauma where the patient''s survival rate was 50-50. If they get easily demoralized, then they aren''t fit to be in this specialty.


    .....


    Luo Jingyi removed her glasses as she yawned. She stretched her sore back by extending her arms upwards and moving them from left to right. Feeling accomplished, she turned off her computer and stood.


    As she was collecting her things and putting them inside her backpack, she heard the door open, followed by a voice. "The hospital is buzzing with bees. "


    She didn''t have to turn to see who it was. There was only one doctor in this hospital who can talk to her like that. It was Dr. Xu, the hospital''s psychiatrist.


    "Not surprising. We have very important patients."


    "That''s not what I meant. They are talking about you all over the place. "


    Jingyi''s brows furrowed. "Why?"


    "Well, apparently Dr. Wicked hasn''t yelled nor sent anyone to the records room for the last 18 hours."


    One of Jingyi''s favorite punishment was to send interns to the records room to study cases and write case reports if they messed up in the OR.


    "And who''s to be blamed?"


    "Of course I''m the culprit." Dr. Xu admitted. "But like I said, it wouldn''t kill you if you are nicer to your people."


    Luo Jingyi shrugged her shoulders as she tried to remember what happened 18 hours ago.

 Chapter 6 - GO AHEAD AND DISOWN ME

    A/N: This chapter contains a flashback


    -----


    18 hours ago¡­


    "Have you heard it? Dr. Luo was exploding in anger again because one of the interns couldn''t insert a line in the femoral vein." The woman wearing purple scrubs reported as she washed her hands.


    "Was the intern punished?"


    "Of course. Do you think Dr. Wicked will pass it up? She was banned from entering the ER for two weeks and was sent to the records room to study cases and write case reports."


    "At least she wasn''t berated in front of the patient''s and wasn''t given more than half of the resident''s work assignments like she did to me on my first year."


    "Yeah, that was so embarrassing."


    "It was. When I showed up to do lumbar puncture the next day, his family refused to let me do it. They didn''t believe I was a doctor."


    "That was tough. I think my experience was the worst. I wasn''t allowed to scrub in for three months. I was training to be a surgeon but all I was doing was taking history, and performing rectal examinations."


    "I remember that. That''s why I went to Psychiatry. Because¡ª" The woman paused because one door opened and they saw Dr. Luo walking out the stall.


    The two panicked because Dr. Luo was the topic of their gossip. And if she''d been there for a while, it meant she heard what they''ve said.


    The woman in purple scrubs wanted to speak but couldn''t utter any sound.


    "You can continue." Luo Jingyi said after washing her hands and left the bathroom.


    Another door opened and Dr. Xu came out. The other doctor shook her head in disbelief and simply walked past them.


    They are dead.


    Outside, Jingyi came out with her brows furrowed.


    "Am I that terrible?" For the first time, she asked Xu Wei.


    "Yes, you are. Is that the answer you wanted?" She wanted to annoy Jingyi first.


    Jingyi ignored her and strode away. Xu Wei tried to match her steps.


    "You can''t really blame them. You are harsh on them and never let anyone see your soft side, of course, they''ll be scared. If I didn''t have a strong heart, I''d be skittish like them when you are around."


    Jingyi''s brows furrowed. "It''s for their own good."


    "I know. But the way you''re doing it was terrifying. Why don''t you try just for once? Huh? Be more gentle. Don''t traumatize the people around you." Xu Wei prodded as she placed her arm on the silent woman''s shoulders. Xu Wei had always been curious why Luo Jingyi was like this. What kind of story does she have? She''s reclusive, cynical and as much as opportunity presents, Jingyi avoids entanglement with other people. In the hospital, she was civil to everyone. Like there was an impenetrable wall around her. When she met her three years ago, Jingyi avoided her friendship. But like a leech, she attached herself to the surgeon. Xu Wei was drawn to her seriousness and driven attitude. Later, she discovered Jingyi wasn''t as wicked as everyone paints her to be. But if you cross her, her wickedness naturally comes out.


    ¡­.


    Back to the present, Xu Wei stood in the middle of her office like a mother scolding her child.


    "Was it bad?"


    Jingyi gave her signature alright expression which made Xu Wei smile more. That was Xu Wei''s goal. To make Jingyi learn to trust people too.


    "See? You didn''t die after being more pleasant to your team. You made everyone''s life easier. The mood at the ER this evening was much better. They weren''t as jumpy as usual."


    Whether Jingyi agreed to her statement or not, she was the only one who knew because she was quietly clearing her desk.


    "Are you heading home?"


    There was a short "En."


    Xu Wei walked to the fridge and grabbed something inside. "I''m taking this whole box."


    "That''s a lot of calories." Jingyi reminded when she saw Xu Wei finished a slice of brownies in two bites then went for her second. Xu Wei was one of those people who easily gain weight.


    "It''s okay love. I decided I will never try any diet plans out there. They are all useless anyway. I''m curvy, so what?"


    "That''s what I told you a dozen times." On Jingyi''s face was her I-told-you-so smirk.


    "So, you should make more of this," she said with a wink.


    "I can."


    "Awesome!" Xu Wei clapped her hands like a child.


    "But you need to pay."


    Xu Wei was speechless. She opened her mouth to refute her but closed it again.


    Oh well. At least there''s a reaction. The psychiatrist thought. She''s happy with the improvement in their interaction.


    When they both came out of the office, her research assistant was still on her desk.


    Jingyi would normally just passed by but taking into consideration what Xu Wei told her, she turned and reminded the woman, "You should go home too."


    The young research assistant was startled but only smiled. "Okay, Dr. Luo."


    "See you tomorrow. " Luo Jingyi waved.


    The research assistant raised her hand but retracted when her boss was already ambling away.


    .....


    Xu Wei dropped Jingyi home. Noticing the dark circles under Jingyi''s eyes, Xu Wei asked, "How many hours of sleep are you getting lately?"


    "Not much," Jingyi admitted. Since coming to this body, she suffers from insomnia. She''s lucky if she sleeps 2-3 hours at night before being awoken by dreams or any sound around her. Her ears had become sensitive to sounds.


    "Why don''t you come to my office tomorrow. Let''s try hypnotherapy."


    "I''ll think about it. Bye!" Jingyi jumped out of the car and got into her apartment building.


    This to Xu Wei, it translated no.


    Shaking her head, she drove off.


    Meanwhile, Luo Jingyi entered her code, got inside her apartment and removed her shoes. Then she puttered on the carpet, letting her feet be comforted by the fluffiness of it.


    The first thing she did was head to the kitchen and prepped a simple dinner. The food that the nurse bought for her was given to a beggar who usually sleeps on the benches outside the hospital. She noticed the man frequenting the garbage bags for leftovers since she moved to this city three years ago. Ever since then, she had given him food.


    After whipping a simple tuna sandwich, she carried the plate to the balcony, sat on the chair and ate her meal as she watched the city lights. Her apartment is on the 30th floor which gives an amazing view of the city.


    Her quiet reverie was startled with a ringing phone. Before she could greet the person on the other line, her father''s voice echoed in her ears. "What the heck are you doing? You are stirring trouble even if you are not in the capital."


    "Well hello father, I hope you''ve been well." Jingyi greeted the original body''s biological father.


    The man on the other line was startled because his docile daughter didn''t sound the same. Something was different in the manner she spoke. But he was still angry so he didn''t give it much thought.


    "Withdraw the case you filed against Dr. Chen!" There was a warning tone in his voice that sounded so familiar to her ears because she has the original''s memory.


    "Or what?"


    Han Peng was taken aback.


    "Do as I say if you don''t want me to disown you! You are nothing but an embarrassment."


    A simper came out of Jingyi''s lips as she listened to him roaring on the phone.


    "Father, aren''t you tired of threatening me with the same lines over and over again? Go ahead and disown me." she taunted and turned off her phone.

 Chapter 7 - GET A WIFE

    "Hello? hello? " Han Peng yelled in the line but it was the dial tone who answered him.


    He cursed and tried to dial again but the phone was turned off. His fatigued eyes showed irritation as he marched into the living room.


    "What did she say, husband?"


    "That good for nothing daughter of mine dropped the call on me," he replied to his wife with anger evident in his voice.


    "Don''t be mad. Maybe she has reasons. I will contact her tomorrow. I''m sure she will listen to me." Wang Hua assured him. Jingyi always followed her instructions.


    The anger in Han Peng''s face disappeared as he looked at his second wife. He thought it was wonderful to have a very understanding wife like her. Unlike his first, Jingyi''s mother who always argued with him.


    "You need to convince her to drop the case. If not, it would be difficult to get General Xiao Ping''s support in the next election. The General is the backer of Minister Chen."


    "I know what to do husband. I will do my best to convince her. Don''t worry." Wang Hua assured him. She desires to become a Minister''s wife so she will support his husband in everything.


    "Thank you, my wife. For treating the two like they are your children."


    "Don''t say that. Of course, they are yours. So they are my children too. But I feel sad that Han Mei is no longer with us." Wang Hua teared up with the mention of his first daughter who has gone missing for 10 years.


    Han Peng hugged his wife and kissed her forehead to calm her emotions. Every time Han Mei''s name was mentioned, she cries. His respect for his wife went a notch higher.


    ¡­..


    The next day, the sky was blue and the sun wasn''t as scorching hot as it was in the summer. It was such a fine day in the capital. However, in one of the most exclusive villas, the kitchen appeared to have been ravaged by a typhoon. Kitchen scraps were strewn on the kitchen counter, liquidy stuff dripping on the floor and dirty pots in the sink. The smell of food being burnt permeated everyone''s nose.


    The maids and the butler who stood on the side watched helplessly as their young master turned the squeaky clean kitchen into a dumpster. Since he woke up this morning, he''d been in the kitchen, trying whatever recipe he''d dreamt of.


    "I think I''ve put too much salt." He winced after giving it a taste.


    Rinsing his hands, he mumbled, "Throw it."


    The butler was about to place them in the bin when he heard him order, "No, give it to K1. He''d be honored to taste the food I made."


    ''Honored? It''s poison Young Master. Do you want to poison him because he failed his last mission?'' The butler tried his best to mask his grimace. He looked at the dish. It was barely palatable.


    "Are you still there?" Yun Jinghan asked his friend who he was having a video conference with.


    "Hmmm" the other man answered as if bored after watching him cook for more than 4 hours.


    "There''s an easy way to solve all your problems man. Talk to a doctor. I know someone in the circle. I mentioned your case and she recommended hypnosis."


    Ever since Yun Jinghan woke up from his car accident 8 years ago, he had these strange dreams of being in a strange land. This is not the first time his friend convinced him to see a doctor. And like many times in the past, he shrugged his shoulders and told him, "Life would be boring without these mysteries."


    "Up to you. I just wanted to make your life eas¡ª" he paused because Yun Jinghan ended the call.


    Yun Jinghan heard his grandmother bellowing at the main door.


    "Where is that despicable boy?!"


    "Boy? I''m not a boy grandma. Your good looking grandson is a man." Yun Jinghan placed an arm on his grandmother''s shoulders.


    The old woman extended her cane and hit him on the leg.


    "You brat! It took me a month to set up that date with Song Huan. Why didn''t you show up?!"


    "What date?" He squinted, looking confused.


    ''Please, stop pretending Young Master. You used the same drama two weeks ago.'' The butler thought.


    "Do not use those tactics again on me." Grandma Shen fumed. The old woman was well aware that it was his way of evading the topic of marriage.


    "What tactics? Aiyah-grandma, how could I cheat on you? You are my most beloved grandma in this world." Yun Jinghan smiled, showing two dents on his cheeks. That enchanting grin made grandma soften up however, she masked it with an angry face.


    "You are just like Nick. You all come up with reasons to avoid marriage. It''s good that he met Blythe and has gotten married. Now, Trinette calls me every day and boasts of the triplets. They are my grandchildren too but I don''t understand why the kids are always in France." She was referring to his first cousin on his mother''s side. Grandma Shen gave birth to triplets. Shen Qiao, Shen Lei, and Shen Ming. His mother is Shen Lei while Nick''s mother is Shen Qiao.


    "Of course because my cousin-in-law is very busy at this time. It''s fashion week in Paris grandma." He reminded her that Blythe is now a well-known fashion designer in the circle. Even if she didn''t bag the first place during the WDN Designing Contest, she emerged as the most successful one because she got offered by a top talent house right after the contest. From then on, her career soared. He is happy for his cousin but he didn''t want to be like Nick, following his wife everywhere. Nick moved his company''s headquarters in the capital but he manages it remotely, assigning most of the front line works to his right-hand man.


    Grandma Shen''s eyes smoldered with resentment. She wanted to cuddle those 3 little munchkins longer but the couple''s primary residence was in France. The rest of the year was divided into different cities where Blythe showcases most of her works. Jealousy was seething in her as the thought of Trinette monopolizing the kids.


    She also wants great-grandbabies. She felt a flash of irritation when she thought of her other two grandsons who didn''t seem to have plans to get married.


    By hook or by crook, Yun Jinghan and Shen Wei have to get married. How could she let them stop their lineage?


    "I am contacting Song Huan. You will meet her tonight." The old woman called out the butler to contact the Song family.


    At the same time, rushed steps were heard on one side and a woman''s voice reported, "Boss, bad news. Yun Jian got shot yesterday."


    "What?! What did you say happened to my great-grandson?" Grandma Shen''s face suddenly lost pallor. She has forgotten what she was about to do seconds earlier.


    "Reporting to Chairman, he was partying with his friends when a gunman fired inside the bar. He was unresponsive but the EMT still rushed Yun Jian to the nearest hospital. Luckily, he survived." Amy reported. She is Yun Jinghan''s assistant.


    "Why none of it was reported by the media?" The old woman was surprised as her granddaughter and her husband have a highly publicized life.


    "It was but I used TFC''s connection to seal the news immediately." TFC refers to Terra Firma Corporation, which is owned by Yun Jinghan.


    "I can''t believe someone wanted to murder my favorite great-grandson."


    "Grandma, I thought I''m your favorite." Yun Jinghan pouted.


    "Get a wife and I''ll call you my grandson." The woman scowled at him.


    Yun Jinghan''s expression dulled which looked comical to the eyes of the people around them. Only in front of his grandma that he uses this look.


    "Let''s go. What are you standing there for?" The old woman was already heading to the door.


    "Yeah, let''s go." Yun Jinghan put his hand on Grandma Shen''s arm to support her. At the same time, he gave a wink to Amy. Her timing was right in time. At least, his grandma would have forgotten the date for now.


    On the sidelines, his butler and the maids shook their heads. The subject of marriage has been avoided by their young master since time immemorial. He doesn''t avoid women like plague as most fiction would paint powerful CEO''s but he hasn''t found Ms. Right yet. He always told them, marriage is a lifetime commitment. He''s going to marry when he finds the one.


    "Well done Amy. I''ll give you a raise." Yun Jinghan tapped Amy''s shoulder before he entered the car with a grin.

 Chapter 8 - CHEN FAMILY

    Luo Jingyi stirred when the pitter-patter of rain drifted to her ears. A quick look at the digital clock told her she slept more than 6 hours. Feeling recharged, she stretched lazily. Whatever Han Peng told her last night, it was already forgotten by the time she went to bed. She didn''t want to stir their attention in the capital yet. But it seemed, dealing with the Han''s was inevitable.


    Her brown eyes fell outside. Drawn by the rain trickling down the glass, she jumped out of the bed and stepped closer to the window.


    Ever since coming to this world, she has a love and hate relationship with the rain. There''s an inexplicable affinity. Because it was the one which comforted her on her death. At the same time, there''s that hatred. Every time it rains, it dampens her moods. Perhaps, because all the bad moments in her life¡ªwhether past or present¡ªhappened when it was raining. Looking at the present, it felt there was impending doom.


    "What could it be this time?" she murmured softly. Ignoring that feeling, she decided not to put much thought into it.


    In the kitchen, she prepped a vegetarian meal. While she was mixing up the vegetables, her eyes fell to the reporter on tv.


    "Retired Finance Minister Chen Hao released a public announcement that his son, Minister Chen and his grandson, Dr. Chen Guozhi were no longer part of the Chen family. The former is under investigation for embezzlement of public funds and money laundering while the latter is facing multiple counts of murder. We weren''t able to interview the retired minister because he left to get medical treatment overseas for his long term ailment. Through his lawyer, an announcement has been made. His shares for GM Gen Hospital were already sold and all other equities in his name will be distributed to the family of his grandson''s victims."


    Jingyi looked at the television blankly The last sentence painted the old man Chen to be honorable. They just didn''t have an idea. Her mind went to what happened 3 days before.


    ---Flashback---


    Three days ago...


    Luo Jingyi placed the documents in front of the old man. Chen Hao''s timeworn face was scrunched up with anger.


    "I didn''t know that after giving Gen. Lacroix''s a favor, you are going to stab me like this?"


    "Let''s be honest Chairman. It wasn''t because of the General''s recommendation that I got the job. It was by my own merits. And let''s not deny that you''ve used my name in every chance to promote the hospital''s trauma program. "


    In the medical circle, Luo Jingyi is a well-known trauma and cardiothoracic surgeon. There were better offers before she decided to join GM Gen. Hospital. The old man offered her the position Chief of Surgery but she refused. She doesn''t want to spend time on the organizational aspect of the surgery department which involves more of brushing shoulders with well-known people rather than being in the OR to save lives. She preferred being hands-on.


    She was an attending at the hospital but he gave her as much freedom as Chief Zhao has. With her strategic move, GM Gen. Hospital which was Level 2 trauma center rose to Level 1 in a span of a year.


    What Dr. Luo said was true. Although they paid her handsomely for her work, it''s true that his family benefited a lot. The hospital revived his family''s reputation which has been mudded after the continuous declaration of bankruptcy.


    "But 40% of the shares is daylight robbery, Dr. Luo."


    "Chairman, I''m buying the shares at its current value. It''s not a loss for you. On top of that, I am offering you a way out. This is to protect the hospital. Once your son and grandson get arrested, the hospital shares will plummet. Do you want it to be destroyed?"


    He didn''t want to. The hospital was started by his forefathers and he promised on her mother''s graves, he will protect it.


    "Can I buy it back in the future? "


    "You can''t. " Luo Jingyi admitted honestly.


    "Why not?" Anger was starting to well up in his chest.


    "Because it''s ours, to begin with."


    The old man was surprised by her answer and prodded, "What do you mean? "


    Luo Jingyi was too lazy to go further. At the same time, it will be difficult to explain.


    "Why don''t you sign the document?" she asked seconds later and pushed the pen in front of him.


    He took the pen that felt so heavy in his grasp. The man didn''t even skim over the documents and signed.


    "Are you sure you don''t want to read it? "


    "It doesn''t matter."


    "Then you wouldn''t mind paying 15 million each for all his victims?"


    "What?!" The man trembled with rage. He grabbed the document but Jingyi already took the originals and placed a copy on the table.


    " Please look at the last page."


    Chairman Chen''s knees weakened. He mumbled incorrigibly, "No-No- I didn''t sign anything-will- sue you."


    "Be my guest. But you will just drag your family''s name down to the mud."


    The man felt he was going to have a heart attack. He can''t believe he lost everything because of his grandson.


    "At least with this, you''ll be seen as the hero. That''s my parting gift Chairman. I hope you have a speedy recovery." Jingyi said when she stood up. But as a doctor, Jingyi knew he only has 2-3 months left.


    Before she walked away, she turned back.


    "By the way, I never stab from behind Chairman. People who do that are cowards. I always confront my enemies from the front."


    ---end of flashback---


    Thinking of it now, she could have spared Chairman Chen but he closed his eyes to the truth. He was aware of Chen Guozhi using people as test subjects in his experiments but he did nothing. He went as far as bribing the police when someone suspected Dr. Chen. He might have done the same thing if she wasn''t quick enough to trap them in her elaborate plans.


    Perhaps his illness was retribution. Although you can never put a price on someone''s life, she simply hoped that the families of the victim would be appeased.


    Shaking her head, Jingyi turned off the stove and suddenly didn''t have the appetite to eat.


    She went back to the bedroom. As she was rummaging through her closet, her brows were furrowed because it felt like she didn''t have enough clothes. She made a mental note to go shopping.


    In the end, she chose a dark blue sleeveless dress and put on a gray cardigan. Feeling satisfied with her attire, she left the bedroom, grabbed her car keys and left her apartment.


    ¡­


    Thirty minutes later, Luo Jingyi was having difficulty in finding a parking spot because someone else has taken her assigned lot. When she managed to find one, she had to park slowly to avoid hitting someone else car, especially that the vehicles were too close. She scoured for an umbrella at the backseat, but finding none, she jumped out and sprinted to the entrance.


    Suddenly, a black car passed through and she got splashed on by puddle of water.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me?!" she yelped, looking at her dress.

 Chapter 9 - WANTED TO MARRY

    Luo Jingyi couldn''t help cursing the vehicle which was making a turn at the curb. She swore if she''d seen who the driver was, she''s going to smack the face.


    "Good afternoon Dr. Luo. Bad weather, isn''t it?" The guard greeted as he handed the towel to her.


    Jingyi took it and wiped the water stains on her face and hair.


    "Morning Mr. Sun. Thanks for the towel." Jingyi called him Mr. Sun because he wears this smile on his face. He always reminded her of her family''s steward. Although they don''t look the same they have this happy and sunny countenance which was very infectious.


    "No problem Dr. Luo. Would you like coffee?"


    "Sure. Give a cup to that man in that corner too, will you?" She pointed at the beggar who was taking shelter at the corner. The beggar appeared to be shivering.


    "I can drive him away if you like." The guard suggested.


    "No, as long as he doesn''t disrupt anyone, let him stay."


    Mr. Sun nodded. At the same time, wondered why everyone says Dr. Luo was wicked as a witch but she always takes time to talk to lowly people like him. Even the beggars were treated with respect.


    .....


    As soon as Jingyi arrived at her office, she changed her clothes and grabbed the hairdryer.


    Ten minutes later, she came out and headed to the ICU to start her rounds. Dr. Lin joined her.


    "How is patient LD85''s hemoglobin and hematocrit levels?"Jingyi asked about a 52-year-old man who was brought in complaining of abdominal pain. The hospital uses 2 alphabets each day to label the patients. LD was the code 2 days ago and the old man was patient #85. Jingyi proposed this so that it would be easier to track patients. Things like, when did the patient arrive at the hospital, who were the doctors on duty and etc. At the same time, with the number of patients getting in and out of the emergency room, remembering all their names would be difficult.


    "They are 7.6 g/dl and 22.1% respectively. According to his CT, there''s a moderate amount of hemoperitoneum due to gastric artery rupture." Dr. Lin reported as she matched her strides.


    "Schedule him for angioembolization. Send Dr. He to observe and let her write a case report."


    Dr. Lin nodded.


    "How''s Yun Jian?"


    "He''s awake now."


    "Is he? That''s a surprise."


    Dr. Lin was also astonished when the nurses informed her. Because it normally takes 12-24 hours before patients like him would wake up after surgery.


    Luo Jingyi found Yun Jian''s parents in the room. His father was sitting next to the bed, grasping the hand as if it was his lifeline while his mother was standing on the sides with crossed arms.


    Jingyi ambled closer and put on a gentle smile on her face.


    "I''m Dr. Luo. How do you feel?" Jingyi asked as she checked for discoloration and swelling on his leg. She lifted the blanket on him.


    "In pain," he said shyly. The teenager felt embarrassed because he felt exposed in front of the beautiful doctor.


    "The pain is normal for now. Can you try to move your leg?" The teenager followed and noting his movements were normal, Jingyi reminded him to let the nurses know if he suddenly feels discomfort in his leg.


    "Put him in low molecular weight heparin therapy. Continue monitoring him. If everything is normal, move him to the normal ward later."


    Dr. Lin made a note of the instructions.


    "Doctor, thank you." It was Yun Jian who tried to speak.


    "Oh, you should thank your lucky stars."


    Suddenly, there was an upward arc on his face. It was a smile that can make any young maiden''s heart somersault. "Then doctor, thank you. Because you are my lucky star."


    Outside Dr. Lin observed closely Dr. Luo''s expression. She thought the other doctor would be unhappy. Instead, Dr. Luo was smiling.


    The senior resident heard her exclaim, "He''s still a kid but he knows how to flirt."


    ¡­..


    Meanwhile, Grandma Shen and Yun Jinghan were on their way to Shanghai. In the private jet, Yun Jinghan was working on his computer while his grandma was in another settee watching to distract herself. From time to time, she would look at her watch. She looked very agitated.


    Yun Jinghan retracted his gaze on her and focused on the documents he was reviewing. It was a 2-hour flight but he didn''t want to waste any minute doing nothing.


    "Boss, look at this." Amy handed the tablet to him.


    Yun Jinghan skimmed over the report.


    "Find out who the old man sold his shares to. "


    "Copy that boss. " Two fingers were placed on her forehead in a form of salute.


    The old man he was referring to was Chen Hao. Yesterday, his grandson, Chen Guozhi was arrested for multiple murder charges. At the same time, the evidence against Prime Minister Chen was submitted to the court. Hence, both father and son''s cases were all being reported by the media.


    Yun Jinghan had been eyeing to acquire GM General Hospital and he was flying to Shanghai next week to discuss his proposition. However, this happened. He was planning to dip into the healthcare industry. So instead of starting one, it was better to acquire hospitals that were already existing and operational. GM Gen. Hospital was a good place to start from.


    From the background check his people conducted, he was aware of Minister Chen''s illegal dealings, but not about Chen Guozhi''s.


    Both of them got away for a long time, why did pieces of evidence suddenly come to light?


    How did the police acquire these evidences?


    He can smell something odd in it.


    Or was someone behind all of this?


    ..


    The moment Yun Jinghan stepped out of the car, a man in a black suit put an umbrella over his head. Another one protected his grandmother.


    At the entrance, Dr. Zhao stood there to welcome them. As soon as he heard that Chairman Shen of Shen Food Corporation was coming, he left the meeting room in haste.


    He was panting when he spoke, "I''m sorry Chairman Shen. I was in the OR when I heard of you coming."


    Yun Jinghan brows furrowed when he saw the man touch his grandmother''s hand. He asked, "Who are you?"


    Dr. Zhao looked at the handsome man beside Chairman Shen. Although he has no idea who he was, he gives off a powerful vibe. He seemed to be a person you couldn''t trifle with.


    "I''m Dr. Zhao, Chief of Surgery in this hospital."


    "Were you the one who operated on my great-grandson?"


    "No, but¡ª"


    "Then move aside. Show me his room." Chairman Shen could sense his ill intent. She wouldn''t have revived Shen Food Corporation and bring it to unprecedented heights without her ability to read people''s intentions.


    Although the Chief felt disappointed, he politely ushered them to where Yun Jian was move to 20 minutes ago.


    As soon as the old woman entered, she ran to the teenager''s side and asked, " What happened to my most handsome great-grandson?"


    "It was nothing grandma."


    "What nothing?! You almost died. If you died before me, your grandpa will rise from the graves and scares me to death." she cried.


    The exaggeration made the siblings look at each other.


    Yun Jinghan ambled closer to his sister. "Has the gunman been arrested?"


    Yun Yi shook her head. Worry was all over her face.


    "I''ll let my people look for him. Don''t worry about it," he assured her. Although their age gap was 10 years, they were very close. They look after each other.


    Suddenly, Yun Jian said, "Uncle, I found the woman I wanted to marry."

 Chapter 10 - DESIRES

    "Uncle I found the woman I wanted to marry. When he said that, all eyes were on Yun Jian.


    "Really? How many times did you say that to me." Yun Jinghan winked at him. Not taking what his nephew said seriously.


    "Yeah."


    "Tell me about her. Is she pretty?" Grandma prodded.


    Remembering the doctor earlier, he blushed and said, "She is."


    Yun Yi''s forehead puckered at her son''s gibberish words. "Don''t listen to him. He just got shot and he still has time to joke around."


    "I''m not joking mom."


    Unable to restrain herself, she knocked on her son''s head. "You are barely an adult and you are talking about marriage. Young man, don''t forget we haven''t discussed why were you in Shanghai in the first place."


    Grandma Shen pushed aside Yun Yi''s hand and clacked, "Do not do that. You are injuring him more. Why are you so pent-up?"


    Because she was already used to her grandmother''s habits, Yun Yi shook her head and told the old woman, "That''s why he never learns. You spoil him too much grandma."


    Yun Yi turned to her brother''s direction. "Jinghan send him to Moscow. He needs to learn."


    Yun Jian knew that if his mother decides on something, it will never change. Thus he turned to the only person who can support him.


    "I don''t want to go there, grandma. Please. I only want to stay with you." He begged her because he knew was his only ally.


    The tears made Grandma Shen turn to Yun Yi and scolded her harshly, "What kind of mother are you? He just got shot and you want to send him there. Do you want him to die?"


    "Don''t treat him like a baby grandma. For god''s sake, he is 17 years old."


    "He is my only great-grandson. Why should I not spoil him?"


    Hearing the same reasoning for the umpteenth time, Yun Yi rolled her eyes.


    "Jinghan, go find a wife and make babies. My son has to be treated like an adult."


    ''Why are you turning against me, sis?'' Jinghan glared at his sister. Once the word wife will be mentioned, grandma Shen will pester him to death.


    "Oh yeah, I remember. Give me your phone and I will call Song Huan" Grandma Shen requested to Yun Yi when she remembered something.


    Damn! Yun Jinghan cursed inside his head.


    ¡­.


    Because the couple had to leave for France the next day, it was decided that Yun Jian will be moved to Newlife University and Medical Center in the capital so grandma can look after him.


    Dr. Zhao tried his best to convince the family but Chairman Shen was resolute. No amount of prodding could change their decision.


    "Can I speak to the doctor who saved my grandson?"


    "I am sorry. Dr. Luo is at the OR at the moment. But if you could wait for an hour, perhaps you can meet her."


    "I''ll take care of it, grandma. Anyway, I needed to stay to talk to the police. You need to fly before the weather gets worse."


    Grandma Shen nodded but reminding him of his date. The corner of Jinghan''s eyes crinkled but he assured the old woman he would go.


    The Chief of Surgery had no choice but to agree and arranged one resident to accompany Yun Jian in the helicopter.


    As the helicopter gets farther and farther from his sight, Dr. Zhao sighed. Upon learning that Yun Jian was the only great-grandson of Chairman Shen, he wanted to use the opportunity to be close to her. He went as far as contacting reporters so the hospital will be put in the spotlight. Good publicity was what he needed to secure that CEO spot. But the old woman rejected him in the beginning.


    He clenched his fist and murmured, "One day. I''ll be more powerful than you."


    When Dr. Zhao returned to his office and found the memo sent by the management, he was in deep thought. According to it, there will be a general meeting five days later.


    He then ordered his assistant, "Go find out who did Chairman Chen sell his shares to?"


    The assistant left. When he returned an hour later, he handed the information in his hand.


    "Dr. Zhao, most of his shares were acquired by Zhen Holdings."


    "Never heard of it. "


    "It''s not local. It''s registered in Hong Kong. Other than the information on their website, our man couldn''t find anything about this company."


    "What kind of crap is this?!" Dr. Zhao threw the paper to his assistant.


    "Tell him, if he didn''t want to be jobless, he should figure out who is the person behind Zhen Holdings!" his bellow reverberated inside his office.


    The assistant collected the papers that were thrown to the floor and left in haste.


    ¡­.


    On the other side of the hospital, after wrapping up her last surgery for the day, Luo Jingyi wandered off to the ER to look for the head nurse. Her stomach grumbled.


    "Has anyone ordered food?" she asked no one in particular when she got to the nurses station. This startled the nurses who were gossiping about the Chen family. They were discussing their worries now that Chen''s no longer owned the hospital. One of their biggest questions was, what''s going to happen to them? Everyone received the memo. Rumors flew here and there. The VP was the interim CEO until the Board of Directors could decide who''s going to take the empty spot. The previous one stepped down voluntarily for his involvement with Minister Chen''s cases.


    The head nurse who returned to the station answered her. "We didn''t. Yun Jian''s family sent food while you were in the OR."


    "Has everyone eaten?"


    "We were waiting for you."


    "Why did you have to wait for me?" Her brows were furrowed again. When no one answered, she ordered, "Page the residents and interns." before she entered the pantry. In the past, she never ate with them. These couple of hours, she realized that maybe Xu Wei was right. She needs to stop being a cynic.


    After finally filling in her empty stomach, she came out of the room because she was paged. There was a phone call for her. There was only one person who would call her through the hospital line. In case she couldn''t be contacted on her personal number. Her phone was left on her table after she turned it off, seeing that her stepmother had been calling her numerous times.


    "Are there any updates?" she asked with anticipation.


    The man on the other line cleared his throat before he spoke, "All the bodies found in his garden has been tagged and identified."


    The pause in the line made her somewhat nervous.


    "And?" she quizzed, having a very bad feeling about it.


    "Your sister''s body wasn''t among them."

 Chapter 11 - WHERE IS SHE?

    The next day, Luo Jingyi entered the small room and what assailed her nose was the scent of old coffee, sweat and cigarette smoke mixing together. The minute she sat on the empty chair, the locked facility gave her a claustrophobic sensation, desiring to flee in an instant. It reminded her of that small prison cell where she locked in her last life. It took that sheer determination to get over with the task that stopped her from bolting out the door. Jingyi heard footsteps echoing outside before the door opened and Dr. Chen Guozhi was ushered in by two prison guards. It''s only been a day but he looked horrible. Gone are his well-polished up-do and squeaky clean face. There were scratches on his face and some red stains on his prison-issued clothing.


    The moment Chen Guozhi saw her, he rushed to her side in anger. But the prison guards pulled him just in time.


    "Sit!" A burly guard pushed him into the chair.


    "You can leave us." Luo Jingyi signaled the two. The guards were reluctant to leave a dangerous man alone with the doctor but there were words from the top. Listen to Dr. Luo''s orders. So after making sure he was bound to the chair by the chains, they left.


    "How are you, Dr. Chen?"


    The question made him want to spit blood. She was the one who sent him to prison. The moment he was arrested, his grandfather disowned him. None of his so-called friends wanted to help him. His prospects of getting out were next to zero.


    "Why are you here?" He gnashed his teeth. He swore, if it wasn''t the cold handcuffs confining his wrist, he''s going to kill her.


    Luo Jingyi crossed her arms and leaned on the chair. "You know why I''m here. Where did you bury her?"


    Chen Guozhi smirked. "If I tell you, will you guarantee my release?"


    Her eyes bored into him. She expected this. So she shook her head."No."


    "Don''t you want to know what I did to her body? Her body was so pure that I saved her for the last. She was screaming¡ªcalling her little sister''s name¡ªbegging to be spared. But¡ª"


    The words pounded into her ears, that it triggered memories of past life and present. Rage consumed her and she found herself out of control. For the first time, Luo Jingyi lost her composure. She punched him in the face and a loud bang echoed across the room. The guards hurried inside and found Chen Guozhi down onto the floor.


    Her eyes burned in anger as she looked at him. "Remember this, whatever pain you''ve given her, I''ll return it to you a hundred folds."


    "Take him."


    The guards pulled him out of the room.


    When she was alone, Luo Jingyi felt her knees weakened. There was that burning feeling in the throat. The feeling of wanting to vent out. She didn''t know if it was the original body''s emotions or it was her own regret that made her snap. Unable to pin it out, she squeezed her eyes shut and leaned on the wall to collect herself.


    After some time, she left the place and walked on the avenue, feeling lost. Memories of the host played in her head. It all started thirteen years ago, Han Peng divorced Luo Xiaofei right after she was kicked out of the hospital board and was facing criminal charges. Han Mei and Han Jingyi were in their father''s custody. One night, someone broke into the house and took the children, put them in the trunk and drove off. That''s what the original body remembered last. The next time Jingyi woke up, it was in the hospital. Her father said, Han Mei was missing and the police were looking for her. After two years of searching, Han Peng stopped all the searches and she was declared dead. But Jingyi didn''t want to give up so she hired an investigator. Eventually, there was a lead which she followed before she stumbled on a bigger plot that led to her demise. The original body wanted to find whoever killed her sister but she died before getting a closure.


    The original body was very smart. However, she had a handicap. She was reckless in making decisions. When she came to this body, she promised to give the two sisters a closure. To let the people involved pay for their crimes. She can''t kill them but she can let them rot in prison.


    ¡­..


    It was evening by the time Luo Jingyi got home. She dumped the shopping bags on the sofa, feeling exhausted walking around. Somehow, shopping helped to calm her and made her forget what happened earlier in the day. After showering and changing into sleeping, she went to bed. But after tossing and turning for an hour, she gave up.


    In the end, she grabbed a bottle of wine, carried it to the window and poured herself a drink.


    When the liquid entered her throat, it quenched the thirst she had been feeling. She reminded herself that tonight, she just wanted to enjoy the wine and sleep. She repeatedly chanted that she was not an alcoholic. In the past, there was a point in her life that she needed alcohol to lull her to sleep. Good thing, she woke up before it became an addiction.


    That''s why she likes being in the OR. It keeps her busy and won''t give her much window to think of useless things.


    She leaned on the glass and looked out.


    "Living in this world would have been perfect if¡ª" whatever she wanted to say was swallowed by the ringing of her phone.


    Answering the call, a woman''s voice filled her ears. "I hope you won''t abandon me on my wedding day."


    Jingyi''s whole face lit up. Xu Wei was wrong about her not being close to anyone. There are a few people she trusts. That includes the woman on the other line. Her name is Eunice Lacroix. They became close after Eunice''s mom saved her 8 years ago. Eunice was getting married in three days and she asked her to be her bridesmaid.


    "I''ll be there. Hello? We are in the same city." Jingyi rolled her eyes.


    "Good. I thought you are going MIA on me."


    MIA? Jingyi thought.


    ''Ah, missing in action.''


    That is another thing about the present world.


    "It was on my calendar." Jingyi reminded the woman.


    "It probably was because I told your intern to mark it in." she spat.


    "Even if you didn''t, I would remember it. I miss Aunt too."


    "Which aunt? Do you mean mom? I told you many times, it''s mom."


    Jingyi was quiet. She has reasons why she can''t call her mom. But never dared to voice it out.


    Hearing that the line went silent, Eunice sighed and asked her, "Are you bringing someone?"


    "Do I need to?"


    "You don''t have to. But I got to remind you, mom has lined dates for you." Then a peal of crisp laughter followed.


    Jingyi''s nose crinkled. ''Again?'' she thought.


    "Well, you just have to bring someone if you didn''t want to be pestered incessantly by mom. You know how hopeless romantic she is. At the same time, don''t forget to give me a fat red packet. Okay? I gotta go. Don''t be late! If you are, I''ll never forgive you."


    Like the wind, Eunice breezed in and blew.


    Jingyi was left in a daze, wondering, does she really need a friend in this life?


    =======


    A/N: Her original name was Han Jingyi. However, 10 years ago she dropped Han and took her mother''s last name. Hence, she is called Luo Jingyi.

 Chapter 12 - MIRACLE OF BIRTH

    Three days later..


    After performing back to back surgery, Luo Jingyi left the hospital and sprinted to the hotel adjacent to the hospital. Knowing that she was constraint of time, Eunice arranged everything so she could get her hair and makeup done. She was supposed to join the family last night, however, she missed it because there was a multiple vehicle collision which kept their hospital busy for the whole night.


    Thirty minutes later, she took a taxi to the venue. As soon as she sat, the lingering odors of coffee and food eaten in the car mixing with cheap perfume wafted to her nose. Feeling stifled with the smell, Luo Jingyi rolled the windows down. A gust of wind touched her cheeks, making her wish of autumn. The rain which had been pouring for the past days stopped but it left that dewy scent hanging in the air.


    After a while, remembering she had last-minute instructions for a patient, she reached her phone and sent messages to the senior residents who were at duty this time.


    Suddenly, the car braked followed by a weird clanking sound. She lifted her attention from the phone and looked ahead.


    She asked, "What happened?"


    "The car shut down. Wait here. I can fix it." The man hastily got off and opened the hood.


    Giving her wristwatch a furtive glance told her that the wedding was about to start. At this moment, Luo Jingyi made a decision to walk since the venue was already closeby rather than waiting for the carriage to be repaired. And deducing from the man''s expression outside, the car won''t be fixed any minute now.


    Luo Jingyi got off and walked closer to the man. She opened her purse, scoured for bills and handed them to the man. Feeling happy for the extra, he smiled, showing his crooked teeth.


    "Thank you." she heard the man murmured.


    Alighting from the taxi in the middle of the road, she was sandwiched in between moving cars. A honk made her jump and step back.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me!" she yelled before crossing slowly with pursed lips.


    The moment she got to the pavement, relief surged in. She puttered on the busy avenue, clad in a pastel blue tea organza dress. The tea-length dress was sleeveless, exposing her milky white skin which is usually covered with a doctor''s coat. The sash knotted in front emphasized her thin waist and slender frame. With her hair braided and coiled on top like a crown, she looked like an immortal goddess who has descended on Earth to seduce men.


    Luo Jingyi ignored the whistle that flew as she walked past people at a hurried pace. Walking in stilettos was a bad idea. If there''s something she hates in this new world, it''s wearing a pair of heels. Plus, she stood for more than 15 hours in surgery, to begin with. She''s tired, edgy and cranky at the same time.


    Suddenly, a woman''s scream prompted her to turn. Right at the entrance of a hotel, she sighted a very pregnant woman who was hitting a man with her handbag. There was a scantily dressed woman behind the man, cowering in fear.


    "You told me you are working overtime. Is staying in a hotel overnight overtime? F*** you!" She heard the woman bellowed.


    Another man approached the pregnant lady in an attempt to stop her but she never yielded. He was thrown off the ground. The woman was akin to a gorilla on a rampage.


    "Is this what you have been doing? After you make me pregnant, you are looking ¨C for another to dip into. How dare¡ªyou. Your family is a¡ª" the pregnant woman suddenly stopped as her steps faltered. She held her stomach in pain when the violent contraction came in.


    "Oh damn!" Luo Jingyi murmured as the woman slumped on the ground. Blood was running down her legs.


    Then, someone shouted to call a doctor. In a swift motion, Luo Jingyi turned back and went to the woman''s direction, forgetting there is a wedding she had to attend to.


    ¡­.


    Yun Jinghan was coming out of the hotel when he heard the commotion. When he turned, he saw a pregnant lady falling, instead of moving aside, he dropped his bag and caught her. He stabled the woman.


    "Easy there."


    Seeing that the husband didn''t pay heed to the pregnant wife and moved away to protect the other woman, Luo Jingyi couldn''t help muttering, "Jerk"


    The woman yelled when another violent contraction happened, burying her nails into Yun Jinghan''s wrist.


    "I''m Dr. Luo. I''m going to check on you. What''s your name?" she spoke gently while she was searching for a pair of gloves inside her clutch.


    "Lin Qing. I''m due at the¡ªend of this week." In between the pain, she muttered.


    Luo Jingyi lifted the woman''s maternity dress and assessed. Based on the stains on her legs, the woman''s bag of water must have broken down earlier. The contractions were less than a minute and her dilation was almost 8 cm.


    "She won''t make it to the hospital," she said to no one in particular.


    When Luo Jingyi glanced up, her eyes caught a pair of obsidian eyes staring at her intently. They were sharp that it seemed to pierce through people''s hearts. His dark hair frames his exquisite facial features, charming eyebrows, and red lips. She blinked to make sure she wasn''t looking at a mirage. However, it was real. Another image overlap in her head.


    Huh?! What are you doing? She shook her head when she realized she was in a daze.


    Returning her attention to the pregnant woman, Luo Jingyi contemplated the best option without risking the mother and child. Looking around, the sign of a veterinary clinic caught her attention.


    Without delaying further, she ordered the three men, "Could you carry her to the clinic?"


    Although it was a polite request there was a domineering tone in it, which won''t make you refuse her. Yun Jinghan told the other men what they are going to do and in seconds, she was lifted carefully.


    Following them, she ran.


    "God! Whoever made stilettos, I''m going to kill him." Luo Jingyi complained as she removed the pair of silver Louboutins and barefoot, followed the three inside the clinic.


    "Do you have a sterile room?" she directed the question to the receptionist who was about to yell for the sudden intrusion. She halted upon seeing the woman with a big bulge being carried in.


    "We have one. Follow me."


    Inside the room, the woman was placed on a bed.


    "Get me clean towels," she ordered immediately.


    "You can all go."


    The man looked at each other and but, Yun Jinghan stayed.


    ¡­.


    "Stop staring." Luo Jingyi snapped at the man whose eyes were glued on her.


    "Sorry." He apologized and looked elsewhere.


    Luo Jingyi shrugged her shoulders and opened the drawers, rummaging for the things she needed. As she was cleaning her hands, a woman in a white coat appeared by the doorway.


    "What are you doing?"


    "She''s 40 weeks pregnant with 8 cm dilation. I need to deliver the baby."


    The other woman nodded, took the clean towels from the receptionist and instructed her, "Go get my kit."


    Luo Jingyi turned to two people behind her and assigned roles to each. The handsome man who kept staring at her was assigned to support the pregnant woman in the back while the vet will take care of the newborn baby.


    ¡­..


    "Take a deep breath. Okay, that''s good.."


    The room was filled again with the woman''s screams. The contraction was intensely strong and she will give birth in any second.


    "Let''s try to push it. Bend your head like this and push. Can you do that?" Luo Jingyi instructed with calmness.


    The woman nodded in tears. She just wanted to be over with it.


    "Support her head and make sure she won''t overstrain her neck upwards." Luo Jingyi ordered the vet''s assistant. Unlike this one, there was no softness in it.


    "Ready, let''s go..one¡ªtwo¡ªthree¡ªpush!"


    For a moment, Yun Jinghan felt the room went in slow motion as he studied Luo Jingyi. She calmed the woman and helped her give birth. She has a serious countenance he found so attractive at this moment. She was like shrouded with halo, shining brightly, drawing him to her. At the same time, there were images popping in and out of his head.


    Woah! Where did that come from? He asked himself.


    A crying baby brought him out of his trance, followed by, her commanding voice, "Hand me the clip."


    Yun Jinghan didn''t know that he had been gawking for too long that the baby was already wrapped in a towel and was on the woman''s chest. There was elation on the new mom''s face.


    While the woman was distracted, Luo Jingyi clipped the umbilical cord and cleaned up the woman.


    Both the vet and Jingyi were smiling. Unknowingly they murmured at the same time, "The miracle of birth."

 Chapter 13 - POOR WRIST

    Outside the room, a cheer was heard when the baby''s cry sounded. The people who helped earlier stayed and waited instead of leaving.


    The door was pushed and a paramedic entered. "Where is the patient?"


    The people looked at him incredulously for arriving late.


    Five minutes later, the new mom was loaded inside the ambulance and Luo Jingyi thanked the vet before stared at the man. She''d seen him once in a banquet in the palace. Just a fleeting glance but she remembered well because the moment her eyes met his, she thought he was dangerous. His eyes reminded her of ruthless and coldblooded killers. In fear, she retracted her gaze and went to search for the 2nd Prince. Back then, she was a love-struck idiot that she only wanted to meet the man who gave her stomach butterflies so she didn''t pay heed to what her brother said about this guy.


    Even at present, looking at the glint at the corner of his eyes was sending her signals that this man was dangerous. Jingyi saw him gave a half-smile noticing that she was studying him intently. Awkwardness inundated her.


    ''What are you doing Jingyi? He was just a look-alike.''


    Shaking her head, she reminded herself to stop overthinking and she turned away. However, a grip on her wrist stopped her.


    "Wait, I want to ask you something."


    With much impatience showing in her eyes, she asked, "What is it?"


    "10 years ago, have you ever been to Sundance Mountain Lodge?"


    ''Why should I answer you?''


    But she didn''t know why. When she looked at his eyes, they were like sucking her into a whirlpool of something. She found herself shaking her head and answered, "No."


    "Are you sure?"


    "I''m certain."


    Something passed on his face before he let go of her wrist.


    "Why was he asking me this?'' She''d been to Sundance Mountain Lodge before. When she fled the morgue 8 years ago, Alice Lacroix brought her to this place to recuperate. But she''s never going to tell a stranger about her.


    A Jingyi shrugged her shoulders and turned away.


    "Wait!" he called out seconds later.


    "What?!"


    "Could I call you?"


    "Why?"


    "I want to get to know you."


    Luo Jingyi scowled at him. "Mister, you don''t have any originality. That line has been recycled many times. Plus, I''m not interested in knowing you."


    Luo Jingyi spun around and walked away.


    The man gave a lopsided grin and yelled. "Yun Jinghan. That''s my name."


    "It''s not cliche!" He added seconds later.


    Yun? Wait a minute... Yun Jian... Yun Jinghan... Is he related to Yun Shan, the VP of Yun Corporation?


    There are only a few people surnamed Yun in the country. Something flashed her eyes but she quickly tucked it away and entered the vehicle. As soon as she was seated, her attention went to the baby and the mother, monitoring them closely.


    Yun Jinghan watched the car disappear with the smile still plastered on his face.


    "Young Master." The man came out of nowhere and stood behind him.


    "Phone." When K2 handed the phone, he called his assistant.


    "Amy, where are you?"


    "I''m still at the studio boss, wrapping up the details with the store manager."


    "Good. Take the Aileen dress and deliver it to GM General Hospital. Give it to Dr. Luo."


    What?! Boss, are you crazy?


    "But boss, that dress has to be showcased during the opening event next week. ZK won''t¡ª" she paused because he threw a question to her.


    "Amy, who is the boss, you or me?"


    "Of course it''s you. It''s just ZK will go ballistics if we take one dress out of this collection."


    "And so?"


    When Amy sensed his devil-may-care attitude, she gulped down whatever she wanted to say and answered, "Affirmative boss."


    "And don''t forget a pair of heels."


    Amy thought she would have a heart attack. Taking the dress out of the collection was already a crime. Stealing from ZK''s prized accessories, she''s purely inviting death. But what could she do? What Yun Jinghan wants, Yun Jinghan gets. His mantra, do it and don''t complain.


    Amy just needed to figure out how to get away from ZK''s wrath.


    "What kind of crime did I commit in my last life that I was given a devil boss?" she groaned out loud.


    The designer she was having a video meeting with asked, "Why? What did he ask you to do again?"


    "He said¡ª" she was about to blurt out but closed her lips when she remembered who she was talking to. "Nothing, Mrs. Li. Just some company matters."


    ¡­..


    "Dainty." Yun Jinghan murmured.


    "Young Master?" K2 looked at the rearview mirror and saw the big boss studying the pair of stilettos with much interest. He was smiling as he put down those female things on his hand. The next second, when he seemed to have remembered something, he ordered coldly, "Let''s go."


    The dangerous glint in his eyes made him think, whoever triggered the devil''s horn will definitely die today.


    ¡­..


    At GM General Hospital, Luo Jingyi gave the details to the nurses before she went to see the baby.


    "She''s a darling, isn''t she?" The neonatologist stood next to Luo Jingyi as they gazed at the baby inside the room.


    Luo Jingyi unwrapped the lollipop, placed it inside her mouth. She needed the sugar rush. "She is."


    "She''s lucky that you were there. If not, she would have suffered."


    Seeing that Dr. Luo wasn''t talking, as usual, the woman added, "I''ve informed her family. They are on the way."


    "Good." Luo Jingyi never cared about other people''s business but she was concerned with the woman''s emotional state. New mothers easily suffer from postnatal depression.


    ''I hope she''ll be alright.'' Jingyi gave the baby a final glance before she walked away.


    "Nice outfit Dr. Luo." The head nurse commented when she saw her come out of the elevator.


    Only then did she look down and wince. The beautiful dress was stained and unsightly. On top of that, she was wearing bathroom slippers.


    No wonder people were gawking at her strangely when she was inside.


    ''I need to change. I can''t go to the wedding reception like this.'' By now the wedding march ended but she still needed to make an appearance before Eunice kills her. She was about to leave the hospital when she heard someone call her out.


    "What is it?"


    She found the intern who she sent to the records room on his first day, panting and was trying to catch his breath.


    "Dr. Luo, there''s a delivery for you. I put it in your office."


    "Delivery? I didn''t order anything. Check on Dr. Xu in Psychiatry. It might be hers." She spoke fast and turned away. Xu Wei likes to order stuff online and always have it delivered to the ER addressed to Luo Jingyi.


    But the intern grabbed her wrist. Instantly there was a dangerous glare on her face.


    ''My poor wrist.''


    "Let go if you don''t want to get hurt." Her cold threat made him feel being scorched to death so he released her and cleared his throat. Mustering the courage, he explained. The man who delivered it said, it must be given to her.


    "The package said¡ªit is for Dr. Luo who delivered the baby on Second Street."

 Chapter 14 - STOLEN

    After being reprimanded by Dr. Luo, the young doctor found himself stammering whenever he talks to her. So after saying those words, he breathed a sigh of relief.


    ''What could it be?'' The crease on her forehead intensified.


    Luo Jingyi returned to her office and found a fancy box with gold embossing on top. It said ZK Fashion. Although ZK Fashion is at its early development in the country, the luxury brand has made a name in the international scene already. With famous people, socialites and A-listers clamoring to get a hand of their products.


    Who could have sent this? She wondered as she rummaged for a note. Finding none, Luo Jingyi touched the fabric and for unknown reasons, there was that inkling desire to try it on.


    After staring at midnight blue dress in contemplation and giving it much thought, she carefully lifted it and donned it on. She planned to figure out the sender later and pay. She needed to deal with the matter at hand. She must go to the wedding reception if she didn''t want to hear an earful from Eunice.


    ¡­...


    Luo Jingyi walked on the wooden dock stretching out into the water and the scent of saltwater assailed her nose. At the far end, two uniformed hostesses checked for an invitation before ushering them up to the massive ship where the wedding reception was being held. The tightness in security was given with the bride''s background. Eunice Lacroix belonged to a political and business family. It was supposed to be a low key event but there was a large number of reporters swarming the barricaded area just to catch a glimpse of the dignitaries attending the event.


    Two women at the entrance check the invitation by running it through the scanner.


    Luo Jingyi rummaged through her clutch but couldn''t find it.


    Where is it? I am certain it was here.


    Did I drop it at the vet clinic?


    Shrek! She was unable to stop her mouth from cursing, finding it was missing.


    "I think I''ve lost it," she explained to the woman which the other woman returned with a meaningful look, not believing her.


    What a lame excuse. It''s not the first time they heard these words tonight. Many tried to barge at the wedding reception and said the same thing. Thinking Jingyi was just like another opportunist who wanted to get a scoop, she told her flatly, "You need to show your invitation before I can let you in. Next!"


    Jingyi was pushed aside and if her body would have been weak, she would have been thrown off to the sea. Taken aback by the woman''s actions, Jingyi steadied herself. As she was taking out her phone, she heard familiar voices.


    Not far from where she was standing, Gong Ni, Wang Biyu and Song Huan were looking at her.


    "Ha! She has no invitation but she dared to enter. She thought because she was beautiful she can easily get in." Gong Ni gloated, flashing the invitation she has on her hand.


    Wang Biyu studied Luo Jingyi closely but unsure if it was the same person in her head.


    "Isn''t that Han Jingyi?" She asked Gong Ni after awhile. Gong Ni looked at Jingyi closely.


    "That is her. What is she doing here?! What a shameful woman. Until now she''s still going around leeching herself into the upper class. or maybe she found herself a filthy old rich man?" Gong Ni sneered followed by an insulting laugh.


    "She really has no sense of shame at all. Having such a thick face, she didn''t have to wear make-up."


    "Who is she?" asked one tall woman. Song Huan was curious, not because of what she heard, but it was what the woman was wearing. It was the latest haute couture from ZK Fashion. She was certain because she saw the dress during the Fashion Week in Milan.


    "Don''t you know her?" It was Wang Biyu who asked Song Huan.


    Song Huan shook her head.


    "She is the 2nd daughter of Governor Han. But you should never be friends with her because she''s a kleptomaniac. She is like a parasite that attaches herself to rich people and steals from them. Look at what she is wearing, we don''t know where had stolen them." Gong Ni dissuaded Song Huan. She didn''t want her to have any entanglement with Jingyi.


    "Ah, I remember now, was she the one who jilted her groom at the altar and ran away with a married man?" Song Huan questioned with a frown.


    "Exactly. The one and only. Then when the married man got into an accident and became poor, she left him for another guy. She''s a shameless homewrecker and a social climber. It''s not surprising that the Han family publicly repudiated her." This time, Gong Ni made sure that Jingyi will hear these words.


    The two hostesses looked at Luo Jingyi with disgust. Hearing that she''s a despicable woman, the short-haired woman decided to call the guards. She can''t let someone like Jingyi in. She''s a fox who seduces married men. What if Jingyi tempts the groom? That will be a very big problem.


    Every ridicule Gong Ni uttered has reached Luo Jingyi''s ears. Combing through the original body''s memory, Gong Ni and Wang Biyu were in the same class as her in High School. Gong Nhi was one of those who made the original body''s high school life a misery, physically and emotionally harming her. They bullied her to the point she got depressed and attempted suicide thrice.


    Just now, they were talking about what happened 9 years ago. The original Jingyi was engaged to Wen Minghua after a whirlwind courtship. He was her very first boyfriend. The only man who dared to approach the socially awkward Jingyi. For Jingyi who never had experiences about love, she was completely smitten. Jingyi fell fast and hard and even agreed to marry the man. However, on their wedding day, she witnessed something that ultimately gave her cold feet. She scampered away from the wedding venue in fear. Contrary to rumors, she never had an involvement with a married man. Instead, she got into an accident. When she woke up three months later, she found herself plastered all over the news. Someone manipulated the facts behind the scene and made her the topic of everyone''s mouth. And instead of helping her, her father completely abandoned her.


    Jingyi gawked at them like a hunter looking at its prey. If it would be the original body, she would cry and run away helplessly. But she is Qin Jingyi. She survived the tumultuous life in the palace and the venomous mouths of her mother-in-law and her husband''s concubines. Hence, these words meant nothing to her. Even if they stared daggers at her, she wouldn''t even flinch. She wanted to ignore them for now. But, she needed to send them a message too. Not to mess up with her.


    A series of claps startled the women who were gossiping.


    "Wow! Perfect. No wonder your movies are not making any money. Being an actress doesn''t suit you at all. Have you ever thought of becoming a tv reporter? Who knows, you will finally win an award." Luo Jingyi''s voice was laced with a sardonic tone. Gong Ni is a B-list actress.


    Huh? Gong Ni was startled. She never expected Jingyi to retort eloquently. In the past, no matter how much they insulted her, Jingyi would accept them with hunched shoulders.


    "You really have a thick face coming to this banquet without any invitation. How dare you come here? And don''t be too insulting. At least I''m not a slut and homewrecker like you. What a disgusting woman!" Gong Ni mocked, making her voice louder to attract more people. She couldn''t wait to publicly humiliate Jingyi.


    But instead, she got an opposite reaction from Jingyi, she laughed crisply like a crazy woman.


    "Gong Ni, you should try comedy shows too. You are too funny. You bark at others but you don''t see yourself first." Jingyi gave her a contemptous smile.

 Chapter 15 - BABY

    "Gong Ni, you should try comedy shows too. You are too funny. You bark at others but you don''t see yourself first." Jingyi gave her a contemptuous smile at the same time, caught a glimpse of someone behind them.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Don''t you sleep around to get the role you wanted? Aren''t you Director Bai''s mistress? You even have a four-year-old son with him."


    A flush crept across Gong Ni''s face as her eyes widened. This is a secret that she''s keeping in her closet. How did Jingyi know this? No matter what, this mustn''t be known. She absolutely can''t let other people know about this especially Song Huan. She needed her support for her new movie.


    "What are you talking about? That''s not true. Don''t utter nonsense" She tried to hide her stutters. The next second, she felt pain because someone grabbed her hair from behind.


    "So it was you!" Director Bai''s wife extended her hand and slapped Gong Ni. She was seething in anger.


    Luo Jingyi purposedly mentioned it in front of Director Bai''s wife. Not to let Gong Ni be physically harmed but the wife had the right to know of her husband''s affair. After all, it''s her money that he was spending with other women. At the same time, teach Gong Ni a lesson. Not to mess up with her.


    A minute later, Gong Ni was on the floor, looking disheveled and pathetic. Her dress were torn. When the woman was about to step on Gong Ni''s head, Jingyi pulled the woman away.


    "That''s enough!" She placed herself in between. She also can''t let the woman continue harming Gong Ni. There are other ways to vent anger.


    The woman angrily snapped at Jingyi, "Let me go! I have to teach this woman a lesson."


    Jingyi leaned closer and murmured. "Let her go. It''s not worth embarrassing yourself. You are simply stooping to her level."


    The woman eyed her and realized that what Jingyi said was true. There are many people around them. Then she rested a hand on her hip. Perhaps to calm herself.


    Wang Biyu stood beside Song Huan and didn''t dare to help Gong Ni. She was afraid Director Bai''s wife would turn on her too.


    "Baby!" Someone yelled from above that everyone''s attention suddenly was on her. She was coming down the steps in haste. Jingyi rolled her eyes in Nicolette''s exaggeration. Everyone thought that it was Song Huan that Nicolette Lacroix called Baby. Especially that they belong to one social circle. But to their shock, Nicollete hooked her arm on Jingyi.


    "Why aren''t you coming in?"


    "You should ask them?" Jingyi directed her head at the two hostesses. Nicolette eyed the two even noticing the guards on the side.


    "Miss Lacroix, we¡ª"


    Nicolette didn''t give them a chance to explain. "I can''t believe Eunice hired such a low-class wedding organizer. How could they be rude and wouldn''t let my baby in? You even called the guards?" Nicolette chattered loudly and thumped her forehead exaggeratedly.


    The people around looked at Jingyi wondering who she was. Why does the elusive socialite call her baby?


    Gong Ni who was listening to this clenched her fist and unresolved that Jingyi befriended the famous woman. On the other hand, Song Huan wanted to take this opportunity to get close to Nicolette Lacroix with a purpose. So she stepped forward.


    "Miss Lacroix, I think there was a misunderstanding. They were only doing their jobs. After all, they have to protect your family from unknown people who wanted to suck up." Song Huan explained on behalf of the two. The two women gave her a delighted expression.


    "Excuse me, who are you?!"


    Song Huan felt her chest hitched. She pressed her lips tightly and hid her embarrassment with a smile.


    "I''m Song Huan." She is proud of her origins. Her family is not only well-known in the political arena, but also in the business circle. The family business, Song Corporation dominates the pharmaceutical industry. On top of that, she''s a famous fashion designer.


    "Song Huan? I don''t know you. Please go away." Nicolette pushed aside the woman''s hand on her arm as if she has an incurable disease.


    Song Huan''s cheeks burned with heat. She felt humiliated that she couldn''t wait for the ground to crack open and swallow her. At the same time, she shot daggers to Jingyi. Inadvertently blaming the other woman.


    Nicolette ordered the guards, "Send them away. Why are you letting flies in?"


    She pointed to the two uniformed hostesses and commanded to replace them.


    Gong Ni was stupefied with the turn of events. She has an expression that didn''t need to be elaborated upon.


    "Let''s go, baby." Nicolette hooked her arms on Luo Jingyi. Jingyi tilted her head up high and strutted proudly. There was an enchanting arc on her lips.


    .....


    When they reached the top deck, Nicolette''s phone rang so she told her to go in first. Luo Jingyi then sauntered on the carpeted aisle leading to a hall full of dignitaries and the upper-class people, skipping the part where she will have to pause to have her pictures taken by professional photographers in front of the well-decorated backdrop.


    Luo Jingyi walked into the grand hall with her billowing skirt following her every move. People are drawn to her as she waltzed with an effortless saunter with straight back and head held up high. Her light brown eyes scanned the hall in search for the bride and when her eyes finally landed on Eunice, a dazzling smile appeared on her lips.


    However, the bride who was standing with the groom next to the cake glowered at her. Ignoring the sullen look, she congratulated the two. As always, the groom spoke to her politely before he moved away to give them space to talk.


    Luo Jingyi put an arm on the beautiful bride and explained, "I''m sorry. I was on my way when an accident happened."


    "Yeah right." Eunice put on that I-don''t-believe-you-at-all expression. She was like a child pouting because she couldn''t the toy that she wanted.


    "It''s true. There was a woman who was about to give birth. I had to deliver her baby in a veterinary clinic. Then brought her to the hospital."


    Eunice pretended to be putting food on her plate and ignored her. But Luo Jingyi knew, this woman''s heart was moved. If she has a soft spot, it''s about a woman giving birth.


    Luo Jingyi quietly took a plate and put food on it. The quietness went for a minute before she heard Eunice mumble, "It doesn''t mean you are forgiven. You are a part of my family. You should have been there."


    "I know. I am sorry for missing it out." She whispered trying to placate the woman. Luo Jingyi felt grateful for finding a friend in this strange world. After being betrayed by her best friend in the past, she was skeptical of getting along with her. But she proved to be different. Eventually, she opened up to her. They got along well and so as the other member in Eunice''s family. Aunt Alice who was Eunice''s mom saved her 8 years ago and treated her like her own daughter. The whole Lacroix clan became her second family.


    "Was the woman alright?"


    "Yeah." But omitted the fact that the husband cheated on the wife. Mentioning it will just lead to endless discussions about marriage. Perhaps it comes with Eunice''s job. She''s a marriage counselor. On top of that, Eunice believed in beds of roses and happy ever after. Unfortunately, Luo Jingyi doesn''t.


    "How was the wedding march?" Luo Jingyi changed the topic.


    A very contented smile rose on Eunice. "Oh My god! It was perfect. I was so nervous. My hands and knees were shaking. Dad complained his arm hurts a lot after the march. When we exchanged I do''s, my knees were literally shaking in happiness. It felt surreal and magical. I am finally marrying the man of my dreams."


    Looking at her teary eyes as she narrated, Jingyi was reminded how the bride and groom''s relationship has weathered the storm. Their story was the typical rich woman-poor man storyline. The Lacroix family belonged to a military and political dynasty. Hence, Eunice Lacroix was expected to marry a man of status. But she defied the status quo and fell for a poor man. It was similar in ancient times, where status dictates marriage.


    Eunice''s maternal grandfather disapproved of their young love so they broke up. Eunice was sent overseas to study while the groom was challenged and he paved his way to become a very successful lawyer. At present, he has his own law firm. When he and Eunice met 2 years ago and found out they were still both single, they renewed the flame.


    "I am so happy for you." Jingyi chimed with her rarely seen smile and hugged Eunice. She doesn''t believe in marriage but it doesn''t mean she''s not rooting for Eunice''s happiness. She was genuinely happy for her.


    Although Eunice found her actions strange, she took her embrace.


    "Thank you. You''ll meet yours too." Eunice winked meaningfully before she pulled her to where her parents where.


    Shrek! Jingyi cursed in her head.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 16 - ITS RAINING MEN

    ???? Extra Characters:


    1. Eunice Lacroix - the bride / a friend


    2. Alice Tan Lacroix -the bride''s mom


    3. Antoine Lacroix - the bride''s dad


    4. Eloisa Tan - the bride''s aunt / Alice''s younger sister


    5. Lucille Wang - the wife of Antoine''s best friend.


    ************


    The bride and groom wanted to keep their wedding low profile. However, the lavish banquet was swarming with political and military dignitaries as well as affluent people.


    Luo Jingyi felt helpless when Eunice whisked her to where Aunt Alice was. As much as she wanted to avoid, it seemed like tonight, she''s destined to be paired with someone.


    Aunt Alice''s persistence to match her up was something she couldn''t comprehend. Aunt Alice knew she would refuse yet, she would persist until Jingyi will eventually relent.


    Feeling defeated, she pursed her lips and prayed silently¡­


    Aunt Alice''s eyes sparkled with glee when she sighted the two of them. She then excused herself with the people she was talking to and met them halfway.


    "I miss you, darling." The woman wearing red cheongsam embraced her as if she was her long lost daughter.


    Like there was something stuck in her throat, Jingyi murmured, "I miss you too." And drowned herself with the tiny woman''s all familiar cinnamon scent that she carries around.


    A clearing throat and a complaining voice muttered to their ears. "It''s only been three months and the two of you hug as though you''d never seen each other for years."


    Jingyi bobbed her head and met a pair of eyes that always reminded her of the sky on a fine sunny day. It was Uncle Antoine, Eunice''s dad. He was looking ridiculously good-looking despite his age. Both Uncle Antoine and Aunt Alice treated her like she was their own child, even proposing to adapt Jingyi albeit the fact that her biological father was still alive. With the power they have in their hands, it was doable. Yet, Jingyi was adamant. She was just saving herself from troubles in the future. Because like any other rich family, there''s also a power struggle within the Lacroix family and she didn''t want to be caught in between.


    "You stay with momfirst." Eunice saw her husband gesturing something so she pulled her father with her and they headed to where her husband and his lawfirm partner was.


    "You were late today. Did something happen?" Unlike Eunice, Alice''s mom was sensible enough to ask her first before complaining. Jingyi recounted what happened which the couple listened to. In front of them, Jingyi felt comfortable. As they were engrossed in their conversation, someone butted in.


    "Oh, the famous Dr. Luo is here."


    They all swirled around and found Madam Lucille Wang. She''s someone in Aunt Alice''s circle which Jingyi avoided like a plague. Madam Lucille Wang was like a pugnacious honey badger, aggressive and two-faced. Luo Jingyi presumed Aunt Alice detested her too, noticing how gentle woman''s forehead puckered. But as always, Aunt Alice would still treat the other woman politely, with respect to Madam Lucille''s husband who was Uncle Antoine''s best friend.


    "Madam, have you been well?" Jingyi questioned politely.


    "Of course - of course. I''m just worried about you. When will you get married too?" She touched Jingyi''s arm as if really concerned about her.


    Jingyi let out a small laugh and answered, "Aiya. Aunt, I''m still very young."


    "What young? My daughter is three years younger than you but now she has three children. That''s very rewarding."


    ''And if she won''t stop, sooner or later she will be like a pig.'' Jingyi thought. But she kept the opinion to herself.


    "Why is it that a woman''s success is measured by how well she''d married and the number of children she has? Why do women have to prove their worth by marriage?" A woman''s voice ranted suddenly. It was Eloisa Tan, the CEO of Zine Media Inc. She is the younger sister of Aunt Alice.


    "Aiyah, that''s not what I meant Eloisa. I was just really worried about Jingyi. I hope she finds someone to make her happy." The nosy tried explaining herself to Eloisa Tan who was standing with her arms crossed in front of her.


    Aunt Eloisa''s eyebrows waggled and belted, "And why can''t a woman be happy for being single?"


    Aunt Eloisa''s lips were screwed into irritation after muttering those words. This wasn''t the first time Lucille Wang commented on Jingyi''s status. For Jingyi, it was nothing. But perhaps Lucille Wang triggered Aunt Eloisa''s sore spot.


    Lucille Wang was about to speak what''s on her mind when Aunt Eloisa waved her hand to shut the other woman off. The former gritted her teeth for being ignored.


    If only¡­ But her family needed to suck up to the Tan family so she had no choice but to put on a smile as nothing happened.


    Meanwhile, Aunt Eloisa hooked her arm on Jingyi''s and stated, "Come on Jingyi, let''s go hunt for eligible bachelors. Let''s take advantage while it''s raining men. My sex life has been stale lately."


    "Eloisa Tan!" Aunt Alice glared at her sister for blurting out inappropriate remarks. Where Aunt Alice was the proper and graceful married woman, Aunt Wanda was the scandalous, high-spirited single woman.


    "Sister, don''t shout at me like we are still kids. Why? What I said is true. There are many men around. Why should I be ashamed to express my needs?"


    Aunt Alice uttered a humph.


    Seeing the familiar banter, Luo Jingyi shook her head in amusement.


    "Let''s go Jingyi." Aunt Eloisa towed her away from the group and they wandered off. Seeing Aunt Alice''s reluctant face, Jingyi assured her she will return later.

 Chapter 17 - A PANTHER

    ???? Extra Characters:


    1. Eunice Lacroix - the bride / a friend


    2. Alice Tan Lacroix -the bride''s mom


    3. Antoine Lacroix - the bride''s dad


    4. Eloisa Tan - the bride''s aunt / Alice''s younger sister


    5. Lucille Wang - the wife of Antoine''s best friend.


    ************


    Eloisa Tan and Luo Jingyi moved through the crowd. But instead of hunting for men, Aunt Eloisa snatched a bottle from the wine rack and they made their way to the open-air deck surrounded by railings. Jingyi occupied one of the lined sunbeds, lounging lazily. There was a quiet whoosh of the waves hitting the ship.


    Aunt Eloisa poured champagne into the two glasses that magically appeared out of nowhere. Jingyi deduced that Aunt Eloisa had been drinking in the deck alone earlier.


    "Cheers!" The clinking of flute echoed to Jingyi''s ears.


    Luo Jingyi quietly gulped the content of her glass before Aunt Eloisa filled it up again.


    "What happened to Director Choi''s son?"


    Luo Jingyi tilted her head to face her, studying Aunt Eloisa''s expression.


    "Off the record?" She inquired with a hint of a smile on her lips. Luo Jingyi never disclosed her patient''s cases to other people, especially to the media. Aunt Eloisa owns a media company called Zine Media Inc. However, Jingyi was well aware of why Aunt Eloisa wanted the information. It was to calm her troubled heart. The other woman appeared to have moved on from her scandalous past but in reality, what people see is a mask and only in front of Jingyi that she dared to take it off.


    "He''s recovering well. He was transferred to another hospital." Jingyi heard the CEO let out a sigh of relief before she looked at a distant, feeling lost.


    Jingyi stayed silent and let the other woman on her own. She gazed up in the sky. Above her was like a black river that stretched endlessly and what''s keeping it ablaze were a speck of stars scattered across its vastness and the moon that was hanging full and hazy.


    ''It would have been a perfect sight for lovers on a date.'' Jingyi thought.


    "One day, I''ll be your stars and your moon so that you''ll never be alone. I''ll be the light in the darkness to keep you safe." A husky voice whispered.


    Then her eyes suddenly widened. Huh?


    What is that? Where did that come from? It suddenly popped out of her memory but she has no recollection of it all.


    Strange. She thought.


    Maybe it''s the original''s memory?


    "How''s the hospital doing?" Aunt Eloisa''s questioned woke her up from her trance. Jingyi tilted her head to answer the other woman who seemed to have recovered from her melancholy and put on her shield again.


    "Chaos." She summarized it in one word. With the Chen family under investigation and the CEO stepping down, the management was shaken up. The VP was assigned the interim CEO while everything is being sorted out.


    "You made it that way. You''re a bad woman." The remark was neither a scoff or a joke. She was plainly stating the truth.


    Jingyi''s mouth curved up and muttered, "I am."


    Eloisa Tan studied Jingyi and pondered that Jingyi would have made a career as a strategist if she didn''t become a doctor. Jingyi planned every step so she could trap Minister Chen before the man could circumvent his crimes like he''d been doing over the last 15 years. Utilizing the Zine Media''s resources, the shocking expos¨¦ about him was revealed on every outlet at the same moment the police knocked at his door. So by the time he knew of it, everything about him spread like wildfire. Hence, he couldn''t do anything.


    "Don''t you feel afraid? What if the people behind him will retaliate?"


    Jingyi crossed her arms and said confidently, "Let them bring it on."


    Eloisa Tan always wondered where does Jingyi''s fearlessness come from. The doctor never seemed to flinch at all. You can never attach the word meek next to her name.


    "Thank you." Jingyi murmured suddenly. Eloisa let out a slight laugh and shrugged her shoulders.


    "Don''t forget our agreement. You need to keep your promise." The woman agreed with all her plans, not for the unprecedented fame her company will obtain, rather it was because Eloisa Tan wanted her to be a regular guest on one of her company''s tv shows.


    In an instant, Jingyi''s lips were set in a grim line. She told the woman repeatedly that it is a bad idea to put her on tv. But like Aunt Alice, Aunt Eloisa doesn''t take no for an answer. The woman was set on the idea.


    ''That''s why you should never make a deal with the devil.''


    "By the way, I heard from a reliable source that TFC wanted to buy GM General Hospital. Is it true?"


    Instantly, a smile dangled at the corner of Jingyi''s lips as she questioned her, "Are you trying to squeeze info from me? Or is aunt interested in the healthcare industry?"


    The woman laughed with disbelief at her jab. "Jingyi, stop doubting everyone. I was just curious. Why TFC is suddenly making this move?"


    She was referring to Terra Firma Corporation which is a top global conglomerate. The real estate developer started 10 years ago. It grew prominence in a span of a year, defying all odds especially that there was the economic crisis that affected industries worldwide. At present, TFC has varied interests that include financial services, fashion, hotel and tourism, sports, retail, manufacturing, and entertainment. No one has seen the CEO but everyone knows that behind this giant was a cold-hearted and cunning capitalist who dominates the business world with a flick of his finger.


    Jingyi scoffed inwardly. It''s true that TFC sent their proposal to buy all the shares. But even if they''ll pay ten times or more, she would never sell them. To her, the owner of TFC was just another businessman who wanted to turn the healthcare system into a money-making machine. But she kept her opinion to herself.


    Noticing her quietness, Aunt Eloisa bobbed her head to face her. "Aren''t you curious at all?


    "About what?"


    "Of how he looks like. I wanted to feature him in one of my magazines but it''s damn difficult to make an appointment with his assistant. Even his employees are tight-lipped. He''s like a panther: mysterious and powerful. Rumor is that he''s handsome¡ªNo¡ªhe has a godlike appearance."


    Jingyi rolled her eyes. "Or he could be an old man with a receding hairline, rotting teeth and skin stretched over knobby bones."


    "Or what if he''s the opposite? A perfectly sculpted Adonis with perfect genes... My-my-my-that''s yummylicious." The CEO who runs her company with an iron fist licked her lips as though she was salivating for food.


    "You are unbelievable aunt."


    Seconds later, she castigated Jingyi, "Stop being a cynic, will you? Give the person a benefit of the doubt since you haven''t met him yet."


    ''Why does everyone think I''m a cynic? I''m not.'' A line appeared on her forehead with this thought.


    Even if she wanted to refute, it will just lead to endless discussion so she chose to zip her mouth and poured the two of them a drink.


    The next second, she heard Aunt Alice''s voice behind them.


    "Eloisa! How many times did I tell you not to let Jingyi drink?" She snapped.


    "Sister, it''s just champagne."


    Jingyi stood and explained to Aunt Alice, "I just had a glass, Aunt Alice. There''s nothing to be worried about."


    Aunt Alice gave her sister a sullen look as though telling her, you-are-dead which, the other woman just shrugged off.


    "Let''s go. There''s someone I want you to meet. He''s the son of my best friend." Aunt Alice beamed with a smile as she pulled her away. When they reached the hall, Aunt Alice excitedly craned her neck to find the person. When Aunt Alice saw him, the curve on her mouth widened.


    Luo Jingyi followed the other woman''s line of sight. However, terror instantly overtook her face upon seeing that familiar face. At the same time, chill permeated her entire body.


    ====Extra====


    Jinghan : Why did you make her hate me already?


    Author: You want to know?


    Jinghan: (nodded his head)


    Author: (gestured him to come closer)


    Jinghan: (leaned closer)


    Author : (whispered )???????????? I don''t want to tell you.


    Jinghan : ????????????

 Chapter 18 - SPASMS OF UNCONTROLLABLE EMOTIONS

    "I''m sorry Aunt Alice, I need to take this phone call." Without waiting for her reply, Jingyi hurtled towards the exit. Aunt Alice was bewildered by Jingyi''s behavior because even if there''s an emergency, she would politely ask to be excused, not like this. She could only watch her back disappearing from her sight as she wondered if something''s wrong. Shaking her worries away, she ambled to the other side.


    "Lovely party Aunt Alice." The man gave out a smile that could charm any maiden.


    "I am happy to see you. Where''s your mom?"


    "My mother sends her apologies. She had to stay with my sister at the hospital."


    Worry crossed Alice Lacroix''s face so she asked, "What happened?"


    "My sister gave birth today and my mother was ecstatic. She went straight to the hospital because she couldn''t wait to carry her first grandson."


    "Oh, that''s wonderful news." Alice Lacroix wished Eunice will have news sooner. She longs for grandchildren too.


    Putting that thought away, she told him. "I wanted you to meet our Jingyi but she went out to answer a phone call. When she returns, I''ll introduce her."


    "Perfect."


    Aunt Alice was full of praises about Jingyi whenever she mentions her to his mom. Inadvertently, he grew to know her from his mom constantly sharing anything about the other woman. Somehow, there''s curiosity in him to meet this woman.


    ¡­...


    At the same moment, Luo Jingyi had a sensation of her stomach churning as she fled the hall, uncertain where she was heading to. There was that urge to scream out that choked feeling in her windpipe. Luo Jingyi found herself at the deck. All those painful memories she buried at the deepest part of her brain suddenly thronged out reminding her of what happened. All the torture and pain she suffered from his hand played like a video on loop. She clung onto the railings tightly to steady herself because spasms of uncontrollable emotions sprouted from the depths of her heart, making her weak at her knees.


    Listening to her racing heartbeat, she nudged herself to calm down.


    Nobody can hurt you Jingyi. Nobody. That''s not him. She balled her fists as she stressed these words in her head.


    Luo Jingyi played this scenario in her head many times. What if she sees his modern-day look alike, she would ignore and continue to live her life peacefully. But seeing that man earlier, her body reacted immediately without any warning. Her heart was in turmoil, not knowing what to do. If there''s Aunt Alice in between, then it means they are destined to cross paths in the future.


    Every time she would remember his face, her emotions are shaken. How much more if he was standing across her, will she be able to mask herself well?


    What will I do now? She was apprehensive to return to the banquet and be introduced to him. At this moment, there was the desire to flee the place at an instant but a part of her brain was reminding her ''no.''


    Left with no choice but to return to the party, she swirled around. But before she can take another step, she smelled something and her world turned dark.


    ¡­...


    Yun Jinghan sneaked behind one man who was talking on the phone and laced his right hand over his neck. It happened so fast that before the man could get away, Yun Jinghan already pulled the neck, snapping it. He fell on the ground with eyes opened wide. At the same time, Yu Qing incapacitated the other man who was getting into the driver''s seat.


    "You know what to do." Yun Jinghan''s order was directed to K2. Yun Jinghan opened the trunk of the car and saw the beautiful doctor he met early on. She was gagged, tied and unconscious. Looking at her, he felt very distressed for reasons he can''t fathom.


    Ten minutes ago, he saw her sprint to the deck as if she was fleeing for her life. He was about to approach her when his eyes caught two men put something in her mouth then sneaked her out of the cruise ship. He didn''t know why his feet followed before his brain could process things.


    Yun Jinghan bent to carry her on his arms. It suddenly crossed his mind that she was too thin and light. He slowly placed her inside his car, like she was an expensive porcelain, afraid he was going to break her.


    He finds it really weird that every time the woman was within his proximity, his entire being is shaken. It feels like there''s a magnetic force drawing her to him.


    "Keys." He demanded from Yu Qing. When the celebrity chef threw the keys, he caught them with one hand and hurried to the driver''s seat.


    "What about your date?" Yu Qing reminded why they were there in the first place. Yun Jinghan was supposed to meet Song Huan at the wedding banquet as arranged by his maternal grandmother, Grandma Shen.


    "Deal with it." Yun Jinghan told him before he got into the car in haste.


    Yu Qing watched as the car disappeared into the horizon with brows knitted in a frown.


    ¡­..


    Luo Jingyi stirred when she felt the stinging pain on her shoulders.


    Shrek! It hurts.


    The briny sea air mixing with a musky scent of a man and the sound of crashing waves as it sweeps ashore assaulted her senses. Enduring the drowsiness that was engulfing her, she peeled her eyes open but squinted, to slightly adjust with the light. The first thing that she noticed was the jacket that was on her.


    "Where am I?" She blurted out loud, trying to recall what happened. She was at the deck and she smelled something. Was I kidnap? Her face suddenly became twisted with this thought. In an instant, she assessed if she has pain anywhere. Feeling none, except for the sore shoulders, she inhaled deeply and breathed it out in relief.


    When she perceived a pair of eyes watching her closely, she turned her head. Luo Jingyi frowned and wondered why was she with this man.


    "What did you do to me?!"


    "What do you think?" The man handed her a bottle of water which she didn''t take. Yun Jinghan then placed it on the dashboard.


    His question made her eyes dim. Seeing those eyes that glistened in amusement, annoyance flowed inside her. Luo Jingyi hated how his gaze makes her vulnerable. Subconsciously, she wrapped her arms around herself.


    "Mr. I don''t have time playing mind games with you."


    "It''s Yun Jinghan." The man gave out a lopsided grin which made Jingyi crankier.


    "Whether it''s Yun Jing, Jing Yun or Han Jing, it doesn''t matter to me. Why-am-I-here?" She put stress on the question, demanding an answer.


    Yun Jinghan looked fixedly at her irked eyes and felt beguiled for no reason. For a long time, no woman has piqued his interest. She triggers his desire to irritate her more. On the surface, the doctor looked like a harmless kitten but once she gets annoyed, she''s like a lioness baring her fangs.


    He slanted closer and ran a hand through her hair. Reflex made Jingyi push his hand away.


    "What are you doing? Don''t touch me." She reacted, shying away from him as if he had some incurable disease. Yun Jinghan just wanted to fix her hair which became messy but seeing her horrified reaction, his hand froze on air.


    "Did you kidnap me?" Her eyebrows waggled as she waited impatiently for his answer.


    ======


    ????This novel was only posted on Webnovel. If you see it elsewhere, please let me know.

 Chapter 19 - I CAN AFFORD

    Yun Jinghan studied her expression with inscrutable eyes. He wanted to joke around but seeing her wariness, he became serious.


    "I didn''t. I saved you." He told her.


    Luo Jingyi looked at him dubiously, not wanting to believe him.


    "How did you save me?"


    "You want to know?" He gestured her to move closer.


    Ignoring the glint of mischief in his eyes, Jingyi leaned forward with curiosity. The man whispered, "Secret. I don''t want to tell you."


    Luo Jingyi gaped at his nonsenseness. Why can''t he be serious? She doesn''t have time to play around. She needed to know what happened next after passing out. Where was she brought to? Who wanted to harm her?


    Puffing her hair that has covered her line of sight, she asked politely, "Can you be serious? What happened?"


    The man opened his bag and handed her a tablet. While she was sleeping, K2 sent the file before he deleted all the video surveillance at that particular time. All that transpired fell to Jingyi''s eyes. Only then did she believe the man completely.


    Who sent these two men?


    "Do you recognize them?" The man''s question startled her trance.


    "No. Who are they? "


    "Members of BlackWhite Gang."


    "Why did they abduct me?"


    "How would I know?" He asked with a wink.


    Jingyi scowled at him. She doesn''t understand him. One moment he was serious, the next he was irritating. Whereas Yun Jinghan was grinning from ear to ear again, seeing her expression.


    ''How cute.'' He thought. But if he kept doing this, she will misunderstand him. So he cleared his throat and told her what K2 found out.


    "They received orders to kill you but never disclosed who sent them Are you sure you don''t know them?" Yun Jinghan omitted the fact that the two bit their tongue and killed themselves before K2 could interrogate them.


    Luo Jingyi studied the two faces however nothing pops out. She''s bad at names but she remembers faces once she''d seen them.


    "I''m certain." She answered.


    Who sent them? While she was pondering on it, a very ugly sound was heard inside the car. It was Jingyi''s stomach complaining that her last meal had been 30 hours ago.


    ¡­


    Yun Jinghan drove back to the city. He sent a message to K2, telling him he was hungry. The usual one- hour trip took only half because it was early in the morning. The roads weren''t busy as usual. When Yun Jinghan pulled over in front of an upscale restaurant, he got off and walked to the passenger''s seat to open the door for her but to his dismay, she had already jumped out of the car and was walking away. He couldn''t help scratching his head and followed her.


    Luo Jingyi pushed the doors open and she was greeted by the scent of food being cooked in the kitchen. The first thing that attracted her attention was the paintings which added colors and vibrancy to the paleness of the wall. She sauntered closer and studied them with interest.


    "That one is my favorite. It''s from a budding artist." He stepped closer to her side.


    Luo Jingyi felt uncomfortable with the proximity so she took away her eyes from the black horse on the painting and moved further away from him.


    But the man followed and pulled a chair for her. The table covered with expensive linen was next to the floor to ceiling glass windows which gives a view of the garden. This is one of her favorite restaurants in the city. She was well aware of their business hours and how difficult it was to get a booking. For it to be open at this time¡­ Luo Jingyi surmised that the man''s identity wasn''t simple.


    Luo Jingyi was unable to restrain herself not to glance at him. His face reminded her of the mystery guy she once saw in the palace. But she was certain the original body has no memories of meeting him and even when she occupied this body, their paths never crossed until yesterday, when he helped her with the pregnant woman. But why does it feel that she knows him? It''s really weird.


    She stared at him, noting that he seemed to have that kind of face that would stop any woman in her tracks and make her knees turn weak. In contrast to his dark eyebrows that give off the serious vibe, there was always that playful arc drawn on his lips. She noticed earlier that when he smiles, two shallow dents appear on his cheeks. Good-looking would be an overused word to describe his appearance. Because he was way beyond that.


    Devastatingly handsome? Came a reply in her head.


    Luo Jingyi shrugged her shoulders. What does his appearance get to do with me?


    "Good-looking?" The man bent closer. The distance between his and her face was only an inch.


    "Oh please!" She waved her hand in dismissal and rolled her eyes simultaneously.


    ¡­


    Raven''s Gourmet doesn''t open till 11. But because of Yun Jinghan, it opened its doors early in the morning. Yu Qing, who was forcibly awoken by the distressed K2 was in the kitchen with a petulant expression plastered all over his face. If it wasn''t for Yun Jinghan, he wouldn''t have uprooted himself from the arms of the woman he spent the night with. It was a sheer amount of restraint that stop his urge to hit K2 on his face when he stormed inside the hotel room. Since the mirrored wall at the bar gives him an ample view of the two people waiting at the table, his gaze was locked on the woman with curiosity. He didn''t get a glimpse of her face last night so he wanted to see for himself who managed to make him break one of his principles. Yun Jinghan could be charming in front of women but he knew better. It was just a mask. The truth was his friend''s heart was like a big ice block, hard and cold.


    ...


    After filling in her empty stomach, Yun Jinghan drove Luo Jingyi home. She was ruminating on how to return the favor she owes him for stopping the attempt to her life. She couldn''t think of any except money. So when the car stopped in front of a 35 story building, Jingyi told the man, "Send me the bill. I''ll pay whatever saving me had cost you."


    The man''s eyes dimmed dangerously for a second. "I''m expensive Dr. Luo. "


    "It doesn''t matter. I can afford." came her reply before she got off the car and sauntered to her apartment building.

 Chapter 20 - COMPETITION

    Yun Jinghan watched the straight back with a sullen expression. Inside that veterinary clinic, when he stared at her, there were strange images that popped out of his head. Right there and then, he made a decision to find out who she was and what''s her connection to all the strange dreams and memories that had been boggling him for the last 8 years since he woke up from coma.


    --------


    8 years ago...


    Yun Jinghan''s eyes peeled open and a perfect white ceiling greeted him. Unconsciously, he put a hand under his pillow trying to grab something and felt at a loss when it wasn''t there. When he realized something wasn''t right, he tried sitting up, only to return to his original position because pain pervaded everywhere. His arms, legs, and head felt heavy. Apart from his mouth and eyes, it was impossible to move anything.


    "Thirsty," he murmured faintly but it called everyone''s attention in the room. His maternal grandmother, Grandma Shen ran to his side immediately.


    "You are awake-you are awake." She cried out repeatedly.


    "Wa¡ªter." He quaked.


    After he was given water, it quenched the dryness of his throat. Only then was he able to talk.


    "What happened to me?"


    His grandmother and sister looked at each other before they turned to the doctor.


    "You don''t remember?" Yun Yi wiped the tears in her eyes.


    Yun Jinghan racked his brain but nothing was registering in his brain. Instead, his temples began to throb.


    "I told you many times. Stop joining that risky competition. Why are you so stubborn to fly your plane when the weather was terrible? Do you want to die so badly?" Grandma Shen clacked.


    He gazed up looking confused. He found his grandmother''s words weird. In his dreams, he fell off the horse and his body was dragged around before the animal jumped off the cliff, pulling him along. However, he didn''t utter any of this.


    Later, he found out that his aerobatic aircraft had an engine failure while he was in the air. He made an attempt to make an emergency landing however, the plane was uncontrollable. So he jumped out but the parachute failed to deploy so he rolled down the slope. Yu Qing was the one who told him because he has no recollection of it at all. But his memories prior to getting into the accident were still intact. The doctors run tests but they couldn''t come with a definitive diagnosis.


    --------


    Yet, when he looked at her, something gets triggered inside his brain.


    "It''s going to be difficult." he murmured before he returned to his residence every time he''s in the city. Amy and K2 were in the living room talking about something but stopped when K2 saw him breezed in. He called Amy to his study.


    "Did you find out what I asked you?"


    Amy nodded and placed the documents on the table. "This is what B1 found."


    When Yun Jinghan didn''t reach for the papers and leaned on the chair, Amy realized he was waiting for her to report whatever''s on the paper. She told him everything from Dr. Luo''s childhood, including her supposed wedding to the heir of the Wen Family till her sudden disappearance 8 years ago. After that, there''s a void. Nothing else could be found about her. It was only 3 years ago that she moved to the city and worked at GM General Hospital.


    K2 complained to Amy that there''s nothing particularly catchy about Dr. Luo except she''s beautiful. He already expressed a dislike to the other woman. Amy hasn''t met the other woman yet, but reading the other woman''s profile, she can sense that Dr. Luo is going to be her savior in the future.


    ''Oh. I couldn''t wait to pair them up.'' She thought with a smile.


    "Tell B1 to dig deeper. If not, he''d better be prepared to go to Moscow." Yin Jinghan ordered. It isn''t curiosity that''s pushing him but it was because the time she disappeared coincides with the time he had that accident. That mishap years ago was an attempt in his life, not a happenstance. However, he never told his grandmother and sister about it.


    "Affirmative boss." Then she cleared her throat, feeling nervous to tell him bad news.


    "What is it, Amy?" Yun Jinghan tapped his desk in impatience and tilted his head up to study her. Amy had been his assistant for 6 years and he''s familiar with her peculiar habit.


    "As long as you won''t tell me that TFC has been invaded by powerful aliens, I can take any bad news."


    That earned a curve on Amy''s lips. She has forgotten who her boss was. Nothing terrifies him at all.


    "Hmm--Zhen Holdings refused our proposal."


    "And?" Yun Jinghan prodded for her to continue noticing her apprehensiveness.


    "But, they sold it to¡ª"


    "Don''t tell me it''s New Life Healthcare Corporation again." He finished her sentence.


    Amy nodded and watched carefully his expression. New Life Healthcare Corporation is an overseas-based company that owns chains of hospital worldwide. Six years ago, New Life Healthcare Corporation made waves for acquiring failing hospitals and turning them into successful and profitable enterprises.


    But before it became NLHC, it was previously called MD Group which was owned by a banking magnate who was a victim of Yun Jinghan''s ruthlessness. The other man traded in all his businesses to Yun Jinghan but not the hospital division. He sold it to someone else instead. As to who it was, nobody knows. Like Yun Jinghan, the owner of NLHC is hiding behind the shadows.


    For the last two years, New Life Healthcare Corporation and Terra Firma Corporation has been competing to acquire hospitals in the country. At present, NLHC is leading with a score of 4, breaking the tie between the two.


    To other businessmen, they are watching the competition on the sidelines. Some are rooting for NLHC for being brazen enough to wage war against the real estate giant, while others couldn''t wait to see NLHC failing in its attempt. Not one would actually dare to compete with TFC once it declares interest in one industry.


    Even Amy, she''s very curious who the owner of New Life Healthcare Corporation is. If her boss goes berserk now, what would she do? However, instead of seeing his darkened face, the man smiled charmingly and muttered, "Interesting."


    Minutes later, Amy came out of her boss'' study with a very ugly expression. She lost her six months bonus because of the failure to acquire GM Gen. Hospital. Inadvertently, she cursed the other person.


    ¡­...


    On the other side of the city, Luo Jingyi returned home, showered and put on casual clothes. Seeing the dress on the sofa, she called ZK Fashion and inquired about the dress. The woman on the line told her it was paid but due to customer privacy, she won''t disclose who the buyer was.


    ''I have ways in figuring it out.'' she murmured softly.


    After the phone call, she called another one. "I''ve got jobs for you. Hack into ZK Fashion''s system and check something for me. I''ll send the specifics by email."


    "and what''s the other?"


    "Tap my stepmother''s phone and find out what had been she up to lately." Luo Jingyi has an inkling suspicion it was her who gave the orders.


    "Yes ma''am."


    "One more thing, what''s the update on Dr. Zhao?"


    "He took the bait already. He met with Director Ma yesterday and made a proposition. Director Ma promised if he pays him 300 million yuan."


    "Their appetites are really too big." Luo Jingyi let out a simper.


    "Will we proceed as planned? What if Dr. Zhao changes his mind?" The man expressed his thoughts.


    "He won''t. He''s hungry for power so he''ll do anything just to have it. Do you think he will just be contented being a CEO? No. This position is just a stepping stone for him."

 Chapter 21 - SMIRK

    The next day, the conference center on the left-wing of the hospital was overflowing with doctors and hospital staff. It was the most awaited general meeting. Rumor is that the new CEO will be announced.


    The Vice President stood at the podium and spoke to everyone, "I am He Ming the VP of GM General Hospital. Recently, the management has undergone reconstructing because of the ongoing investigation of the Chen family. As it has been rumored, the previous leader who had been managing the hospital for the last 5 years has voluntarily stepped down and admitted his connections to Finance Minister Chen''s cases. After much deliberation by the hospital board, a decision has been made. It''s a great privilege to introduce the new leader because this person has achieved an amazing feat in this industry. With this person''s leadership, I believe the hospital will grow bigger and excel in terms of delivering world-class health care programs. Let us please welcome ¡ª" he paused to look on the front row.


    Dr. Zhao who was sitting on the front was unable to hide how he feels at the moment. Elation was all over his face. He was unable to think of anything else except standing in front. He wanted to uproot himself from the chair but held himself, not wanting to be obvious.


    Yes. He muttered. The hospital was within his grasp. Even if he depleted his reserved funds, it didn''t matter. Because once he will be in control of this institution, he''ll recover his losses ten times or even more. The first thing he was going to do was to make Dr. Luo bend to him because she was given much freedom by Chairman Chen so he felt threatened by her. He will not fire her. At present, Dr. Luo has a quota for the operation she performs every week. Once he sits as the new CEO, he will remove that. Let her work more for money. With her reputation, VIP patients are more than willing to pay more to get her to be their surgeon. Just imagining the money, exhilaration surged in him that he erected himself from the chair and waited for his name to be called. However, the next second, his expression turned sour when he heard, "Let us please welcome Miss Ji, the Vice President of New Life Healthcare Corporation."


    Dr. Zhao''s thoughts scrambled and he told himself he just misheard it. But when his line of sight fell to the stage, a woman strutted to the podium. At the same moment, there was a sudden onset of nausea and the feeling of lightheadedness. Dr. Zhao''s knees wobbled that he had to steady himself. Many eyes were on him so he masked his disappointment and anger with a smile and explained, "Sorry. I was too excited to cheer."


    Everyone believed him so they stood and thunderous clap continued to echo inside the hall. When everyone returned to their seats, Ji Min took the microphone.


    "Hello, I am Ji Min. Thank you for the warm welcome. I just want to make it short and don''t want to beat around the bush so please listen carefully. First of all, I will be in charge of the hospital''s operation from now on. The Board of Directors will no longer make decisions for the hospital. All management related things will be handled by New Life Healthcare Corporation. Second, unlike other hospitals acquired by NLHC, GM General Hospital will retain its name. Third, Starting today, change is coming. In the past years, GM Gen. only catered to the upper class. But we are going to reshape the system and we will start programs that will cater all income brackets, especially to those who can''t afford proper healthcare." Ji Min paused as there were murmurs in the audience.


    This is too bold. How could the CEO propose something preposterous? If this has to be put forward, there will be a massive shakeup in the management. Moreover, will NLHC be willing to cover all the fundings?


    "Now everyone thinks I am crazy. Well, I am crazy." Ji Min gave them a beautiful arc before adding on, "Over the years, the disparity of services rendered to the rich and the poor has created enormous problems in the society. NLHC believes that proper healthcare services should be available to anyone regardless of who they are and what''s their worth. Starting today, we will no longer turn away patients who couldn''t afford treatment in this hospital. I know what''s on your mind at this moment, where will the funds come from? Fret not, to kick off this project, 300 million yuan has been pledged by an anonymous donor. On top of that, there''s NLHC backing us up. Lastly, put your mind at ease, I won''t be firing anyone soon unless you committed an unforgivable crime. I expect everyone''s participation so please take a look at the plan." Two women started handing out documents. At the same time, nobody noticed that Ji Min winked at Luo Jingyi who was sitting at the far end of the first row.


    Luo Jingyi nodded and studied everyone''s faces. Most people in the room haven''t expected the outcome. Rumors flew here and there. But nobody had ever guessed that the hospital will become under New Life Healthcare Corporation. Being under a reputable global brand, there was excitement in everyone''s heart.


    On the other hand, Dr. Zhao who dreamed of this moment every night was sported with an ugly expression, especially when he heard the 300 million yuan donation.


    It''s not a coincidence. He thought.


    Did someone set me up?


    Who would it be?


    When he felt someone staring at him, he glances on the side and found Dr. Luo smirking at him.


    ¡­..


    An hour later, Dr. Zhao picked the object that was sitting on his table hand and threw it to his assistant, not caring if the other person gets hurt.


    "What do you mean you couldn''t contact Director Ma?!" He snapped with his nostrils flaring and his veins straining against his skin.


    Looking at Dr. Zhao being insane with rage, the assistant nervously muttered, "His phone has been turned off. I called his wife and she said Director Ma flew overseas. His location is unknown."


    Dr. Zhao felt his world crumbled. There were uncontrollable body tremors inside him that pushed him to kick the table.


    He spent all his damn money in securing that position. Why?! His money''s gone. His current status is unknown.


    NLHC will definitely investigate. He thought.


    What would I do now?


    However, before he can make another move, uniformed men rushed inside his office.


    "Dr. Zhao, you are under arrest for illegal distribution of fake medications."


    ====Extra====


    Luo Jingyi: No Yun Jing today? (wondering eyes)


    Author: It''s Yun Jinghan. Why you miss him?


    Luo Jingyi: No (shyly shakes head repeatedly with a blush on her face)


    Author: (???????? at the same time, concocting a plan in her head) Don''t worry, in the next chapters, he''ll bother you to death.


    Luo Jingyi: (Regretting why she asked in the first place) ????????????


    Author: (????????) Be careful what you ask for.

 Chapter 22 - PINNACLES EDGE

    It stunned everyone when another doctor was handcuffed by policemen. It wasn''t even a week since Dr. Chen was arrested. Xu Wei, who was like everyone else, stormed into Luo Jingyi''s office.


    "Omg, you won''t believe this! Dr. Zhao and two more doctors at the oncology department were picked up by the police because they have been prescribing fake medicines to patients." She paused trying to catch her breath before she went on, "Imagine, not just one but 42 patients?! God, what happened to their oaths?"


    "Money is the root of all evil." Luo Jingyi said without lifting her head from the documents in front of her.


    "I know. But how could it happen under everyone''s nose? Why hasn''t anyone noticed it? Apparently, it''s been going for years. Well, yeah, the successive deaths of patients were suspicious but nobody even connected the dots. What''s happening to the hospital? Four of our own doctors got arrested." Xu Wei rubbed her head as though she was going to have a headache just thinking about it.


    "Cleaning up." Luo Jingyi mumbled.


    "What? Did you say something?" Xu Wei who was resting her head on the backrest of the sofa.


    "Nothing."


    Seeing that the other woman was very focused on whatever''s in front of her, Xu Wei stood to peak but Luo Jingyi closed the file.


    "What are you looking at?"


    "Nothing." Luo Jingyi stood and walked to the fridge. She took out a box and handed it to the woman. Seeing her favorite brownies, Xu Wei has forgotten whatever what''s bothering her earlier. Xu Wei unwrapped one and took a bite. "I''ll pay you later." She added later.


    "There''s no need. It''s my gift."


    "What for?"


    "Nothing."


    Xu Wei gave an-okay-shrug on her shoulders and didn''t think much of it. The rap at the door made them turn to that direction. A second later, it was pushed and a woman walked in. She was dressed like any other corporate employee, cream blouse, black skirt, and heels. Her hair was pulled up into a perfect updo and not a hair was out of place. Her black-rimmed glasses made her look older than her actual age.


    It was Xu Wei''s first time seeing her in the hospital. Sensing that the woman has business with Luo Jingyi, Xu Wei exited, closing the door but giving the other woman a once over.


    Only when there was two of them did Song Hia speak, "Boss."


    Before placing one thick folder on Luo Jingyi''s table. At the same time, the door opened and Ji Min breezed in.


    ...


    An hour later, Luo Jingyi glanced up to her assistant, groaning in frustration. "How much more?"


    "That''s the last one." Song Hia placed another one on her table. Luo Jingyi stared at it and turned to Ji Min.


    "This is your job. Why do I have to do this?" Luo Jingyi complained to the woman. The latter lifted her head for a second before she returned her attention to the laptop as she stated, "You are leaving me with all of this headache. At least be a good person and find a replacement."


    With everything under wraps, Luo Jingyi was going back to the capital. She never intended to stay in the city but her mission took longer than planned. With many empty positions at the hospital now, Ji Min will need reinforcement to run the place. To streamline the tedious process of recruiting doctors, Luo Jingyi was going over the profiles of possible candidates to take the position of Dean of Medicine. The list was compiled by the NLHC Recruitment team. But so far, the task was turning Luo Jingyi like a whiny child.


    Fifteen minutes later, she handed the list to Ji Min. The latter skimmed over. All the names were marked with red.


    "Why I''m not surprised."Ji Min commented nonchalantly. Ji Min knew how perfectionist the woman is when it comes to hiring people.


    Luo Jingyi strutted to the window and gazed out as she pocketed her hands.


    " We don''t need to look for one. He''s already here."


    ....


    Luo Jingyi ambled on the patio leading to the back garden of the hospital grounds. On her hand was a bag of take out. A patient in a wheelchair who was being pushed by her mother waved and greeted her, "Dr. Luo, I am recovering very well."


    The little girl was rushed to the hospital a week ago after getting into an accident. If there''s one thing that makes Luo Jingyi happy, it''s seeing her patients regaining strength and bouncing back after getting through much. Luo Jingyi bent forward, touched the girl''s head and rumpled her hair. "That is good. Try to take small steps and increase the number each day."


    "Yes, Dr. Beautiful. I will remember that." The girl''s grin was like the sun on a cold winter day, full of warmth and sunshine. Unconsciously, Luo Jingyi found herself smiling.


    When the parent and child left, Luo Jingyi walked for another minute before she sat on the bench next to a sleeping man. The man stirred and sat upright before he acknowledged her presence. "Dr. Luo."


    "Have you been well, Dr. Liang?"


    His eyes that spoke of gentleness gave her a surprised look. He was aware that it was Luo Jingyi who always sent him food or coffee but never did it cross his mind that she recognized him. He no longer looked like the dignified Dr. Liang. Now, his clothes are dusty and he''s weatherworn face is a sad reminder that he had aged.


    "I didn''t know that Dr. Luo knows me."


    "Who would forget a talented doctor? I recognized you from the videos mom made me watch." In the original''s memories, Luo Xiafei forced the young Jingyi to see his videos in the operating room. Before he disappeared in the limelight, he was famed for his impeccable skills. The original''s mother, Luo Xiaofei hired him to be the Chief of Surgery in Medlife Medical Center. It was the hospital that Luo Xiaofei started. The impression Dr. Liang left to the young Jingyi was admiration and respect. Unfortunately, after the man stood in court to prove her mother''s innocence, he disappeared. All the people Dr. Luo Xiaofei trusted vanished, one by one.


    When Luo Jingyi moved to the city three years ago, she instantly recognized him, albeit the unkempt appearance. Luo Jingyi never approached him and simply watched him at a distance, studying his habits. That led her to discover he was into something. So she started investigating and found out that Dr. Liang''s wife was one of the unfortunate victims of Dr. Zhao and his cronies. Dr. Liang''s wife didn''t have cancer but she was told otherwise. She underwent treatment options which were very expensive. Other victims had cancer but were only given placebos, yet, they paid thousands for all of these fake treatments. Dr. Zhao amassed his wealth through this. Hence, Luo Jingyi found satisfaction in extorting back whatever he''d taken.


    "The people responsible for your wife''s death are going to spend the rest of their lives in prison."


    Instead of feeling relieved, the man shook his head. "With the power behind them, they can easily get away."


    Luo Jingyi understood where that skepticism comes from. Power can really change the dynamics of everything, including the law.


    "No. I will make sure they won''t. That''s a promise."


    "How did you know about my wife?"


    "I have my ways."


    The man didn''t speak. He was fighting back the tears. One world couldn''t explain how he feels at the moment. He went to the police but they never believed him. Thus, he took the matter with his own hands. He pretended to be beggar so he could collect shreds of evidence from the trash.


    He questioned her, "Why are you doing this?"


    "This is to return the favor my mom owes you." The man testified to help her mother without considering the repercussions of his actions on his career. Even if it has nothing to do with her, she is now Luo Jingyi. She has to repay that gratitude.


    "If your mom is alive, she will be proud of you." He was happy to see that Jingyi no longer stammers when she speaks and no longer hides behind her older sister. The little Jingyi has outgrown her shyness and become a confident woman.


    Luo Jingyi was silent and looked at a distant. "Dr. Liang, would you like to go on an adventure with me?"


    The man was startled but found himself asking, "Where?"


    "To the pinnacle''s edge."


    ====Extra====


    GoodMe: Go, Jingyi! I am rooting for you.


    RomanticMe: Me too. I will find a powerful man to support you.


    EvilMe: Count me in. I shall destroy anyone who stands on your way!

 Chapter 23 - LOOK AFTER THE HOSPITAL

    ???? Extra Characters:


    1. Dr. Liang - the beggar/ future Dean of Medicine


    2. Dr. Feng - aka Blue girl


    3. Dr. Lin - senior resident


    4. Ji Min- Vice President of NLHC


    ************


    After some time, Dr. Liang asked with interest, "What do you want me to do? "


    There was renewed vigor in him.


    "Could you look after the hospital for me?" Dr. Liang will be assigned as the Dean of Medicine to oversee all aspects of clinical care while Ji Min will focus on corporate-related matters.


    Dr. Liang motioned his head in agreement with her request. Of course, he will. He was fighting back the tears. After those people threatened and stripped him of his identity has a doctor, never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that he would return to work in the hospital.


    "I already made the necessary arrangements. But first things first, you need a complete make-over." Luo Jingyi called her assistant. Song Hia will accompany Dr. Liang to get cleaned up and to go shopping.


    "Thank you, Jingyi." The man expressed with heartfelt gratitude which Luo Jingyi returned with a simple nod of her head.


    After sending the man with her assistant, Luo Jingyi returned to her office and called Ji Min. "He agreed. Song Hia will bring him to you before the day ends so prepare his contract. If he demands more, give it to him."


    "Okay boss. Anyway, you sign the paychecks." Ji Min commented which earn a shrug of shoulders from Luo Jingyi before she ended the call.


    The knock on the door halted Luo Jingyi''s plan of grabbing an oatmeal bar.


    "Come on in. "


    "Hmm-hmm-" Dr. Feng cleared her throat and added, "Dr. Luo, this is for you." The woman placed the lunchbox on Luo Jingyi''s table with shaking hands.


    "Did someone order food for me?"


    "No." she answered directing her eyes downwards, afraid to make eye contact with Luo Jingyi.


    Luo Jingyi ignored her intern''s fidgeting movements and look briefly to the label that reads, RAVEN''S GOURMET. Out of nowhere, she thought of the man who saved her. That''s another task she needed to sort out before she leaves the city.


    Returning her attention to Blue girl, she told the woman, "Thank you."


    Blue girl aka Dr. Feng hurried out of the office before she gets scolded.


    "Blue girl!" Luo Jingyi called out.


    Dr. Feng paused and muttered, ''Oh no'' in her head.


    ''Please... Don''t let me be punished.'' She prayed silently. Yesterday, Blue girl mixed up medications between two patients. She knew that she made a grave mistake and being sleepy was no excuse for it. She already received a scolding from Dr. Lin but she''s more worried of Dr. Luo''s anger. Blue girl swirled around with agitation.


    "If I leave the hospital, would you like to follow me?"


    Not expecting what Dr. Luo asked her, Blue girl was unable to speak as though her brain has frozen. It took a minute for her to realize she wasn''t being reprimanded. The next second, Blue girl''s eyes widened and verified if she heard it right because sometimes, it''s easy to hallucinate when you are nervous.


    "I don''t understand what Dr. Luo meant."


    Normally, Luo Jingyi doesn''t like repeating words but she did when she made the proposition, "Would you like to go to Medlife with me?"


    Blue Girl made sure she was all ears so the next moment she heard those words, she stifled the squeal that was about to escape her mouth. Of course, she will. She will follow Dr. Luo even to hell, as long as she gets to learn from her. She will be very stupid to let this opportunity pass. Blue girl heard rumors earlier that today was Dr. Luo''s last day because she accepted a job offer at Medlife University and Medical Center, one of the top 5 hospitals in the country.


    "I would love to, but my program¡ª" Blue girl stopped.


    Luo Jingyi waited for her to speak. But when the intern closed her mouth, she assured her, "I''ll talk to your program director. Go home and get your things sorted out. My assistant will call you about our travel arrangements."


    "Okay, Dr. Luo. " Blue girl walked out of the office and when she closed the door, she can no longer conceal her emotions. She was jumping up and down as she yelled, "yes" continuously.


    "What are you doing? " one junior resident asked the exuberant Blue girl.


    The latter wanted to brag but zipped her mouth.


    "You can go home now Dr. Feng. Dr. Luo already told me about it." Dr. Lin was happy for her. She wanted to go to Medlife too but Dr. Luo told her something which she made her stay in this hospital.


    Blue girl hurried to the on-call room and packed her things, making other interns wonder.


    Meanwhile, Luo Jingyi opened the bag and found a note inside. It reads: Eat on time.


    Luo Jingyi couldn''t explain why she felt like someone was looking at her so she stepped closer to the window. When she looked down, a man waved and smiled which made Luo Jingyi frown.


    What is he doing here? To collect what I owe? She wondered.


    Ignoring him, Luo Jingyi returned to her table and stared blankly.


    ''Such a waste to be thrown away.''


    She removed the lid and started eating, thankful that there''s food from her favorite restaurant. But as she savored every bite, her face was contorted to an ugly expression.


    "Did the restaurant change their chef? Why does food taste terrible?" The chicken dish was overcooked that there''s no more juiciness in it. It was hard and barely palatable. Although she was reluctant to throw them away, in the end, she had no choice. Rather than poisoning herself.


    If Yun Jinghan''s people saw where the food their boss cooked for hours ended up, they won''t be surprised. As they''ve been tortured to death by their young master''s cooking already.


    ¡­.


    Unsated with what she ate, Luo Jingyi grabbed a protein bar.


    "This is even better. I''ll never go to that restaurant again." She murmured to herself.


    While she was munching, Luo Jingyi studied the live feed of the OR schedule board on her computer. Unless there''ll be no trauma patients that needed her utmost care, her schedule is lax. She has one scheduled coronary bypass surgery later in the day.


    Since she has the time, she abruptly decided to clear the things inside her drawer and on the bookshelf instead of letting Song Hia do it. She sorted out which medical journal to keep and to throw, as she has amassed heaps during her 3 years stay at GM Gen. The menial task was therapeutic to her because it made her think and sort out her head. There are many things that bother her. But the most troublesome was Aunt Alice''s persistence to send her for a blind date. Luo Jingyi was certain the woman won''t stop till she got tied up. Although they aren''t biologically related, Luo Jingyi was compelled to repay the gratitude of taking care of her during the bleakest moments of her life. Without Aunt Alice''s care, she might have ended up like another cold body inside a morgue.


    Her quiet reverie was disturbed when the door was pushed open and Ji Min sauntered in.

 Chapter 24 - INTERESTED IN HER

    "Have you eaten? I''m planning to go grab something from the cafeteria. Want to join me?"


    "I''m not hungry." Luo Jingyi put down the last book in the box. Ji Min''s observant eyes realized that all Luo Jingyi collected for the last 3 years were books and medical journals. There''s not a personal bauble at all. She''d never been to Luo Jingyi''s apartment but she reckoned, it would be as cold as her personality.


    "Here. Take this." Ji Min placed a silver envelope on top of the box.


    "What''s this?"


    Seeing that Luo Jingyi didn''t even glance at it, Ji Min informed, "It''s an invitation from Chairman Shen''s birthday banquet."


    At the same time, Ji Min walked to the fridge, opened it and like a hungry coyote, scavenge for something to eat which made Luo Jingyi''s brows furrowed.


    ''Why do these people think that my fridge is some kind of food shop?''


    "Hmm. You ought to give me the recipe for this. The taste is really to die for." Ji Min murmured in delight after taking a bite of the brownie which Luo Jingyi left for herself, after giving a box to Xu Wei.


    Shaking her head, Luo Jingyi answered, "Go search the net."


    She picked the envelope and looked at Ji Min with questioning eyes.


    "Do you remember a patient named Yun Jian? Or do I need to remind you what his case number was?" Ji Min put forth. Luo Jingyi is bad at remembering names of people but she can memorize case file numbers with no problem.


    "No need." Luo Jingyi remembered him. There are patients who will be etched in her heart and there are also a few which would be forgotten. But he was the former because while she was operating on him, she was reminded of how fragile life is.


    "Did you know who his great-grandmother is?"


    ''What does it have to do with me?'' She murmured with disinterest. In her past life, she always kept herself abreast of who''s who. It was very important to know who was the richest, who was the most powerful or who was the Emperor''s latest flame. But after coming to this world, she no longer cared. As long as they don''t stand in her way, the rich has nothing to do with her.


    "His great-grandmother is Chairman Shen of Shen Food Corporation." Ji Min offered the information as though Luo Jingyi has no idea who they were. Perhaps because none of the Shen Family members appeared much in the limelight, except the Vice-President Tang''s wife.


    Luo Jingyi thought of something. The Shen Family is one of the wealthiest and most prominent families in the country. Luo Jingyi''s paternal family, the Han''s are wealthy however, the Shen Family who belongs to the top 8 families are on a different level. If the Han''s are on the stratosphere, the top 8 would be on the exosphere.


    "So, the Shen matriarch donated $50 million to our new program."


    "However, there''s a catch. What is it?" Luo Jingyi asked. Wealthy people donating to the hospital is normal but sometimes, they have weird requests.


    "Nothing. Chairman Shen just wants to meet you. So she''s inviting you to her birthday banquet. That''s what the invitation for."


    "Ji Min, you know¡ª"


    Ji Min rolled her eyes and cut her out. "I know. That if you allow every patient you saved to send you monetary compensation, then you are no different from capitalists who just want profits."


    Ji Min paused to study the doctor''s expression before she continued, "But Jingyi, the cheque was given as a donation because Chairman Shen wants to support your cause. Nothing more. And the invite, it was her way of expressing her appreciation for what you did. She just wanted to thank you in person. I think there''s no harm in that. So when you return to the capital, don''t forget the birthday banquet."


    "No - I''d better tell Song Hia to mark your calendar." Ji Min decided because Luo Jingyi would probably forget once she''s working. Luo Jingyi must go no matter what. If not¡­


    --------


    Two hours ago¡­


    Inside her new office, Ji Min studied the man who was sitting crossed legs on her sofa.


    "So according to my understanding, this $50 million cheque is a donation for the hospital''s new healthcare program?" Ji Min eyed the man and saw that he nodded. Her older brother went to the same private school as him so she didn''t find it embarrassing to study him closer. She noted that he is still that same man who would make both men and women swoon regardless of their sexual preferences.


    "It''s rude to stare. Have you forgotten your etiquette lesson, Miss Ji." Yun Jinghan reminded her with brows knitted. Yun Jinghan was actually surprised to discover that Ji Min is the Vice-President of New Life Healthcare Corporation.


    Ji Min gave a half-shrug as if his remark didn''t bother her at all. With her job, Ji Min has met powerful people. But, the man in front of her wouldn''t even fit in that category. To the public, he was just a famous aerobatic pilot. But, she was well-aware that his family background on both sides speak volume. On his mother''s side is the Shen Family whereas, on his father''s side is the Yun Family. There are families who aren''t only affluent but also controls the political, business and military affairs of the nation. The Shen''s and the Yun''s belong to that group. The unreachable ones. So, provoking them was akin to shooting oneself in the foot.


    "Is there a reason for this?"


    "Grandma has fondness on the idea of giving to the less fortunate. So when she heard of the hospital''s plans, she wanted to support this project." Yun Jinghan worded what grandma Shen told him this morning. He assumed he was going to admonish him but she mentioned this thing instead. He asked her why wouldn''t she donate it to the hospitals TFC owned, her crisp answer was, "Get a wife first." That stopped him from giving a retort. Yun Jinghan sighed. Being single, his value to his grandmother''s eyes was zero. But soon, it will change. He thought with a smile.


    "At the same time, Grandma would like to invite Dr. Luo to her birthday banquet. She really wanted to meet her last time, unfortunately, Dr. Luo was unavailable. So she would be really happy to see her there." Yun Jinghan reached the invitation on Amy''s hand and pushed it forward to Ji Min.


    ''I think it''s you boss who wanted to see her badly.'' Amy murmured in her head, wanting to roll her eyes but professionalism made her think twice.


    Perhaps being with Luo Jingyi for 6 years, Ji Min has become doubtful of people''s intentions, so she asked frankly. "Is it Grandma Shen or you?"


    The man let out a laugh before asking, "May I ask why Miss Ji thought of this?"


    "A guess." Nobody knows that Luo Jingyi is actually her boss. So she asked the man, "You need to let me know what I am signing my doctor up for. It''s better for me to know if there are other reasons besides inviting her to your family affair."


    The man was silent before he confessed, "Because I am interested in her. "

 Chapter 25 - A FIANCE FELL FROM HEAVEN

    Not putting much thought on his words, she stated, "Okay. It''s not difficult to hand her this but getting her to agree to attend would be another story."


    If truth be told, Luo Jingyi didn''t like the idea of hobnobbing with the rich. The people Dr. Luo associates with can only be counted on the fingers of one hand unless she personally knows the family.


    "That''s why I came to you. Because you know what to do. At the same time, Miss Ji knows how I deal with failure." The man tipped off, giving her strong eye contact.


    "Are you threatening me?"


    "No." He said with a dangerous smile before adding, "But I have your brother on speed dial."


    Ji Min pressed her lips together. It''s been 6 years since she left the Ji family and she has no plans of returning anytime soon. One word to her brother and he would come running to her direction. That''s the last thing she ever wanted. She rubbed the back of her neck and with a heavy sigh, she let out a soft, "Fine."


    It meant she will have to convince Luo Jingyi to go to the banquet. But before that, Ji Min has to know the truth.


    "Considering that you and my brother have a history, I hope you can answer my questions truthfully."


    "Okay." The man agreed.


    "Are you perhaps interested in her just to ward off your blind dates?" Although she doesn''t mingle much with the people she used to know, she heard rumors that Grandma Shen has been setting him up with women.


    With no preamble at all, the man admitted, "I am chasing her with the intention of marriage."


    Marriage?!


    Unable to suppress it, Ji Min chortled as if she heard the funniest joke in her life. In fact, a man falling for Luo Jingyi isn''t a surprise as Dr. Luo is a beauty with brains. On top of that, she''s really a talented doctor. However, Luo Jingyi is unlike other women who would kneel at Yun Jinghan''s feet. Knowing Luo Jingyi''s perspective towards the opposite sex, she rather finds it amusing as it would pose challenges. It''s as daunting as plucking the stars and the moon from the sky. Some tried but nobody could melt Jingyi''s heart. Even to Ji Min, it took her years to earn the other woman''s trust.


    Getting a glimpse of the man''s seriousness, Ji Min stopped and wiped the liquid that was at the corner of her eyes as a result of laughing so hard. The next second, Ji Min faced the man with her usual calm demeanor.


    "I didn''t mean that. I just thought your words are humorous. I hope you are ready for what you are signing up for." Ji Min warned and stood before she added cheerfully, "I''ll see what I can do. Good luck on your quest. Send me a wedding invitation if you succeeded."


    --------


    Hence, Ji Min used the word ''grandmother'' to compel Luo Jingyi as the latter has a soft spot for elderly people.


    Convinced of the other woman''s words, Luo Jingyi disregarded her apprehension in attending social events and decided to go. She bagged the invitation, ascertaining where she placed it.


    "By the way, your request about Dr. Feng¡ª" Ji Min was referring to Blue girl who Luo Jingyi requested for her transfer to Medlife.


    "I am not changing my mind on that." Her decision was resolute. Luo Jingyi has reasons for bringing her there. Although she trusts Ji Min, it''s not yet time to divulge that.


    Ji Min had no choice but to concede. "Alright then."


    Luo Jingyi put on her hospital coat and accompanied Ji Min out. She still has things to do. It''s her last day, but it didn''t mean she''s going to slack off.


    More than an hour later, she completed her rounds to the ICU with Dr. Lin and the other trauma attending. Luo Jingyi turned over all her caseloads to the latter.


    While she was updating a patient''s case in the computer at the nurses station, she heard someone call her out. Turning her head, she saw Aunt Alice. Luo Jingyi beamed with a smile.


    "Aunt Alice, I apologize for running away last time but there was an emergency so I didn''t inform everyone before leaving." Luo Jingyi explained quickly, not mentioning about being kidnapped when she was at the deck. Luo Jingyi has no desire of making Aunt Alice make a big fuss about it.


    The woman who seemed upset reproached her, "I understand what you do my dear. But next time, you have to inform me because I''ll be uneasy. What if something happens to you?"


    Luo Jingyi touched the woman''s arm and murmured, "I''m sorry for making you worry."


    Aunt Alice let out a long, low sigh. Her uneasiness about Jingyi living alone grows every day. She worries that the monsters who threatened Jingyi''s life before she found her would show up. Although it was identified that it was Minister Chen who made an attempt on her life but she has a suspicion that there were others. And Luo Jingyi wasn''t forthcoming about this matter, afraid to involve them. While she understood her apprehension, she just wished Luo Jingyi would open up.


    "Hmm. How come Aunt is here today?" Luo Jingyi roused Aunt Alice from her deep thoughts, hearing her gave out a series of sighs as she input data on the computer.


    "Oh, I came to visit my friend''s daughter who gave birth yesterday. That reminds me, come and let''s go to her room. Her brother is the man who I wanted to introduce to you during the reception."


    Remembering the man''s face, Luo Jingyi was instantly frightened down to the soles of her shoes. Her heart revolted at the thought of meeting him. At this moment of helplessness, the only solution she came up with was...


    "Aunt Alice, do you intend to send me on a date with this man?" Raw panic was in her voice but she did her damnedest to tuck it away.


    "Of course my dear."


    "Aunt Alice, if that''s the case, then I shouldn''t meet him."


    "Why not? I think he is the best man for you. I think you will like him. It''s not only his appearance that is mesmerizing, but also his character. Although he doesn''t practice because he manages his family''s business, he also studied medicine so you will have a lot in common to discuss."


    "It''s because of that. In fact, I''m seeing¡ª " Luo Jingyi paused when an arm was suddenly on her shoulders. Her jerk reaction was to push it away but the man pressed her upper arm as though warning her to keep still.


    "Madam Lacroix, it''s a rare chance to see you here." It was Yun Jinghan cutting in as he pulled Luo Jingyi closer to him.


    Alice Lacroix eyed the man whom she knew as the grandson of Chairman Shen.


    "Sweetie, you never told me you are acquainted with Madam Lacroix." Yun Jinghan glanced down to the woman next to him with questioning eyes which she returned with a glare for a second.


    "Luo Jingyi, do you know him?" It was Aunt Alice who asked her.


    "I''m her fiance." Yun Jinghan answered with an unabashed tone.


    Fiance?! Luo Jingyi screamed in her head. Earlier, she just wanted to tell Aunt Alice that she is seeing someone. But suddenly, a fiance fell from heaven.


    Shrek!


    "Is this true my dear? How come I never heard of this from you?" There was obviously hurt on the other woman''s voice when she asked.


    "Uhm¡ªAunt Alice, actually¡ª"


    "Let me do the explaining sweetie." Yun Jinghan removed his arm on her but the next moment, he clasped her agitated hands.


    ====Extra====


    Luo Jingyi: Seriously, you are so unbelievable. ????????????


    Author: What are you muttering there again?????


    Luo Jingyi: Nothing. Can I just remain single till the end of the book?


    Author: (flicked a finger on Luo Jingyi''s forehead) Normally you are sensible but you are being absurd today. ????


    Hello?! I am writing a romance novel. Do you want my readers to behead me?

 Chapter 26 - NO CHOICE

    "Let me do the explaining sweetie." Yun Jinghan removed his arm on her and clasped her agitated hands.


    "It hasn''t been long since we started seeing each other ma''am. But, I really love her and I want to spend the rest of my life with Jingyi. So I proposed and she accepted. However, we made an agreement to keep our relationship secret for the meantime. To avoid media attention." Yun Jinghan explained to Madam Lacroix as he stared with Luo Jingyi with adoration.


    It was obviously a lie. He never dared to use this ''dirty trick'' because he wanted everything to fall into place naturally. But earlier, hearing Madam Lacroix''s plan to introduce Luo Jingyi to other men prompted this action.


    That should never happen. He hasn''t established a foothold in her heart yet and now he has competition. No way. He won''t allow it.


    ''Wow! He can win an award for his acting.'' Luo Jingyi wanted to regurgitate as she listened to those words but held it in, not wanting Aunt Alice to notice it. She watched Aunt Alice peer at the two of them like they were specimens under a microscope. Her eyes traveling back and forth to ascertain if it''s the truth.


    Although she planned on telling Aunt Alice that she is currently dating to ward off the determined woman''s attempt to find a suitable partner for her, she also has an antsy feeling about this whole lying thing. It always starts with one lie until it gets bigger and bigger, till it''s blown out of proportions. Yet, Luo Jingyi was so adamant not to fall back to square one. It meant dealing with the continuous badgering about going on dates. Aunt Alice is a traditional woman through and through. She believes that a woman should get married, have children and support her husband all the way. On top of that, what if Aunt Alice insists on meeting that guy. She shudders at the mere thought of it.


    She won''t allow that to happen. Luo Jingyi hated the idea of depending on a but she had no choice but to go with the flow. Luo Jingyi glanced up and returned his affectionate gaze. Luo Jingyi then heard the woman ask, "Is this the truth?"


    She found herself nodding without taking her eyes off from him. At the same time, she can sense her heart was hammering against her chest, followed by abnormal breathing. There were tingles rushing through her hand.


    Oh no! Let go, Jingyi! Her head screamed at her.


    Pulling their clasped hands away from Aunt Alice''s razor-sharp eyes, she wriggled her hand to let loose from the man''s grasp. But he gripped hers tighter.


    She let out another curse in her head. Even if she''s into sports, there''s a disparity between a man and a woman''s strength.


    Yun Jinghan didn''t want to free her hand at the moment because he could sense Madam Lacroix''s doubt on them. At the same time. he was wondering what''s the connection between Luo Jingyi and the other woman as her profile never mentioned this. Moreover, he knew the Tan Family well. In the past, his maternal family and this political family had a collaboration in the past.


    "Aunt Alice, I am sorry for keeping a tight lid on this. I just didn''t want to rain on Eunice''s parade." Luo Jingyi did her best to erase the woman''s suspicion. She just wanted this torture to end. Because each second passed, she was getting uncomfortable. Lightheadedness inundated her.


    "To be honest, I am a bit disappointed about this. But, I understand your good intentions my dear. I am happy-no, I am relieved that you finally found someone. All of my worries about you spending your whole life being single vanished. This is really a piece of great news. I am going to call everyone so we can set a family dinner. The rest of the family would be happy to meet Yun Jinghan." Her soft-spoken voice echoed to both their ears.


    Oh no! If it is a family dinner, it means having a bigger audience for this lie. Luo Jingyi''s head revolted.


    "Uhm¡ªAunt Alice, could we keep it a secret for now? We want to savor the moment by ourselves, don''t you agree sweetie?" Luo Jingyi bobbed her head to his direction with a fake smile plastered on her face.


    But his attention was on another part of her body. Yun Jinghan was momentarily struck when he noticed how delicate her neck was. It would be nice to rain it down with kisses, all the way to her collarbone and down. With his imagination running wild, his breathing hitched.


    "Right, sweetie?" she repeated that rouse him from his preoccupation. Yun Jinghan got a glimpse of her gritted teeth.


    Damn! Yun Jinghan, get a grip of yourself!


    He coughed for having such lewd thoughts at the moment.


    "Of course, but I would love to meet¡ª" Yun Jinghan stopped when Luo Jingyi dug her nails into his hand. Her eyes flickered with a warning, telling him to shut up. Although he would be happy to meet the people in her life and take every opportunity to be with her, irking her was the last thing he wanted to do.


    Aunt Alice thought about it. A minute later, she relented, "Fair enough. But, I''ll set a dinner date so your Uncle Antoine would meet the two of you."


    Luo Jingyi was about to bargain but the woman announced, "Your Uncle Antoine and I wanted to discuss something important with you. Anyway, Yun Jinghan will soon be a part of the family so why don''t you take him with you then. Yes?"


    Luo Jingyi found herself unable to refute so she nodded her head. "Okay."


    "Alright then, I am off my dear. See you later." The woman bent forward to give her a hug. Yun Jinghan had no choice but to let Luo Jingyi go.


    After that, Aunt Alice turned away. When she was no longer in Luo Jingyi''s periphery, she spun around and strode away, leaving the man. Luo Jingyi''s knees were wobbly so she leaned on the wall to steady herself.


    The flustered man followed her and tried to touch her as he asked in a concerned tone, "Are you okay?"


    "Don''t!! " Luo Jingyi hissed and moved forward in haste. She got inside an examination and locked the door with trembling hands. She leaned on the wall, and cupped her hands over her nose and slowly blowing air into her lungs. She held her breath for 10 seconds before releasing it. Luo Jingyi repeated the whole process until her breathing returned to normal. Feeling defeated, she slid down with her back on the wall and sat on the floor.


    Luo Jingyi ignored the incessant knocking on the door plus the voice that was calling her out.


    "What''s wrong? Open the door."

 Chapter 27 - PANIC ATTACK

    Alice Lacroix left the hospital after visiting her friend''s daughter. When the driver opened the car, she got in and instructed him to drive her back to her family''s ancestral home. After that, she took out her phone and dialed her husband''s number.


    When the man answered, "Yes dear? How did your visit go?"


    The woman was happy to relay the news about her friend''s first grandchild. Then, she mentioned Luo Jingyi''s matters, "I saw Jingyi too. Would you believe that she has a fiance?"


    The man was obviously startled that his voice was higher than usual when he asked, "Really?"


    "Yes. I even met her fiance today."


    "How come we never heard of this?" The man expressed his doubt.


    "I thought so too. I know that Jingyi doesn''t divulge much of what''s happening in her life with us, but I find this really strange. Hence, I invited the two of them. I want to see for myself if they are just acting or not. How does tomorrow night sound to you? At the same time, we can discuss the matters of her inheritance."


    "I''ll clear my schedule from 7 onwards then."


    After talking for a few more minutes, Alice Lacroix ended the call. As the car passed the tall buildings, Alice Lacroix wasn''t looking at the streetscape. She was thinking of what happened in the hospital earlier. She trusts Jingyi a hundred percent. Although she has uneasiness about her being engaged to Yun Jinghan, she was willing to give her the benefit of the doubt.


    ¡­...


    At the hospital, Luo Jingyi rubbed her throbbing temples. Her breathing returned to normal but the effects of what just happened still lingered. Her head hurts like hell and she was trembling. The moment he grasped her hand, she had a panic attack that led to hyperventilating. Touching her suddenly is her trigger. She has no problems with women but with men, her body reacts badly. If it happens, instantaneous fright overwhelms her and before she can think out of it, a signal has already been sent to her amygdala, the emotional part of the brain. It will then send a signal to another region in her midbrain that will provoke her body''s defensive responses. As a doctor, she knows that she has no mental illness. What she has are irrational fears that are causing her panic attack. Perhaps, it stemmed out from what she experienced in her past life. She tried seeking help. But counseling didn''t help. In the end, avoiding what stimulates her was the course of action she decided on.


    Luo Jingyi puffed out air in frustration. She has indeed escaped but her past left her too much emotional trauma. The thumping at the door aggravated her headache. At the same time, it reminded her there''s a guy outside she needed to deal with.


    "In a minute." She yelled as she uprooted herself from the floor. The heard the knocking stopped. She stepped closer to the crash cart and rummaged for an aspirin. Finding one, she grabbed a clean cup and filled it with water from the dispenser before placing the medicine in her mouth and flushing it down.


    Luo Jingyi opened the door. If she didn''t come out in another minute, the man would have opened the door as the head nurse was standing next to him with the keys in her hands.


    "Are you alright, Dr. Luo?" The head nurse asked and stepped forward, blocking Yun Jinghan. She was one of the audience earlier and she was aware of Dr. Luo having panic attacks if in contact with men. That''s why no male was ever allowed in the OR if Dr. Luo was performing surgery. She saw her nod and she felt relief. She eyed the man who introduced himself as Dr. Luo''s fiance with dislike. If he hadn''t put his arm on her idol, Dr. Luo wouldn''t feel that way.


    Yun Jinghan wondered why the nurse was looking at him like he was some kind of pest. He moved in front of Luo Jingyi but the woman strode away.


    "Follow me." he heard her order him. He was taken aback that his brows snapped together. However, it disappeared at an instant. He quietly went after her, putting a distance so he can study her profile. There were all sorts of noise around them; the calming voice of a nurse as she spoke to the patient, the rustle of paperwork, the drawers being opened and etc. But that didn''t distract Yun Jinghan to take off his eyes on her back. She was tall and thin. Even if she was wearing a hospital coat over a casual dress, it didn''t hide her shapely figure beneath. His eyes went downwards but before he could get a glimpse of what he wanted to see, the door hindered him so. He got inside the office and noticed she was standing next to the table with hands on her hips. Her almond-shaped eyes which were framed by long, thick lashes were directed at him with annoyance written on them. Feeling like a spell had been cast on him, he studied her face. She had dark brown hair that was coiled into a ponytail. Some strands had fallen on the side but it added contrast to her pastel white skin. Her lips were pouting at the moment yet it was alluring that it would be perfect for a lipstick commercial. Albeit the unhappy expression she has now, she was really a beauty through and through.


    "Weren''t you taught manners? It''s rude to stare."


    Her question prompted him to divert his gaze to the boxes on the floor.


    "Are you leaving?" He asked her immediately. She looked at him coldly with her brows waggled with an are-you-seriously-asking-me expression.


    Yun Jinghan pointed to the boxes. He heard her ask, "What does it have to do with you, Mister?"


    Yun Jinghan didn''t know why he found her blank expression amusing. A handsome smile slipped out of his lips. He patiently reminded her, "It''s not Mister. My name is Yun Jinghan. Remember, I''m your fiance."


    This is the third time Luo Jingyi met this guy but she felt weirded by this familiarity. Brushing it off her head, she returned to the matter at hand.


    "Why are you always butting in my business?" Her voice was as frosty as winter mornings. She detested the idea of depending on another person to solve her personal business.

 Chapter 28 - WOULD YOU BE MY GIRLFRIEND?

    "Why are you always butting in my business?"


    Luo Jingyi waited for his answer. Ever since coming to this world, her patience has thinned considerably, especially towards men. She sat on her chair and faced the man.


    He appeared to be unfazed and returned her chilling stare with a softer look that was a lot warmer than hers.


    ''Seriously, what''s wrong with him? He looked like a love-struck idiot.''


    "Why are you always angry? Or you are just moody because it''s that time of the month? You know¡ªthat female thing." He asked. He was scratching the back of his head.


    Luo Jingyi scowled.


    "See, you are frowning again."


    "No, I''m not."


    "Yes, you are." He insisted after hearing her defensive tone.


    "Will you stop it?"


    Yun Jinghan wanted to continue irritating her but seeing how badly her face was contorted at the moment, he stopped. Instead, he winked at her. He didn''t understand himself as well. He found it amusing to vex her. He leaned forward.


    Luo Jingyi sensed danger coming when he stepped closer to her desk thus, she pushed the chair back and warned, "Don''t take a step closer."


    "What''s wrong?"


    Normally, Luo Jingyi wouldn''t respond to questions about herself. Perhaps, it was the hint of concern on his expression that made her utter the next words.


    "I just don''t like being touched. Touch me five seconds longer, I will have a panic attack."


    Yun Jinghan was surprised. It dawned him that what happened earlier could have resulted in much worse if she didn''t wriggle out from his grasp. Being regretful of his own actions, he moved three steps back to widen the distance between them. He apologized sincerely. There was no longer playfulness in his tone. A soft expression settled on Luo Jingyi''s face but it vanished a few seconds later. This made him realize something.


    "Now, can you answer my question?" She put forth.


    "You needed a saving. That''s all. Moreover, you obviously didn''t want to meet this guy." He answered with a shrug. He wondered what reason she has for wearing that thick armor around people. One could mistake her as a stiff person but closely observing her, she didn''t seem to be that. He noticed how she interacted with the patients earlier, she was smiling even at the patient''s silly joke, which he thought were the most beautiful ones he''d ever laid his eyes on.


    "I could have managed on my own. I didn''t need your help."


    "Oh, how would you have done it?" He quizzed.


    She crossed her arms in front of her before muttering, "I don''t have to tell you."


    Finding what she said funny, Yun Jinghan let out a soft laugh.


    "In my experience, there''s only one possible solution to stop the badgering. To tell Madam Lacroix you are dating. Which you were about to say if I didn''t cut in, am I right?"


    Jingyi nodded.


    "See? It''s just the same. I solved your problem at once."


    "Yes, you did. But you''ve created a bigger one." She reasoned, unwilling to be defeated.


    "If you want your lie to be believable, you should give her something real. In fact, you only have two choices. It''s either you get someone to pretend as your guy or get a real boyfriend. The former would be a bad idea because she will definitely investigate. Moreover, you have to make sure your lie would never be revealed. So¡ª" He paused when he saw her open her mouth.


    "Why do I sense that you are selling yourself for the latter?" her eyebrows were arched up. If he was a telemarketer, she would have been convinced.


    "Was I obvious?" He asked with a smile as he pocketed his hands.


    This prompted Luo Jingyi to roll her eyes. But she couldn''t help but admit that he was right. Getting someone to pretend was easy if you have money but keeping the whole charade without any mistake would be difficult.


    On top of that, this constant badgering of going on a date was getting really exhausting too.


    ''Should I just date for real?'' She asked herself.


    ''What about him?''


    ''No way Jingyi!'' Another voice screamed at her.


    ''Why not?''


    ''Because he would be the last person you would ever choose. In the beginning, you already felt that he isn''t simple.'' Her internal dialogue went on until she heard him clear his throat. It pulled her back to the present. Her eyes darted to the man who sauntered to her sofa and sat with a regal bearing.


    Luo Jingyi deduced the man was much more than he let other people on. Even if she hasn''t checked who he was, she''s perceptive enough. He has a gait of a King. Someone who was born with it. He appeared to be the type of person who would bark his orders and expects them to be accomplished. Moreover, she can sense a dangerous vibe from him. She stopped scrutinizing him when her phone chimed. After skimming over the message, a loud groan escaped her lips.


    Aunt Alice: My dear, dinner tomorrow at our Brightwood residence. 7 sharp. Your Uncle Antoine was disappointed with the news of you getting a fianc¨¦ and you never introduced him to us. So don''t forget to bring Yun Jinghan. See you both!


    If Aunt Alice was using emotional blackmail to compel her, it was effective. Luo Jingyi has no way of refusing them. After much of what they''ve done for her.


    Now, she has no choice but to bring him to meet Uncle Antoine. She eyed him with her mouth set in a hard line. She urged herself to speak but the words were stuck in her throat.


    Yun Jinghan noticed her agitation and made an offer. In the future, Yun Jinghan will look back on this day with gladness that he made this immediate decision.


    "Dr. Luo, would you be my girlfriend?"

 Chapter 29 - TWO REQUESTS

    Luo Jingyi sensed her muscles tightened with her head drawing back stiffly. But she nudged herself to remind of the situation she was in. She needed him. So whether she liked it or not, she has to accept his proposal. If the only way to avoid meeting the other guy was selling herself to the devil, she would do it.


    "I am sorry. I am¡ª"


    "Actually, you don''t have to feel pressured. It''s not like we are doing this for love. I also have personal reasons." Yun Jinghan assured her. If he had to lie just to make her agree, he would do it. He just prayed silently this wouldn''t pose a problem between them in the future. In fact, he wasn''t really certain about what he feels about her. But he''s really drawn to her as though there''s a magnetic force pulling him to her. There''s also that urge to protect her no matter what. Which he found mind-boggling because he never ever felt this way before.


    ''Why don''t you let me finish first? But since you put it that way, then there''s no need to say it then.'' She decided. "Okay, I''m with you then."


    The man gave out a lop-sided grin. Luo Jingyi felt her heart thump faster. It was faint but it happened. She was momentarily in a daze but she quickly put it off her head.


    She proposed, "Since we are both doing this for a purpose, why don''t we draw up a contract?"


    The upward curve on his face vanished instantly upon hearing those words. He rejected immediately.


    "Why?"Luo Jingyi was taken aback.


    "We should never leave a piece of evidence that will create trouble in the future. So verbal agreement between us would suffice."


    She eyed him skeptically as though trying to find fault in his words. She hesitated but in the end, she assented. "Okay. But I have two requests."


    The man gestured her to continue.


    "One, don''t force me to do anything I don''t want. Two, don''t meddle with my affairs. Are we clear on this?"


    "Sure sweetie." Yun Jinghan smiled sweetly.


    "And no endearments. It''s cringy."


    "I don''t think that''s possible. It''s for appearance''s sake so you should get used to it."


    "Fine." Albeit resistant, she conceded before asking him, "Do you have time tomorrow evening?"


    "For you sweetie, I have all the time in the world."


    Luo Jingyi shuddered inwardly.


    "Well, Aunt Alice invited us for dinner. It''s at 7."


    "Let''s go then."


    "Where to?"


    "I''ll take you somewhere." He sauntered to the door, opened it and waited for her to follow.


    Although she was wondering where he wanted to go, Luo Jingyi removed her hospital coat, grabbed her shoulder bag and went out.


    In contrast earlier, this time they were walking side by side. Even their steps were in sync. They walked past the nurses station and found Dr. Lin and two interns.


    "I have some errands to run. If there''s something, call me." Luo Jingyi instructed Dr. Lin. The senior resident gestured ''yes''. At the same time, she asked for a quick consult.


    Yun Jinghan waited for her to talk to the other doctors. When she strutted away, he came after her and matched her pace.


    .


    "Is that Dr. Luo''s fiance? " Intern B expressed her surprised. She couldn''t take off her eyes on the man''s back because he was too perfect. She seemed to have seen him somewhere.


    "No! " the violent reaction came from the head nurse which surprised them.


    "Nurse Yan, what''s wrong with you? " Dr. Lin asked feeling surprised at the nurse''s violent reaction.


    "Nothing. " Nurse Yan murmured and turned her back on them.


    "But isn''t this him?" The junior resident waved her phone to their faces. Intern B took it and look at the picture with keen eyes. It was a picture of Yun Jinghan during the peak of his career as an aerobatic pilot.


    "It''s him. That''s why I thought he was familiar." She handed back the phone without reading the information. Her brother is into planes so she heard much of this man from him.


    "Wow! Dr. Luo got herself a rich guy. She didn''t have to work her life." Another Intern exclaimed.


    ''Hmph! It''s just a small company. It''s not that significant.'' Intern B murmured in her head. If it was her, she''d prefer the top corporations in the country.


    Dr. Lin hit the two in the head to stop them from gossiping.


    Meanwhile, Luo Jingyi followed his lead. At the entrance, he told her, "Give me a second. I''ll get the car."


    But instead of waiting, she came after him.


    "I am not an invalid. I can walk." Luo Jingyi worded.


    The man was bemused that he couldn''t help scratching his head. He led her to his car and opened the passenger''s seat. Luo Jingyi noticed that it was a different vehicle from what he used last time. Nonetheless, low-key but expensive. The scent of expensive leather wafted to her nose. The man got into the driver''s side and quietly started the car. He maneuvered it with ease.


    Luo Jingyi turned her head to her left. She found her eyes glued to his side profile.


    ''Okay. I admit. Enticingly handsome.''


    "I am too handsome, right? You can take a look as much as you want, I wouldn''t mind sweetie." came his cheeky words.


    Luo Jingyi was roused from her trance.


    ''What are you doing Jingyi?'' She pinched the bridge of her nose to stop her from embarrassing herself further.


    "Put on your seatbelts. Unless you want me to?"


    Noticing the mirth in his eyes when he asked her, Luo Jingyi quietly secured her seatbelt.


    "Oh, you don''t want to."


    Jingyi ignored his teasing and leaned on her seat. She focused her eyes outside and studied the streetscape with interest. There were towering residential buildings and high-end hotels, upscale businesses and even buses with large signs on them. If it wouldn''t be for the trees planted in the sidewalk, there''ll be no fresh air to breathe.


    Eight years and she still hasn''t gotten used of how the modern world appears. But if given a choice to choose, she''d prefer this world. At present, women are given much freedom to decide for themselves.


    "What are you thinking?" Yun Jinghan started a conversation to break the quietness inside the car. Plus, her constant sighing since she got inside drifted to his ears.


    "None of your business."


    "Of course it''s my business. I am your boyfriend after all. Tomorrow, I''ll be your fianc¨¦."


    Luo Jingyi pursed her lips to stop her from saying something she would regret.


    "How do you know Madam Lacroix?" He asked in curiosity. He had a suspicion that his people couldn''t find anything about her because Antoine Lacroix''s had it erased. Albeit, his company never had a collaboration the French family giant, he was aware of how extensive their business network was in Europe. In addition to that, there''s the military that back them up.


    "She saved me from hell."

 Chapter 30 - ENGAGEMENT RINGS 1

    "She saved me from hell." Luo Jingyi whispered with a smile full of gratefulness towards Madam Lacroix.


    ''What kind of hell?'' He meant to ask but it never slipped past his lips seeing that she was staring blankly like her mind was millions away. It was pointless to prod any longer. He reminded himself that patience was the driving force behind his success. Thus, he will apply the same concept to her. There''s no secret in this world that he wouldn''t find. Yet, he desired her to open about herself at her own accord.


    Luo Jingyi was thinking back the day she came to this world and was in brief contemplation if he should tell him or not. In the end, her inner self decided against it, reminding her there was no reason for him to know.


    From the side view mirror, she noticed the two cars following in succession ever since they left the hospital.


    "Don''t mind them. They''re my security detail."


    This information solidified her conjecture. Moreover, she has seen Aunt Alice''s surprised expression earlier upon the man''s announcement before the other woman tucked it away. It indicated she recognized him. Perhaps they belong to the same social circle. Ignoring the uneasy feeling that gnawed in her stomach, she closed her eyes and shut her head from doing all the thinking. It was easy to find it out yet laziness was pulling her back from doing so.


    "We''re here." Yun Jinghan announced when he parked the car right in front of an upscale jewelry store downtown.


    "What are we doing here?" It was the first question that popped out of her mouth when she saw where they were.


    "Buying props."


    "We didn''t have to." she protested after gleaning on what he meant. In fact, there was no need for a ring because it''s only Alice and Antoine Lacroix who would know him as her ''fianc¨¦.''


    "How could there be an engagement without any ring?" he retorted before jumping out of the car.


    Yun Jinghan got her there. So albeit the reluctance, Luo Jingyi got off the car without waiting for him to open the door for her, making the man shake his head in amusement.


    Yun Jinghan called K2 who was sitting in another car that was stationed three buildings away from where he was standing. He ordered them to leave which K2 accepted without muttering words of protests. But unknown to Yun Jinghan, K2 immediately called the store manager and informed him to keep his eyes open. When the manager heard of this, he ran out of his office and went downstairs.


    Meanwhile, two store attendants were at the door and greeted them in unison. The bright lighting and gleaming locked glass display cases were the first things she noted upon entry. One attendant ushered them inside a private room whilst the other served refreshments. The two moved in tandem like they had done it a hundred times. The establishment live with its reputation as the best jewelry brands in the country for the employees have the utmost professional grace in them. Even their steps were measured and their gestures were courteous. Unlike other places, where attendants were too bias. They''ll judge your buying power according to how you appear on the surface.


    Noting that she was quietly observing around without being too obvious, he took the glass of juice and handed it to her. The passing was done swiftly yet when his fingers brushed hers, she felt a jolt inside. Ignoring it, she sipped slowly and allowed the coolness of the drink to soothe her suddenly dry throat.


    "I want to see the Charlotte series." Yun Jinghan told the attendant who was waiting patiently on the side.


    "I am sorry sir. That is only possible for¡ª" She wanted to say that only the store''s VIP customers were privileged to buy this limited collection, however, the sudden pain coming from below closed her mouth shut and winced inwardly without letting the other people in the room feel it. Her wide smile never faded.


    "I am sorry. My staff is still new here, Mr. Yun." It was her manager who spoke apologetically. He was the same person who stepped on her foot seconds earlier. The manager gestured her to leave in haste to take what Yun Jinghan requested.


    The word "Mr. Yun" scared her out of her wits and she tarried at once. At the same time, thoughts were rushing out her head. With her manager''s respect towards the man, it''s possible that he''s one of the heirs of the Yun Empire.


    The woman returned with an expensive-looking velvet case. In her last life, there''s no jewelry that she hadn''t try so she eyed the box with disinterest. When it was opened the shimmer and glitter of the jewelry blinded her that in her imagination, she placed an arm over her eyes.


    "Take a pick." He has a ring in mind but he was giving her the freedom to choose.


    Luo Jingyi scanned the contents but all gave her a bland feeling. There was no lure.


    Normally, if one goes shopping and spots an item that the heart couldn''t let go or put down meant buying it regardless of the price tag.


    None of the five rings gave her this feeling. Not that they were gaudy or dull but rather, they were too eye-catching to the point of being dramatic. The monstrosity of the diamond resting on one''s finger would draw too much attention.


    "Do you have a simpler one?" She asked the store manager. If the man preferred a low-key car, she wanted the ring to be one as well. Plus, there was no need to splurge on something that she would unlikely wear all the time.


    The other man was stunned. There were many female customers clamoring to view and buy from these series but only selected few were chosen. Moreover, women preferred these types. The bigger the diamond was, the better.


    The manager quietly reverted his gaze to his boss and pitied him. ''He must be having a hard time now. Money can''t even interest the woman who caught his finicky eyes.''


    The chat group of all of Yun Jinghan''s guards exploded when Amy told everyone that their boss was staying in the city for the meantime because of a woman without divulging any other information. It meant as a warning to everyone. Yet the guys were too curious and interrogated K5 who had been driving their boss around the city. Voil¨¤, in seconds they knew of her name, job, and workplace.


    ''Don''t worry boss. I''ll help you.''


    "Give me a minute." He politely excused himself out of the room.


    The manager returned later with a small red velvety case. He carefully placed it on Yun Jinghan''s palm. Without retracting his gaze on her, he lifted the ring box open.


    A sleek band was revealed in front of everyone. Unlike the ones shown earlier with gigantic diamonds, this one has a small round cut set on its claw prongs. She instantly like the ring''s simplicity.


    "How about this Miss¡ªma''am?" He imagined he hit his head for making a slip. The r


    "I like it." Luo Jingyi murmured.

 Chapter 31 - ENGAGEMENT RINGS 2

    "I like it." Luo Jingyi murmured.


    That was Yun Jinghan''s cue. He gestured her to put her hand forward. Luo Jingyi hesitated but before she knew what happened next, his intense gaze hypnotized her to follow. The cold smoothness of the ring sliding over her finger jolted her up from a daze. By then, he had retracted his hand with caution. Irritation rushed out inside her but she reigned it down with a bite of her lower lip.


    "It''s perfect." He gushed with contentment.


    ''Fine.'' Luo Jingyi puffed her imaginary bangs. The ring indeed fitted hers perfectly as though it was tailored for her delicate finger.


    "We''ll take it." Yun Jinghan took out his black card and handed it to the manager with a warning look that nobody noticed except the other man. He was reminding him not to make any mistake.


    ''Wow!'' the female attendant who stood quietly on the side couldn''t believe that her manager sold the most expensive ring in their store without any effort. She envied his quickness and told herself to emulate her manager.


    Instantly, Luo Jingyi handed her card to the manager as well.


    "This..." The manager was at loss of words. He turned to Yun Jinghan with a confused look.


    "I''ll pay for it sweetie."


    "No." Her refusal came like the sound of a fist pounding on the desk. It was crisp. She was leaving no room for refusal.


    Luo Jingyi didn''t want to owe him anything. She made a decision to date for real so she can get away from the pressure of Aunt Alice. Although she was her boyfriend, their relationship was still a pretend one. None of them love each other. It''s a relationship she agreed to, for appearance''s sake. Thus, there''s no reason for him to buy her things.


    "Why sweetie? I can afford it."


    The hint of humor in his voice, however, didn''t work on Luo Jingyi.


    "I''ll pay for it." She stated with determination.


    The manager now realized that the two were similar. None of them intended to cave in regarding this matter. So, he made a bold suggestion.


    "In fact, this ring is a set. There''s also a ring for a man."


    ''How come I didn''t know of that.'' the attendant gave a confused look towards the manager.


    She has no idea because the male set had just arrived earlier and it was the one the manager was examining before he got called on.


    The ring that was now sitting on Luo Jingyi''s finger was commissioned by a rich man for his beloved. It was designed by a famous Italian jeweler. The man''s object adored it so much that she asked the same jeweler to make a counterpart. She gifted the piece to her then-fianc¨¦ as a sign of devotion. Of course, they lived happily ever after. When they both passed away, both rings were donated to charity. They were sold at an auction on separate occasions. The male piece was recently acquired in an auction in London.


    Luo Jingyi and Yun Jinghan waited for the manager because after saying those words, he left in haste. It wasn''t long when he returned panting.


    "Since, it''s a pair. You can buy this for your man. Meanwhile, Mr. Yun will pay for yours." He suggested. This is his first time encountering a woman who would rather pay for her own. He surmised that Miss Luo didn''t put his boss on her heart in contrast to Yun Jinghan. So, he wanted to help him.


    The word "your man" almost made her puke but she shoved it back down with a sigh. The man''s suggestion didn''t seem to be a bad idea. Moreover, she was saving him a face.


    "Okay." Luo Jingyi relented which made everyone glad, especially Yun Jinghan. He never wore jewelry except for the luxury watch on his wrist but now, he was more than willing. This feeling was new to him.


    "Put mine too." He urged her with pleading eyes.


    Luo Jingyi forced back the urge to roll her eyes because of his sappy action. She half-heartedly took the simple ring and placed it at the tip of his finger. Then she withdrew her hand quickly.


    "Put it by yourself."


    The upward curve on his lips turned to a pout. Still, he listened without complaint. He was unhappy but it was gone the next second when he realized that she bought this for him.


    The smile plastered on the manager''s face widened and stepped out of the room to process their purchase.


    "Let''s go." Luo Jingyi walked to the door, not wanting to stay in the room any longer. Just to get a ring, she wasted more than an hour. She had to return to the hospital.


    At the payment section, the manager handed back two black cards as he stated with beaming confidence, "As both of you are our 10th customer for the day, we are offering a 50% discount."


    It was an idea he immediately conjured up. If this woman was going to be their lady boss, how dare him to take her money. Yun Jinghan will kill him and throw his body into the ocean so the sharks can finish him off.


    Luo Jingyi looked at the receipt and her head went like¡­


    Shrek! Six figures? This is daylight robbery.


    She can splurge on clothes but not on nonsensical things.


    ''Why did I even agree to this?''


    Oblivious to her unhappiness, Yun Jinghan lauded the manager''s tactfulness. He reminded himself to tell K2 to promote him.


    When the two left the store, the manager watched their disappearing back shrouded with similar aura; cold and distant.


    "Are we really having a promotion?"


    "No."


    "Then, why?" The attendant paled and looked confused.


    "You don''t have to know." He turned away and returned to his office.


    .....


    Yun Jinghan had another plan but his phone wouldn''t let him be. In the end, he drove her back to the hospital.


    "I''ll pick you up at 6."


    "No, let''s meet at Z Mall." She refused because Brightwood Residence was outside the city and her place was on the opposite side.


    "Allow me to be a gentleman just for once, huh? I''ll pick you up at your place." It sounded more like a plea as though he was in a very difficult situation.


    "Suit yourself." Luo Jingyi threw a dismissive wave over her shoulders and hurried out of the car because her pager beeped.


    "Laters!" He yelled to the sprinting figure with a contented smile.

 Chapter 32 - CRASHED

    Luo Jingyi rushed inside the hospital. She went to change her clothes first in the locker room and left her bag there instead of running to her office first.


    "Trauma bay 5." The ER nurse reported when Luo Jingyi walked past the nurses station.


    Luo Jingyi made a beeline to the trauma room. Just a step away from the room, the metallic scent of blood assailed her nose, which she''d been used to. But she sensed something much worse. Inside the room, she found the patient lain on the trauma bed with blood gushing out from his throat.


    The patient was in a state of shock and respiratory distress.


    "Has the new attending been paged?"


    "He''s currently in OR 5." It was the head nurse who reported.


    ''Well, I guess it''s going to be me who''s going to revive you.''


    "Status?" Luo Jingyi asked Intern B.


    "25-year-old, deep stab wound on the neck. He has a weak pulse and his heart rate is 150/min."


    Luo Jingyi made a quick assessment of the wound. He was stabbed in front and mid part of the neck. Adding to that were deep bruises all over his body. Knowing where to focus at, she ordered, "Let''s stabilize his cervical spine first."


    One moved to hold the patient''s head firmly with both hands. Followed by supporting the lower jaw and moving the patient''s head to eyes-forward position. While the position was maintained, Luo Jingyi inserted a tracheostomy tube in the trachea to secure the airway as she barked orders.


    "Intern B, start him on intravenous crystalloids."


    "I need a junior resident to hold this and apply pressure." One stepped forward and took her place.


    "Inform the OR team that we are going up. Be quick!"


    ¡­.


    Luo Jingyi scrubbed her hands before walking in the OR. After all the preparations, she started the surgical neck exploration. Upon assessment, it was discovered that his internal jugular vein was partially transected. Albeit, she already had this conjecture earlier the minute she spotted his injuries. Hence she imagined it was going to be tedious.


    The mortality rate of cut-throat injuries was very high. This was because of the presence of the jugular vein and carotid arteries in the neck. With his injury; vascular, tracheal and esophageal repairs had to be done.


    "What happened to him?" She couldn''t help herself from asking.


    "He was involved in a gang fight." It was the junior resident who answered plainly. Dr. Lin wasn''t assisting this time because there was another patient who was rushed in. In Luo Jingyi''s opinion, Dr. Lin would manage on her own.


    "Let''s save him then. Hopefully, he won''t be brought back to the ER in the future for the same reason." People around her couldn''t ascertain if it was sarcasm or glee that was hinted in her voice. Nevertheless, there was a collective chorus of agreement from them.


    The patient''s vitals were stabilized first before the esophageal reconstruction was started because his trachea was separated from his larynx. Following that was repairing the posterior layer of the transected trachea.


    For the next two hours, Luo Jingyi repaired and sutured what need''s fixing before she was called to another injured patient. On top of that, she had scheduled surgery too.


    Hence, that is how Luo Jingyi spent her last shift at GM General Hospital. Saving lives.


    Twelve hours later, while she was washing her hands, she looked at herself in the mirror.


    "You look beat." She complained but there was a contented smile on her face. Only she knew the euphoric feeling of saving one''s life gave her.


    .....


    The first hint of dawn was already visible in the sky when Luo Jingyi stepped out of the hospital door and walked towards her car. Just when she inserted her key, someone suddenly appeared behind her.


    "Shrek!" she cursed in fright. At the same time, her body automatically jerked away and was in a fighting stance to protect herself.


    "What are you doing?" Luo Jingyi asked with a hiss when she saw who scared her out.


    "Sorry." Yun Jinghan picked her bag and keys on the ground.


    Luo Jingyi eyed him angrily as she patted her chest.


    "What are you doing here?" She snatched her things from him.


    "I''ll take you home."


    "I have a driver''s li¡ªlicense. I am perfectly ca¡ªcapable of driving myself." She paused in between because she stifled the yawn that escaped her mouth.


    "Are you sure about that? I am afraid that if you are going to drive in that condition, you''re going to be the next patient in the ER." Yun Jinghan uttered with humor glinted in his eyes.


    "Not that I am praying for it to happen." He added quickly.


    "No¡ª" Another yawn stopped her. Admitting she was really in no condition to drive, she tossed the car key to him.


    ''You want to be a driver? Alright then.'' She thought with a scoff. She opened the door and occupied the back to annoy him.


    For most people, they would think of this situation as insulting because one would appear to be a hired driver in this case. Yet, Yun Jinghan wasn''t offended at all. He was whistling when he took the car''s control and drove away from the hospital. Obviously, her attempt failed and it gave her a very unhappy feeling.


    "Stop pouting. It will make you uglier."


    ''Uglier my a**'' she snapped inside her head.


    ''Jingyi, what are you doing?'' She reigned in her annoyance.


    Seeing her quietness at the back, he teased her more. "But of course, you are not ugly. You are the most beautiful woman in my eyes."


    Luo Jingyi instantly grimaced upon hearing these. "Stop sputtering nonsense. One would think you are delusional."


    "So does that mean, me seeing you as a gorgeous woman is a delusion? Then, are you admitting that you are unattractive?" Humor was detected in his retort.


    "Shut up!" Her voice reverberated in the car mixing with the peal of laughter from Yun Jinghan.


    Ignoring him, Luo Jingyi stretched out her arms and shoulders and sank into the seat. There''s only one thought running in her head; soaking in a bathtub while enjoying a glass of red wine to loosen the stiff muscles and to relieve her weary bones.


    She''s banned from touching alcohol as per Aunt Alice''s orders and yet she was thinking of indulging herself.


    ''You need to relax. You are not alcoholic, Jingyi.''


    ''Don''t worry. No one''s going to tell her anyway. It''s just a secret between you and me.'' She thought with a determined smile.


    Because the road was empty except for a few motorists, the 30 minute trip from the hospital to her apartment building took only half. Yun Jinghan entered the underground parking lot. Perhaps she was really tired so she never noticed that he parked exactly on her designated spot without asking her.


    "I''ll accompany you up."


    "No. Give me the keys."


    Even if she refused, Yun Jinghan walked her to the bank of elevators and pressed her floor number.


    When an empty carriage opened, Luo Jingyi entered and pushed the close button repeatedly to stop the man from following her.


    "Good night. See you later." Aware of her resistance, he waved.


    Luo Jingyi was surprised that he didn''t insist.


    "Thank you." she blurted out as the doors closed. It was barely audible but it reached his ears.


    His mouth curved up in amusement while he watched the numbers changed on the screen. He waited for another five minutes before he walked to another black car that was waiting for him.


    "Let''s go."


    As the car sped away, K5 noticed his young master''s eyes were fixated to a certain spot in the building. Like K3 reported earlier, their young master indeed was having a hard time chasing a woman. He had things to do yet he had returned to the hospital in the evening to personally bring her dinner which eventually ended up in the bin. Then, he waited for her for more than 6 hours inside the car. When he finally met her, he had to chauffeur her home.


    ''Ah. Falling in love is hard. It''s exhausting.'' K5 concluded.


    ''Maybe I should dissuade Young Master.''


    "Don''t sputter any nonsense." Yun Jinghan warned him before K5 uttered what he meant to say.


    As ordered, K5 zipped his mouth and drove in silence.


    On the other hand, Luo Jingyi who had a plan in mind got inside her apartment and wearily dragged herself to the bedroom. For the first time in 8 years, she crashed onto the bed without changing her clothes. In less than a minute, her uniformed breathing echoed inside the bedroom.

 Chapter 33 - STEPMOTHER

    The shrill and piercing sound of the alarm going off woke Luo Jingyi up the next day. Bright sunlight seeped through the gaps of the blinds that drape her bedroom windows.


    It''s been two years since she had the digital clock gifted by Xu Wei and it remained as a decoration.


    It hadn''t done its proper job because she always got up hours before it beeped. Today, it has served its purpose. With closed eyes, Luo Jingyi reached over to turn it off. She meant to return sleeping but her ringing phone wouldn''t let her.


    "Hello?" She answered groggily.


    "There you are! Thank goodness. I''ve been calling you for ages. Is everything alright?" her stepmother''s voice exclaimed on the other end of the line.


    Luo Jingyi had to pull the phone away from her ear because the woman''s voice was loud enough to pierce her eardrums. Even without looking at the name, she knew it was her stepmother yet she glanced at the number to confirm her doubt. Wang Hua was indeed calling her on a different number.


    ''She must have realized you blocked her.''


    "Hello? Are you there? Han Jingyi? The woman continued to call out.


    "I''m here Aunt." Luo Jingyi sat up and leaned on the headboard after placing a pillow as a cushion. She could almost imagine Wang Hua''s contorted face upon hearing how she was addressed.


    "How are you? We haven''t spoken for a long time?"


    "I''m alive." Luo Jingyi replied with underlying meaning. Her eyes appeared to be cold and flat.


    "Don''t do that again. Disappearing without telling anyone. We searched for you everywhere. Did you know how worried I was? I couldn''t even sleep at night. " Wang Hua complained feeling much distressed.


    As Wang Hua spoke, Luo Jingyi curled a lock of hair around her finger and toyed with it as she hummed a melody in her head. She didn''t want to listen to Wang Hua''s guff because she was getting bored with the same lines.


    "Are you listening, Jingyi? We miss you a lot. Your father wants to see you and your sister keeps mentioning your name too." Her voice was full of warmth and love. One could mistake that Wang Hua loved Jingyi dearly.


    If her stepmother was able to fool the original body, it''s different in her case. She can sense ''fakeness'' in Wang Hua on the spot.


    "Really. They do now?" Luo Jingyi asked innocently and pretended to care.


    "Of course!"


    A sardonic smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. Luo Jingyi never believed Wang Hua''s words because they were obviously nothing but lies.


    Han Peng wouldn''t even think of Jingyi unless he needed something beneficial for his political dreams. And the half-sister treated the original with repulsiveness.


    "Is there a reason for this call Aunt? If none, I still have things to do," she asked straight-away with politeness. If the woman wanted to play the role of a doting stepmother, she would give it to her.


    ''Let''s see how long you are going to keep with that pretense though.'' Luo Jingyi thought with a smirk.


    "Oh, did I call you at a bad time?"


    "Yeah. So it''s better to tell me why you called me for rather than beating around the bush."


    The woman was taken aback by her statement. It took seconds of quietness before she regained her composure and spoke, "There''s nothing really. I just wanted to check on you because we haven''t seen you for a long time."


    ''Wouldn''t it be better to say, I want to find out if the people I sent succeeded?'' Luo Jingyi replied derisively in her head.


    "I''m perfectly fine, Aunt. But did you know that three days ago somebody attempted to kidnap me?"


    "What! Really? Are you really alright?" Her over concerned voice wafted to Jingyi''s ears.


    "I''m left unscathed. Luckily someone helped me." Luo Jingyi said. Suddenly, a handsome man with a lop-sided grin plastered on his face sprung out of her head.


    ''Urgh! Why am I even thinking of him?''


    "Who would dare to do this to Governor Han''s daughter?"


    "That''s exactly what I thought Aunt. I haven''t really offended anyone as far as I''m concerned."


    "Don''t worry dear. I will investigate this and give you a satisfying answer. There''s no need for you to report it to the police." The woman promised and put in much effort to convince her.


    "I won''t Aunt. The election is almost up ahead and a scandal would badly affect my father, right?"


    "Yes. At least you''re being sensible." Wang Hua swallowed back the bitter tang in her mouth and praised her, masking the hatred she had towards Jingyi because she kept repeating the word "Aunt."


    "Of course, Aunt. My mother taught me that."


    ''Not you.''


    This sentence must have hit Wang Hua badly that she almost heard her grinding her teeth but the woman did her utmost ability not to sound obvious.


    "I really have to go."


    "Okay. I''ll call you again later. Take care of yourself." Wang Hua reminded her affectionately but only the dial tone heard her last sentence. Unable to restrain her anger, she threw the object she was holding. The sound of glass shattering upon hitting the wall was heard inside the room.


    "How could they fail?" She snapped. All Wang Hua wanted to do at the moment was to wring someone''s neck. She spent a lot of money to locate Jingyi. It took years before she found her. Then, she paid people to kill her but it all ended with a failure. She believed them when they assured her. Today, she called Jingyi to make sure because they neglected to report as per their agreement.


    "No matter what, Han Jingyi''s existence must be erased in this world." She balled her hands into a fist.


    Then, Wang Hua grabbed another phone and sent a message.


    However, Wang Hua didn''t know that all her phones were being monitored. Whatever message she sent was being transmitted to a computer somewhere.


    **


    Luo Jingyi lain on the bed. A satisfied smile was drawn on her lips. She could imagine that the woman would probably be exploding in anger at the moment.


    She''s well aware of Wang Hua''s hatred towards the original but didn''t understand why. Due to that, Luo Jingyi didn''t want to tear down the other woman''s mask yet. However, it didn''t mean she couldn''t ruffle Wang Hua''s feathers.


    ..


    An hour later, Luo Jingyi forcibly roused herself from the lure of the bed because it was almost three in the afternoon. Unknowingly, she fell asleep while contemplating on the matters regarding her step-mother.


    She stepped into the bathroom, yawning.


    "Weird." she murmured.


    It felt like all the fatigue for the past years caught up with her. Making her desire to stay on bed longer.


    After showering putting on clean clothes she walked to the kitchen and rummaged through her fridge. She settled with a ham and cheese sandwich because they were the only ones left in her stock.


    While she ate, she scanned the headlines on her tablet. A few days ago, the topic was the Chen Family. Now, it''s all about an actress who married her rich boyfriend. As she scrolled down, all topics were related to this.


    "Nothing''s news-worthy." Luo Jingyi turned off her tablet with a sigh.


    Suddenly, her doorbell buzzed.

 Chapter 34 - DINNER WITH THE LACROIX FAMILY 1

    Luo Jingyi opened the door and found a girl outside.


    "Yes?"


    The teenage girl handed her a bouquet of flowers arranged in a vase.


    "Are you sure this is for me?" she asked wondering who could have sent it.


    The girl nodded her head repeatedly and scampered away, leaving Luo Jingyi shaking her head in bewilderment.


    Inside her apartment, she put it down on the kitchen counter and lifted the note on it.


    It read: These flowers reminded me of you. Don''t frown. Smile. ¨C YJH


    Luo Jingyi rolled her eyes at the man''s message.


    ''I remind him of flowers?''


    Luo Jingyi glanced at the floral arrangement that consists of hydrangeas, dahlias, sunflowers, cottage roses, Peruvian lilies, and fresh mints. She was able to name all thanks to Aunt Alice''s lessons.


    Unable to find the answer, she carried the vase and placed them on her coffee table. The colorful flowers instantly brightened up her monotonous living room.


    ''Pretty.''


    Then it suddenly dawned her that perhaps that''s what he meant. Without realizing it, a faint smile rose her lips.


    Out of nowhere, a black-winged angel popped out of her brain and asked, ''What are you doing?''


    That curve on her face suddenly disappeared.


    Luo Jingyi put away all the thoughts and glanced at the time. She pushed back the idea of doing some work because it was almost time to get ready for the evening affair.


    When she finished dressing, she spun slowly in front of the full-length mirror and studied her reflection. She wore a white lace top and paired it with a navy blue pleated skirt. She intended to wear flats but realizing that Yun Jinghan was taller than her, she went for stilettos. Her hair that was usually pulled up in a ponytail was styled with a loose French braid. Feeling satisfied, she left her apartment.


    Yun Jinghan sucked in air upon seeing a beautiful figure exiting the building. She donned in simple clothes yet the way she carried herself made all the difference. She walked with a confident grace similar to a queen. There''s that air of nobility she exuded that you would even mistake her as a member of the royal family.


    Yun Jinghan didn''t see any awkwardness in her like as stated on her profile. Without putting much thought about it, he got off and waited for her.


    "Good evening," Yun Jinghan greeted her with his mega-watt smile, revealing his perfect white teeth. He then opened the door of the passenger side.


    Luo Jingyi acknowledged his presence. This time, she got inside without much complaint.


    To overcome the nervousness that was gradually rising inside her, she let her eyes wander and they ended up on his body. He was wearing navy blue suit pants and a white dress shirt. There was no jacket on him but she saw one at the back. It appeared like they color-coordinated their clothes.


    "Too handsome?" Yun Jinghan teased.


    "No!" Luo Jingyi refused to admit. She retracted her gaze and looked outside.


    It took almost an hour to get to Aunt Alice''s seaside residence. After recognizing Jingyi, the guard opened the gates.


    As they approached the main house, her stomach constricted into a nervous knot. She was feeling bad that she had to resolve into something like this.


    "Grandma, did I make the right decision?" Luo Jingyi murmured out of the blue.


    "Did you say something?" Yun Jinghan asked behind her which made her jump.


    Luo Jingyi meant to answer but decided to just zip her mouth.


    ''You have a man standing in front of you Jingyi. You''ll be fine.'' A voice inside her brain reminded her.


    She already made a choice so there''s no turning back. Luo Jingyi squared her shoulders.


    "Let''s go. Don''t forget what we talked about." She reminded him.


    "Of course, I won''t."


    The family butler opened the oak door.


    "Good evening Miss. And you too Mr. Yun." he curtsied respectfully.


    "Good evening Fredrick." Luo Jingyi responded warmly.


    "Everyone is at the sunroom," he reported.


    "Thank you."


    Luo Jingyi led Yun Jinghan to the sunroom passing through the long corridor.


    Before they entered the foyer that lead to that room, she paused feeling puzzled by what Fredrick said.


    ''Everyone?'' She had a very bad feeling about this.


    Collective laughter and people''s voice made her realized something.


    "What''s wrong?" Yun Jinghan asked.


    Luo Jingyi grasped now what Fredrick meant to say. When he said everyone, it was literally everyone.


    "It''s not only my aunt and uncle we are going to meet." She answered worriedly.


    Yun Jinghan briefly whispered to her ears, "What are you worried about? WE are engaged, aren''t we? We already exchanged rings."


    His closeness made her heartbeat thumped irregularly that she didn''t think much of what he said.


    "Hey! The lovebirds are here." Aunt Eloisa got everyone''s attention with this mere announcement.


    Aunt Eloisa who was carrying a bottle of wine was behind the two.


    All eyes turned to them.


    ''There''s really no going back.''


    Luo Jingyi stepped forward. Yun Jinghan matched her pace, making sure to leave a little distance between them without making it obvious. Unless necessitated, he would try his best to avoid touching her. That''s what they agreed on to avoid her panic attack.


    After making a quick assessment, Luo Jingyi counted ten people in the room. That included Aunt Alice and Uncle Antoine. A circle was suddenly formed around them.


    ''Just great. Now there are ten people I need to explain to when I break up with him.'' She thought grimly.


    "Why don''t you introduce the man with you Jingyi?" Uncle Robert winked at Luo Jingyi.


    Luo Jingyi turned her head to Yun Jinghan and gestured him.


    "This is my fianc¨¦, Yun Jinghan." She told everyone with a smile.


    As the head of the Lacroix clan, Uncle Antoine stepped forward and extended his hand and shook Yun Jinghan''s as he welcomed him. Everyone followed suit as they introduced themselves too.


    Congratulatory words flew in as each greeted them with happiness.


    In contrast to everyone''s expression, Aunt Alice scrutinized the two closely, looking for subtle hints that they were lying. But she felt disappointed when she found none.


    Aunt Eloisa glanced at Luo Jingyi with questioning eyes. In her mind, a question popped out. ''Of all people, why did Jingyi involve herself with a Yun?''


    It was quick but Luo Jingyi saw it so she reminded herself to talk to Aunt Eloisa about it later.


    With much reluctance, Nicolette ambled towards them and spoke, "Nicolette Lacroix. I''m unhappy to meet you."


    "Nicolette! Behave." It was her mother who was horrified at her daughter''s actions.


    Nicolette pouted like a child and hooked an arm on Luo Jingyi, pulling her away from the group. Yun Jinghan glanced at the two figures before he started answering the questions they were throwing at him.


    Luo Jingyi stopped Nicolette when the latter meant to drag her out to the deck for privacy.


    "Let''s stay here." She was uneasy leaving Yun Jinghan alone with the family.


    Nicolette crossed her arms over her chest.


    "I hate you. Now, Mother will surely force me to go on dates."


    Luo Jingyi said nothing and simply laughed at her antics.


    "Is he really your fianc¨¦? Or is it because Aunt Alice pestered you a lot so you decided to pay a guy to pretend as one?" Nicolette quizzed with raised brows.

 Chapter 35 - DINNER WITH THE LACROIX FAMILY 2

    ???? Extra Characters:


    a.  Uncle Antoine / Antoine Lacroix  - Alice''s husband


    b. Aunt Alice / Alice Tan Lacroix - Eloisa''s older sister


    c.  Uncle Robert / Robert Lacroix - Antoine''s brother / Nicolette''s dad


    d. Eloisa Tan - Alice''s younger sister


    e. Nicolette Lacroix - cousin of the bride (chap 16)


    ************


    Luo Jingyi knew the designer of the wristband and the purpose it was designed. If Yun Jinghan didn''t raise his arm to reach for the folder minutes ago, Luo Jingyi wouldn''t have noticed it. So the moment she saw it, she was careful as to what to say.


    Never leave a piece of incriminating evidence.  Someone repeatedly told her before.


    The remainder of the trip was spent discussing what they had to do and what to say to others. Luo Jingyi requested that aside from aunt and uncle, she didn''t want others to know of their relationship. That they would only act like a couple in front of Aunt Alice. But Yun Jinghan disapproved of it. He argued that they needed to leave shreds of evidence around in case she would investigate. Luo Jingyi refused to believe she would result to that. Aunt Alice could turn into a nagging woman but she wouldn''t go as far as having someone follow her around.  Listening to his reasonings, she relented.


    By the end of their conversation, Yun Jinghan was able to convince her to allow at least two days per week for them to meet up. Her assent didn''t come easily and it took a lot of convincing before she agreed. He noted that Jingyi tended to weigh things over. She wasn''t the type who would tread on something without careful consideration.


    It took almost an hour to get to Aunt Alice''s seaside residence. After recognizing Jingyi, the guard opened the gates. As they approached the main house, her stomach constricted into a nervous knot.  She was feeling bad that she had to resolve into something like this.


    "Grandma, did I make the right decision?" Luo Jingyi murmured out of the blue.


    Yun Jinghan heard her speak slowly. "Did you say something?"


    Luo Jingyi meant to answer but decided to just zip her mouth.


    ''You have a man standing in front of you Jingyi. You''ll be fine.'' A voice inside her brain reminded her. She already made a choice so there''s no turning back.


    Squaring her shoulders, she reminded him.  "Don''t forget what we talked about."


    Carrying the gifts, he followed her. "Of course, I won''t."


    At the door, the family butler curtsied respectfully. "Good evening Miss. And you too Mr. Yun."


    "Good evening Fredrick." Luo Jingyi responded with warmth unsurprised to see him tonight. While France was the permanent residence of the Lacroix, they have houses in many places. And Fredrick always traveled with them to take care of the family.


    Taking the bags Yun Jinghan handed over, he reported, "Everyone is at the sunroom."


    "Thank you." Luo Jingyi led Yun Jinghan to the sunroom passing through the long corridor. But before they entered the foyer that led to that room, she paused feeling puzzled by what Fredrick said.


    ''Everyone?'' She had a very bad feeling about this. Collective laughter and people''s voice made her realized something.


    "What''s wrong?" Yun Jinghan asked.


    Luo Jingyi grasped now what Fredrick meant to say. When he said everyone, it was literal.


    "The whole Lacroix family might be here." She answered grimly. This family meant a lot to her. And what she was about to do, was considered lying.


    Sensing her edginess, he briefly whispered to her ears, "What are you worried about? WE are engaged, aren''t we? We already exchanged rings."


    His closeness almost made her heartbeat jump irregularly but she bit her lower lip to jolt herself and edged two steps farther from him.


    "Hey! The lovebirds are here." Aunt Eloisa got everyone''s attention with this mere announcement. She was behind them, carrying a bottle of wine.


    All eyes turned to them.


    ''There''s really no going back.''


    Because the ship had already sailed, Luo Jingyi stepped forward. Yun Jinghan matched her pace, making sure to leave a little distance between them without making it obvious. Unless necessitated, he would try his best to avoid touching her. That''s what they agreed on to avoid her panic attack.


    After making a quick assessment, Luo Jingyi counted ten people in the room. That included Aunt Alice and Uncle Antoine. A circle was suddenly formed around them.


    "Why don''t you introduce the man with you Jingyi?" Uncle Robert winked at Luo Jingyi.


    Luo Jingyi shifted her body so that she was facing Yun Jinghan and the rest.


    "This is my fianc¨¦, Yun Jinghan."


    As the head of the Lacroix clan, Uncle Antoine came forward, extended his hand and shook Yun Jinghan''s as he welcomed him. Everyone followed suit as they introduced themselves too. Congratulatory words flew in as each greeted them with happiness.


    In contrast to everyone''s expression, Aunt Alice scrutinized the two closely, looking for subtle hints that they were lying. But she felt disappointed when she found none.


    While most were very welcoming, Yun Jinghan noticed that there were three people who were unhappy to meet him. That included the woman who pouted like a child and hooked her arm on Luo Jingyi, pulling her away from them. Yun Jinghan glanced at the two figures before he started answering questions they were throwing at him.


    Luo Jingyi stopped Nicolette when the latter meant to drag her out to the deck for privacy.  "Let''s stay here." She was uneasy leaving Yun Jinghan alone with the family.


    Nicolette crossed her arms over her chest. "I hate you. Now, Mother will surely force me to go on dates."


    Luo Jingyi said nothing.


    "Is he really your fianc¨¦? Or is it because Aunt Alice pestered you a lot so you decided to pay a guy to pretend as one?" Nicolette quizzed with raised brows.


    Instead of answering, Luo Jingyi waved her hand in front of Nicolette to show the ring on her finger. She clasped Luo Jingyi''s hand and squinted at the engagement ring.


    "Damn it! It''s real." Nicolette muttered with disappointment.


    "Of course it is."


    ''It''s expensive too.'' Luo Jingyi just couldn''t let go of the fact that she spent millions on props.


    "You''ve been avoiding all sorts of matchmaking that mom and aunt arranged for you. So I thought, you simply got tired and hired him. You know¡ªlike those in dramas." Nicolette explained herself.


    Luo Jingyi flicked a finger on the other woman''s forehead.


    "You are watching too many dramas." She scolded her to conceal what she was truly feeling at the moment. This charade was making her nervous. She was afraid of being found out.


    Luo Jingyi''s eyes darted to the man across the room. The corner of his lips was curved up with whatever Nicolette''s twin told him. When he caught her staring at him, he winked.


    Embarrassed for no reason, she looked away. Nicolette noticed this and patted her on the arm.


    "You are blushing," Nicolette commented nonchalantly.


    "I''m not!" Tugging Nicolette''s arm, they sat on the L-shaped sectional sofa.


    After some time, Nicolette complained, hitting her Luo Jingyi''s arm. "I hate you, baby. Now, it wouldn''t be just mom. Aunt Alice would no longer be busy matchmaking you so she will definitely put all her attention on me now."


    Luo Jingyi let the woman be because her force was too light and barely inflicted pain.


    "Go on a date. Find a boyfriend. Don''t you have a list?" Luo Jingyi reminded her of all the guys chasing her.


    Nicolette pulled a face. "I don''t want to get married."


    ''Me too.'' Luo Jingyi blurted out inside her head. Wondering as to why there were more people than she anticipated, she popped the question, "Why is everybody here? I thought most have returned to France already."

 Chapter 36 - DINNER WITH THE LACROIX FAMILY 3

    Most members of this family were based in Europe with the only exception, Eunice.  She wanted to settle roots in her mother''s birthplace. So she returned to Shanghai albeit her parents'' refusal. Luo Jingyi was aware that Aunt Alice and Uncle Antoine would be staying in the city for a while to sort out business-related matters. As for the rest, she would have expected them to have returned.


    "We were supposed to leave last night but Aunt Mirabelle wanted to stay longer. She said she wants to go on a trip with everyone today. Dad called Uncle Antoine to talk about it and eventually found out about tonight. You know how dad tries to get every nit and gritty details of things. He mentioned this to Aunt Mirabelle. And you know what happened next."


    Luo Jingyi winced. Aunt Mirabelle, the youngest of the Lacroix siblings was someone you should never tell a secret to. Of all the four siblings, she was the only one who was different.


    "By the way, Eunice had been trying to get hold of you this afternoon but the call won''t go through."


    "I put my phone in flight mode. Is there anything?" Eunice was already off somewhere for her honeymoon.


    "I am not sure. She just instructed me to tell you, to call her ASAP.  Is that supposed to mean anything?"


    Luo Jingyi tapped her fingers on the armrest as she figured what could the newly-married woman wanted. "I am not sure. I''ll call her later."


    The timely appearance of Fredrick, the family butler saved Luo Jingyi from whatever question Nicolette had in mind as the other woman''s brows were already furrowed.


    ¡­..


    Luo Jingyi walked with Yun Jinghan to the car. He said he forgot something so she followed him.


    "Did they ask you very uncomfortable questions?" Luo Jingyi questioned.


    "Not really."


    Relief passed on Jingyi''s face.


    "But something is bothering me." Yun Jinghan scratched his temple on the right side with a finger.


    "What is it?"


    "How many blind dates exactly did you refuse to go to?"


    Luo Jingyi was silent for a second.


    "I don''t remember." She really lost count already. She''d been to a few, only because her therapist suggested. But she forgot when exactly she started coming up with dozens of reasons to avoid the next ones.


    "Why do you ask?"


    "Everyone seemed suspicious about our relationship."  The questions they asked him were deliberately posed to find a loophole. He knew the answers but for certain things he wasn''t aware of, he just winged it.


    Luo Jingyi pursed her lips. She didn''t anticipate that they would really doubt her. But perhaps, it was due to their concern for her. After all, she was already a part of their family, adopted or not. And she felt the same.


    Out of nowhere, Yun Jinghan bent closer and asked, "Should we show them something only couples do?"


    ''Only couples do?'' Confused, her eyes looked into his. He was staring.


    Reflex made her step back because he was closing in. Alarm bells were ringing in her head. She must run. But before she could, she was caged because her back touched the car and his palms were placed behind her. He didn''t touch her but he was dangerously hovering over her. Luo Jingyi''s pulse started to accelerate.


    "What are you doing?" Luo Jingyi glowered at him. She appeared unaffected yet her palms began to sweat.


    "Kissing you."


    Luo Jingyi meant to step on his foot to stop him but she spotted a figure at the doorway. Before she even pondered the repercussions of her own actions, her clammy hands tugged his shirt. At the same time, she held her breath as though she was anticipating for the kiss.


    But she wasn''t. Luo Jingyi closed her eyes and balled her hand into a fist.  Because her heart thumped out of her chest like she was having tachycardia (1)1, she started humming a melody inside her head. She pretended to be inside the OR, performing a heart transplant surgery. Of all the surgeries, this was one of her favorites.


    Taking a scalpel, she would make an incision on the chest, divide the sternum (2)1 and spread the ribcage apart with a retractor to expose the entire chest and heart. She would use electrocautery to cauterize, cut and seal the small blood vessel before cutting through the pericardium (3)2. Then, she would remove the entire heart except for the back of the left atrium. At the same time, the patient would be maintained on a cardiopulmonary bypass machine which would oxygenate and circulate blood throughout the body. She would trim¡ª


    "That should have done the trick." His soft laugh broke her line of thought.


    Perhaps keeping her brain busy did the trick because her heartbeat slowed down and she stopped shaking. Lifting her lids up, Yun Jinghan''s profile was the first thing she saw. His head was resting on the car. Apparently he didn''t kiss her. But if seen on a different angle, they would appear to be kissing.


    He distanced himself from her. Upon seeing her brows snapped together, he uttered, "Don''t be mad."


    She bit back the nasty words that loomed in her head. Filling her lungs with air then releasing it seconds later, she calmed herself. She looked at the doorway but Aunt Alice was no longer there.


    Yun Jinghan reached for his handkerchief and wiped the beads of sweat on her forehead. She jerked her head away immediately which made him let out an unhappy shrug. Seeing this, Luo Jingyi felt guilty.


    It wasn''t his fault. She took the handkerchief from his grasp and murmured "thanks" in a low, soft voice. Ignoring her, Yun Jinghan opened the back of the car and went through the pieces of stuff there.


    A soft moan of disbelief escaped Luo Jingyi''s lips when she saw what''s inside.  "Did you just rob the museum?"


    Gauging by the rectangular shape and wrapping, they were paintings. She slowly opened the chest box and found rolled scrolls neatly arranged. Curiosity prompted her to lift the lid of the boxes and there were porcelain vases carefully packaged.


    Luo Jingyi shot him a questioning look which he replied casually, "Betrothal gifts."


    "A-what?!" If she was drinking at that time, water would have sprayed all over him. Luckily, she wasn''t.


    He repeated which earned a scowl from her.


    "First, we are not getting married. So this is not necessary. Second, every single item here must have cost millions."


    "So what if I spent millions? Anyway, I bought it for them." He paused, thinking something. "Okay, not betrothal gifts. They are meeting-the-parents-ceremony gifts."


    Luo Jingyi wanted to hit her face with her palm. Why did it feel she was dealing with a child throwing tantrums?


    ''Let it cool Jingyi.''


    "Don''t frown. It makes you less beautiful." He straightened the line on her forehead with a finger. She angled her head on the other side to avoid his touch, giving him a-what-are you-doing-look.


    "You already handed those gifts to Fredrick earlier. Moreover, you don''t have to do this."


    His response came as quick as lightning. "Of course I have to. I want to be on their good side. In the future, I will ask permission from them to marry you."


    Luo Jingyi didn''t take his words seriously because there was a glint of humor in his tone. Moreover, she looked up when she felt raindrops on her skin.


    "No." She pushed the trunk close and tugged his wrist and dragged him inside the house.


    As they sprinted, Yun Jinghan''s gaze fell to her hand on his. A small smile rose his lips gradually growing into a grin.


    ************


    (1) tachycardia = a condition wherein heartbeat exceeds the normal resting rate.


    (2) divide the sternum / breastbone = It is a surgical procedure called MEDIAN STERNOTOMY. With the use of an oscillating saw to cut into halves, a vertical inline incision is made along the sternum. The heart is nestled beneath the sternum.


    (3) pericardium = It''s the sac that protects and contains the heart.


    ..


    (1) tachycardia = a condition wherein heartbeat exceeds the normal resting rate.(2) divide the sternum / breastbone = It is a surgical procedure called MEDIAN STERNOTOMY. With the use of an oscillating saw to cut into halves, a vertical inline incision is made along the sternum. The heart is nestled beneath the sternum.(3) pericardium = It''s the sac that protects and contains the heart.

 Chapter 37 - DINNER WITH THE LACROIX FAMILY 4

    "Where did you two go?" Nicolette asked them as soon as Luo Jingyi sat on the chair Yun Jinghan pulled for her.


    Luo Jingyi briefly glanced at Aunt Alice before she responded, "We forgot something in the car."


    "Come on, let''s eat. I''m feeling hungry." Uncle Robert complained, patting his stomach.


    That was everyone''s cue. Perhaps because she was feeling hungry herself, so Luo Jingyi never protested when Yun Jinghan kept putting food on her plate. Only when there was a pile that she told him off.


    "Stop, I can''t eat all of this." She complained in a hushed tone, bobbing her head closer to his ear. With a gentle expression settling on his face, Yun Jinghan pushed a small bowl of soup to her side. "You have to."


    Luo Jingyi didn''t know where this strange idea came from. Opening her eyes a little wide, she stuck the bottom lip out and tilted her head on the side while looking at him.


    Yun Jinghan''s movement stilled. She looked at him innocently as if she was pleading to be saved. His heartbeat fluttered.


    "Okay. Eat half of it and I''ll finish half." Yun Jinghan cave in even though he wanted to eat more.


    Luo Jingyi smiled yet, an imaginary line was drawn on her forehead.  ''That''s rather unhygienic. You want to eat the food with my saliva?''


    "Look at them. They are so adorable." Laughing, Nicolette''s father commented.


    As they were having dessert, all of a sudden Aunt Alice asked, "When do you plan to have the wedding?"


    Luo Jingyi nearly choked. Yun Jinghan passed a glass of water which she took and gulp its content down.


    Marriage?!


    Yun Jinghan placed on her back to assure her. It stayed for three seconds there before he took it away.


    "We just got engaged Aunt." Luo Jingyi pouted. She nervously glanced at Yun Jinghan. Earlier, they discussed together what they have to say in front of the couple to get their stories straight.


    "Isn''t that where engagement leads to, marriage?" She gave Yun Jinghan a quizzical look.


    "If it would have been up to me to decide, we would have gotten married the day I popped the question. But regarding the wedding, it''s up to Jingyi to decide. Anyway, she''s tied to me till the rest of our lives. She''s not allowed to run." He said possessively. At the same time, he lifted their hands which were clasped together, planting a kiss on her knuckles.


    Nicolette''s twin sister and another female cousin giggled¡­ No shrieked in excitement was the appropriate word.


    Luo Jingyi was stumped for words. Hiding her unhappiness towards Yun Jinghan''s actions, she dug a nail on his skin to warn him and he released his grasp.


    Is he a wolf?


    "If you are going to wait for Jingyi, you''ll have to endure for the next 20 years. Right, Jingyi?" Uncle Robert teased. But everyone knew there''s truth in his words. Luo Jingyi had been very vocal about her views towards marriage.


    Luo Jingyi laughed awkwardly.  What she uttered next wasn''t even well-thought of.


    "Tomorrow we''ll go to the Civil Affairs Bureau and get married."


    "Really?!" Stunned, Nicolette jerked to her feet, her chair falling behind.


    She wasn''t the only one who was surprised. Each one in the room was.


    Uncle Antoine called out everyone''s attention with a clearing throat.  He advised, "While we all loved to see you get married, marriage is a serious subject Jingyi. You shouldn''t take it very lightly. "


    Antoine Lacroix wanted Luo Jingyi to decide for herself, not because of the pressure she was in. He didn''t want it to be a case of haste makes waste. In the beginning, he dissuaded his wife from forcing Jingyi yet she never listened.


    "Why don''t you give it some time? Anyway, both of you are already engaged. It takes the worries off my chest. Moreover, you still need to discuss your marriage with your father." Aunt Alice added, to everyone''s surprise.


    Wasn''t that just contradictory to what you wanted?  Everyone surmised, Aunt Alice didn''t approve of Yun Jinghan.


    "Why aunt? Are you kicking me out of the family already?" Luo Jingyi humored.


    "Of course not!" Her voice was a decibel higher than usual. "You are a member of our family. Whether adopted or not, you are my daughter. So your happiness matters much to me."


    Luo Jingyi suffered from an intense feeling of breathlessness. She struggled to form a response because happiness clouded her brain. Yun Jinghan''s touch on her knees jolted her up. She stretched her leg forward so he retracted his hand and reached for the glass before emptying its content, quenching his sudden thirst.


    ''Thank you for being my mother in this world Aunt Alice.''


    Aunt Eloisa who was quiet for the whole time spoke. "Jingyi, I told you many times, haste makes waste.  Moreover, marriage isn''t the same as changing clothes. That, when you get tired of it, you can buy a new one."


    Silence filled the room.


    Listening to Eloisa Tan, curiosity budded out inside Yun Jinghan. Of all the people he met tonight, she was the only one who gave the most acerbic treatment towards him.  Which made him wonder why?


    "I know Aunt." Luo Jingyi agreed. But with the meaningful look Aunt Eloisa shot her and Yun Jinghan, she understood what her words implied. Recalling Yun Jinghan''s information, things made sense to her. The rivalry between Yun Yi and Aunt Eloisa existed for a long time. What happened between them wasn''t something that could be washed away by a simple sorry.


    ¡­.


    After dinner, they moved to the living room.  Luo Jingyi watched helplessly as Uncle Antoine and Uncle Robert whisked Yun Jinghan to the corner where the bar was.


    "He''ll be fine. It''s not like dad will swallow him alive." Nicolette tapped her shoulders.


    That''s the last thing Luo Jingyi was worried about.  She was more concerned with what Yun Jinghan would tell the two.


    ''I hope he won''t make any mistakes.''


    On the other side of the room, Yun Jinghan pulled a stool and settled on it.


    "What kind of business did you say you are in?"  Antoine Lacroix quizzed, filling the glasses to the brim before handing one to him.


    Someone asked Yun Jinghan this when they eating and he gave his answers already. But still, he replied unhurriedly, "I ran a company that manufactures interior parts for aircraft."


    "What is it called?"


    "Aerospace Ltd." Yun Jinghan replied casually before he sipped the content of the glass slowly, enjoying every drop. At the same time, he studied Antoine Lacroix''s face waiting for his reaction.


    "It''s relatively small." Yun Jinghan added.  Aerospace Ltd was his only company that was not a subsidiary of Terra Firma Corporation. Until he achieved his goals, he would remain as an owner of a small company.


    "Not planning to take part in your family''s business anytime soon?" Antoine Lacroix raised his brows. Aware of his identity, he asked to gauge the man in front of him. In fact, Alice neither approved nor disapproved of Yun Jinghan.  But who Jingyi had to marry wasn''t something both of them could decide on. So towards this man, Antoine''s attitude was to wait and see.


    "Not really.  I want to start my own."


    His words jogged Antoine''s memory. A dreamer as he was, he told his father that he wouldn''t become a soldier nor a doctor. His father warned him off yet, he went to start his own business which eventually became a big corporation. Presumably, Yun Jinghan''s honesty and determination to venture out on his own way¡ªalbeit being born with a silver spoon¡ª evoked Antoine''s admiration, putting away his reservations towards him.


    Yun Jinghan''s attention was suddenly pulled away by the laughter that rang to his ears. It was crisp.  He shifted his position to find its source. It was from Luo Jingyi who was conversing with Nicolette and her twin sister. This is the first time he''d seen a different side of her, carefree and laughing at her heart''s content.


    "Beautiful, isn''t she?"


    "The most." Yun Jinghan couldn''t peel away his gaze on her. At that moment, a thought sprung his mind. He would do anything to make that beaming smile permanent on her face.


    Sensing someone was staring at her, she looked around. Upon meeting his eyes, Yun Jinghan flashed a mega-watt smile.


    "Damn! That can definitely make anyone fall in love." Nicolette''s twin sister touched her chest exaggeratedly like a cupid''s arrow hit her heart.


    Shaking her head at the other woman''s antics, she shot him another look before turning away.

 Chapter 38 - DINNER WITH THE LACROIX FAMILY 5

    Sometime later, Luo Jingyi was called to the study room. When she breezed inside the room, Aunt Alice and Aunt Eloisa were already seated.


    Sinking onto the single sofa, Luo Jingyi speculated on the reasons the two wanted to discuss with her without the rest of the Lacroix.


    "I''ve spoken to my mother''s estate lawyer." Aunt Alice started.


    Listening to the first sentence, Luo Jingyi sense a headache was coming. She groaned inside her head.


    Aunt Alice''s mother bequeathed a substantial amount of money and properties to Luo Jingyi when she was passed away a year ago. Her other children, Aunt Alice''s older brothers questioned the deceased woman''s decision so they contested the will which eventually led to falling out between the siblings.


    Luo Jingyi repeatedly refused the inheritance but Aunt Alice insisted on it. One, she was never the type to accept things freely. Two, she didn''t want the strain¡ªthe dispute between the siblings¡ªoverwhelm Aunt Alice. The woman was stressed all the time because of it.  Thus, Luo Jingyi hired a lawyer to work on it. It was another thing she needed to sort out before leaving the city.


    "There is no reason for you to disclaim the inheritance. Even before her death, she made me assure her that you will take them. So, could you take in my mother''s heart into consideration?"


    Sighing in her head, she deliberated carefully what to say in order not to hurt Aunt Alice.


    "I''ll think about." she simply said. But her mind was already set on this. She made a mental note to call the lawyer and discuss it further.


    Unease passed on Aunt Alice''s face. Then, it was replaced with an upward curve on her lips yet it barely touched her eyes. Aunt Eloisa patted her sister''s back and threw Luo Jingyi an approving smile, winking at the same time. Luo Jingyi mouthed ''thank you.'' She was thankful that she was with her on this matter.


    Because they seldom see each other, Luo Jingyi was pulled to the entertainment room by one of the younger cousins the minute she left the study room, intending to go downstairs to check up on Yun Jinghan.


    ¡­.


    Downstairs, Aunt Robert and Aunt Eloisa ganged up on Yun Jinghan to test his drinking ability. So Uncle Robert towed Yun Jinghan out to the deck with the ruse of discussing business along with a bottle of scotch. Later, Aunt Eloisa joined them and brought out the wine.


    Uncle Robert and Aunt Eloisa were both drinkers so they assumed Yun Jinghan was going to be knocked out first. But because they realized they were quickly getting drunk while Yun Jinghan was still sober, they changed tactic. While Uncle Robert was distracting Yun Jinghan, Aunt Eloisa was pouring his half-empty glass to the brim. The two would exchange a happy look every time Yun Jinghan chugged down his drink. Unknown to them, Yun Jinghan sensed of their ploy in the beginning so he did the same, swapping the glasses.


    ''Underestimating opponents had led to the fall of dynasties.'' He mused.


    Realizing she was no match against him, Aunt Eloisa gave up and went to her room, wobbling on her steps. Yun Jinghan and Uncle Robert continued drinking.


    Convincing everyone that she was happy and her relationship with Yun Jinghan was real, Luo Jingyi escaped their further quizzing in search of Yun Jinghan. On her way downstairs, she saw Aunt Eloisa, curled up on the floor.  She was drunk.  Pursing her lips, she asked one of the maids to help her.


    After tucking Aunt Eloisa on the bed, Luo Jingyi went to the deck.  Uncle Robert was plopped on the wooden table, drunk too.


    Falling onto the empty bottles strewn on the counter, her eyes went wild.


    No wonder Uncle Robert and Aunt Eloisa were drunk despite their high alcohol tolerance.


    Luo Jingyi suddenly recalled how she used to sneak into Robert''s cellar and take his most prized liquor. When caught, they would share the bottle together,  along with Aunt Eloisa. This would sometimes infuriate Aunt Alice. But her anger was always towards the two but not on Luo Jingyi.


    Shaking the distant memories away, she ambled to the side where Yun Jinghan was. He was resting lazily on the chair with cross arms. Sensing her around, he looked up at her with hazy eyes. He gave a lop-sided grin.


    "So you want to marry me tomorrow?"


    "No!" Came her immediate refusal which made him frown.


    "I am handsome.  I have a house, a car, and money.  Am I such a bad-catch?"


    "Tch." Luo Jingyi smirked at him, inching closer at an arm''s length and mumbled, "I will not marry you."


    Unhappy of her answer, he reached for the bottle to give himself a drink but Jingyi grabbed it from his tight grasp. They played tug of war which resulted in the bottle plonking on the floor, shattering upon impact and spilling its content.


    "You are like a kid." Jingyi sighed in exasperation.


    Yun Jinghan uprooted himself from the chair and crossed the distance between them, staring at her intently.


    "Then, what kind of man will be your husband?"


    The question made her pause.


    Husband? She seriously never pondered this in her head.


    "None.  I will not marry anyone." She stepped back as he walked closer.  His expression was dark.


    He kept moving forward till she was backed to the railings.


    "What are you doing?" She glared and his movement stopped.  He stood in front of her.  He wasn''t touching her but his closeness was making her very uncomfortable.


    No.  His gaze was affecting her. There''s danger wrapped around it.


    His mouth perked up slowly turning it into a grin.  He propped each arm behind her,  tilting his body closer. To her right ear, he whispered in a firm tone yet laced with playfulness,  "Do you want to sleep with me?"


    His deep voice was enchanting. Any woman would have fallen for it.  But¡­


    Recovering from being enthralled, she kneed him in the leg.  It was light but enough to distract him so she could move away.  Her brows raised when he fell on her,  resting on her. His arms went limp.


    "Stop pretending!" He pushed his face away because his lips were touching her nape.  Luo Jingyi shoved him aside however,  he wasn''t moving. He appeared to have genuinely passed out.


    Luo Jingyi had no choice but to put his arm on her shoulders to help him. As she was dragging him,  she had a feeling the man was feigning his drunkenness because he wasn''t putting his full body weight on her and his arm tightened on her waist.  Thus, to test her theory,  she nudged him aside.  But when his body slid to the ground, it dispelled her original assumption.  Defeated,  she carried on with the task.


    At the same time, the tingling sensation on her arms was slowing her down. Pushing her nails onto her skin,  she steadied herself.  Pulse racing,  she redirected her thoughts as she hummed. Yet, she was struggling to concentrate because of nausea.


    She was on the verge of dumping him on the floor when Frederick appeared and took Yun Jinghan. Holding onto the wall, Luo Jingyi calmed herself by counting backward starting from 10. When she caught up,  Frederick was opening the guest room. He deposited him on the bed before he left.


    Luo Jingyi hovered around him contemplating whether to change his clothes or not. In the end, she decided against it.


    As she pulled a blanket over him, he tugged her wrist that resulted in her falling on his body. Her lips landed on him. Wide-eyed, she pushed herself up hastily, ready to get into the battle. But, she froze because there was no movement on the bed.  He laid there,  with eyes closed,  sleeping as nothing happened at all.


    Her hand flew to her lips,  touching them briefly before she looked at the man again.


    Not settled with the idea that he was dreaming when he pulled her down,  she studied him closely. With her index finger,  she poked him on his face. He let out moans of disapproval and turned on the other side.  Luo Jingyi circled the bed, planning to check his eyes. When she bent forward, it came to mind she was doing something stupid.


    ''Maybe it was really an accident. Your suspiciousness is turning you into an idiot.''


    Sighing to reign unhappy thoughts,  she gave him a final glance and switched off the light,  leaving the lamp on to illuminate the room. Pulling the door closed,  she held onto the knob for a long time,  ruminating on what happened tonight.


    Upon hearing the sound of her footsteps getting farther and farther away,  Yun Jinghan lifted his eyelids and a triumphant smile,  tugged at the corner of his mouth.


    ====Extra====


    Yun Jinghan: Damn Panic Attack!   Aeris, why are being such a sadist?


    Aeris:  I am single!  I don''t want to be fed with dog food.

 Chapter 39 - ILL TELL YOU IN THE FUTURE

    The next day, Luo Jingyi made a pot of hangover soup after finding Uncle Robert curled against the kitchen countertop, regretful for drinking excessively the previous night. So Luo Jingyi decided to prepare a rehydrating soup for the three.


    After adding the last ingredient, she put off the fire and removed the pot from the stovetop.


    "This is exactly what I need." Uncle Robert sniffed the bowl of soup she served him.  In between spooning the broth and cooling it down, he asked, "What about Yun Jinghan?"


    "I''ll call him." Luo Jingyi tossed the apron aside and head upstairs. She made a stop in her bedroom to take the paper bag. Worried that Yun Jinghan might not find the items in the guest room''s closet to be at his liking, she had her assistant shop and deliver new clothes this morning.


    Rapping at the door, Luo Jingyi waited outside. Hearing no movements, she turned the knob and pushed it open, finding it unlocked.


    His figure couldn''t be seen.


    The bed was tidy. The pillows were piled at the headboard and blankets were tucked on each side, leaving no wrinkles on the bed. Neat like in the military.


    She set the clothes on the bed.


    When she heard sounds coming from the bathroom, Luo Jingyi assumed he was showering so she turned away. Her steps came to a stop when she heard his voice behind her.  "You need something?"


    Luo Jingyi realized she made a mistake turning because he was only wearing a towel around his waist.  Coming out of the shower with wet hair, drops were cascading down his pectorals to his perfectly sculpted abdomen.  Even to a person like her who was immune to seeing naked bodies, she was momentarily frozen and feasted on his near nakedness.


    "I can remove¡­..if you want to see down further." He offered with an amused laugh, holding the side of the towel, about to throw it aside.


    Retracting her gaze, she dared. "You can try."


    Luo Jingyi didn''t know that he would really dare to do it.  He cast the covering away. At an instant, she closed and covered her eyes with her hand.  Pivoting around to leave the room, she was hauled back to her original position, facing him.  She jerked her hand free.


    "Couldn''t dare?" He whispered to her ear, his hot breath spraying on her neck. She immediately stepped backward, opening her eyes at the same time. And there he was, grinning from ear to ear. When she glanced down, he was wearing shorts.  He was wearing them beneath the towel all along.


    ''Idiot.'' she scolded herself.


    He bent down to take the towel. Facing her, he teased, "Next time sweetie, don''t barge into a man''s room in the morning. It''s dangerous.  Unless you want to do some exercise?"


    A smirk crept on her face. Motioning to the direction of the bed, she told him. "You can use those. Come down when you are ready."


    ¡­..


    After breakfast, they bid goodbye to everyone. Living overseas for a long time, one of the aunts wanted to visit ancient towns but Luo Jingyi told them their schedule was packed for the next few days. Which wasn''t a lie, considering she would be leaving the city the following week. But she promised she could accompany them to go shopping just in case they were still in town.


    "Be careful on your way back." Uncle Antoine reminded Yun Jinghan with a pat on the shoulder.  Seeing that the direction of the wind had changed, Luo Jingyi and Aunt Alice looked at each other.  Nobody actually knew what exactly the two discussed last night that they became best buddies.


    Walking to where the car was parked, she probed but he said nothing. The dismissive shrug meant he didn''t want to talk about it so Luo Jingyi no longer persuaded.


    There were two people standing next to the car. Luo Jingyi listened as he introduced the woman as Amy, his assistant and the man as K2. Luo Jingyi didn''t ask why he was called K2 because she had different names for the interns or the staff too. Luo Jingyi simply nodded to Amy''s greetings and slid onto the backseat.


    Amy handed a tablet to Yun Jinghan. He was scrolling for the news but his attention was elsewhere. It was to the woman sitting next to him. He noticed that the minute they got into the car, she slipped on that mask again. He wondered who could have caused her to be cold and distant, almost detaching herself from other people. Last night was the very first time he''d seen her carefree, laughing and talking animatedly with everyone. Convinced that there was a story behind this, he made up his mind to investigate more of Governor Han''s family.


    Luo Jingyi glanced at the ring on her finger. The previous night, she told everyone that they would go to the Civil Affairs Bureau today. It was a hasty decision on her part. This morning, Aunt Alice reiterated not to rush. Although she was perplexed by the other woman''s changing decision, she was happy. Marriage, after all, wasn''t part of her plans.


    She glanced at Yun Jinghan. He was looking outside, absent-mindedly. Luo Jingyi tapped her fingers on the armrest between them to get his attention.


    "Thank you for your help." She smiled sincerely when he turned.


    . Although there were things that happened that weren''t on the plan, he did his part well. Considering they barely knew each other well, he acclimated well into the role that even she got into the play without exerting much effort. He charmed his way towards the younger generation. Even Uncle Antoine, whose approval was hard to come by, talked to him a lot this morning.


    Yun Jinghan never realized that a simple ''thank you'' from her would give him a feeling of being rejuvenated by adrenaline. It''s more profound than the satisfaction he felt when he made successes in business. Hiding that euphoric sensation rushing in his veins, he dipped his head in acknowledgment.


    Because she still owed him from saving her during the kidnapping attempt, Luo Jingyi continued talking to him.


    "That last time¡­the kidnapping.." She paused with a sense of guilt. After chewing over her actions that day, she came to the conclusion that she was blatantly being ill-mannered.


    Her grandmother thought her better. Ashamed of herself, she imagined that she flicked a finger on her forehead.


    "What about it?" He understood but he was pretending not to.


    ''He was doing it for a purpose.''


    "How do you want me to repay that?" Rather than overthinking on what to do, she asked directly.


    He glanced at her briefly before returning his eyes to the tablet.  Waiting for 5 minutes, Luo Jingyi finally heard him say, "I''ll tell you in the future. You are not allowed to refuse though."


    Without thinking much of it, she simply agreed.  "Okay."


    A self-satisfied gleam settled on his face.

 Chapter 40 - BEING POOR IS TERRIBLE

    As they drove back to the city, a bottled silence filled the car. It was broken by the chime from Luo Jingyi''s phone. Unlocking it, she scanned through the message.


    WITCH: Sold the property.


    Luo Jingyi fired away a reply.


    LJY:  Really?


    Two years ago, with this person''s persuasion, they started investing in real estate properties.


    Another beep.


    WITCH: Yeah. Deposited your share.  Check your account.


    Opening the message that just got in, it was from the bank.  Sliding her fingers to count the zeroes on her balance, she grinned widely.


    LJY: Thanks.  I am poor as of late.


    WITCH: This is considered poor?  When you have millions stowed away in


    different accounts and a flourishing corporation.


    LJY: Stop looking at my financials. That''s a violation of privacy.


    WITCH: You are telling that to the wrong person. Violation of privacy is never in my


    dictionary.


    Luo Jingyi could almost hear the scoff from this person albeit, miles away.


    LJY: I''ll definitely call the cyber police.


    WITCH: You can try.  But darling, that would be a waste of time. And resources.


    LJY: Haha. I know.  Anyway, thanks for making me richer again.


    She was about to pocket her phone when it dinged.


    WITCH: Why do you want to earn money that much?


    It took a couple of minutes for Luo Jingyi to answer.


    LJY: Being poor is¡­.just terrible.


    Getting no response from the other person, she checked her account balance again and the curve that was plastered on her face never faded. Money was desired by everyone. While it provided comfort for others, money for her was like a blanket of security. So she really works hard to earn them.


    "Good news?" Yun Jinghan wanted to know why she was suddenly of high energy, humming softly. Her overall visage was radiating happiness.  It was much more intense than she was with the Lacroix. Thus, he was curious about who was sending her messages.


    ''A man?'' A tinge of jealousy warmed his blood. Yet, he reigned down that idea when it came to mind, she has no male friends.


    "Yes." She answered with a grin that couldn''t be contained.


    "Want to share?"  He baited.


    "Hmm.  A return of investment."


    Yun Jinghan mouthed an ''Oh,'' relief flooding him.


    Still reeling into that feeling of euphoria, Luo Jingyi shifted her body, leaning on the armrest between them. She asked, "What do you want? I''ll give you."


    "Really?"


    "Yes." She nodded.


    "I want that building." He pointed outside, laughing at the same time.


    Glancing briefly to where his finger had pointed, she returned to her original position, crossed her arms on her chest and complained. "You are too expensive."


    "I am sweetie..  I am.."


    ''Tch.''


    Finding her petulant expression funny, he requested, "Then, treat me a meal."


    She nodded in agreement and told him she knew good places in the city. She was telling him names but he cut in, "I want to taste your home-cooked meal."


    Just this morning, he didn''t have a chance to try her soup because by the time he arrived at the dining table, the two people who wanted to make him drunk last night, wolfed it all down. And they kept on mentioning how good it was, blatantly making him jealous.


    "Oh." Silence pervaded between them.


    ''Then it meant, he would come to my apartment.''  Tapping her fingers on her leg, she deliberated if it was wise to allow that.


    "Okay. Come to my place the day after tomorrow then." She invited, letting go of her cautious nature over letting other people to her place.


    ¡­..


    Luo Jingyi asked K2 to drop her off near the hospital entrance. As she was getting ready to leave, Yun Jinghan called her out gently. "I will take you home later."


    "There''s no need. I need to bring my car home anyway."


    With her refusal, he no longer insisted. She hopped out of the car and said goodbye. Watching from the window, he waited till she got inside before he sank back to his seat.


    "Drive." He closed his eyes, pondering on things.


    K2 gave Amy a look which she returned with an-I-don''t-know-shrug.


    ''I''m not a mind reader.'' Amy mouthed.


    Whatever Yun Jinghan was thinking, he was the only one who knew.


    ....


    At the hospital lobby, Luo Jingyi saw the pregnant woman she helped last time. There was an older woman pushing the wheelchair she sat on and an older man holding the baby. She deduced they were her parents.


    "Dr. Luo." Seeing her from afar, Lin Qing waved her hand.


    "Going home now?"


    "Yes." Lin Qing turned to her mother.


    "Mom, this is Dr. Luo. She''s the doctor who delivered my baby."


    Stepping forward, the woman grasped her hand. "Dr. Luo. I finally met you. Thank you for helping my daughter."


    "It just happened that I was there. Moreover, it''s my job."


    "Mom you are making Dr. Luo uncomfortable." Lin Qing stopped her mother from bowing profusely.


    "If Dr. Luo is free today, our family would like to invite you for a meal."


    Luo Jingyi smiled before politely refusing the woman. "Thank you for the kind intention but I''m busy today."


    Disappointment crossed the woman''s face. Knowing her mother''s intention, Lin Qing explained, "Actually, my mom just wanted to show her appreciation by preparing a meal for you."


    "I am not sure if¡ª"


    Lin Qing cut in. She boasted, "You know, my mom''s the best chef in the world. After tasting her food, you''ll even forget to go home."


    The expectant expression on the other woman made Luo Jingyi sigh inwardly and promised. "Perhaps when I am free. The next few days are really hectic."


    Lin Qing nodded happily. "Give me your phone number."


    Luo Jingyi had always resisted requests like this from patients. Still, she keyed in her number on Lin Qing''s phone.


    "I''ll call you in the future." Lin Qing waved as she was exiting the door.


    Luo Jingyi waved back without giving much thought of this intersection. All the while, she was thinking that since she would soon leave the city, they would never have an intersection in the future. That''s why she never hesitated in giving her number.

 Chapter 41 - AM I YOUR FRIEND?

    Luo Jingyi arrived on the 3rd floor. There was quite a crowd outside the hall. Words darted here and there. It was hushed the instant Luo Jingyi was seen.  The people parted, creating a gap for her to pass through. Giving them a curt nod, she made her way inside the room and sat on the first empty seat she spotted on the sides, ignoring the fact that she had a designated chair in front. Upon seeing her, the second year surgical resident who was reading, jerked up his chair, dropping the comic book on the floor.


    "I wasn''t¡ªI shouldn''t be¡ªI¡ª" he spoke incoherently as if he''d been caught doing something wrong.


    Luo Jingyi bent to pluck what had fallen on the floor and handed it back to him.  "Sit down."


    The surgical resident, scared to be Dr. Luo''s next target, returned to his seat, scooting a little farther to the other side.  Luo Jingyi¡ªkeenly aware that the ongoing conversation on her front, sides and back abruptly stopped¡ªignored what was happening. She always had that effect.


    "This is Dr. Liang. He will be the new Dean of Medicine. I think he doesn''t need an introduction as you all probably heard his name in medical conferences and even read his papers in medical journals." Ji Min, the Vice President of New Life Healthcare Corporation stated.


    Everyone''s curious eyes fell to the man beside Ji Min. Most of them heard of him while others didn''t. Most couldn''t connect him at all to that beggar because he cleaned up nicely. His hair had been trimmed short and he was back to wearing a perfectly starched shirt and trousers. There were visible signs of aging, yet he looked ten times better compared to how he appeared a few days ago.


    After Dr.  Liang gave a short speech, everyone returned to their post. Luo Jingyi waited near the door while she exchanged a few words with other doctors. Most requested for a farewell party which Luo Jingyi returned with a half-shrug.


    "Dr. Luo shall show you around because I still have another meeting to catch." Ji Min informed Dr. Liang. That was shortly after she told Luo Jingyi that their scheduled meeting was pushed back 2 hours later. Groaning in her head for the changes, Luo Jingyi agreed. Rather than being idle, she took on the favor.


    "How was your apartment?" Luo Jingyi started as they passed through the long corridors leading to NICU.


    "It''s grand. Could I stay somewhere smaller?" Dr. Liang appealed. He pocketed his hands in his coat, nervously peeking at her before explaining further. "You see, I''m alone. I have no use for a three-bedroom apartment. I will just miss my wife and child more."


    His downcast gaze fell to Luo Jingyi''s eyes. The mention of his dead child tugged something in her heart. Luo Jingyi wanted to tell him something but at the same time, reluctant to pique his interest then be disappointed with uncertainty later.  She knew that the facts needed to be validated first.


    "I''ll tell Ji Min to look into it." Was all Jingyi could tell to appease him.


    He nodded, putting away that melancholic expression earlier.  As they visited one department after another, they discussed matters regarding the hospital. Only when they found a quiet spot, earshot away from people did Dr. Liang expressed his apprehension.


    "You have been living fairly well for the past years, why do you suddenly want to return to the capital?"


    Luo Jingyi took up space on his right. Crossing one leg over the other, she folded her hands against her knees. "It would be nice to go home."


    Her lazy demeanor made him all together nervous and unhappy. He was convinced she had a different purpose and if she does, he was determined to convince her to do the opposite.


    "Your mother wasn''t satisfied just being a surgeon, so she ventured into research and development. When I met her, I was astonished about how brilliant she was.  She had me agreeing to work with her after one meeting. That dedication made the life of others better. At the same time, it created enemies.  You see, she fought for everything, yet she ended up tragically."


    Luo Jingyi blinked, pretending to be confused. "I don''t understand."


    "If you want to take back Medlife, then stop. There are other hospitals you can acquire.  But don''t touch that hospital."


    Dr. Liang paused and took a deep breath.


    "Although he no longer owns it, Medlife is still controlled by him. So you must absolutely stay away from his radar. He is a monster. " The way he curled his hand into a fist showed agitation and anger at the same time.


    The "he" was Luo Xiaofei''s business partner who eventually took control of Medlife.  Then, five years ago, he sold his shares. At present, he was the Minister of Health.


    Luo Jingyi sat in silence, digesting his words even though she already knew that.


    "Treasure the life your mother gave you. She protected you with all she had."  He persuaded.


    Luo Jingyi smiled to ease his worries away.  "Don''t worry. My dream is just to build my own hospital empire. Nothing else."


    ''What can I do?  The more you tell me to stop.  The more I am curious.'' She mused.


    Dr. Liang peered at her closely, finding truth in what she said. He gave a sigh of relief when she seemed genuinely uninterested.


    "Shall we finish the tour?" Luo Jingyi rose. She stepped forward while Dr.  Liang stood for a second, watching her from behind.


    "Sorry Jingyi, some things are best hidden." Dr.  Liang uttered in a soft voice.


    Arriving at their last stop, they ran into the Chief of Psychiatry who was doing rounds along with his doctors.  Requesting to be the one who would show Dr. Liang around the Psychiatry Department, Luo gave a nod.


    Because she had her assistant clear her office already, she decided to wait at Ji Min''s office. Heading towards the direction of the elevator, Luo Jingyi''s steps faltered when someone tapped her on the arm.  She briefly glanced and found Xu Wei, pouting like a child.


    "How could you leave without telling me? If I didn''t hear it from the grapevine, would you ever tell me?"


    Sighing inwardly, Luo Jingyi turned to face her. "I already said goodbye, didn''t I?"


    Puzzled, Xu Wei looked at her. "When?"


    Ignoring her question, Luo Jingyi moved forward. Xu Wei trotted behind her. For a split second, she remembered the gift she was given the other day.


    "A box of brownies?" She asked with uncertainty.


    Luo Jingyi nodded.


    "That doesn''t count. How could our friendship equate with just a box of brownies? You should have told me." Luo Jingyi heard her whine from behind but she didn''t speak because her phone vibrated and seeing the familiar number, she rejected the call. She didn''t want to deal with her father now. She was aware of what he was going to say anyway.


    Xu Wei thought she was ignoring her. So cried out pitifully as if she was wronged, "Tell me Jingyi, am I even your friend?"


    Hearing no answer, Xu Wei turned away crest-fallen.  "I guess I''m not really your friend."


    Luo Jingyi watched the defeated figure walking towards the bank of windows on the left. She also asked the same thing: If Xu Wei was a friend. Even she didn''t know the answer.  Xu Wei was nice and friendly. Although she never did anything wrong to her, Luo Jingyi always had this feeling that something''s not right. She couldn''t exactly pin it out. So her attitude towards the psychiatrist was let-us-see-what-happens-in- the- future.


    An arm wrapped on her body broke her thoughts. Xu Wei hugged her from the side.


    "I forgive you.  But, you are not allowed to do it again.  For me, you are my friend. So in the future, you have to tell me what''s happening in your life. Okay?"


    Luo Jingyi''s eyes lingered on the other woman as she pondered.  ''Am I just really doubting everyone''s intentions?''


    Trusting other people easily is difficult once you''d been betrayed. Perhaps she''s overly wary of people around her so she never gave the other woman a chance.


    In the end, to placate the woman, Luo Jingyi simply nodded.


    Xu Wei''s mood lifted.


    "You shouldn''t leave the city without having fun with the rest.  How about having a farewell party this evening?"


    Luo Jingyi wanted to refuse but seeing the other woman''s high spirits, she agreed, giving a reminder. "Just don''t do anything excessive."


    "Of course."

 Chapter 42 - AM I A SUSPECT?

    "Did Miss Luo''s family like the presents?"  Amy wanted to know if her hard work paid off.


    The big boss scowled, obviously very unhappy.


    When they arrived at their destination,  Jinghan hopped off the car but hesitated to move forward.  He rounded the car and opened the trunk. He felt wounded that she disagreed to give these items to the Lacroix Family.  It only meant she wasn''t seriously considering in making their relationship permanent.  To her,  everything was fake so there was no reason to send valuable gifts.


    Convincing himself that he really needed to work hard,  he put other thoughts away.


    Pointing to the chest box containing a set of calligraphy, he instructed, "Send this to Antoine Lacroix. Next week is his birthday.  The rest,  store them at home."


    "Yes, boss." Amy readily agreed, feeling unhappy.  Yesterday,  she had to fly across the country just to personally retrieve them. Yun Jinghan owned them but he sent them to different museums to be displayed for the time being.


    It was an arduous task. From discussing to cancel the contract to personally transporting them here.  Even with the protection of the guards,  she was worried someone would jump behind her and take these precious items.


    Recalling that she went against this idea in the first place,  it was the only thing that made her happy now.  If her boss listened to her in the first place, then he wouldn''t have wasted money and paid the fee for breaching the contract.


    Judging from Miss Luo''s character, she wouldn''t easily accept this idea.


    Ignoring that¡ªI ¨C told ¨C you ¨Cso ¨C expression on her face, he went on.  "Tell B1 to send me information about the Han Family."


    Then, he turned away, striding to the direction of the house. At the same time, acknowledging the greetings from the men lined in two rows.


    Amy let out a heavy sigh.  ''So it was the Han Family.''


    Two hours later, Amy returned with the information Yun Jinghan requested.


    ¡­..


    "You paged me?" Luo Jingyi wandered to the reception after hearing her name being announced at the PA system minutes after separating from Xu Wei.


    The receptionist smiled warmly and pointed to the lounge across the hospital lobby. There were two men standing there. Luo Jingyi got to understand why the two receptionists were blushing. One of two was strikingly good-looking.


    "Dr. Luo Jingyi?" The man who was wearing a leather jacket showed his identification to her. His name was Jin Ru.


    "Yes, that''s me." She confirmed and ushered them to sit on the curved sectional sofa by the window.


    Sitting down,  Luo Jingyi''s gaze lingered on Jin Ru because he looked exactly like someone she knew so well in her last life.


    Clearing his throat,  Jin Ru started.  "We are investigating the death of Mao Huizi. We would like to ask a few questions."


    The name didn''t ring any bell in her head but still, she gave a nod.


    Jin Ru showed her a picture on his phone. "Do you know this man?"


    Luo Jingyi shook her head on the side. She''d never seen that person.


    He frowned.  "Are you sure?"


    "I''m very certain. Should I know him?"


    Jin Ru ignored her sarcasm.  "He was found dead in this place."


    Seeing her old address, she informed them calmly. "That''s my old apartment. I sold that a year ago."


    "But this property is still listed under your name."


    It was more of a question than a statement to Luo Jingyi''s ears. Her forehead creased. "That can''t be right. I''ve let my agent handle all the paperwork."


    "Do you have your agent''s information?"


    "Give me a second." Luo Jingyi took out her planner and leafed through it. Finding the details, she wrote them on the page she tore and handed it to the man.


    "Check it out." Jin Ru ordered his partner.


    When the other man distanced himself to make a phone call, Jin Ru continued questioning her.


    "Where were you on Tuesday between 11 am to 4 pm?"


    Luo Jingyi glanced at her watch.  If this won''t end soon, she''s going to be late for her appointment with Ji Min. Without giving it much thought, she answered coolly. "I was here, on duty that day. You can check my logged-in time with the receptionist over there."


    Pursing his lips, Jin Ru shifted his position, leaning on the sofa.  "Unfortunately, the hospital''s system was down that day and even the CCTV recordings were wiped out so there''s no way we could verify that."


    ''Huh? '' Her eyebrows meld in between.  "All? "


    Jin Ru answered with a nod.


    "That''s strange." Suspicion arose in her heart.


    Ignoring her last remark, he took out an evidence bag from the inside pocket of his leather jacket and showed it to her. "Is this yours?"


    "Yes. But I lost that bracelet 2 weeks ago." she paused when something crossed her mind.  "Wait,  don''t tell me you found it on him?"


    Jin Ru nodded again.  He studied her, cataloging every movement she made.  He noticed that even if she was frowning,  she was still a beauty.


    The other man returned and whispered to Jin Ru.  Facing her, he informed Luo Jingyi. "Dr. Luo, your agent was reported missing. It''s been 6 months."


    This time,  Jin Ru saw her calm expression changed into being surprised.


    "But I had spoken to her three months ago."


    "Do you remember what you''ve talked about?"


    Luo Jingyi remembered because she thought it was weird of her agent to call at 2 am for a sales talk. After telling her agent to discuss it the following day, she never heard anything again.


    Jin Ru listened attentively as she recounted. At the same time, Luo Jingyi studied Jin Ru''s subtle expressions. She couldn''t ascertain if he believed her or not. While the other man looked at her skeptically.


    Out of curiosity, she inquired. "Am I a suspect?"


    "Until we clear you of your whereabouts that day, you will be on the list. And so as the people he lived with." Jin Ru pocketed his notebook.


    She knew that they were simply doing their job but she couldn''t help protesting in her head.


    ''If it would have been me,  why would I leave evidence to incriminate myself?''


    Then, it dawned on her that she also went to the jewelry store that day. Taking out her wallet, she pulled out a receipt and passed it to the man.


    "In the afternoon, I was there to buy a ring with my fianc¨¦. You can check the timestamp on it."


    Jin Ru studied it for a second before asking permission, "Would you mind if we keep this?"


    "Not at all." Luo Jingyi was thankful that she still kept it. If not, there''s no way she could attest to her whereabouts that afternoon.


    "Make sure to be around. We might have further questions." Standing up,  Jin Ru reminded her before the two of them walked away.


    Jin Ru''s partner turned around and saw Dr. Luo standing at the same place, looking at them. Grinning ear to ear, he wrapped his arm on Jin Ru''s shoulders. "So what''s your secret? Even an engaged woman couldn''t take off her eyes on you."


    Jin Ru tilted his head on one side and eyed him, giving him the warning to remove his hand on him. "My secret is, I hit anyone who touches me especially on that part."


    Without taking his words seriously, his partner released his grasp on him.


    "Check out the shop to corroborate her story so we can rule her out."


    "Eh? That quick?"


    Ignoring his partner''s teasing, he went to his car.


    In fact, Luo Jingyi wasn''t admiring his appearance. Rather, she was in deep thought.


    She found it all together suspicious. A dead person was found on the property she used to own.  Her lost bracelet was found on him. Her agent couldn''t be found. The CCTV feeds were deleted.


    Was someone pinning his death on her?


    Who would it be?


    Why?

 Chapter 43 - WHO ARE YOU?

    Luo Jingyi discarded all the lingering questions in her head and went to Ji Min''s office.  She told herself to check it out later. There were more pressing things to do.


    An hour after the meeting started, Luo Jingyi shoved her annoyance down her throat and ordered Ji Min. "Contact Skyline Construction."


    It was her first choice anyway but the Board was reluctant to put their bets on this new construction firm to build NLHC''s third hospital in the capital. Third, which they built, not acquired. So she was anticipating this venture. Moments earlier,  Ji Min informed her that the construction firm they had chosen backed out.


    Ji Min, who was sitting across the table, heard a crackle in her voice closing to anger, so she assented without much complaint and motioned her assistant to note it down. Ji Min was left wondering if it was because of the construction firm refusing them or it was the fact that she couldn''t give her a straight answer about the trouble with the hospital two days ago¡ªthat was making her boss mad.


    "I want it up and running next year. So¡ª" Luo Jingyi glanced down at her phone that vibrated against the mahogany desk. It was a message from Yun Jinghan. Ignoring it, she faced the people across the table.


    "Prioritize on that. As for this hospital''s second wing, complete the necessary paperwork and send it to the headquarters."


    Another buzz made her pause. Scrolling over the message, it was the same message. He was inviting her for dinner.  She fired a reply.


    LJY: No. I''m busy.


    YUN JINGHAN: Eat on time then.


    Reading his next message, a sigh escaped her lips. For no reason, she calmed down.


    Luo Jingyi was about to put down the device when it chimed again. This time, it was a call from her father''s secretary. Scowling, she turned it off. Lifting up the pen, she scribbled words on her planner.


    When she returned her attention to the other people in the room, she caught Ji Min''s quizzical gaze on her. She frowned. "What"


    "You are wearing a ring." Ji Min gushed unable to sustain her curiosity. She couldn''t believe when she saw it seconds earlier.


    Ignoring her attempt to fish information, Luo Jingyi turned to her assistant. "Miss Song, revise the contract and email it to me before the day ends."


    After getting a nod from her assistant, Luo Jingyi closed her planner and threw it inside her bag, ending the meeting. Then she recalled Dr. Liang''s request.


    "Dr. Liang wants to move to a smaller apartment." She pushed her chair back and stood.


    "I''ll see to it." Ji Min rose from the chair and walked closer to her, wanting to pry further.  But she was stopped on her tracks when Luo Jingyi stared at her.  She understood it fairly well. It meant no asking of personal questions.


    Ji Min held her hands up in surrender. She''d rather keep her job.


    "I''m going." Luo Jingyi waved a hand. Ji Min watched her leave before turning to the other people in her office.


    Luo Jingyi exited Ji Min''s office. Giving her watch furtive glance, she decided to head home first since she had ample time to shower and change before heading to the address Xu Wei sent her.


    Outside, the orange and red hues were visible in the sky. As she made her way to her car, she looked over her shoulders because she sensed someone was following her. Halfway to the car park, she spun on her heel but found no one suspicious. A few nurses reporting in for night duty gave her polite greetings which she returned with a nod.


    Shrugging that weird sense off her head, she walked to her car, slid inside and drove off.


    .....


    Luo Jingyi recalled that she clearly told Xu Wei that she wanted to keep the party simple. But apparently, they didn''t have a similar definition of the word.  Xu Wei booked the whole restaurant at Luo Jingyi''s expense. Aside from her usual OR team and ER nurses who were free tonight, Xu Wei invited those staff at the hospital who Luo Jingyi never worked or even had a conversation with. She didn''t even know their names. They were practically strangers to her albeit working in the same hospital. Nonetheless, she was courteous to them.


    After the feast, Xu Wei suggested going to a newly opened nightclub.  Luo Jingyi went along to everyone''s surprise.


    As she listened to the anaesthesiologist whisper the name of the latest drug that won''t leave a trace on the blood test, Luo Jingyi paid attention to her surroundings.  The place was crowded. People behind her screamed at each other''s ears to be heard as loud music boomed from the speakers on the four corners.


    Unlike when they were at the restaurant, there were no awkward moments now because the people who tagged along were the ones she had worked closely with for the last 3 years.


    The tech nurse who was as quiet as a mouse had set her glasses on the table, loosen her hair and had disappeared to the swarm of sweaty bodies on the dance floor, pulling the other nurses with her.


    On the other hand, the bubbly anaesthesiologist continued the discussion about illegal drugs with another nurse.  They murmured in low voices, not wanting other people to hear what they were talking about. Luo Jingyi learned a bit of lip reading so she understood what their topic was.


    Shortly after Xu Wei left,  she returned, balancing two glasses held high to avoid spilling its contents.


    "Try this." Xu Wei handed one that had green liquid in it.


    Luo Jingyi hesitated but Xu Wei forcibly deposited it on her hand.


    "What''s this? "


    "A new drink my friend over there," she pointed to the bartender, "made. She recommended it."


    Putting it closer to her nose, she sniffed what''s in it.


    "Why are you hesitating? I tried it and really tasted good." Xu Wei''s yell sounded like a whisper because of the noise around them.


    "I can''t drink. I have to drive you home if you get drunk."


    Xu Wei pulled a face and settled herself next to her. "That''s a lame excuse, you know. C''mon, try it."


    With Xu Wei''s nudging, she took a sip before consuming it all.  A sweet and fruity drink cooled her throat all the way down.


    "It''s good, right?"


    Luo Jingyi agreed with a nod.  It was very refreshing.


    "I''m going to get some more." Xu Wei jumped off the sofa and hurtled away to the direction of the bar that stretched from one wall of the club.


    Feeling relaxed,  Luo Jingyi watched Xu Wei talking to the bartender. At the same moment, a reflection thrown by the mirrored wall behind the bar made her focus her gaze there.


    There was a long-haired woman nursing her drink as she tossed glances here and there. This was the fourth time she''d seen her.  Luo Jingyi recalled seeing her for the first time. That was when she was at the shopping center two weeks ago. The woman got her attention because she was talking loudly on the phone, making everyone around them notice. The second was when she stopped for a refill at a gas station last week and the third time was three days ago, outside the hospital.


    Once or twice could be a coincidence. But four times, what were the odds?


    Coming up with an idea,  Luo Jingyi got up and weaved through the room cautiously,  avoiding contact as much as she could.


    The corner of her eye caught the woman''s movement.  She asked the bartender and the man pointed his finger to the side.  She nodded repeatedly before she emptied her seat and minced through the crowd to the direction of where Luo Jingyi went to.


    Pretending to be drunk,  Luo Jingyi wobbled through the corridor leading to the bathroom as dim lightings greeted her.


    Pushing the door of the last stall, she got in and left it ajar, hiding behind it.


    Soon after, the woman at the counter followed inside the bathroom. She checked each door and peeped under for signs that it''s occupied. When the woman forced a finger on the last door and inched her head in,  Luo Jingyi pulled the hand and elbowed her to the chrome wall.


    "Who are you?"

 Chapter 44 - WHAT IF SHE IS?

    "Who are you?" Luo Jingyi repeated the question impatiently and turned the woman around, pressing her face on the wall and tightening the hands she locked on the woman''s back.


    "Dr. Luo, I''m Mei Wan''s best friend. I wanted to talk to you."


    The mention of her agent''s name, Luo Jingyi released her, trusting her instincts that this woman meant no harm. If she would, why expose herself on her. There must be a reason she followed her around.


    "Let''s talk outside." Luo Jingyi suggested and came out of the place.  Following the exit signs, they found the backdoor which was probably only for staff use. They exited, breathing to the coolness of the night. They walked farther from the building and stood beneath the street lamp.


    The woman put her hand behind to hide her nervousness. She hesitated to speak, unsure if she was doing the right thing.  But she could no longer sit and wait till the days would pass like a blur. Moreover, her options had thin after losing her job. Her only choice was to seek help from Dr. Luo whom she heard a great deal from her best friend.


    Finding her voice, she spoke starting from how she and Mei Wan met.  Both of them moved to this city for one purpose - that was to find better job opportunities. After knowing that they were both orphaned at a young age, they promised to look after each other. One day, Mei Wan never came home. She called her office, went to the places she frequented and searched for her everywhere but there was nothing. Then, she went to the police and filed a missing person''s report. Every time she checked for updates with the police, all they could tell her was their speculation which she found very odd. Because of her obsession to find her, she was fired and now, she''s unable to land employment after then. No matter how hard she tried, every place she applied at would turn her away.


    Luo Jingyi heard the sadness that was perceptible in the other woman''s voice. It was croaky to the point that Luo Jingyi thought she was going to break down and sob.


    Luo Jingyi let out a sympathetic frown. "If it''s already been reported, wait for the police to find her. What could you do that they couldn''t?"


    While she herself doesn''t put her 100% trust on them, she would still follow the proper procedure. Law exists for a reason. It''s to keep everything in order. Without it, there''ll be chaos.


    The woman looked away then back to Luo Jingyi.  "Dr. Luo, do you know how many people go missing each day? It''s more than 200. If the numbers add up each day, how could there be enough people to search for them?"


    She had a point. That''s another reason Luo Jingyi was doing her own digging regarding her sister''s case. Still, she didn''t know why this woman purposely approached her.


    "What makes you certain she didn''t simply run away? Like the police said,  maybe she eloped with a man or hid from her debtors."


    The woman shook her head vehemently. "Mei Wan would never borrow that big amount because she is scared of owing people money after her parents were killed by loan sharks. Besides, it became our habit to tell each other what is happening in our lives, even small things. One time, she borrowed a phone from a stranger just to tell me where she was after her mobile phone ran out of battery. So, I don''t believe she would leave without telling me."


    Seeing her unresponsive and seemingly unaffected, the woman continued. "You probably have no idea how it feels to lose the only family you have in this world."


    ''Wrong. I know exactly how that feels.'' she retorted in her head. The other person''s words evoked the pain she had long buried inside her.  Simultaneously, they ebbed the remaining doubt and apprehension she had towards the woman.


    "Why did you come to me?"


    The woman removed something from her pocket and passed it to her. Luo Jingyi''s eyes stilled on the photo that was definitely taken four years ago during a festival in Venice. She could discern her silhouette at the edge albeit the background being blurry. But that wasn''t the issue. It was the woman on the foreground who the photographer focused the lens at.


    Her chest tightened as she wracked her brain for a possible explanation. "Where did you get this?"


    Never realizing the change in her tone, the woman flipped the photo and showed her what was written on the back.  "I found it when I was cleaning up Mei wan''s closet. It was tacked inside the pocket of her blazer.  It has your name and number on the back. Do you know who the woman is?"


    The woman bit her lip in anticipation as she waited for Luo Jingyi to respond. Seconds flitted past yet Luo Jingyi stayed mum. Her brain cells were still in the process of digesting the information that came to light.


    The woman rushed forward, touched her arm and asked in excitement, "You know who she is, right? Is she your sister? You looked very similar. Why did my best friend have your sister''s photo?"


    After sorting out matters in her head, Luo Jingyi sighed inwardly. Luo Jingyi unclasped the hand on her and faced the woman. "Did you show this to anyone?"


    "No."


    "Then, don''t tell anyone about it. In return, I will help you find her." Luo Jingyi promised. She had no plan to do so in the beginning but with that single image, she changed her mind.  It''s far-fetched but maybe Mei Wan''s disappearance was related to her sister''s case.


    The woman''s eyes rounded and asked for confirmation.  "Really?"


    Luo Jingyi dipped her chin to confirm. She noticed that relief passed the woman''s face and with her hand,  she wiped the tears on the side which were threatening to fall.  The woman thanked her.


    Luo Jingyi''s response was, "You must stop running around looking for her."


    "Why?"


    "Because it would only bring trouble than do good."


    "I can work with you so¡ª" Her protest was cut short.


    "That is my only condition. Think of your safety first before you think of others."


    The woman was silenced. She stared down.  Moments later, she agreed and assured Luo Jingyi she would focus on looking for a job.


    Sending the woman off in a taxi after giving her instructions, Luo Jingyi called Song Hia.


    "Dr. Luo?" Song Hia appeared to be in a daze when she answered.


    "Miss Song,  I sent someone to April Hotel. The usual room.  Send two guards to tail her. Their priority is to keep her safe."


    "Okay, Dr.  Luo." She acknowledged.


    When the line was disconnected, Luo Jingyi made another phone call, keying in a number from memory.


    A voice on the other line greeted after three rings. From the background,  Luo Jingyi heard the person yelled ARE YOU CRAZY in anger and successive grunts followed.


    Deducing what was happening on the other side, Luo Jingyi laughed, "Stop being a witch, will you?"


    The person seemed to have distanced herself from the source of the noise earlier. An irritated voice echoed to her ear. "Why did you call?


    Gathering her thoughts together, she asked, "Is there anyone free to take on a new mission?"


    Quietness ensued on the line.


    "Tell me the specifics."


    "It''s a simple one. It''s to find a missing person."


    Knowing that the person would definitely raise an eyebrow,  Luo Jingyi provided other details. "Two days ago, a man was found dead in my old apartment.  The investigators found my bracelet on him. To complicate things, my estate agent who I left in charge of everything - is missing. "


    "Did you kill him?"


    "The man? No." She replied, clueless as to where the question was leading to.


    "Then, don''t waste resources.  My people have more important things to do.  Sooner or later, the police would figure it out that it has nothing to do with you. I''m pretty sure you already verified your whereabouts at that time. You are not that careless. A seasoned investigator would know from the get-go that you were being framed."


    A helpless sigh escaped Luo Jingyi''s lips. "I wish it was a simple case of being set-up."


    "Then, what is it?"


    "The estate agent had a photo of my sister four years ago."


    The rustle of paper followed. "Didn''t your sister die 8 years ago?"


    Luo Jingyi was confused herself. The original found evidence that her sister was killed by the Chen Family. But how did Han Mei appear in Venice at that time?


    "That''s what I know," she answered with a sad smile.


    "Do you think she is still alive?"


    "I have no idea now. But my sister''s remains couldn''t be found among the buried bodies in Chen Guozhi''s garden. So, what if she is?"

 Chapter 45 - HIGH DEFINITION SURVEILLANCE PHOTOS

    "Do you think she is still alive?"


    "I have no idea now. But my sister''s remains couldn''t be found among the buried bodies in Chen Guozhi''s garden. So, what if she is?"


    Luo Jingyi heard a heavy sigh.  "What if the picture is fake?"


    "What if it''s not?" Luo Jingyi retorted. Her gaze was rapt in the sky.  Fake or not, she had to find the agent anyway. A few hours ago, knowing who killed the man was the least of her concerns. But in order to find out who would go that far to set her up, then she needed to investigate the matters without drawing attention.


    She only prayed it wasn''t her stepmother.  If not¡­ Unknowingly, she clenched her fist.


    A long time of silence ensued before Luo Jingyi stated, "We''ll never know till we follow the crumbs."


    The person on the other line snarked. "Okay Gretel,  I''ll send Hansel to you."


    Luo Jingyi smiled not at the reference of the famous characters Hansel and Gretel. But it was the person''s reaction when she asked, "ETA?"


    "Don''t be too demanding." The person complained in irritation.


    "Did you get up on the wrong side of the bed today?  You are getting riled up for no reason.  I just needed to know so I could arrange for someone to pick her up at the airport." She asked in amusement.  At the onset of the phone call, the person was in an irritable mood already which was very rare.


    "I''ll have her cleared tomorrow." The words came out with a groan.


    "Okay,  so the day after tomorrow at the latest."


    Luo Jingyi meant to end the call when the other person called her out, "Jingyi?"


    "Hmm?" Luo Jingyi replied as she made her way back to the night-club.


    "Watch your back. Bad guys are lurking everywhere."


    "I know." Luo Jingyi answered with a sigh.


    ¡­..


    "It''s your farewell pa ¨C party. Why did I get drunk instead of you?"


    Inching her feet forward, Xu Wei put on her whole weight on Luo Jingyi as they exited the bar. With Xu Wei''s slurred speech and weird walking posture, she was drunk.


    "My alcohol tolerance is better than you." Luo Jingyi laced her arm on Xu Wei''s back to support her. In fact, she might have gotten drunk if she wasn''t very cautious drinking outside her home.   So among the group, she was the only one sober. She had to call other people to bring the rest home.


    Luo Jingyi half-dragged the psychiatrist across the parking lot.  She found Yun Jinghan standing next to her car. He wrestled the key from her hand, unlocked her white Ashton Martin and opened the door.


    "What are you doing here?" Luo Jingyi asked as she dumped Xu Wei on the backseat.


    Without giving a response, he rounded the car and slid onto the driver''s seat.  He sighted her group inside his friend''s club when he was about to leave.  So he stayed and watched her upstairs. He noted how she easily swapped the glass thrust on her hand, so its content would end up being swallowed down by Dr.  Xu or the nurses anyhow.  Nobody noticed this. Yun Jinghan realized that they were similar in this aspect, being on guard.  At the same time, he wondered why.


    Knowing that her refusal would be pointless, Luo Jingyi shrugged her shoulders and hopped inside, entering Xu Wei''s address on the navigation system.


    "Buckle up. " Yun Jinghan reminded her before starting the car.


    Luo Jingyi mumbled a short reply, put on her seatbelt and turned to him.


    "Did you¡ªno,  never mind." She meant to ask him if he installed a tracking device on her because he kept turning up everywhere.  Scolding herself for her crazy thoughts, Luo Jingyi sank into the seat.


    "What?" Retracting his gaze on the road, he cast a quick glance on her. Her eyelids were closed as though she was in deep meditation, exposing her long lashes.


    "Nothing. Focus on driving."


    "Sleepy?" He asked softly. With his free hand, he reached for the console and adjusted the temperature of the car.


    A weak ''hmm'' reached his ears. Eyeing her with tenderness, he slowed down which resulted in hearing repeated honks from the cars behind them.  Then, cars started overtaking and the drivers were peering from their window to check who was driving at a snail''s speed.  However, nothing could be seen because the windows were heavily tinted.  Even his security detail who were trailing behind had to pull over and wait for Luo Jingyi''s car to be at a certain distance before moving forward.


    Having a vague sense of what was happening, Luo Jingyi rested her head on her propped arm against the door and jested, "It will be morning by the time we arrive."


    The silence was his answer. She assumed he was just playing around but after 15 minutes, they hadn''t covered much distance.  Luo Jingyi, unable to stand any longer, blurted, "Why are you driving so slowly?"


    He turned to her and with humor tinted in his tone, he expressed, "I want to be with you longer."


    Luo Jingyi regarded him with an unamused expression. When he winked, she withdrew and breathed out air, feeling too lazy to pay attention at him. That could work on other women, but not on her.


    It took them 2 hours to reach Xu Wei''s home.  After much hardship Luo Jingyi had to go through to haul the drunk woman to her apartment, she finally managed to clean Xu Wei up, put on clean clothes on her and finally tucked the drunk psychiatrist to bed.


    Meanwhile, Yun  Jinghan was having a hard time hearing what his VP was saying on the line so he stood from the sofa and walked around to find a better reception.  He finally found a good spot because the voice from the other line was clearer this time.  Noticing a picture slightly peeking out of the half-open door, he bent down to pick it up.  At the same time, the door moved. Instantly, words faded from his mouth when dozens of pictures that covered two sides of the wall fell to his eyes.


    "I''ll call you back." Without waiting for a response, he dropped the call.


    Scrutinizing all the high definition surveillance photos of Luo Jingyi on different occasions, his lips narrowed into a thin line.


    When her voice calling his name out, reached his ears, Yun Jinghan hurriedly abandoned the room. Pulling the door closed, he heard her from behind.  "What are you doing?"


    "Nothing." He spun with a smile.


    Luo Jingyi stared at him suspiciously for a second, then uttered.  "Let''s go."


    Following her out, his eyes roamed inside the apartment for the last time. They glinted in anger.


    Unlike earlier,  Yin Jinghan stepped on the speed this time which left Luo Jingyi bemused.


    "How well do you know Dr.  Xu?" Yun Jinghan fished out.


    She gave him a half-shrug. "Not much. Why do you ask?"


    "Nothing."


    He parked her car on her designated spot, hopped out and opened the door for her. Locking her car, he passed the key.  Without speaking at each other,  they walked to the direction of the elevator.


    Remembering that she invited him for a meal,  she asked as they neared the glassdoor,  "Do you have any specific food preference?"


    "I can eat anything.  As long as you made it." He replied casually, beating her to press the elevator button.


    "Oh.  Okay."


    When the carriage opened,  she mumbled, "Thank you for driving me home. Good night."


    "See you tomorrow."


    ''We are making progress.'' A happy smile crept on his face as he watched Luo Jingyi get inside the carriage.


    But it didn''t last long because when the elevator ascended to Luo Jingyi''s floor, it changed into anger.  Inside his own car, he ordered coldly, "Get me information on Dr. Xu Wei."


    Someone was following his wife, why should he let them off?

 Chapter 46 - INFORMATION

    Amy rapped on the door unhurriedly, waiting for her boss'' assent before pushing the door of the study room open.  Her boss was busy scrolling on his tablet.  Making her way to his desk, she cleared her throat to get his attention.  But all she heard was his monologue.


    "Going to the amusement park? No, the place is too crowded for her."


    "Shopping?  Spending money on her will not work. We might end up arguing."


    "Travelling? It''s too soon for that."


    Amy waited and watched her boss silently as he reasoned out with whatever information he found. She angled her body to peek at what he was looking at. Reading the title, Amy instantly understood what he was doing.


    "What kind of list is this?" Yun Jinghan dropped the device on his desk feeling annoyed. He went on the internet looking for suggestions on how to improve the relationship between couples.


    "You should go to the movies. That''s the first step." Amy suggested. She admits that her boss is very capable in running an empire but he knows nothing when it comes to having a relationship with a woman.


    Glancing up, Yun Jinghan leaned his back on the swivel chair.


    "It''s not common for no reason. It''s actually a great way to learn more about the other person. Discussing the story or the characters will help you know more about Miss Luo''s preferences. On top of that, you will be sitting next to each other and hold hands. If you choose the right movie, you will be closer before the night ends."


    "Don''t watch action, it will be boring. Romantic films are good but the bed scenes might make you both uncomfortable. So, horror would be the best choice."


    Her boss eyed her skeptically perhaps unconvinced. Amy explained, "When frightened, most women would jump to the person next to them for help. So you can hold her hand and hug her if she''s scared."


    Yun Jinghan rubbed his chin, thinking.


    "Boss, you''ve never been on a real date so you don''t know. But trust me on this." She tried her best to convince him.


    "Fine. Get me two tickets for tomorrow." He decided he would listen to his assistant on this matter.


    Amy nodded.


    "Clear my schedule tomorrow."


    "Done," Amy reported. Knowing that her boss scored a meal from Miss Luo, she already made changes with his itinerary. The repercussion of re-scheduling was disadvantageous on their part but promoting the two''s relationship was more important than the losses. A satisfied smile tugged at the corner of her lips with this thought.


    "You have an update?" Yun Jinghan asked to disrupt Amy''s line of thought after noticing that dreamy look on her.


    Amy set down the report on his desk but he didn''t look at it.


    "Tell me." He crossed his arms, closing his eyes.


    Amy revealed the result of the investigation, summarizing the key points.


    "Dr. Xu is the daughter of CEO Xu outside his marriage. Her mother died after jumping from the top floor of Xu Pharmaceuticals when she was 8. Her father took her into custody. Two years later, she ran away and went to live with her maternal grandmother in the countryside. Her education was completed through a government scholarship."


    "Did she stay in contact with the Xu Family?" Yun Jinghan wondered if the reason behind was due to the fact that their families were at odds. The Han Family and Xu Family are competing in the same business sector.


    Amy responded with a shake of her head. "No. She refused help from that family. CEO Xu sends her money every month but she always deposits it back."


    Amy heard no reaction, so she went on. "Dr. Xu worked for a public hospital for 2 years before she resigned. She didn''t seem to work elsewhere after that. Her passport showed she''d been traveling around Europe for more than 3 years. And two weeks before Miss Luo joined GM Gen. Hospital, she started working at the Psychiatry Department."


    "Was Dr. Xu  scouted by Chairman Chen?"


    "No. She was hired after sending her application. But something is strange."


    "What is it?"


    "In the case of Miss Luo, because of her good reputation, hospitals were vying to employ her. So when she was hired directly by Chairman Chen, it was given that Miss Luo didn''t have to go through the tedious application process."


    "Of course, my wife is a top-notch doctor." He reacted with a proud smile.


    "Dr. Xu was given the same special treatment as Miss Luo. Even if Dr. Xu lacked experiences, she wasn''t interviewed or required to take the exam which was an SOP for those applying as an attending. Moreover, her performance as a psychiatrist is considered sub-standard. She has the least number of cases but she was never fired."


    "Check if she''s associated with any of the shareholders." Yun Jinghan instructed. That''s the only possible reason as to why Dr. Xu was still employed there. Uncertain of Xu Wei''s motive for approaching Luo Jingyi, he added. "Send someone to follow her every move."


    Amy acknowledged it with a nod.


    Yun Jinghan thought of something. He felt a distaste just thinking that someone had her pictures in their home.


    "Send K2 to get all those photos in her apartment. And find out who is taking them."


    ¡­..


    On the other side of the city, Luo Jingyi was in her study. Because sleep evaded her, she was working on the reports her assistant submitted. When her phone rang, she pressed the answer key without checking who called.


    "Did you check the files I sent you yesterday?"


    "Looking at them now." Luo Jingyi answered as she waited for the files to be downloaded. Clicking on it, she found images of her stepmother meeting two men at a coffee shop.


    "What is she up to?"


    "They are reporters. The information she handed them had been already intercepted. Instead, I gave them a juicier piece. Have you seen the news?"


    "Yes." She replied. Recalling that when she watched her stepsister''s scandal on the news, it crossed her mind it was him who released the information. And the reason why Han Peng had been trying to get hold of her was to scold her. Because her stepsister most likely played the blame game again.


    Knowing that she was already accused, tried and convicted before her side was expressed, a wry smile broke out her lips. ''It never changes.''


    "Should I add more fuel to the fire? If we give that item, your father''s political career will definitely be a goner."


    "No. It''s too early to use that." She refused. Trump cards should only be used in desperate situations.


    "What about the other task?"


    "I looked into ZK Fashion''s system and found no records of it being purchased. But I have the picture of the person who delivered it to the hospital. Sending it now."


    When Luo Jingyi clicked the photo, she found it was Amy, Yun Jinghan''s assistant. She had a suspicion it was him.


    "Should I track her down?" He asked in excitement.


    "Nevermind. I know her."


    There was a sigh of disappointment on the other line. It was quiet for seconds before he asked, "Do you have another task for me?"


    "None. I think I''d better return you before she gets madder and kill me."


    He groaned out loud with her answer. "Should I just escape to Europe?"


    "Run if you think you can hide well." Luo Jingyi challenged with laughter in her voice.


    "Aish! What we do there is no fun." He complained.


    His frustration reminded her of the person she spoke to earlier. Sighing, Luo Jingyi gave her advice with her tone changing into a serious one. "Don''t even think of running. Even before your plane lands, the immigration police would be already waiting at the tarmac ready to dump you on the next plane back. You are just giving her superiors what they wanted ¨Canother reason for her to be restrained. Just endure it. It will end in two weeks anyway. Consider it as building up your mental and physical strength."


    He let out air of frustration. "Okay. I understand. I won''t bolt."


    Putting her phone down, Luo Jingyi pushed the chair in a sloping position and concentrated her thoughts on Wang Hua.


    "Why do stepmothers always play an evil role?" She mumbled.

 Chapter 47 - MEAL AT HER PLACE 1

    The next day, the sound of the alarm going off stirred Luo Jingyi up.  Begrudgingly, she opened her eyes and was momentarily blinded by the ample sunlight seeping into the gaps of the heavy curtains. Her mind seemed to be asleep because she stared at the digital clock blankly. It was nine o''clock in the morning.


    "Four hours," she muttered softly after counting how many hours of sleep she got. It was almost morning when she finally closed her eyelids.


    Remembering what day it was,  she crawled out of the bed.


    Luo Jingyi was about to drive off when she spotted Yun Jinghan from her side-view mirror, heading towards her.  He knocked on her window and gestured for her to open the door.


    Yun Jinghan slid onto the passenger''s seat. Because he was on his phone,  she didn''t bother him.


    But it was difficult not to eavesdrop because he was speaking calmly yet there was a ring of anger in his words. He was obviously mad when she heard him order, "Crush them.  I don''t care."


    ''What could have happened?'' she thought in curiosity. But before her mind wandered into another person''s business,  she reigned her thoughts.


    "Sorry."


    Luo Jingyi gave a diminutive shrug and focused her attention on the road.


    "Where are you going?"


    "Supermarket."


    "Let me drive then." he offered.


    She turned swiftly with a small smile. "Too late. Already here."


    Yun Jinghan looked at the massive sign. Coincidentally,  it''s one of the supermarket brands under his grandmother''s company.


    Inside the supermarket, they each grabbed pushcart at the same time.  Yun Jinghan let go of what he had because Jingyi was already moving forward.


    He silently followed her,  waiting for that opportunity to wrestle the cart from her. The second she left it unattended,  he held onto it like it was his lifeline.


    Luo Jingyi smothered the laugh that was about to escape her lips and looked away.


    He never shopped. Hence, he had no experience in this.  When they were at the snacks section,  he grasped bags of chips and dumped them on the cart. She immediately lifted a bag and checked the packaging.


    No."  She put them on the shelf.


    "I read that women like to eat those." He explained.


    "I don''t.  I''d rather snack on fruits."


    At the dairy section,  she took a pack of yogurt in single-serving cups. He reached for another brand and showed her.


    "How about this?"


    She shook her head. "That company uses too much sweeteners."


    Yun Jinghan put it down and glanced at it before following her. The factory is a subsidiary of his company.  He noted down her opinion in his head.


    ''So this is how it feels to get a consumer''s feedback on the spot.'' A bit unhappy, he murmured inwardly.


    In silence, he just trailed behind her, watching her movements.  She seemed to know what exactly she needed and where the items were. Unlike other people, she didn''t loiter around aisle per aisle.  It was always quick. She was also very careful.  She checked the packaging first before taking it.


    "Do you think they are couples?"


    "I don''t think so.  They don''t seem close."


    "Let''s ask the man for his number."


    The conversation behind them was loud that Luo Jingyi knew it was them they were referring to.  Suddenly,  an arm was on her shoulder.


    "Sweetie, why don''t we hurry.  I still want to kiss you."


    The two teenagers muttered an ''oh'' and moved away.  Giving him a warning look,  she flinched away.


    "I said no touching."


    "The situation called for it." He winked and walked forward,  leaving Luo Jingy behind.  A bit perplexed but she let him go.


    At the counter, when he handed his card to the cashier Luo Jingyi immediately swapped it with hers as she reminded him,  "My threat remember?"


    Past life and present life experiences taught her to be an independent woman.  Hence,  she wouldn''t easily allow other people to take care of her.  And perhaps it became a habit so she seized the bags right after checking out.


    When she felt he wasn''t behind her,  she spun around and inexplicably,  she was amused to find him brooding grimly.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Petulant,  he marched, closing the distance between them.


    "This." He said and snatched what''s on her hands.


    "You make me feel incompetent when you do everything on your own." He complained.


    "In the future,  let me take care of you." He added.


    As soon as she heard those,  another voice echoed from memory.  They were the same words.


    "In the future,  let me take care of you."


    She froze.


    She didn''t know who it belonged to but she was certain they were directed to her.


    It was definitely not the 2nd Prince.


    "Who could it be?" she wondered.


    But no matter how she tried to form the memories she had long buried,  she couldn''t place it.


    ''Or was it the original''s?''


    ''Maybe I had long occupied her body that I mistook her memories as mine?''


    Her name being called broke her trance. Shaking her questions away,  she strode. Only when she was inside the elevator that he released the hold button which he''d been holding for a long time.


    Glancing at the changing numbers on the wall,  she was mentally preparing what she was going to cook.


    When the elevator arrived in the basement, he swiftly took the bags and shot her a warning look when she bent over to reach them.  Puffing her imaginary bangs, Luo Jingyi acquiesced.

 Chapter 48 - MEAL AT HER PLACE 2

    Yun Jinghan drove her car on their way back.


    Pushing the doors open,  she motioned him to get inside her apartment.  Because she liked walking on barefoot, she slipped off her flats and went to the kitchen.  After placing what they shopped on the kitchen island, he returned to the shoe rack and searched for a pair of inside slippers. Returning to the kitchen, he set them down next to her feet.


    Luo Jingyi stilled at his gesture.  Her hand that was reaching for something inside the cupboard froze mid-air.


    "Thank you." She mumbled.


    He rolled his sleeves and moved closer to her.  He unpacked the items in the bag. When she suddenly turned around, she bumped into him, dropping the skillet. The noise it created upon impact was unpleasant. Stooping down, he picked it up. He heard her say, "Please stay in the living room. I''ll call you when it''s mealtime."


    Instead of listening to her, he stepped back and leaned his right side on the wall, crossing his arms. Slowly, he basked on the sight of her. When she collected her hair up and twirled it into a bun, his gaze lingered on her neck.  It was long and slender.


    Then, a memory of a woman''s side profile popped out but disappeared the next second.  Whoever it was, it seemed to overlap with hers. His heart jolted, surprising him.  It was faint but he felt the reaction.  It was the second time it happened. Retracting his eyes, he focused on what she was doing.


    Luo Jingyi hated being the subject of someone''s gawking, especially a man, so she repeated her order for the second time. He let out a sigh of disappointment and left her.


    Yun Jinghan scanned the living room, taking in the details of her home.  Except for the television set, everything was white. The walls, the sofa, lamp and etc..  A satisfied smile tugged at the corner of his lips when he saw the flowers he sent previously.


    He deposited himself on the sofa and propped an arm on the backrest. Her apartment utilized open plan design so he could see her figure in the kitchen.


    "Do something instead of staring." She scolded when she caught him looking at her.


    Giving up, he grabbed his phone and worked on his emails, glancing at her from time to time. He was fighting on that desire to keep on watching her. He was worried that she would feel uncomfortable. He simply consoled himself that he would have plenty of time in the future.


    ''Future?''


    That''s right.  He was certain she would be a part of his future. The upward arc never faded from his lips rather, it turned into a grin.


    Time slipped past. Luo Jingyi carried the dishes, set them down on the dining table and called him. He salivated upon catching a glimpse of what she made. It was intensified by the delicious aroma that wafted to his nose.


    "It''s delicious." Yun Jinghan exclaimed in approval after tasting the stewed meatballs.  He wasn''t a big fan of chestnuts so his chef would omit it in the recipe. But he was surprised to find that even if she added them, he liked it.  It was refreshing and crisp.


    She simply smiled masking the sigh of relief she pulled inside her head.  In fact, she was on tenterhooks as she waited for him to taste the food.  While Aunt Alice and a few lauded her, it''s her first time cooking for a man whose family runs a food corporation. There would be no shortage of talented chefs preparing delicious meals for him so she thought he would be picky. Moreover, given her past life experience, she never wanted to be humiliated again.


    Happy in receiving the compliment,  she picked her chopsticks and ate.


    "Where did you learn to cook?" Yun Jinghan asked as he tasted the sweet and sour Mandarin fish. She just poured the sauce on top so he could hear the crackling sound.


    Luo Jingyi''s movement stopped for a second before she put aside the bowl in her hand. Seeing that he was waiting for her answer, she posed the question hesitantly. "Have you watched The Emperor''s Women? It was a blockbuster film released earlier this year."


    "No. Why?"


    "It''s a story that revolves around the women of the Emperor during the Han Dynasty. The emperor has stomach problems so he was very picky about his food. The empress who loves her husband dearly can''t make delicious meals but even so, she tried her very best. The food she made was filled with love, care, and sincerity.  Every time the emperor tasted it, he would humiliate and ridicule her in front of his concubines. Even the empress dowager would join the fun. Because the empress was convinced by her maids that if she kept on trying harder, the emperor would reciprocate the same affection she has for him. Eventually, she became better. Sadly, he never loved her at all. He plotted the empress'' death and when she died, he married his favorite concubine. What do you think of this?


    Instead of answering her, Yun Jinghan placed a meatball in his mouth, chewed slowly before answering. "I''d say the empress is an idiot. Why force yourself into a man who doesn''t favor you. Find a better man!"


    Luo Jingyi froze and cast a glance on him. He appeared serious.


    ''I wish it had been that easy in that period.'' she murmured inwardly. She was curious about the movie so she watched it. Although she didn''t become an empress, the storyline was similar to hers. Shaking her head to ward off unwanted thoughts, she picked up her chopsticks.


    He didn''t understand why the story tugged at his heartstrings. Yun Jinghan gave her a quizzical look. The movie she shared didn''t answer his question earlier. An idea crossed his mind yet he was quick to sweep it away. In a very sure tone, he told her, "I don''t think you''ll ever insist yourself on a man."


    Luo Jingyi nearly choke. Her eyes flew to him.  "Why not?"


    "That sweetie only happens in fiction written by die-hard romanticists."


    It took a moment to digest what he said. Softly, Luo Jingyi chuckled.


    ''Ah she smiled at last.'' Yun Jinghan happily went on with his meal.


    "What if I tell you that I learned cooking because of a man?"


    His movement abruptly stopped. He squinted at her. Jealousy got him. "For a man? Who? Wen Minghua?"


    ''No.'' She wanted to refute then she realized Wen Minghua was the original''s ex-fiance.


    His heart softened seeing that pained expression on her. Putting his utensils down, he touched her hand.


    "Sweetie, don''t regret letting go of a man who doesn''t appreciate your value. For such an amazing woman like you, you deserve an equally amazing man. Like me, for example."


    ==========


    A/N: The last line was sweet. Yun Jinghan must have won over RomanticMe.

 Chapter 49 - CAN I KISS YOU?

    "Sweetie, don''t regret letting go of a man who doesn''t appreciate your value. For such an amazing woman like you, you deserve an equally amazing man. Like me, for example."


    Luo Jingyi stared at him before rolling her eyes and tugging her hand away from his grasp.


    "Is that what you said to your ex-girlfriends?" Luo Jingyi put forth in between lifting her chopsticks and reaching for the fish.


    "I don''t have exes."


    Luo Jingyi gave him an are - you - kidding - me - expression and reminded him,  "It says you had 2 girlfriends on the file you gave me."


    Yun Jinghan crossed his arms without taking off his gaze on her. With expectant eyes, he teased, "Are you jealous?"


    "Jealous? Me? Tch. No." Luo Jingyi scoffed.


    ''But why did I ask the question in the first place?'' She questioned herself inwardly. Seemingly unable to find the answer, she let it go.


    Her quietness made Yun Jinghan watch her from how she reached for the food and place it in her mouth to how she chewed slowly. All her movements were calculated and graceful. His heartbeat raced again. Faster and stronger this time.


    Yun Jinghan found himself explaining to her.


    "I dated them for the sake of my grandmother. The first one, she''s the granddaughter of my grandmother''s friend. We grew up together. We went out because of our grandparents. She broke up with me after 6 months. The second one was because ¨C" He halted when she raised her hand, gesturing for him to stop.


    "I don''t want to know." She told him, pursing her lips.


    Her disinterest felt like there was a needle slowly pricking a part of his heart. Hiding it behind a smile,  he pointed out, "Why? Knowing my dating history is better. So you know how to deal with them in case you meet them in the future."


    "I don''t need to. Why? Because I am too busy to be having coffee or tea meetings with your past girlfriends. Plus, we will be breaking up after a year, so what''s the point? You can explain it to your wife in the future." She retorted.


    "You wound my heart sweetie." Yun Jinghan complained comically as he pressed the left side of his chest to give the impression of his heart being hurt.


    Luo Jingyi paid no mind to his antics and simply enjoyed her food. A lesson learned in both lifetimes, never trust a man who wears a mask. Albeit interacting only for a few days, she was able to understand a bit of him. He smiles and acts cool all the time yet there is always that look that makes him cold and dangerous. How much truth and lie there was in his actions, she didn''t want to be bothered. Thus, she doesn''t take him seriously.


    ¡­...


    Yun Jinghan volunteered to wash the dishes. Luo Jingyi only relented because he pushed her out of the kitchen. Turning the television on, she occupied the sofa. She shifted from one channel to another, looking for something to distract her because she seemed unable to restrain herself from stealing glances at the Yun Jinghan who appeared to be taking his task seriously. Settling with a historical drama, she kept her attention glued on the screen.  At times, she hated watching this kind of show because of the misinformation they instill to the watchers. Most of the time, the costumes they used were different in the era in which the story was set in.


    The space beside her sank. Retracting her gaze from what she was watching, she turned. The first thing she noticed was the small cut on his wrist. Worry crossed her face.


    "What happened?"


    He rubbed his nose uncomfortably. "Nothing. It''s just your knife is sharp."


    Sprinting to her bedroom, she grabbed her kit and returned to the living room.


    Yun Jinghan observed her closely as she scooted closer to him, placed a pillow on her lap and settled his hand on it then she started disinfecting the wound.


    "You should be careful always." He heard her remind him. This was the first time he''d seen her talk to him gently. There was no defiant chin or stubbornness in her eyes. Discovering that his opinion of her was proven right,  he smiled. Albeit the coldness and heartless attitude she gave to people, she was in fact very sympathetic and warm.


    Luo Jingyi sensed something and glanced up. She caught him studying her like she''s a specimen under a microscope. This gave her a very uncomfortable feeling.


    "What are you looking at?" She deterred her eyes while uncapping the lid of a small tube she took out from her bag. She squeezed a small amount and applied it to the knife wound.


    "I''m sorry for making you worry. I was too busy staring at you that I didn''t see the knife sticking out."


    "Huh?" Her forehead creased.


    "Did someone ever say to you that you are pretty?" He blurted out offhandedly.


    Feeling baffled as to where the conversation was leading, she paused her actions.


    "In my eyes, you''re the prettiest woman I''ve ever met. That''s why I couldn''t take my eyes off you."


    ''Tch. What a smooth-talking man.'' Luo Jingyi couldn''t help letting out a scoff. Ignoring him, she ripped the seal of the adhesive bandage and stuck it on his wound.


    "Done. Use this if you don''t want it to scar." After capping the lid, she passed the tube to him. But he held her hand tightly.


    "Let go before I''ll hit you in the groin." She threatened him.


    "Can I kiss you?" He looked into her angry eyes and asked for permission. But without waiting for her approval, he bent forward and planted a kiss on her forehead before releasing her.


    "Let''s settle with this for now. Of course, I wanted to taste your lips but we are still at the beginning of our relationship so let''s take baby steps. At the same time, I want to protect my chastity. I''m afraid you will get addicted to my kisses that you''ll jump and take advantage of me."


    "What?!" Was all Luo Jingyi could mutter because her brain must have frozen and unable to decipher his actions and words. When he gave her a playful wink and there was that stupid grin on his face, her reaction was to reach the pillow at threw it at him.


    ==========


    A/N: Yun Jinghan, you are in trouble. Luo Jingyi had psychoanalyzed you already. You''ve been judged, tried and sentenced before proving your point.

 Chapter 50 - TO DATE

    "Where are we going?" Luo Jingyi paused getting inside the black car.


    "Cinema." Yun Jinghan mouthed as he rounded the vehicle.


    "Why?"


    "Why do people go there?"


    "Watch a movie?" Buckling her seatbelt, she answered.


    "No." Starting the car, he shook his head slightly and winked at her, "To date."


    After a moment of silence, she ordered, "Stop the car."


    But he paid no heed to it. Instead, he reached for his phone and passed it to her. With questioning eyes, she held the device and checked what he wanted her to see.


    "They''ve been following us since yesterday."


    Luo Jingyi slid her finger on the screen successively to view the images of two men with high-end cameras. Having a grasp of Aunt Alice''s character, Luo Jingyi ruled her out. The first two that crossed her mind was her stepmother and her father. But with Han Peng busy with the upcoming election, her suspicion leaned strongly with Wang Hua.


    ''But what is the connection of this to dating?''


    "They were sent by my grandmother." Yun Jinghan answered plainly as if he was eavesdropping.


    Luo Jingyi muttered a soft "oh" when she had a grasp of what was going on. "So you want to put a show?"


    Dipping his chin to answer the question, Yun Jinghan slowed down when they neared the traffic light.


    "Could you help me with this? If I didn''t provide evidence I''m seeing someone, I might be married off next week."


    Luo Jingyi was silent and as always, she mulled over it.


    ''Well, he helped you deal with your problem with Aunt Alice. So it''s proper to return the favor.'' The white-winged angel explained.


    But it was refuted by its nemesis. ''No. Don''t. You are purely inviting trouble.''


    The white-winged one pinched the other''s arm. ''It''s just simply watching, how could it lead to that?''


    ''Are you stupid? This is where it all starts. Movie dates will lead to dinner followed by a picnic in the park or shopping together. And before you knew it, you will start developing feelings with each other. Remember that you''ll break up after a year. Moreover, something is fishy.''


    ''Idiot!'' The white-winged hit the black-winged one on the head. ''Why are you thinking so far ahead? He didn''t say anything about love. Will you stop questioning every person''s intentions? He already explained his reasons.''


    "Stop bickering!" She scolded softly.


    The next second.. Spoof¡­


    They were gone.


    "Did you say something?" He thought he heard her say something.


    "Fine. Let''s go and give them something to do." Luo Jingyi forced a smile.


    "Really?" He turned to her skeptically because he had foreseen that she was going to disapprove of this. Seeing her nod, a satisfied smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. He couldn''t believe luck was on his side.


    Yesterday, he decided and planned to use what they agreed on ¡ªto meet twice a week¡ªas an excuse. But who could have known that his grandmother sent people to follow him after he refused her blind date plans for him repeatedly. If he won''t show her something conclusive, there''ll be Song Huan, Hong San, Song Ah and whatever their names on his schedule.  He hated the constant nagging to get married but for now, he would thank his grandmother for butting in his personal life this time.


    "It''s only because you helped me. So, it''s a give and take. Don''t even think I agreed because I like you or I want to jump on you." She conveyed her thoughts so he won''t misunderstand.


    At the same time, she was still peeved at what he did earlier. "One more thing, it doesn''t mean I forgave you for¡ª" Loss for words, she paused. "¡ªthat."


    Feigning ignorance, Yun Jinghan briefly cast a glance on her. "Which that?"


    "That earlier¡­in the living room," she answered uncomfortably, crossing her arms on her chest.


    He pressed his lips together to smother the laugh that was about to escape his mouth. He found it amusing that she''s blushing over it, albeit being annoyed of him.


    "We were just practicing. That''s not even considered kissing. Do you want me to show you the real one?" He let out with humor in his voice.


    Shifting her position, she eyed him sharply on the side and warned in a voice that was as cold as winter, "Don''t even think of doing it."


    Unaffected of her glare, he went on teasing her. "Why not? Physical intimacy is given in every relationship."


    "We are not even in that kind of relationship. We had a deal. An agreement." Luo Jingyi reiterated.


    "Even business partners respect and treat each other amiably. Do you hate men that much?" He suddenly asked. Curiosity bugged him.


    Luo Jingyi was silenced with that. Finding her voice after a minute, she spat, "Yes. So don''t even try getting close to me."


    For her, she would rather be alone than suffer the same fate as her last. Men could cheat on you and friends could stab you on the back¡ªshe didn''t want any of those. So she''d been careful of who to interact with.


    As for family, she found the Lacroix and she was contented with that. As for friends, her circle was very small but at least they could be trusted. As for the relationship between a man and a woman, she had no intention of going through the same heartbreak.


    "That''s a shame."


    Yun Jinghan pulled over. Facing her, with all optimism there was, he stated, "Don''t worry. I''ll work hard on changing that resentment. Who knows, you might fall irrevocably in love with me and would never even let me go."


    There was that urge for Luo Jingyi to extend her arm and hit him on the head but instead, she puffed air out to push her imaginary bangs up in frustration.  Till now, she was unable to comprehend where all his confidence was coming from. One minute, he was charming and the next, he was annoying.


    But what perturbed her the most was, why was she even bothered on what he was going to do?


    ''Urgh! Whatever! Let''s just cross the bridge when we get there.'' She decided, propelling all unwanted thoughts away.

 Chapter 51 - HORROR FILM

    "Wait here." Yun Jinghan told her and scuttled away, leaving her near the array of chairs but instead of occupying an empty spot, she moved to the other side.


    With her eyes following where he headed to, Luo Jingyi breathed air out of her lungs. The last time she''d been to the cinema was four years ago. Remembering why she smiled at the memory.


    When Yun Jinghan craned his neck to check on her, he saw that mesmerizing arc on her face. She was looking at his direction but obviously past him. Wondering what could she be thinking and smiling about, his eyebrows perked up.


    "I hope it''s not a man." He whispered under his breath.


    After paying, he wrestled the snacks from the attendant who kept staring and winking at him, giving signals the moment he appeared at the counter. Thanking her, Yun Jinghan gave out his Colgate-smile. At an instant, the plastic cup she was holding dropped, its content pooling onto the floor.


    "What are you doing?" The manager bellowed, embarrassing her. He turned to Yun Jinghan and apologized and prepared the drinks he wanted which Yun Jinghan grabbed, smirking at the same time.


    Luo Jingyi who woke up from that trip down the memory lane saw all that happened and commented, "She''s too na?ve."


    Maybe if she didn''t experience heartbreak before, she might be affected by his charms. Because whether she admitted it or not, Yun Jinghan was really dashingly handsome.


    "Especially when he smiles."


    ''Huh?'' She was confused about why she suddenly voiced that out. Shoving it off somewhere to process later on, she made a comment when he neared. "That was intentional."


    "Smiling? Why? Are you jealous?"


    Luo Jingyi rolled her eyes.


    "Okay, I understand. In the future, I will only look and smile at you." He teased.


    Luo Jingyi patted his arm. "That''s not what I meant. Ah! Forget about it."


    Cussing inside her head, she walked away leaving him chuckling in amusement.


    "What are we wat¡ª" Luo Jingyi meant to ask but the corner of her eyes caught the movie poster at the door. He transferred the bucket of popcorn on her hand.


    Yun Jinghan transferred the red and white striped box filled with popcorn - to her hand. Lifting the two tickets that Amy bought from his pocket, Yun Jinghan handed them to the staff. He originally meant to book the cinema just for the two of them but his assistant argued it would be a bad idea. According to Amy,  Miss Luo would find it altogether suspicious. Thus, he decided against it.


    "Let''s go." Touching her arm, he ushered her inside, briefly sensing her flinch at the contact before she distanced herself.


    A female staff who couldn''t stop glancing at them showed where their seats were.  Shaking her head, she mumbled. "Another one."


    "What?" He returned in response to that strange look Luo Jingyi shot at him.


    "Nothing."


    Their seat was in the middle of the room. Luo Jingyi liked it because they were neither away from nor near to the screen and the speakers. Upon entry earlier, she noted that the room was half-filled with moviegoers of different age ranges.


    ¡­..


    Every minute that passed, irritation grew bit by bit on Yun Jinghan. Screams and gasps of horror wafted around them, intermingling with the sound effects of the movie booming on the speakers. Contrary to what Amy had sold him and what''s happening around them, Luo Jingyi''s attention on the screen never wavered.


    His eyes darted here and there and noticed that all females were clinging to their partner every time the scary part appeared.  And their partner would hug and console them.


    But unlike them, Luo Jingyi was watching intently and unaffected.  There was no tugging of his hand or hugging him in fright as Amy supposed. She was genuinely enjoying the film.


    Yun Jinghan placed the popcorn on her lap to disrupt her but she returned it to him immediately. "You can have it."


    With a petulant expression written all over him, Yun Jinghan scooped a handful and swallowed at once. Then he choked, coughing them out.


    Luo Jingyi swiftly faced him, lifted the soda from the cup holder and gave it to him. One hand was already patting him on the back.


    "Why are you eating them all at once? It''s not like someone''s going to snatch them from you." She scolded.


    Seeing her softened expression, Yun Jinghan silently flushed down whatever annoyance that loomed in him early on by sipping the content of the cup. There was mirth in his eyes as Luo Jingyi continuously stroked his back while another hand was cleaning off the pieces that fell on his clothes. When her hand went down further and accidentally touched a certain part, he suddenly straightened, feeling electrocuted.


    Discomfiture inundated her. She felt embarrassed and she shied away, putting a great distance between them.


    Luo Jingyi was flustered. Seeing one in the hospital was different from touching it.  She fanned her face.


    ''Wait a minute. Why am I embarrassed? It was an accident.'' She recalled. Perhaps it was a ploy to make herself better.


    Amidst the noise around, an awkward silence ensued between them. It was Yun Jinghan who broke it out like nothing happened at all.


    "Don''t you feel scared?" He asked after perceiving she calmed and returned to her usual demeanor. She was back to watching.


    "No."


    "Well, you see most people are frightened with horror films."


    She gave him a thin smile. "I''m not most."


    Yun Jinghan heard her stress on the last word. Slightly, he nodded repeatedly in agreement. "Yeah. You''re different."


    A thought vaguely passed her head so she retracted her gaze from the front. "Are you?"


    "No!" His answer came quick and loud as if he didn''t want to be branded as a wimpy kid.


    "Don''t worry. This movie''s effect is really good but there''s no such thing as ghosts. And even if they existed, humans are scarier. You should be more worried about the living who would stab you from the back."


    Yun Jinghan grasped that the last sentence had double meaning but he let it go.


    She suggested, "We can leave if you want."


    "No. You like it so let''s finish it to the end." He replied. His eyes flickered with a smile.


    ''Yun Jinghan,  you are an idiot for acting childish.''


    £¬

 Chapter 52 - LIVE IN MY HOUSE

    Yun Jinghan scolded himself for his own self-interest. His purpose coming here was to cut down that barrier between them. But like a child who couldn''t have his toy, he sulked because she wasn''t acting like everyone else. Yet he never factored in, her attitude towards men.


    As the end credits rolled, Yun Jinghan realized that watching a movie could really help. Something positive panned out between them on this experience. It''s not about physical intimacy but it was more of improving the interaction between a couple.


    Yun Jinghan got to understand her thoughts better. After the popcorn incident, she started discussing the movie with him which eventually led to other topics. When she mentioned it was her first time going to the cinema in years, he was able to wrestle with another movie date from her.


    Yun Jinghan gave her a hurried look. Her lips were drawn upwards. Happy and content with today''s progress, he pocketed his hands.


    Coming out of the cinema, she sighted one guy pretending to be on his phone but he was paying attention to two of them.


    "Why don''t we take a walk?" Luo Jingyi suggested when she remembered why they were there in the first place.


    "Hand in hand?" He joked.


    "In your dreams." she retorted quickly.


    Luo Jingyi recalled that this area was an empty lot three years ago. Whoever built the place planned it very well. There was a park, cinema, an amusement center, restaurants, etc. within proximity. It was an ideal place to relax.


    Matching her pace, they ambled forward. There was a park opposite the building so they crossed to the other side.


    In silence, they meandered side by side on the uneven cobblestone walkway, lined by matured trees on both sides. Luo Jingyi breathed that cool, early September air mixing with the scent of flowers.


    "I''ll be moving to the capital next week." Luo Jingyi started.


    ''I know.'' He meant to say. But doing so would just reveal that he had her background checked. Pretending, he cast her a surprised look. "Really?"


    Yun Jinghan saw her nod.


    "Is GM General lacking to your liking?" While he was happy with the prospect of her moving to the capital because they could be in one place without him moving offices, Yun Jinghan was curious as to what brought on this decision. Was it because of her mother or something else?


    Luo Jingyi''s steps faltered.  A thin smile formed on her lips. The Lacroix Family asked her the same thing. "You''re the tenth person to ask this."


    "After being with GM Gen for three years, I wanted a change of scenery perhaps. Moreover, Medlife is one of the best cardiology and heart surgery hospitals in the country."


    "But it''s not only Medlife. There''s Hope Medical Hospital, New Life Healthcare, and JN Hospital Group."


    Luo Jingyi put aside the newspaper lying on the metal park bench, sat and motioned him to do the same thing.  Resting her back, she allowed her eyes to wander around. They stilled at the scattered pavilions with picnic tables occupied by chattering teenagers fighting over bags of chips.  Not far from them, was the same guy she saw outside the cinema.


    ''Until when will he follow us?'' she wondered, giving out an unhappy sigh in her head.


    Hearing no answer, Yin Jinghan continued with the intent of luring her to work in the hospital he owned. "It''s not too late to change decisions. Hope Medical Hospital is on par with Medlife. With your expertise, I think they will give you whatever you demanded."


    Luo Jingyi peeked at him and inquired doubtfully, "One would think you are offering me a job. Are you connected with Terra Firma Corporation?"


    ''I am.'' He meant to say but it wasn''t the best time to reveal it yet. "I was simply pointing out other options. I heard that Medlife is in a mess due to change of ownership."


    "It is." She replied with mirth in her eyes. While it''s in turmoil, it was the best time to move forward with the plan.


    "So how about Hope Medical Hospital?" He aroused her from her thinking.


    "Even if they will triple MedLife''s offer, I will never accept it."


    "Why?"


    "I have my reasons."


    ''What could they be?'' Disappointment loomed inside him. Without showing it to her, he kept on prodding. "Then how about New Life Healthcare or JN?"


    ''I''ll eventually go to New Life. It''s mine after all. But it''s not the right time.'' She answered in her head.


    "New Life is under consideration. As for JNHC, I already refused them three years ago." Luo Jingyi revealed. While she knew that the offer from JNHC still stood till now, she had no plan. If taking over MedLife would be successful, she would ultimately go to New Life.


    Yun Jinghan let the topic go. He found out she was really determined to start another job in the hospital her mother built.  She made him promise not to meddle with her work so he won''t.


    "Will you stay at your family''s house?"


    "No, it''s too far from the city."


    "Then, live in my house?" Humor glinted in his eyes.


    Ignoring him, she caught a glimpse of a man hiding behind the decorative rock formations taking photographs.  Sliding sidewards, she closed the gap between them. He noticed this and took advantage of the situation by grabbing her hand, lifting it up and planting a kiss on her knuckles before letting it go.


    Her lips instantly pressed into a thin line. She mentally counted backward to deal with her racing pulse.


    "Are you mad?"


    ''Is she?''


    "No." She uprooted herself and slipped her hands inside the pocket of her cardigan.


    A grin crept up his face. Yun Jinghan rose up and bent forward. "Then shall we do it again? This time¡ª" he pointed to his lips, "¡ªhere."


    Disregarding his playfulness,  she turned away and tread on further ahead.


    Yun Jinghan couldn''t contain the grin on his face. He really liked teasing her. But the curve swiftly faded after he answered his phone.


    Without giving much attention to him, she enjoyed that hard to come by a leisurely walk. Once she starts next week in Medlife, she knew she would be cooped inside the hospital again.


    "I understand."


    The chilliness in his voice prompted her to turn. Yun Jinghan was standing a few steps away from her, with his handset against his ear.


    "Is there a problem?" Luo Jingyi inquired.


    ==========


    Yun Jinghan: Why can''t you let her work in my hospital?


    EvilMe: As long as I''m breathing, I''ll stand on your way.


    RomanticMe:  (hit EvilMe on the head) Idiot! I''ll never let you win.

 Chapter 53 - HIS ORGAN IS GOING TO BE DEFECTIVE

    "Is there a problem?" Luo Jingyi inquired.


    Craning his neck in search of an exit, he informed her, "I need to go on a business trip. But before that, I''ll drive you home."


    "You don''t have to. I can take a taxi." She refused right away.


    Yun Jinghan contemplated before he said in finality, "I''ll send someone to drive you home."


    Luo Jingyi relented because it was pointless to argue with his persistence.


    ¡­


    "I''ll call you." Yun Jinghan promised as he held the door of the car. He saw her nod.


    "Thank you for the treat. I hope that your investments will always be fruitful so that in the future I can always enjoy a free meal."


    "I won''t invite you next time." Luo Jingyi voiced out disapprovingly.


    "Even if I do the dishes?" He pressed two palms together and pleaded.


    A sigh escaped her lips.  She was not in the mood to banter with him so she simply agreed. Anyway,  it would be impossible to cook for him in the next few months.


    "Go." Luo Jingyi shooed him away and pulled the door close.


    "Let''s go." She told K5 who Yun Jinghan ordered to bring her home.


    Sinking into the leather seat, she closed her eyes.  Tonight, she realized one thing. Perhaps hanging out with him wasn''t a bad idea after all.


    .....


    As the sun streamed through the clear roof and lightened up the condensation beads on glass walls,  an elderly was scooping small amounts of compost from the bag before mixing it with the soil in the black pots in front of her.


    Chairman Shen moved to the other side to get what she needed. Looking around,  a satisfied smile appeared on her face seeing that her herbs were growing well.


    But the happiness didn''t last long when her mind drifted somewhere else.  Her grandson had been evading attempts to matchmake him. The latest one she paired was Song Huan.


    "Poor girl." Chairman Shen pitied Song Huan as the memory of her crying on her lap popped out from memory.


    "Such a bad kid!" She cursed, recalling what Song Huan told her. Why did her grandson have to like men?


    "How could I face you, honey? Our grandson had become like this," she complained to her dead husband as though he was around. Heaving a sigh, she slowly lifted a new shoot from the seedling tray and replanted it in the pot she prepared earlier.


    The hurried steps of the butler entering the greenhouse echoed to her ears but she ignored him.


    The butler knocked on the wooden table to announce his arrival.


    "What is it?" Chairman Shen asked unhappily while she carried the container and set it down on the closest shelf that contained a variety of pots.


    "Chairman, the Young Master is dating." He reported cheerily.


    Hearing this, Chairman Shen''s mood worsened.


    "I already know that." She gave the butler shooing motion and focused on what she was doing.


    The butler was certain the Chairman was bothered by what Miss Song complained and had to correct that.  After all, it''s related to the future of the Shen Family.


    "Chairman, I think Miss Song misunderstood what she saw. The Young Master doesn''t like men. He is seeing Governor Han''s daughter. They''ve even exchanged rings." He disclosed what he found out.


    "So it''s not a man?!" Because the Chairman suddenly stood, her vision became unclear and she wobbled.


    The butler speedily walked to her side and assisted her to sit on the metal chair. Removing her dirt-stained gardening gloves, she reached for the glass and drank the water.


    "Are you certain? This is not just another ploy for him to cover up his¡ª" she paused, unable to say it, "¡ªother desire." she finished off her sentence, settling for this word.


    To answer her,  the butler handed the tablet over.


    Chairman Shen scanned over the photos of her grandson and a beautiful woman taken at different times ¡ªbuying rings at the jewelry shop, shopping at the supermarket, watching at the cinema and strolling in the park. The angles they were taken were really good. Seeing the pictures, the things that were weighing down on her shoulder was lifted. Her heart was about to leap out of her chest because of happiness.


    "But why hasn''t he informed me of this?"


    The butler had no answer.


    "This won''t do. They were engaged without going through proper procedures. Call Governor Han so our families can discuss this matter."


    The butler acknowledged the order with a slight dip of his chin. But when he was on his way out, he was called back.


    "No. Don''t contact them yet." She changed her mind. Perhaps her grandson had a plan.


    The butler approved of this decision. They shouldn''t intervene. But something was boggling him. The Young Master was aware that they were being photographed yet he didn''t send any of his men to destroy the cameras as he did in the past.


    ''Did he want the Chairman to know?''


    Chairman Shen was unaware of the butler''s line of thoughts. She was still reeling into that moment of happiness.


    "What are you looking at grandma?" Yun Jian pushed his wheelchair to the living room upon seeing his grandmother grinning ear to ear. He could walk but Chairman Shen tied him onto that so he wouldn''t getaway.


    "Your uncle''s fianc¨¦e. Here, take a look." She gave him the device.


    Yun Jian''s eyes widened instantly.


    "Oh,  it''s Dr. Luo." He exclaimed and blushed at the same time.


    "You know her?"


    He nodded and informed her, "She was my doctor that you couldn''t meet last time."


    "Oh, really?  That is good then. We are indebted to her so it is just right that your uncle will marry her. They make a great pair, aren''t they?"


    Yun Jian''s handsome face crumpled into an ugly shape.  "But grandma, she''s my girlfriend."


    Eyeing him sharply, Chairman Shen knocked him on his forehead. "You rascal! You are still a kid. You have a lot of time whereas your uncle is already 30. His organ is going to be defective if he doesn''t marry sooner. Aiyah, such a waste of our amazing genes!"


    Feeling dejected because his grandmother sided with his uncle, Yun Jian silently rubbed the pain. In his head,  he was devising plans. He won''t allow his uncle to have his girlfriend.


    ''Why should he when I met her first?''

 Chapter 54 - SHE WEPT

    "Good morning Dr. Luo." Song Hia greeted chirpily while she made coffee in the kitchen.


    "Morning," Luo Jingyi grunted. In the past, she had no problems waking up even with only 2 hours of sleep but as of late, the lure to stay longer on the bed was getting stronger.


    Luo Jingyi threw herself on the sofa and reached for the mug that her assistant set down on the glass table, giving her a glance over. She winced at the sight of the clashing colors of her clothes, noting that it was the second time that it happened this month.


    Shaking her head, she reviewed her schedule holding the steaming cup of coffee.  She sipped it slowly, waiting to feel the surge of caffeine into her body. While she''s free from hospital duties, there''s a bunch of NLHC related matters she needed to accomplish.


    "When did the schedule for the medical conference change?" With raised brows, she shot a question to Miss Song who returned to the kitchen.


    Song Hia stilled and nervously looked at her direction. This particular medical conference was important to Dr. Luo. The changes were announced 4 weeks ago but she made an error putting it on the schedule. Albeit feeling edgy, she answered.


    "Was there a reason for this?"


    Song Hia breathed a sigh of relief when her boss didn''t comment on her incompetence.


    "The Medical Association''s President put the change in motion when the Minister of Health gave the order."


    Luo Jingyi was silent. She was supposed to report for duty in Medlife next week. However, the changes with the conference dates meant she would have to delay it for another week. Or she could pass up her role in the conference like she always did for the last few years.


    ''You needed to go.'' A voice urged her.


    Deciding on that, Luo Jingyi committed in memory to call MedLife before the day ends and informed them.


    When her eyes flew back to Song Hia, she propped down the mug on the table and sauntered to the kitchen.


    "What are you making?"


    Startled that she suddenly appeared on the side, her assistant jumped in fright.


    "Omelet."


    Luo Jingyi patted her assistant on the shoulders and motioned her to sit in the dining room. Shoving her complaints down her throat, she did as told while Jingyi placed a skillet on the stovetop.


    On her seat, Song Hia fidgeted while she watched Dr. Luo in the kitchen. At the same time, she tried to read what her boss was thinking at the moment. Song Hia wished she had the ability. The only thing she understood was ¡ª the quieter Dr. Luo was, the more trouble she was in.


    Dr. Luo never tolerated mistakes. Song Hia perceived that when she was hired. Three weeks ago, she wrote the wrong value on the contract.  This inaccuracy led to New Life Healthcare lose millions. Yet, Dr. Luo never scolded her¡ªyet.


    Knowing the importance of this conference to her boss, she was really dead this time. Song Hia pursed her lips grimly. As time passed, the feeling of dread gnawed in her stomach.


    A plate of food and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice was pushed to Song Hia''s front, disrupting her musing.


    "Join me for breakfast." Luo Jingyi invited with a faint smile.


    Song Hia glanced down, her heart panicking. ''Is this my last meal?''


    Silence filled the room. Even if the food was delicious, Song Hia couldn''t swallow it down.


    "How long have you been my assistant?" Luo Jingyi broke the quietness and put her attention on her.


    Song Hia cleared the lump in her throat to prepare herself to be roasted like a duck.  "5 years."


    "That long already?"


    Song Hia nodded nervously.


    ''Am I going to be fired?'' She speculated grimly.


    "You never made a single mistake since you worked for me. Is something bothering you?" Luo Jingyi crossed her arms.


    Song Hia slowly swayed her head to say no.


    "Don''t lie. There are dark circles under your eyes. The fake mole on your left cheek is now on your right."


    Wide-eyed, Song Hia''s hand flew to her cheek and touched her "mole." She removed it in embarrassment. It never crossed her mind that her boss was aware that she added it to disguise herself.


    "Are these tell-tale signs that I need to look for a new assistant now?" Luo Jingyi asked with a gloomy sigh.


    Song Hia bounced up from the chair and her fierce "no" resonated through the walls. Because her boss eyed her silently, Song Hia was embarrassed by her actions. When  Dr. Luo plucked her phone from the counter, her heart leaped out of her chest.


    "It''s me. Miss Song will take a month off to travel. All-expense paid."


    Song Hia couldn''t believe what she was hearing. To support her wobbly knees, she anchored herself on the chair and her shaking hands gripped the table.


    "I won''t fire you." Luo Jingyi assured her.


    Song Hia breathed in and out to calm her nerves.


    "Thank you for the second chance." Song Hia uttered with sincerity. She was happy to go on holiday yet it was short-lived when she realized something. She couldn''t possibly go on holiday this time.


    "Dr. Luo, I appreciate the thought but there are many¡ª"


    "Do you think I can''t survive without you?" Luo Jingyi interjected.


    After a moment of reflection, she replied, "With the takeover in GM, there are many things that have to be done."


    "I''ll take care of it. Turn over the projects on your hand to Planning Head. I want you out of the country within 8 hours."


    "But¡ª"


    Her protest was smothered by Luo Jingyi''s glare.


    "I need my efficient assistant back after a month. I don''t need someone who doesn''t even realize she''s wearing mismatched clothes."


    Song Hia was horrified to discover that she was wearing a red blouse, green skirt, and yellow shoes.


    "Christmas is months away," Luo Jingyi commented.


    "I''m sorry Dr. Luo."


    "Don''t be sorry. If you are an alien occupying my assistant''s body, better leave before I will kill you."


    It was a super lame joke but Song Hia found herself smiling and relieved.


    "What are you smiling for? Leave before I change my mind." Luo Jingyi bellowed.


    Song Hia intended to clean the mess first but she was pushed out to the door by Dr. Luo. Outside, she turned back and thanked her again.


    "Don''t thank me yet. When you return, you need to pay me back."


    Closing the door, Luo Jingyi leaned on the wall.


    "The death of her father must have wrecked her nerves."


    Luo Jingyi had always equated Song Hia with the word ''efficient'' so when her assistant messed up weeks ago, she deduced something had happened. She found out, Song Hia''s father passed away but she couldn''t even attend his funeral. Song Hia''s emotions were rattled that it was affecting her performance at work. A break would help her recover.


    Luo Jingyi understood very well the pain one had to go through with a family member''s death. Especially if the bond was tight. It took time before she accepted what happened to her family too.


    "Grandma, I miss everyone." She found herself sliding down onto the floor. Not before long, she wept.

 Chapter 55 - TRUTH SERUM

    Sounds of things being moved aside echoed inside the room as Luo Jingyi frantically searched for a particular painting. When she found what she was looking for, she pulled it out from the collection and set it down on the desk. Running her hand on the frame to wipe the dust that settled, she studied the image. It was her family. Luo Jingyi didn''t want to forget their faces so she painted them on a canvas.


    In her past life, she didn''t have any interest in painting but her brother patiently taught her. Making use of this talent, all the other frames inside this room contained every beautiful memory she had on her family.  While she was aware that they were already dead and there was nothing she could do to revert the time, she wanted to remember them.


    Her heart ached. She had already come to terms of their death but there were just times when she couldn''t help reminiscing especially when the anniversary of the day she came to this world neared. There was always that surge of melancholic emotions in her.


    "You''ve got to continue living Jingyi." She advised herself. She let out a forced smile.


    After cleaning up the kitchen and changing her clothes,  she carried the files Song Hia brought in earlier to her study room.


    Powering her computer on, she waited for it to boot up. The first thing she did was to open her mailbox and check if the file she requested was sent. She released her grip of the mouse when she saw it, hesitant to download the attachment.


    The scene two nights ago crossed her mind.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Two days ago...


    Xu Wei was mumbling incoherently.  She kept repeating: "Why¡ªam I drunk?"


    Pushing the door with her left foot, Luo Jingyi dragged Xu Wei inside the bedroom.


    "I don''t like¡ªthis feeling."


    "What feeling?"


    "Burning in¡ªmy stomach. I¡ª"


    Luo Jingyi immediately pulled her to the bathroom before she made a mess. Luo Jingyi rubbed her nose as the nasty smell permeated inside the bathroom.


    Grabbing an elastic band next lying on the sink countertop, Luo Jingyi tied the woman''s hair so the hair won''t get dirtied.


    Xu Wei seemed to be in a daze as she stared at what she spewed out.


    "I am dr-drunk.  It was supposed¡ªto be you."


    Luo Jingyi found it odd that she kept mentioning the same phrase.


    So, she questioned.  "Why should it be me?"


    Xu Wei straightened up and gave her a very child-like smile.


    "That drink¡ªthat drink in the bar... "


    "The green-colored drink?  What about it?" Luo Jingyi plucked a towel from the cupboard,  wet it and wiped Xu Wei''s face.


    Xu Wei was silent before she urged her to move closer.


    Playing along,  Luo Jingyi followed. In a soft voice,  Xu Wei revealed in her ear,  "I added¡ªtruth serum."


    A flash of anger glinted on Luo Jingyi''s eyes before it disappeared. Her mouth curved up.  "Really? Why did you mix it with alcohol? That could kill you know."


    Xu Wei waved her hand in a gesture that meant ''It''s okay.''


    "Don''t worry.  It¡ªwas only¡ª " she showed half an inch distance between her thumb and forefinger, "¡ªlike this."


    It was a safe amount if added to liquor but that little amount could make even a tight-lipped criminal confess sins without realizing it.


    Distracting the woman by pulling her clothes up, Luo Jingyi subtly interrogated her, putting the drug''s purpose into use.  Her voice was normal and friendly.


    "Why did you use it? "


    "I followed you¡ªfor three years but I¡ªstill have nothing."  Xu Wei complained, swatting her hand as Luo Jingyi removed her dirty clothes.


    "Why were you following me?" She went on even Xu Wei wasn''t allowing her.


    "Because I want to be friends with you!"


    "Really? I don''t think you should to that to a friend."


    Xu Wei looked at her before she squirmed away from her.


    "Why don''t you tell me what you want?"


    Xu Wei leaned on the glass that separates the toilet and the shower. She started crying.  "The truth. You¡ª" she suddenly broke out into tears which grew into loud whimpers. She was speaking incorrigible, repeating the word truth over and over again.  Like someone in their manic state,  she was pulling her hair up and scratching herself repeatedly.


    That was one of the side effects. It affected her state of mind. Worst case scenario, her central nervous system would break down.  Xu Wei could lose her muscle strength or her mental ability could be impaired.


    It was useless to prod further. Luo Jingyi hit her on the neck, catching the woman before her head slammed on the marble floor.


    Luo Jingyi covered Xu Wei with the floral blanket. The drug''s effect would wear off in an hour so letting her sleep would be the best choice.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Remembering the moment Xu Wei confessed what she added in the drink,  she reflected on what truth did Xu Wei want from her.  For the woman to use underhanded tactics meant she was never a friend, to begin with. It would be a lie to say she wasn''t disappointed with how things turned out between them. And there she was, partly convinced Xu Wei could be a friend. Letting go of whatever hesitation left in her,  she opened the document.


    Luo Jingyi rapt her gaze on her computer screen and skimmed over Xu Wei''s employment records and file. There''s nothing notable except the gap between her previous employment and present. She had found the reason why she couldn''t completely trust her. Xu Wei''s travel history coincided with every place Luo Jingyi been to before taking up the post at GM General. The three years that Luo Jingyi spent in Europe was a very sensitive topic.


    The ringing phone distracted her.


    "Is it convenient to talk?" Ji Min inquired immediately, thinking she would be in a teleconference with the directors at the moment.


    "Yes. What''s wrong? Did you find out who tampered the system?"


    Ji Min sighed. "Not yet. Someone''s working on it.  But I called you for another reason. You are close to Dr. Xu, right?"


    "Not really. Why?"


    "She handed her resignation just now." She informed her.


    "Just let her be. She has the least cases anyway. The hospital is just losing money on her."


    "You were aware?" Ji Min was surprised. She thought Xu Wei was special to her boss because she was the only one she interacted within the hospital.  Hence,  when she took the post to head the hospital,  she didn''t touch Xu Wei even if she was annoyed at that woman.


    "It''s been like that for 3 years. But she''s valuable to Director Song."


    Director Song was a pesky shareholder in the hospital. When Chairman Chen transferred his shares, he begged to let Director Song keep the shares he had.


    "I don''t like her." Ji Min confessed her unhappiness.


    "Who? Xu Wei?"


    "Yes"


    "Well, she''s bearable." Luo Jingyi simply said.


    "No, she''s not. I don''t like her."


    Luo Jingyi laughed. "What had she done to irate you that much?"


    Ji Min didn''t want to make a mountain out of a molehill so she just told her, "Nothing."


    Luo Jingyi sensed she was withholding something but she ignored prying.


    "Did you know she''s going to Medlife too? "


    ''Of course, she will.  Xu Wei wanted ''truth'' from her.''


    "I know."


    Silence ensued before Ji Min gave her inference. "I have a hunch she''s following you."


    "Even if she is planning something sinister against me, do you think I''ll let her off?"


    Her words zipped Ji Min''s mouth. Again, she had forgotten who she was talking to. Luo Jingyi''s motto in life was: No enemy shall remain victorious.


    "Don''t worry. Let her bring forth what she has in mind."


    After exchanging a few more words,  Luo Jingyi pressed the end button.


    Setting her phone down,  Luo Jingyi locked her hands together and rested her chin on them.


    ''Is this the reason why she kept urging me to try behavioral therapy?''


    ''Why?''


    ''Is it Wang Hua?''


    ''No.'' she refuted. Her stepmother would rather hire goons, not a psychiatrist.


    ''Han Peng?''


    ''Possible but why a psychiatrist?''


    None of the two made sense.


    ''If it''s not the two of them, then who?''


    After moments of contemplation,  Luo Jingyi yelped in annoyance when she was unable to narrow it down.


    All she wanted was to live in peace, but it seemed an impossible feat to achieve. There were always people standing against her.

 Chapter 56 - WHO ELSE DO I NEED TO DEAL WITH?

    Shutting herself from the distraction, Luo Jingyi went over the files that Song Hia brought. Her assistant wasn''t kidding when she said they were swamped with work. Completing half, she almost regretted sending Song Hia for a holiday.


    The sound of alarm from her phone startled her. Putting the file down, she turned it off and darted to her bedroom to change. She had to go to the airport to pick someone.


    The moment she stepped past the automated glass door entrance, her eyes scanned the area. The wide halls were filled with people, passengers pulling their luggage, family members waiting for their arrival and the uniformed airport staff working on the clock. Adding to the noise around her was the flight arrivals being announced over the intercom. Upon checking the large digital monitor displaying arrival times, she walked to a small coffee shop and ordered before occupying a chair. Due to flight delay, she waited for more than two hours. Luckily, she brought a book with her and killed time by reading.


    After Xiao Wen''s flight number was announced, she calculated the time Xiao Wen would spend getting cleared from the immigration and picking up her luggage from the conveyor belt. Twenty minutes later, she stood and waited for Xiao Wen at the assigned arrival gate. From the information her friend sent her, she was able to zero in Xiao Wen from the throng of people coming out. She had a small duffel bag flung over her back.


    "Hello, Dr. Luo. I''m Xiao Wen." The woman introduced herself politely when she neared.


    "Let''s go." Luo Jingyi briefly glanced over her shoulder.


    As the car traversed the road leading to the city, Xiao Wen made a comment to kill the uncomfortable silence. "A lot has changed."


    "When was the last time you''ve been here?" Luo Jingyi asked.


    "Three years."


    "That''s quite long." Luo Jingyi simply commented and glanced at the side view mirror. She turned on the left, entering an alley instead of continuing on the main highway before stepping on her speed.


    The driver of the black car that had been trailing her upon her exit from her apartment building pulled over when he lost her. Hitting the steering wheel, he cursed. At the same time, two women slid inside the car, surprising him. One in the passenger seat and one at the back who laced her arm on his neck. He felt something pointed on his skin.


    "Stop following me around." Luo Jingyi ordered him. He was the same guy who was taking photos in the park yesterday.


    "I wasn''t." The man denied vehemently, raising his voice to intimidate her.


    Sadly, Luo Jingyi laughed it off and showed the images from the camera she wrestled from him. "Then how do you explain this?"


    The man was stumped for words. Giving up, he begged, "Okay. Could you please remove that?"


    He didn''t want to die.


    "Tell your friend too." Luo Jingyi added. Earlier, the other one pretended to be a janitorial employee pushing a cleaning trolley inside the airport. She wouldn''t have noticed him if the man didn''t circle her a couple of times.


    "It was only me."


    Xiao Wen pressed the tip of the pen harder on the skin. This caused the man to be more nervous. He lifted two hands in surrender.


    "Okay. Okay!" He called the other one and instructed him to delete the photos he took.


    "I don''t like my pictures being taken so don''t even attempt to follow me again in the future. Understand?" She erased the data and removed the memory card.


    The man nodded repeatedly.


    Only then did Xiao Wen loosen her grip. Luo Jingyi hopped off the car.


    "Could you at least give back my camera? I need to earn a living." The man pleaded.


    Luo Jingyi glanced at what she was holding and after a moment of contemplation, she tossed it back to him.


    Back inside Luo Jingyi''s car, Xiao Wen commented doubtfully, "You didn''t ask who sent them."


    "There''s no need." She replied. They were the ones Chairman Shen sent to trail Yun Jinghan.


    "Must be a stupid client for hiring non-professionals like them. They were too obvious."


    "I don''t think stupid is the right term. Let''s just say, they underestimated me." Luo Jingyi chimed.


    At the same time, wondered why Yun Jinghan didn''t stop them when she clearly sent him a reminder last night.


    Xiao Wen let out an ''ooh'' before cackling in laughter. "You and Captain are so similar."


    "That''s why she hates me." The corner of Luo Jingyi''s mouth quirked up. It wasn''t exactly that kind of hate wherein her friend would harm her. It was more of rivalry and competitiveness. But at the end of the day, they had each other''s back.


    ¡­..


    "Follow me in my office." Luo Jingyi motioned to Xiao Wen after they had dinner.


    When Xiao Wen was seated, she recounted the case and passed the file she had on her agent. She told the woman what she wanted: find the missing agent and her connection to the dead body found in her old place.


    "This is easy." Xiao Wen murmured with confidence. Although she was disappointed with the task, she accepted it. It was better than being in the training camp.


    Then, Luo Jingyi printed and handed her a single sheet of paper.


    "This one is different. For now, do a background check again on her. But dig deeper. See if you could uncover what she had been doing in Europe."


    Xiao Wen smiled beautifully.  This was the kind of task she liked. "Is there a deadline?"


    Luo Jingyi sensed pensiveness in Xiao Wen''s voice and she laughed. "I''m not as demanding as your captain. So don''t worry. But the faster you can solve it, the better."


    "I understand."


    "Where will you be staying?"


    "My brother''s"


    Luo Jingyi recalled that Xiao Wen''s file stated that she had a brother who married and settled in the city.


    Taking a key from the drawer, she threw it at Xiao Wen and gave the address of another property she owned. When she left, Luo Jingyi rested her back on the chair and looked up the ceiling.


    "Xu Wei, Wang Hua, Han Peng¡­ who else do I need to deal with?"

 Chapter 57 - MEETING IN SANYA

    Three days later, Luo Jingyi flew to Sanya for the medical conference. It was raining when her flight landed in the evening. After checking in her hotel room, she stayed indoors and was lulled to sleep by the pitter-patter of rain against the window.


    The next day, it was the sunlight pooling inside the room that woke her up. Briefly glancing at the time, she was feeling lazy so she lazed on the bed, enjoying the hard-earned free time. She planned to go out later in the day to wander around. When her phone chimed, she picked it up and read the message.


    Yun Jinghan: Don''t forget breakfast.


    Luo Jingyi wondered if his messages were time-scheduled. For the past days, except for his short phone call the other day, he would send her reminders every 3 hours. His messages were short and the same all the time. A reminder not to skip meals.


    Shaking her head, she sent a reply for the first time. Luo Jingyi realized she was indeed starving. So after changing her clothes, she went out.


    .¡­.


    Yun Jinghan nearly dropped his phone when he received her message. He waited for her reply every day but she never did.


    MY WIFE: Okay. Going to eat now.


    Setting his phone on the table with a contented smile, Yun Jinghan scanned the document on his other hand. Eventually, his mouth was pursed into a grim line. Ignoring to read the rest, he flipped it back to the man sitting in front of him.


    In the beginning, he had set his eyes on the property that this man owned. They had been negotiating for months and the last time they spoke, this man agreed on his terms. But this man suddenly called and informed him that he changed his mind. It was evident that the contract was written by someone else. It appeared someone meddled in his business again.


    If he was going to get the property, it was on his term not on someone else ministrations. Now, his interest in it suddenly waned.


    Yun Jinghan meant to say something to Amy when his eyes caught a side profile of a woman on the other side of the restaurant. Luo Jingyi was busily skimming over the menu. He scowled when the waiter kept staring at her.


    Pushing the chair back, he rose and walked away but an arm grabbed his wrist.


    "Wait, your brother is willing to pay $50 million for this property." The man revealed. He was very flustered.


    ''So it was my brother.'' Yun Jinghan thought. When he received reports that this man''s daughter had been meeting his brother, he brushed it off thinking it was just a coincidence. Nothing else.


    Yun Jinghan forcibly removed the man''s hand on him and suggested wryly, "Then let my brother buy it. And while you''re at it, let him marry your daughter too. I think they would make a great pair."


    With that, Yun Jinghan strutted away. Amy collected her boss'' things and stood.


    "Have a good day." Amy politely bid goodbye.


    "Wait, is there a chance he will reconsider?" The man asked hesitantly.


    Amy glanced at the direction of her boss before answering, "No."


    Amy worked long enough with her boss to know that once Yun Mo had shown interest in this particular land, her boss would never buy it even though he was interested.


    Defeated, the man sat down.


    ¡­.


    Someone waved in front of Luo Jingyi to get attention.  Retracting her gaze from the book, she found Yun Jinghan''s smiling face. Grabbing the chair opposite hers, he sat down.


    Luo Jingyi meant to ask what he was doing here but when she saw Amy heading their way, it dawned on her that he was here for the business trip he mentioned.


    Amy handed Yun Jinghan''s mobile phone, bobbing her head slightly to Luo Jingyi on the process.


    "You can take a rest for today." Yun Jinghan instructed Amy.


    Amy''s eyed widened in glee. "Thank you, boss."


    And after saying that, Amy left.


    "Have you eaten?" Luo Jingyi asked.


    "No." He glanced up from his phone and told her.


    After ordering for him, Luo Jingyi returned to reading her book.


    "Sorry. I had to answer that. What brings you to Sanya?"


    "Medical conference." She answered, setting the book aside.


    "How long?"


    "Three days."


    He simply nodded. Luo Jingyi was uncomfortable because he never took away his gaze on her.


    "How are things on your side?" She inquired to dispel the awkwardness she was feeling.


    Shrugging his shoulders, he extended his hand to reach her glass and emptied its contents.


    "You¡ªthat''s my glass. " she protested seeing him use the straw she bit earlier.


    "So what?"


    "That''s very¡ªunhygienic."


    "It''s called sharing. Don''t tell me you are thinking of other things?" Yun Jinghan gave her a quizzical look. Mirth was dancing in his eyes.


    "What o-other things are you talking about?" She denied, sensing her face was hot. Just seconds earlier, she had the weirdest idea in her head.


    "Okay! I shall grant your wish." In less than five seconds, he got up, lowered his head and gave her a peck on her lips.

 Chapter 58 - SO YOU WOULDNT PUSH ME AWAY

    Luo Jingyi nearly hit him for his shamelessness. He returned to his chair as if nothing happened at all.


    ''I feel like you are taking advantage of me.'' Luo Jingyi meant to complain but kept her mouth closed.  ''Or am I too petty?''


    After their meal,  Yun Jinghan asked what she had planned for the afternoon. She mentioned she was going to the city center and look around.  It was her first time in Sanya so she wanted to check out the place.


    "I''ll accompany you."


    Luo Jingyi directed her gaze on his suit. "Why don''t you change into something more comfortable?"


    "Come to my room then."


    Ignoring the humor in the invitation, she refused with a wave of her hand. "Go. I''ll wait in the lobby."


    Yun Jinghan showed a disappointed face but Luo Jingyi ignored it and turned away.


    Occupying the sofa, Luo Jingyi took out the book in her bag and read but she couldn''t concentrate. Her mind was still on Yun Jinghan did earlier. No matter how much she wanted to shove it off her head, it just kept popping out.


    ''Why am I bothered by it?'' She interrogated herself.


    "Luo Jingyi!" A familiar voice pulled her out of her reverie. Glancing to the direction where it came from, she saw Aunt Alice and Uncle Antoine. It registered on her that it would be Uncle Antoine''s birthday in three days. The couple would always go on a two-week-long trip together to celebrate the day he was born. However, she was surprised that they chose Sanya this time.


    Luo Jingyi hurried to meet them halfway.


    "What are you doing here?" Aunt Alice asked in surprise.


    She told them about the medical conference.


    "Oh. That''s the reason why the place is overflowing with doctors.  Just now,  I met an acquaintance who came for the same thing."


    "Did Yun Jinghan accompany you?"


    Before she could answer, Luo Jingyi was distracted by Yun Jinghan''s appearance as he came out of the elevator. He changed into a pair of shorts, a white shirt, and casual loafers. She ascertained that regardless of what Yun Jinghan would wear, he would still be irresistible.


    Aunt Alice and Uncle Antoine looked at each other before the former nudged Luo Jingyi.


    Luo Jingyi coughed and swallowed her embarrassment. She was sure her ears were red. She was practically drooling in front of the couple.


    Yun Jinghan greeted the couple politely when he came closer.


    "It''s nice to see you both spending time together." Uncle Antoine laughed while he patted Yun Jinghan on the shoulder.


    Yun Jinghan gave her a cursory glance which she returned with a slight shake in her head. She didn''t know they were coming here. It was a simple coincidence.


    "What''s on your itinerary?" Aunt Alice directed the question to Yun Jinghan.


    "Just sight-seeing at the city center." He answered, standing closely to Luo Jingyi.


    The couple looked at each other before Uncle Antoine invited them, "We are going to Wuzhizhou Island. Why don''t you come along?"


    Luo Jingyi and Yun Jinghan went along with the couple.


    The four of them took the 20-minute ride to the island which was 30 km North-East of Sanya.  On the map, the island looked like a butterfly with its wings open.


    As the ferry''s engines roared by, Luo Jingyi fixated her eyes on the ocean, ignoring the excited chatter around her. It''s been a while since she''d been to the sea and she liked the feeling of the warm sun tickling on her skin and the cool air tugging her hair away. She rummaged for something in her bag but disappointed when she forgot to bring them.


    "Wear these." Yun Jinghan passed a pair of sunglasses that magically appeared on his hand. Surprised, she intended to ask where he plucked them from but it was answered when the corner of her eyes caught K2 not far from them.


    "Thank you!" Luo Jingyi put them on.


    Upon arrival, Aunt Alice pointed to the blue golf carts by the entrance. "Let''s ride that."


    Uncle Antoine readily agreed and they sprinted to that side while Luo Jingyi and Yun Jinghan stayed behind.


    "I didn''t know they would be here." Luo Jingyi informed him. What she felt at the moment was, the director called them out of the blue, put them on the stage in front of a thousand fans and they have to make an impromptu performance.


    "I think it''s a good idea they are here." Yun Jinghan smiled at her.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Nothing." He didn''t want to admit that he preferred for them to be around.


    ''So you wouldn''t push me away.'' He answered in his head.

 Chapter 59 - LETS GET MARRIED

    "I want to take a picture there." That''s what Luo Jingyi kept hearing from Aunt Alice so they made numerous stops along the way.  Uncle Antoine, who was already acclimated to Aunt Alice''s behavior, became the photographer.


    Luo Jingyi merely observed the interaction between the couple. She admired how their relationship weathered the challenges life had thrown them. She''d never once heard them argue.


    "Let''s go." Yun Jinghan urged. When she moved her head in refusal, he poked her on the arm and pushed her out gently.


    When they arrived at the entrance of the bridge, he instructed her. "Strike a pose."


    So Luo Jingyi positioned herself beneath the two big statues.


    "You are so stiff. Are you trying to emulate Monalisa?" Yun Jinghan gushed seeing her robot-like stance.


    Luo Jingyi put on a simple smile. Feeling discontented, Yun Jinghan put his arm on her shoulder, pulled her closer and snapped a picture of them.


    His movement was so timed that even if Luo Jingyi wanted to protest, she couldn''t because the couple was looking at them. In the end, Yun Jinghan managed to capture that upward curve on her lips.


    "Pretty!" He exclaimed as he zoomed out the photo.


    ''You could never win Luo Jingyi.'' A voice in her head shouted.


    ....


    As they were enjoying their lunch in one of the restaurants, Aunt Alice suddenly announced, "I want to go fishing."


    Uncle Antoine''s attention flew to them in helplessness. Minutes ago, they agreed to continue their tour around the place. But it seemed, her aunt changed her mind.


    Yun Jinghan pitied Antoine Lacroix for being completely defeated by his wife.


    In the end, the four of them joined another group to go fishing. The boat was marooned farther from the beach, so they had to cross the water to get into it.


    Both Luo Jingyi and Yun Jinghan stared down at her skirt. Yun Jinghan understood her dilemma so without saying anything he carried her. So she wouldn''t fall, Luo Jingyi slung her arm on his neck. His masculine scent permeated to her nose. The closeness made her pulse race. Bracing herself for an attack, she closed her eyes and hummed.


    "I''ll be quick. Just listen to my voice." He murmured, noticing her reaction.


    His husky voice echoed to her ears as he sang a popular ballad. She forced herself to focus, ignoring her accelerating heart. She was immersed in his singing that she didn''t realize he already put her down.


    "You okay?" Yun Jinghan removed her wide-brimmed hat.  Good thing that the sun wasn''t blaring today.


    She answered with a nod and wiped the sweat on her forehead.


    "You''ve set the bar!" Uncle Antoine praised Yun Jinghan because everyone followed what he did.


    After the guide explained what to do, everyone got busy on their own. Yun Jinghan and Luo Jingyi occupied the back part while the Lacroix couple were on the other side.  Uncle Antoine was standing behind his wife and was assisting her.


    "They have a good relationship. How long have they been married?" Yun Jinghan put the question forth when he saw where she was looking at.


    "I think more than 30 years."


    "My parents lasted for 3 years before they realized they aren''t meant for each other. But they couldn''t divorce immediately so they both had affairs outside. Eventually, when my maternal grandmother found it out. They promised to work it out which resulted in¡ªme being born in this world. Sadly, two years later, they could no longer stand each other." He revealed nonchalantly.


    Luo Jingyi wasn''t sure what to say. The original''s parents were only married for a few years too before they separated.


    Out of the blue, Yun Jinghan faced her. With his lopsided grin, he proposed, "Let''s get married."


    Luo Jingyi angled her head and gaped at him.


    "No." She refused.


    Yun Jinghan laughed crisply.

 Chapter 60 - CAST YOUR BAIT AND ILL TAKE A BITE

    "I''ll show you." Yun Jinghan maneuvered her hands as he stood behind her, caging her into an embrace.


    "Throw it like this and simply let it sink. Try to slowly drag it around. If the fish took the bait, you will feel it fighting the hook, so tighten the line and raise the rod straight up." He made a lengthy explanation to Luo Jingyi.


    "Do you understand? Or do I need to repeat it?" Whispering in her ear, he asked. Their bodies were sticking too close that it made Luo Jingyi fight the discomfort.


    ''This guy¡ªreally¡ª'' Pursing her lips, she moved her head sideway and politely begged, "Could you let my hands go?"


    Perceiving a tad of anger in her voice, Yun Jinghan laughingly raised his two hands up and stepped away from her.


    "Thank you."


    Yun Jinghan left and shortly after, he returned and occupied the space beside her. Apparently, he changed his mind and went to take another fishing line.


    "Are you thinking of me? Quickly cast your bait and I''ll take a bite of it." Yun Jinghan teased, rousing her up from silence.


    "That would be dangerous. I''d rather be single than to be eaten by a shark." Luo Jingyi retorted upon gleaning the meaning behind his statement.


    Yun Jinghan chuckled. "Am I that scary in your eyes?"


    "No. But you like taking advantage of every situation."


    "Which situation?" He asked innocently, casting the fishing line onto the sea.


    "This morning, you stole a kiss from me. And just now, when you hug me from behind, you were pressing your¡ª" she coughed, hesitating to say the word "¡ªyour body on mine."


    "I didn''t. I was only teaching you how to fish." Yun Jinghan denied. The corners of his lips were drawn up.  When he turned to look at her, she smirked at him for feigning ignorance.


    "And the kiss¡ª" He pointed at his lips before he continued, "¡ªyou can retaliate if you want."


    Perceiving what he meant, she scolded him.  "Yun Jinghan, why are you so shameless?"


    "Why sweetie, I am only like this with you." Yun Jinghan muttered in amusement.


    Luo Jingyi nearly rolled her eyes. She didn''t speak.  Not that she was unable to quip a retort but she knew it was a waste of time to argue with him. She was suddenly faced with a predicament: How could she get away from him?  Because if she won''t she might really precariously fall.


    .....


    Looking at what they caught, Aunt Alice suddenly decided to have a barbecue party to celebrate Uncle Antoine''s birthday. She invited the other four after she found out that they were staying at the same resort as them.


    With the help of everyone, they were able to set up the impromptu celebration at the beach. Yun Jinghan helped Uncle Antoine in grilling while Luo Jingyi borrowed the kitchen to whip a few seafood dishes.


    "You two should just get married." Uncle Antoine commented when Yun Jinghan kept stealing glances on the group at the table to check if Luo Jingyi was around.


    "I thought you said don''t rush." Yun Jinghan reminded him of what the man had advised the first time they met.


    "That''s because I wasn''t convinced then. Now it''s different." He revealed, flipping the fish to sear the other side.


    Yun Jinghan stayed mum. He had marriage in mind. But after springing out the proposal thrice, he discerned that it wasn''t him that she was refusing. It seemed that his wife hated the word ''marriage'' itself which puzzled him a lot. So forcing it on her would only turn into unfavorable results rather than good.


    ''It is better to give it time. Anyway, she can never get away.'' He advised himself.


    "There she is." Uncle Antoine nudged him on the side. When Yun Jinghan looked ahead, he caught her staring at him.


    ¡­..


    Conversation flew as their group enjoyed the small party. However, Luo Jingyi was the quietest, only answering when asked. When the four revealed that they were doctors and they came to the medical conference for a reason, Luo Jingyi was glad that she only told them her first name.


    "Are you one of the speakers?" One woman asked.


    "Not really. Which hospital are you working at?"  Luo Jingyi tactfully diverted the conversation.


    "We are junior residents in Medlife."


    "We skipped work for a few days because we heard that there will be a lot of famous speakers this time. But in fact, we are excited to see Dr. Luo." One excitedly disclosed. She reminded her a lot of Dr. Feng aka Blue girl. This woman''s rainbow highlights made her think of the colorful unicorn''s mane.


    Aunt Alice and Uncle Antoine eyed Luo Jingyi. Reaching for the glass of juice, Luo Jingyi asked, "Really? Why do you want to meet her?"


    "Because she''s an amazing person. She''s the only one in the country who has two specialty¡ªtrauma and cardiothoracic."


    "She seemed an interesting person." Uncle Antoine joined in the conversation, winking at Luo Jingyi.


    "I can''t absolutely describe how superb her skills are. Her schedule is always packed that sometimes, it is difficult for ordinary people to get her as their surgeon. Sometimes, one had to wait for a year." She went on excitedly.


    ''That''s an exaggeration.'' Sniffing, Luo Jingyi rubbed her nose. The waiting was a case to case basis. Those who needed urgent surgery that she couldn''t accommodate, she referred them to other surgeons.


    "But there are two more surgeons that have the same specialty as m¡ª" She closed her mouth suddenly when she realized she didn''t tell her name to them. "¡ªsame specialty as Dr. Luo."


    If they noticed her slip, it didn''t show on their faces.


    "That''s true. But they are different. Dr. Lacroix works in the military while the other one, she''s somewhere unknown volunteering."


    The Lacroix couple glanced at each other. Dr. David Lacroix was Uncle Antoine''s younger brother. He''s a military surgeon and he was her mentor.


    "If it''s as simple as you say, you will have an opportunity once she starts working in Medlife. So there must be a different reason why you specifically came to seek her, right?"


    "How did you know Dr. Luo is going to our hospital?" The other woman eyed Yun Jinghan skeptically.  Her father was the Director of Human Resources for Medlife and he told her that the hospital hadn''t made any formal announcement yet.


    "I heard you in the boat earlier."


    The group looked at each other before the oldest one nodded her head, giving permission to reveal the secret.


    "There are rumors that Dr. Luo is selecting the members of her own team."


    Luo Jingyi was indeed handpicking the people in her team because it would be more efficient to work with the same group. She pondered on this woman''s background. Her handpicking her OR team was a secret. Nobody knew except two people in that hospital. It was to avoid ruckus. But it seemed the news had gotten out already. If it had, she would have to be careful with people approaching her in the future.


    "So, you wanted to convince Dr. Luo to take the four of you." Uncle Antoine surmised.


    They nodded at the same time.


    "She seemed to be a formidable person. I think you have to work hard in convincing her." Uncle Antoine advised them, shooting a wink to Luo Jingyi.


    Luo Jingyi didn''t speak. Regardless of what these four would do, she would always stick to her number one criteria: results. Threatening nor paying her would be of no use.


    ¡­..


    Yun Jinghan sent Luo Jingyi to the door. Standing outside her room, Luo Jingyi thanked the man for accompanying her.


    "I really have to work very hard because my fiance¨¦ is an amazing woman." Yun Jinghan teased.


    "Geez! Stop sputtering nonsense."


    Yun Jinghan let out a peal of soft laughter. "Could I come in?"


    Without answering, Luo Jingyi swiftly got inside and blocked herself at the door, leaving it slightly ajar. She bobbed her head out and said, "Goodnight."


    "I guess it''s no." He laughed awkwardly, pocketing the hand that froze in the air as he wanted to push the door seconds earlier.

 Chapter 61 - I GENUINELY CARE FOR YOU

    The pungent smell and continuous squeak around her slowly stirred the woman up. Feeling discomfort, she shifted her body yet her movements were restricted because she was chained to the wall. Cold winter radiated in every corner of the dingy dungeon. She felt her body shivering but fought it hard not to show the slightest hint of being cold.


    "Put her down." She heard a familiar voice order. She forced herself to open her swollen eyes.


    Seconds later, she was tossed on the ground. Pain radiated in every bone of her body.


    A man clad in embroidered robe stepped forward. The woman eyed him sharply with anger plastered on her face. The man was her husband. The man who promised the moon and the stars to her. The man who made her clip her wings in order to gain his favor. He pinched her chin and forced her to look at him in the eye.


    "Do you understand what pain is? How does it feel?"


    "Is this how you are going to repay what I''ve done for you?"


    "Repay? Don''t make me laugh. This is nothing compared to what you did to her." He spat and glared at her with all the hatred there was on earth.


    The ''her'' from his mouth was Lady Chen, his beloved concubine who was poisoned.


    "I didn''t kill her."  She defended herself. That was the truth. But her mother-in-law pinned the death on her.


    "Impudent!" His hand immediately flew on her face and slapped her hard that she felt her ears ringing in pain.


    Holding her cheek, she glared at him. All the grievances she kept in her heart sprung out at this very moment.  She scoffed coldly. "Without my family''s support, you are nothing."


    Anger immediately rose in him. He reached for her and strangled her.


    "Die." He cursed as his grasp became tighter each second that passed. She squirmed to get away but she felt her body unable to move. She couldn''t breathe at all. She fought to push away his hand but she could only grasp the sleeves of his robe.


    The buzzed of her alarm woke her up. Luo Jingyi sat up gasping for air. Her hand flew on her chest because her heart was palpitating rapidly. At the same time, she felt pain.


    She sucked in air and release it to calm herself.


    The dream was a recollection of her past. She almost died at that time. If not because of someone''s interference. Her husband''s right-hand man interrupted, informing that someone wanted to meet him. She didn''t get the name but the moment her husband heard it, he exited in haste. At that time, she thanked whoever that person was.


    Anger rose in her heart when she realized how pathetic she was in her last life. She endured too much hardship for the sake of the man she loved. Once, she believed that people could change. That love would make a relationship endure all the hardships. That it was something that could last forever.  But in fact, one''s feelings could change over time.


    Heaving a sigh, she slid off the bed and went to the bathroom with her mind still ruminating on the word ''love.''


    .....


    Luo Jingyi had just changed into clean clothes when the doorbell rang. Thinking it was room service, she pulled the door open. Yun Jinghan was standing outside with a cart in front of him.


    Seeing his lop-sided grin early in the morning, Luo Jingyi wondered why he was always smiling and what could actually make it go away. Leaving the door open, she turned around. Yun Jinghan pushed the cart inside and unloaded its content on the round dining table. It was beside the floor to ceiling windows. Hence, one could enjoy dining while looking at the awesome view of the ocean.


    Yun Jinghan glanced at her but it didn''t linger because he got distracted seeing her slender neck. He felt he was a vampire, obsessing on that particular part of her body. Noticing she was drying her hair with a towel, he asked her, "Where''s the hair blower?"


    "It''s broken." She answered and walked to the small kitchen to make coffee, giving up on the idea of drying her long hair.


    Yun Jinghan immediately called the reception and whatever words he used, in five minutes, a young man appeared outside the door handing her the hair blower. He was panting as a result of running.


    "Sorry." He apologized.


    Yun Jinghan took it from his hand and closed the door. Plugging it in, he gestured her to sit on the sofa. She protested but it was ignored. In the end, she listened to him.


    Playing with her hair, Yun Jinghan delved his fingers into her straight hair, creating gaps. Her hair had a silky texture.


    "Stop it! It''s very ticklish." Luo Jingyi complained, sensing his subtle scratching on her scalp. But Yun Jinghan didn''t stop. He continued which only earned irk from Luo Jingyi.  She loudly counted backward, starting from 10.


    "Done." He suddenly mumbled when she was at 4.


    Luo Jingyi sighed inwardly. For the next twenty minutes, only the sounds of utensils were heard. After changing her clothes and applying light make-up, they headed out.


    Luo Jingyi didn''t immediately get off the car when they arrive at the venue of the conference. Her dream this morning left her startled and made her contemplate on things.


    Clearing her throat, she emphasized the following. "I only agreed to be your girlfriend because of aunt''s pressure. It means we just needed to act in front of them. So, these acts like taking care of me, bringing breakfast, driving me around and other random things, you don''t have to do it. I am an adult. I am perfectly fine by myself. Thus, there''s no reason for you to take your role seriously."


    Turning down the volume of the music that was playing, he angled his head to face her. "This is not an act. I am doing it because I genuinely care for you."


    He was looking at her with honesty. Most of the time, he would utter words with mirth evident in his eyes hence she never took them seriously. This time, it was something else. He was very serious. Luo Jingyi sensed that time had stopped and her heart thumped out of her chest. It was very faint yet she detected something different.


    ''Could I trust him?'' She questioned herself.  Retracting her gaze from him, she shut her eyes close and meditated. Minutes later, she whispered, "The conference ends at 5."


    Seeing her jumped off the car in haste, he was left in deep thought. ''Was she bothered with what I said?''

 Chapter 62 - THE EX

    In the lobby,  Luo Jingyi searched for her phone to call the coordinator.  Out of nowhere, someone suddenly yanked her arm, forcibly pulling her away resulting in her phone hitting the marble floor. The screen cracked on impact. By reflex, she freed herself and extended her leg, digging her heels into the assailant''s shoes.


    Luo Jingyi heard groans of pain so she spun around and her eyes collided with Wen Minghua''s angry ones. Looking at the man sharply, she bent to pick her phone. This was the original''s ex-fiance who she abandoned on their wedding day. Back then, the original was too in love with this man that she slaved herself for him. Just because of the stupid deal he had with his friends, he wooed her. The original was socially inept and was often bullied hence, she was overjoyed when he started paying attention to her. Little did she know, when he proposed to her, Wen Minghua and his friends were laughing at her gullibleness. She had fallen to their trap which she only discovered a few minutes before the wedding march was about to start. The moment she heard the truth, she left the place. His original intention of shaming her in front of everyone went south because he was the one who got abandoned.


    "What are you doing here?" Wen Minghua questioned crabbily.


    "Why shouldn''t I be here?" Luo Jingyi''s brows angled up, shoving her phone inside her bag.


    Annoyance settled on his face upon hearing her retort before it turned into something else. There was the cocky stance he always carried around according to the original''s memory.


    "Don''t tell me you appeared here because of me?" He stated conceitedly as though he was certain. When Luo Jingyi never said a word, he went on scoffing at her. "I am already married to a beautiful wife. Something broken like you, I will never take it back."


    Luo Jingyi nearly erupted in cackle with his self-centered assumption but ended up rubbing her thumb on her temple and slightly castigated the original body in her head.   ''You are stupid for falling to this idiot.  He thinks the world revolved around him.''


    Luo Jingyi ignored him and walked forward but Wen Minghua blocked her. Her steps faltered and reminded herself to be patient, pinching the bridge of her nose.


    "Did you know that I am presenting my paper on biohybrid artificial organs? It''s definitely going to get the grand prize. This year''s winner will be granted research funding by NewLife Healthcare Corporation."


    Luo Jingyi watched silently as he stood there gloating.


    "Oh, I forgot that you didn''t become a doctor like the rest of us. Why don''t you come to sit in to refresh your memory? I''ll talk to the organizer. Consider it as doing a favor for you. After all, we have a history." He sounded benevolent yet sarcasm was written all over him.


    Listening to his nonsense, Luo Jingyi smirked inside. She shook her head for even spending a second to listen to the man''s gibberish.


    "Wait here. Let me tell the organizers." He turned away to approach a woman at the registration counter. He took two forms and returned to where Luo Jingyi was standing before handing it to her. But she didn''t reach for it.


    "Dr. Luo, I am sorry." The program coordinator ran to her side apologetically. She was ordered to take care of Dr. Luo because she was the team leader of the judging panel.


    "I''ll bring you to your seat." She added when Dr. Luo didn''t say anything.


    Wen Minghua, who put down his hand which was frozen on-air, wondered. Surmising that the woman made a mistake, Wen Minghua laughingly edged forward and butted in, "Please forgive my intrusion. But this woman is not Dr. Luo. Her name is Han Jingyi."


    The program coordinator''s eyes ping-ponged between the man and Dr. Luo before it stilled on Luo Jingyi, ignoring the man.


    "Dr. Luo, do you know him?"


    "Just nobody. Consider him a flea, buzzing where he wasn''t needed."


    Flea? Wen Minghua''s face crumpled upon hearing what she said.


    "What did you say?!" Wen Minghua gripped and twisted her arm. The force wasn''t light thus, Luo Jingyi felt the pain.


    The last ounce of restraint in her was decimated. Luo Jingyi freed herself from his grip by kicking him in the groin. He staggered.


    "Touch me again and you''ll be sorry. And don''t forget that I was the one who dumped you. Why should I be interested in someone I discarded? Ridiculous!" Luo Jingyi scoffed and walked away.


    Holding off the pain at the area she hit,  Wen Minghua''s face became distorted. He was also reminded that she left him embarrassed when she didn''t appear on their wedding day and eloped with another man, making him the laughing stock of the whole city. If it wasn''t for her scandal to cover it up, people would have talked about him for a long time.


    "Dr. Luo, should we allow him to enter?" The coordinator asked, uncertain of what to do.


    Heaving a sigh of frustration, Luo Jingyi ordered. "Let him register. Double-check his entry to the contest."


    ''Let''s see what he has.''


    The woman lowered her head and acknowledged it. She was still in awe after witnessing Dr. Luo defend herself.


    Clenching his fist, Wen Minghua followed her but was stopped when he was asked to show his registration id. He glanced at the two forms on his hand and feeling of humiliation passed him.


    Because his voice was very loud earlier, he had attracted attention and people were now gawking at him like he was a big joke. He intended to shame her but she crushed his self-esteem by mere words. Hearing all the words around him, an incorrigible expression settled on his face.

 Chapter 63 - BEAUTY AND SKILLS

    Everything that happened just now was reported to K2.


    "Should we tell the Young Master?" K5 asked after reporting everything he witnessed earlier.


    "Not yet. Just follow and watch her for now."  K2 decided while he waited for the young master to return.  He followed the Young Master for a long time and everyone knew his aversion to sitting on the driver''s seat. Yet, he''d been chauffering Miss Luo lately. He even broke his own rule by not allowing any of his guards to follow him around because Miss Luo felt uncomfortable with them following. K2''s dissatisfaction with Luo Jingyi intensified.


    .....


    "I''m glad to meet you, Dr. Luo." Dr. Bai who was wearing a custom-tailored suit extended her hand to Luo Jingyi which the latter accepted. Dr. Bai was the President of the Medical Association in the country.


    "So am I." Luo Jingyi responded to the woman''s warmth. The woman was in her 50''s yet she appeared younger contrary to her age.


    "You have your mother''s eyes. I see passion and dedication in this field." Dr. Bai held Luo Jingyi on both arms and studied her closely.


    "Not only that. She took Luo Xiaofei''s beauty and skills." A low voice sounded behind them. When they turned, there was an old man walking with a cane headed to where they were standing. He was smiling with affection.


    "Dr. Luo, this is Chairman Jin of JN Healthcare Corporation." Dr. Bai immediately introduced him.


    Luo Jingyi inched forward and shook his hand. It was wrinkled against her skin.


    "Tell me, Dr. Luo, what benefits did this woman promise for you to finally accept the invitation for this year''s medical conference?" He asked skeptically. After much hardship of locating her three years ago, his son found and scouted Dr. Luo to be the Chief of Surgical Department in their hospital but Dr. Luo turned down the offer and decided to join GM General. Even he was baffled as to why she chose that hospital.


    "I promised nothing old man. Perhaps I''m more trustworthy than you." Dr. Bai defended herself, giving out a half-smile.


    Chairman Jin reacted by letting out a short ''hmph.''


    "You really do look a lot like your mother. Anyone would mistake you as Luo Xiaofei. It''s too sad she passed away early." Chairman Jin mumbled. Her eyes were on her yet he appeared to be distant away, trying to reminisce something in the past.


    "Uncle, stop stirring sad memories at this time." Dr. Bai scolded Chairman Jin but there was no anger in her voice.


    Upon hearing how Dr. Bai addressed Chairman Jin, Luo Jingyi''s question was answered. She was puzzled as to where Dr. Bai had the courage to openly criticize him. According to what she gathered, out of the top 8 families in the country, Chairman Jin was the scariest, a force you should never trifle with.


    Chairman Jin was stirred from his trance. The laugh lines on his cheek became more prominent when his lips drew into a smile. "Are you still single? I have grandsons who are at a marriageable age."


    "I will have to refuse the Chairman''s proposition. In fact, I am already engaged." Luo Jingyi showed her hand to quell the match-making attempt directly. She didn''t want to invite another blind date trouble.


    He gave the ring on her a cursory glance and he instantly recognized its value. "To that Wen kid?"


    "Have you gone senile uncle? He was long married to the granddaughter of Minister Zhuang. You even attended their wedding."


    When Chairman Jin tilted his head on one side, his assistant who stood behind whispered to clarify the information. When he remembered, Chairman Jin nodded before he interrogated her. "So who are you engaged to?"


    Luo Jingyi meant to say something without telling Yun Jinghan''s name when she saw Dr. Bai''s gesture. She was telling her not to mention anything by placing a finger on her lips.


    "Don''t say it. He''s good at breaking up couples. Right, old man?"


    Chairman Jin lifted his cane and hit the floor. "Nonsense."


    Luo Jingyi found the interaction between the two endearing. He reminded her of her own grandfather.


    "Let''s go Jingyi." Dr. Bai tugged her away from Chairman Jin.


    When they were earshot away from him, Dr. Bai implored, "Don''t take my uncle''s words seriously. Most of the time, he was just messing around."


    "It''s alright." Luo Jingyi assured. On the surface, Chairman Jin acted like a child but there was a fierceness in him that she couldn''t shake off.


    "Chairman, shall we carry on investigating Luo Xiaofei." A middle-aged man beside him inquired.


    "Continue. Until the matter years ago would become clear." He said without taking his eyes off from the departing figure.


    ¡­..


    The conference started with Dr. Bai sharing a few words regarding this year''s theme. There were a dozen medical conferences every year but everyone looked forward to this one because this event invites interested healthcare professionals to present their latest research ideas and developments for a chance to win project funding. This year''s sponsors were NLHC and JNHC. When the program committee chair talked about some changes, there was a hush-hush in the crowd. For this year, two papers would be selected. And unlike the previous years, the identity of the judges wouldn''t be revealed until the selection process was completed. That was to avoid lobbying.


    Luo Jingyi was assigned to the front row where a few distinguished guests sat. However, she chose the second to the last seat on the third row. It became her habit to sit anywhere except at the front. Moreover, she wanted to avoid certain people like the Minister of Health. When the venue was dimmed and the first presenter started, quietness filled the room. From time to time, the woman sitting on Luo Jingyi''s left would give her input regarding the research topics. Luo Jingyi simply listened.

 Chapter 64 - KEEP MY PROMISE TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD

    Over the short lunch break, Luo Jingyi and Dr. Bai shared the table at the corner, away from the scrutiny of everyone. Maybe because Luo Jingyi never attended a gathering like this so everyone was curious and every now and then, some would approach their table and exchanged a few words. As they ate their lunch, the two discussed current issues in the medical industry which eventually ended up on the Chen family.


    "Chairman Chen finally let go of GM General Hospital. After all the refusal and noise he made about keeping the business within the family hands. He made the right decision by selling his shares and giving the money to the victims. Everyone is saying he is a hero."


    ''If you only know what I had to do to achieve that.'' Luo Jingyi answered in her head. Like the public, Dr. Bai didn''t have an idea about it. Luo Jingyi didn''t correct the woman.


    When she was silent, Dr. Bai continued, "But people won''t forget his son and grandson''s crimes. Minister Chen''s political career is now in shambles. The evidence against him was astounding. Meanwhile, his grandson is awaiting his trial. I can''t believe that Dr. Chen did all that. Some say that his research would have been considered ground-breaking if it was completed."


    An edgy, twitchy feeling gnawed inside Luo Jingyi. Flushing it down with water, she put down the glass and expressed her distaste, "There''s nothing on his research will be considered heroic. We took an oath to protect and save people. Thus, using humans as test subjects violated all the medical ethics we abide by."


    "That''s why I could never understand what motivated him."


    "There are many. Greed for one. It could also be power. One''s desires could never be quenched by a drop of water." Luo Jingyi answered, noticing the subtle shift of the casual conversation to pointed questions. Dr. Bai was very smart in using the Chen family''s case to sound her out.


    Pausing to examine her, a slow smile built up at the corner of the other woman''s lips. Using her eyes, she pointed to someone. "Like him you mean?"


    Luo Jingyi swept across the room and found who it was directed to. It was the current Minister of Health who was having a conversation with Chairman Jin and a few important people in the industry. His laughter suddenly broke inside the dining hall, catching everyone''s attention.


    Withdrawing her gaze on him and showing a bored look, Luo Jingyi spooned her desert and placed it inside her mouth. The sweetness of the cake lingered in her tongue.


    "Since he sat on his position, he had been supporting laws that would benefit businesses rather than solve the current predicament our healthcare industry was facing.  He is leaning more to profit than anything else. So yes, he is an example of a greedy person." Luo Jingyi stated her views truthfully. There was no reason for her to hide her animosity towards the man.


    "I like your honesty."


    "I''ve been taught that way."


    Dr. Bai put down her utensils and reached for her glass, swirling it around. Melancholy settled on her face.


    The original''s only memory of Dr. Bai was during Luo Xiaofei''s funeral. Dr. Bai slapped the original''s father. She fussed during that time that police had to be called to subdue her.


    Hence, when Luo Jingyi returned to the country three years ago, she had Dr. Bai''s background investigated. She found out that Dr. Bai and Luo Xiaofei both belonged to the same graduating class. They were very close friends however, they drifted apart when Dr. Bai moved to the US to pursue her studies. After that, their communication dwindled down due to busy schedules.


    "Your mother is a wonderful woman." Distress was audible in her voice. Her stare was empty like she was millions away.


    "She is" Luo Jingyi agreed. Luo Xiaofei''s character was very similar to her own birth mother.


    "I heard that you will be starting another job. Why Medlife?" Dr. Bai''s tone resumed to casual. She had ditched herself from the previous emotion she''d shown.


    "I don''t know why everyone is making it a big deal." Luo Jingyi complained, pondering why every person she encountered lately had the same prodding question.


    "Only you think differently. Since you are suddenly appearing in public after years of being elusive, the people in the circle are curious about you. As someone who considered the youngest surgeon with two specialties, people desire to get inside your brain and learn more you."


    "Or it would be something else." Luo Jingyi gave out a wry smile.


    Dr. Bai clamped her lips together, fighting the urge to laugh. "That''s where you are different from your mother. Never to assume people''s intentions. Your mother was the one who taught me not to assume that people approach because they needed something from me."


    ''Look at where it got her.'' She retorted inside.


    "You have trust issues. I heard that you don''t have many friends in the circle." Dr. Bai continued when she was silent.


    "Whoever gave you that information, they''ve got it wrong." Luo Jingyi gave out a half-shrug. Although she didn''t rebuke her assessment on her, it didn''t mean she agreed. It was more of her laziness to lengthen the conversation about herself. Additionally, that wasn''t really the problem. She was just careful around people to avoid the repercussion of betrayal: pain.


    Dr. Bai studied Luo Jingyi. On the surface, Luo Jingyi and Luo Xiaofei were very much alike but in terms of personality, they had differences. Luo Jingyi strike as someone who would never cower in fear. She was strong-willed. There were many unexplained mysteries surrounding Luo Xiaofei''s being ousted from her position to her death. Thus, she was worried that Luo Jingyi''s reasons for going to that hospital were due to her mother. If that was the case, then she needed to do something about it.


    ''Xiaofei, be at peace. I will keep my promise to protect your child.'' Dr. Bai vowed.

 Chapter 65 - ILL BE TEMPTED TO KISS YOU

    "Send it to Chairman Shen. She can go ahead and follow the plan." Yun Jinghan handed the cooperation agreement he reviewed to Amy. He volunteered to sort out the issues regarding the hotel she acquired recently in this place. Additionally, he had to meet the Japanese businessman his grandmother wanted to cooperate with. Shen Food Corporation intended to enter the Japanese hotel industry.


    Amy took the documents. She stood but didn''t leave the room.


    "Is there something you didn''t tell me? You are holding your elbow with your right again." Yun Jinghan asked.  Amy always acted this way when she was anxious.


    Withholding any information about Miss Luo would get them into trouble. So even if she didn''t want to rat out K2, she recounted what happened to her boss.


    There was a moment of silence in the room.


    "When did it happen?"


    "This morning." Amy looked away.


    "It takes hours for me to get this news. When did everyone become so incompetent?" Yun Jinghan loosened his tie and walked out.


    .....


    Luo Jingyi stifled her yawn. After listening to 10 different speakers present their papers, she was bored to death. None of what was presented deserved to be awarded funding.


    At the same time, the idea of looking into surgical equipment which could be acquired by NLHC had been sacked. None of what was presented was considered innovative enough. That was the only reason she came this year.


    When the woman on her left commented on how boring it became, she nodded her head in agreement. Luo Jingyi reached for her phone but realizing it wouldn''t even turn on, she checked the time on her watch. There was an hour left. She just couldn''t wait for this day to end. Sinking on her seat, she restrained herself from leaving.


    ''What is he doing right now?'' When the thought registered inside her head, Luo Jingyi grimaced. Shoving down her annoyance, she scolded herself for thinking random things.


    Minutes later, Luo Jingyi sensed someone occupied the empty space on her right.  A tap on her arm made her wince and turn. Yun Jinghan''s smiling face came to her sight.  Luo Jingyi blinked rapidly, then her eyes stilled.


    ''How come he appeared here?'' The security at the entrance was tight. One had to show their medical license.


    "Why are you here?"


    "I had a meeting upstairs and decided to come to check it out." He lied. Anger was looming in him when he noticed her facial expression when he touched the part Wen Minghua gripped this morning. Although he was pleased that she kicked the man, it didn''t diminish his anger towards Wen Minghua. Who the heck was he to touch his woman?


    Luo Jingyi gave him a once over.  He changed his casual clothes this morning into a suit.  With it, he looked more intimidating. For reasons she couldn''t fathom, fury was discernible in his eyes.


    ''Did something happen?''


    "If you keep on looking like that, I''ll be tempted to kiss you."  Yun Jinghan teased yet it lacked its usual flair.


    ''It''s really him.'' Luo Jingyi crossed her arms and focused her attention upfront.


    It was Wen Minghua''s turn. He was holding the mike and he started his presentation.  Luo Jingyi listened attentively to what he was saying which was interpreted differently by the man sitting beside her. She appeared bored earlier but now she was watching her ex with interest.


    Muttering unkind things under his breath, a sullen look was plastered on Yun Jinghan''s face.


    ''Do you still care for him?'' Yun Jinghan meant to ask but the words never left his lips.


    But unknown to him, Luo Jingyi was listening intently because memories of the original danced in her head. The hours she poured and the sweat she bled in order to finish this particular paper. Then, the original gave it to Wen Minghua as a present. He never even thanked the person who laid all the groundwork. Most of Wen Minghua''s schoolwork was in fact completed by the original. She was frustrated that the original would fall for someone like Wen Minghua. The paper was indeed worthy of the grand prize, unfortunately, Wen Minghua didn''t deserve to reap the benefits.


    ''Wen Minghua, do you want a parting gift? I''ll definitely give you one.'' Luo Jingyi mumbled.


    "Is he that interesting?" Yun Jinghan''s question broke her trance.


    Wondering why his voice sounded jealous, she turned on the side and gave a crisp ''no.''


    "Then why have you been looking at him?"


    "I was just ruminating which part of him I liked in the past."


    The sour feeling inside him disappeared. "So did you get an answer?"


    Luo Jingyi tapped her fingers on the armrest before she voiced out. "After looking at it, there''s nothing remarkable about him. His appearance is average. When he speaks, he sounded like a chicken clucking early in the morning. Whereas, you are more handsome. You have a magnetic voice. To be honest, you are a better catch than him."


    Yun Jinghan chuckled which resulted in people casting them a glance. Luo Jingyi patted his hand on the armrest to warn him to quiet down.


    Glancing at the hand on him, Yun Jinghan stared at her. She didn''t seem to realize she was still holding him.

 Chapter 66 - SHOW ME THE ARM HE TOUCHED

    "Han Jingyi!" Wen Minghua shouted to call Luo Jingyi''s attention as she stood at the entrance waiting for Yun Jinghan to bring the car. Because Wen Minghua was in a hurry, he bumped into people and yelled at them for blocking his way.


    "Could you help me? Put in good words with Dr. Bai. This funding is very important to me." Wen Minghua begged, touching her hand which Luo Jingyi immediately swatted away. He swallowed his dissatisfaction and approached her because he saw that she was close to Dr. Bai. He thought he has the advantage of holding on to Han Jingyi''s weakness: her love for him.


    "Are you kidding me? This morning, you were ridiculing me. Now, you want me to help you. Why should I?"


    Wen Minghua seemed impervious to her snide. He let out a grin and spoke boisterously, "Forgive me for being rude this morning. It was a mistake. I hope you won''t hold the grudge."


    Luo Jingyi sneered inside. As always, he initiated contact because he needed something. ''Don''t use the same tactic you''ve used with the original.''


    Paying no heed on him, Luo Jingyi got inside Yun Jinghan''s car once it halted in front of her.


    "What does he want?" There was a tad of annoyance hinted in his voice when he uttered the words


    "Nothing." Luo Jingyi simply answered, buckling her seatbelt.


    When Yun Jinghan checked on the rearview mirror, the other man was still looking at the car. A cold smile flashed on Yun Jinghan''s face.


    "What do you want to eat for dinner?"


    Luo Jingyi gave her watch a furtive glance. "Isn''t it too early for that? Let''s go to the mall first."


    Yun Jinghan gestured ''okay'' and stepped on the speed of the car. He concentrated on driving but peeped at her from time to time. She was looking at the streetscape and was enjoying the view.


    Luo Jingyi rolled the windows down. She propped her hand on the window and rested her head on her palm, allowing gush of air to slap her face and blow her hair away. She couldn''t help smiling.


    "Wear your sunglasses to protect your eyes." Yun Jinghan reminded her, seeing her action.


    Taking out the sunglasses he gave yesterday, she put it on without complaints.


    ¡­


    Thirty minutes later, they arrived at the shopping mall. When he parked the car, he ordered her to stay put. Albeit confused, she listened and watched him round the car. Yun Jinghan opened the door on her side, bent closer and unfastened her seatbelt.


    Because she was surprised, she moved away. "What are you doing?"


    "Show me the arm he touched."


    Luo Jingyi gave him a surprised look. "How did you know?"


    Instead of explaining, Yun Jinghan lifted the sleeve of her blouse. His jaw clenched when he spotted the red mark that marred her ivory skin. He couldn''t help cursing out loud. "Let''s go to the hospital."


    "Are you kidding me? This wouldn''t even kill me." She shot him a wide-eyed look and pressed her lips together to smother her laughter.


    Yun Jinghan never seemed embarrassed. He voiced out his unhappiness. "I''m going to kill that man."


    Seeing his reaction, Luo Jingyi sensed a surge of emotion in her. There was a feeling of her heart being full and warmth spread in her body. For the longest time, nobody ever made her this happy.


    "Thank you for your concern. But don''t worry, a cold pack will make it disappear. Moreover, this is nothing." Clasping his forearm, she reassured him.  Although she had an inkling desire to ask how he found it out, she merely let it go.


    When Yun Jinghan calmed himself, he tucked the strands of hair behind her ear. Softly, he posed "Do you want me to deal with him?"


    "No."


    "Okay. But I might not be as forgiving next time." Yun Jinghan replied and distanced himself.


    Luo Jingyi didn''t flinch when she heard his tyrannical remark.


    .....


    As Luo Jingyi was craning her neck to look for the information desk, Yun Jinghan noticed it and inquired, "What do you need to buy?"


    "Phone."


    "Let''s go to the second floor." Yun Jinghan guided her to the direction of the escalator deciding against using the glass-sided elevator because the place was packed.


    "You''ve been here before?" Luo Jingyi questioned subtly, inching closer to be heard because of the noise around them. There was a mishmash of voices from people talking, children crying, and announcement booming on the speakers regarding store promotion.


    Yun Jinghan just nodded. He didn''t tell her that this shopping mall was built and owned by his company.


    After passing numerous store signs, they entered the shop. The sales staff greeted them enthusiastically. Luo Jingyi showed her phone and asked for the same unit. Although her phone was a model the previous year, she wanted the same because she was used to its functions. The woman at the counter shook her head and told them it was out of stock. Hence, she showed them the other products on the display cases.


    When Luo Jingyi was undecided, Yun Jinghan pointed to the white one. "This one is better. It comes with the latest operating system and it''s much user friendly."


    "Okay. I''ll take this." Luo Jingyi settled on his recommendation.


    Yun Jinghan took out his card and handed it to the woman whose eyes went wide upon seeing the black card. It was her first time seeing it.


    "What are you doing?" Luo Jingyi asked as she rummaged for her wallet in her bag.


    ''Where is it?'' Her eyebrows squish together when she couldn''t find it. She was certain it was inside. Throwing an apologetic smile to Yun Jinghan, she allowed him to pay. She committed in mind to transfer the money later.


    The sales staff returned his card and as he put it back in his wallet, a curve emerged at the corner of his lips.


    While Luo Jingyi was busy with her new phone, she didn''t notice that her wallet magically appeared in her bag. Yun Jinghan shook his head for resulting in something like this, hiding her wallet so he would have the advantage.

 Chapter 67 - I LIKE YOU

    Exiting the place, Luo Jingyi scanned the area. She originally intended to buy a present for Uncle Antoine since they were here. But the idea had to be sacked for now.


    "Do you want to check it out?" Luo Jingyi pulled out Yun Jinghan''s attention from the display window with a giant sale sign.


    "No. I''ll take you somewhere for dinner."


    ''A meal won''t hurt.'' She reminded herself. It was useless to refuse because even her repeated ''no'' entered his right ear and exited on the left. She had always been decisive. This morning, she decided to give things a try and see where it goes.


    Yun Jinghan drove to the local market.


    "This is the best place in town to try their seafood. You won''t regret it. I promise." He assured, unbuckling his seatbelt. He shed his jacket and rolled the sleeves of his white shirt.


    They hopped off the car at the same time which made Yun Jinghan wonder why she was different today. She would voice out her refusal immediately.


    "Are you allergic to anything?" He asked while they passed by stalls that displayed freshly caught seafood.


    "I don''t like clams." She answered.


    Yun Jinghan acknowledged it with a finger gesture and selected carefully from the glass cases and crates. After paying for it, he carried what he bought to a restaurant nearby. Luo Jingyi watched the fish struggle to free itself inside the plastic bag. Laughing, she followed him inside. Luo Jingyi listened as he gave instructions to the staff on how he wanted the dish to be prepared.


    After that, he gave her a tour of the restaurant. When Luo Jingyi got tired observing the nautical decorations on the wall and saltwater aquariums around, Yun Jinghan ushered her to their table outside. Letting her occupy the padded wrought iron chair he pulled, he rounded the table and sat opposite of her.


    "This is nice." Luo Jingyi babbled, letting her eyes wander on the different flower displays on one side to conceal her nervousness. She was sure her palms were sweaty.


    ''It feels like a date. Or am I just overthinking?'' Reigning her thoughts down before it escalated to something else, she reminded herself that they were here to eat. Nothing else.


    While they waited, they were served drinks. He ordered coconut juice for her. After letting the sweetness of the coconut alleviate her hungry stomach, she suddenly asked, "How long are you going to stay in Sanya?"


    Although he was surprised that she was asking things about him, he answered, "I''m helping out my grandmother with a few things. So depending on how it goes, that''s how long I am going to stay here."


    If Amy heard this, she was going to be mad. In fact, his business in Sanya had been completed yesterday but because Luo Jingyi was here, he decided to stay, pushing back his scheduled overseas trip for a few days. Amy was probably pulling her hair in madness because she had to re-arrange his schedule. On the other hand, his grandmother was glad that Yun Jinghan volunteered to deal with the issues here.


    "Why were you asking? Have you planned something for the two of us?" Yun Jinghan quipped.


    Instead of rolling her eyes that she''s fond of doing, she invited him, "If you free three days later, I''ll take you somewhere for a date."


    "Sure." He replied, doing his damn best to hide the fact that his heart was drumming rapidly against his chest. He didn''t want to misunderstand her intention for inviting him but he was too excited to think straight.


    ¡­.


    Filling in their hungry stomach, Luo Jingyi suggested going for a walk. She felt too stuffed because she couldn''t help getting seconds after tasting the deliciousness of the local food. At this time, the sun had already set. As the strolled along the boardwalk lined with food and drink vendors, Luo Jingyi mustered her courage.  "Why did you ask me to be your girlfriend?"


    Yun Jinghan pocketed one hand while the other touched behind his head. "Do you want the official version or inside edition?"


    Confused, her brows snapped together. "Is there a difference?"


    "Of course." Came his quick retort before he stopped on his tracks and faced her, blocking her from advancing forward. Luo Jingyi lifted her head, meeting his eyes.


    "There''s too much pressure from my grandmother to get married. Every week, there were countless women I had to meet and most of the time, I had to find countless reasons to avoid going to. So I thought, maybe it was time to find someone."


    Luo Jingyi could relate to that. Both of them were in fact at a marriageable age yet none of them were committed to anyone.


    ''What answer were you waiting?'' A thought pop out.


    Shaking her head to clear her thoughts away, she moved to the side and ambled away from him/


    "Disappointed?" He teased, running after her.


    Luo Jingyi frowned. Her steps faltered. He took advantage of this and stood in front of her, looking at her in the eyes. He raised his right hand on the side, making him look like he was giving an oath.  He confessed, "The truth is, I like you."

 Chapter 68 - YOU HAVE TO LET ME IN YOUR LIFE

    "The truth is, I like you."


    Luo Jingyi was stumped for words. By the look in his eyes,  he wasn''t lying. Sincerity was in them.  It was her first time that someone literally confessed their feelings to her.  In her past life, she was the one who chased the 2nd Prince.  She was very brazen to tell him she wanted to be his legal wife and despite her parents'' refusal, she insisted.  Before their marriage,  he complimented her a lot which she''d mistaken as a sign of his devotion and love but he never directly told her that he loved her.  Only a fool like her thought otherwise.  So things like being confessed to, she had no idea how to process it.


    Yun Jinghan jammed his hands in his pockets and looked away, focusing his attention on the endless water. He regretted saying those words because she was far from accepting him in her life. She wasn''t open to any sort of relationship with the opposite sex. And he was well aware that she agreed because of pressure. Hence, confessing was very untimely. In his plan, he would tell her once she''d grown comfortable with him. When she had put down one of those barriers she surrounded herself with. He didn''t know what got him that even his rationality was reduced. While he kept telling himself to wait, his heart was very anxious.


    "What do you like about me?" Luo Jingyi looked away.


    Yun Jinghan glanced at her side. "What''s not there to like?"


    ''I like everything about you.''


    "There''s nothing remarkable about me. I don''t like talking to people. I have a terrible temper..." Her voice tapered off because he pulled her hand to face him. The smile on his face was now gone.


    "You don''t have to say these things to discourage me. What I feel for you, I am responsible for it."


    "I am stating a fact about myself." Luo Jingyi shrugged her shoulders.


    "Don''t shut me away sweetie." Putting each hand on each shoulder, he held her from moving. "I am different from the man who hurt you."


    When she stayed silent, he said "I''ll slowly show you how much I care. But in order to do so,  you have to let me in your life."


    He was begging her. And that sent ripples in her heart. But Luo Jingyi knew that hasty decisions could lead to serious repercussions. Hence she was restraining herself from making a big mistake. "Let me think about it."


    When she thought Yun Jinghan was going to be disappointed, she was mistaken.  Instead,  he grinned.


    "Okay." He accepted happily. For a woman like her, saying she would give it thought rather than directly refusing, meant she was willing to give it a chance. It might be nothing for most but for her, this was a big step.


    ¡­..


    On the drive back to the hotel, soft music filled inside the car. Luo Jingyi was busy with her new phone, inputting her banking details on the app.  After she was able to access her account,  she turned to Yun Jinghan, "Tell me your account details."


    Knowing why she wanted it,  he ignored her and turned the volume of the music up.


    "Yun Jinghan!" Luo Jingyi yelled.  But it was swallowed by the music.  Annoyed,  she reached for the controls and turned it off.


    "Stop pretending you didn''t hear me."


    "Do you really have to pay me for a gift I bought for you?" He pouted,  touching his chest.


    "It wasn''t a gift.  You paid for it because I forgot my purse." She corrected,  eyeing the pocket of his trousers with a plan.  She saw him put his wallet on his right side.


    If she would just inch a little closer.


    When Yun Jinghan caught where her eyes were directed to,  he didn''t let her go. He teased, "Sweetie,  I can show it to you if you like. Let me pull over first."


    "Who wants to look at it?!" She responded,  touching her cheeks which she felt burning.


    "Don''t deny it." He went on,  feeling satisfaction in distracting her.


    Because of this,  the issue of the phone was forgotten.  When the elevator arrived on her floor,  Yun Jinghan walked her to the door.


    As she was running her keycard against the sensor, Luo Jingyi heard him call her out. Letting go of her grip at the door, she faced him.


    "What?"


    "I''ll give you three days¡ªno, two days to think about it.  During these days, I won''t appear in front of you."


    She nodded in agreement. That was better.


    "But K5 will be around to protect you."


    "I am¡ª" Her refusal was swallowed back when he raised his hand to stop her.


    "I don''t want anyone hurting you. You are the most important person in my life. Your safety comes first. I don''t think I can be rational if anything happens to you." He stated in finality. Uncertain of Xu Wei''s reasons, Yun Jinghan would be more at ease if someone was protecting her. Even if it meant going against her wishes.


    Reluctant, Luo Jingyi found herself agreeing.


    "Good night." He mumbled and walked away. Luo Jingyi watched his back disappear at the corner.


    When she was inside her room, she leaned on the door and heaved a sigh for all the things that happened today.


    "Grandma, what should I do?" She breathed softly.


    After some time, Luo Jingyi removed her phone from her bag and sent him a message, thanking him for paying the phone.


    Luo Jingyi nearly hit her head for forgetting her manners. She hated herself sometimes. Collecting her bag, she stood. At the same time, her dusky blue wallet fell on the floor. She stared at it for a long time wondering what happened.

 Chapter 69 - WHETHER MY FAMILY APPROVES OR NOT

    Yun Jinghan cast a brief look when his phone dinged for a new message. Smiling upon reading its content, he typed a reply. He set down his phone and checked the acquisition proposal his team drafted.


    K2 stood on the side. He was waiting for his punishment. The quieter his Young Master was, the more terrible mood he was in. Seeing him smile, he called his attention pensively.


    "What is it?" Yun Jinghan kept himself glued to what he was reviewing.


    "Young Master,  B1 asked if he should send you the information he found on Miss Luo." K2 put forth. At first,  Yun Jinghan threatened B1 to find out more about her.  But after that, their boss never asked for an update about that matter.


    "I don''t need it. Destroy the file." Yun Jinghan ordered. He decided that it was pointless knowing what happened in the past. As he decided before,  he would wait for her to open her life to him.  There was no rush.


    "Okay,  As for Dr. Xu Wei,  he still hadn''t found a clue. " K2 reported.


    "What about the photos?"


    "Destroyed."


    K2 went on when the Young Master didn''t speak, "The people Chairman Shen''s butler sent,  Miss Luo, took care of it. I don''t know what happened but that agency said they will never accept any job related to her even with a hefty price tag."


    "She has means." Yun Jinghan laughed. That was the reason why he didn''t deal with it. He wanted to see what she was going to do.


    K2 mustered his courage and asked, "Young Master, could I talk to you about Miss Luo?"


    "Go ahead." Halting what he was doing, Yun Jinghan removed his glasses and rested his back on the chair.


    "I think that Miss Luo isn''t the right person for you."


    K2 swallowed, feeling regretful of what he said after seeing the dangerous glint in his eyes.


    "Is that why you didn''t report what happened to her this morning?"


    ''Yes. Because you are slaving yourself in order to pursue her.'' K2 meant to say but bit it back.


    "You will need someone with a solid backing with the matters over there."


    Yun Jinghan never expressed his desire to take over the Yun empire but his grandfather had been vocal in naming him as the successor. This had been causing rift not only between father and son but also between the two brothers.  When Yun Jinghan set up Terra Firma Corporation, it was purely due to his desire to prove a name for himself and to stay away from his paternal family''s side.


    "You think she''s not cut to be my wife?" Yun Jinghan quizzed. The narrow slits in his eyes never disappeared. He pushed his chair and rose. Fixing his gaze on K2, Yun Jinghan sat at the edge of the desk.


    K2 ignored the discomfort rising in him and expressed his thoughts. "Miss Luo''s family background is very simple. Now that the Eldest Young Master is marrying the granddaughter of the Xia Family.  The elders would definitely give their support to him which would put you in a precarious situation."


    The Eldest Young Master was Yun Jinghan''s older brother, Yun Mo.


    A hard smile crept on Yun Jinghan''s face. His next words were spoken flatly."You sounded as condescending as my father. Do you want me to return you to him?"


    Beads of cold sweat broke on K2''s forehead. Memories of him being beaten to death by Yun Jinghan''s father sent shivers down his spine. The father''s cruelty was equal to none.


    "May the Young Master punish." K2 kneeled on the floor.


    "Do you know where you are wrong?"


    "Forgive me for being presumptuous. I should never mention these words again."


    "I am different from my brother. A man who depends on his woman to achieve what he wants is never considered a man. So whether my family approves or not, my marriage partner will always Luo Jingyi. This fact will never change."


    After uttering these words, Yun Jinghan returned to the chair.


    "What occurred this morning, I don''t want it to happen again. Go and take your punishment."


    "Yes Young Master."


    ¡­..


    Luo Jingyi brushed her teeth, pausing from time to time when the conversation kept playing in her head.


    "The truth is, I like you." It was like a broken record on repeat.


    Luo Jingyi was suddenly curious about Yun Jinghan''s ex-girlfriends. If he said the same thing to them.  She couldn''t help doubting because he always seemed to know what to say. That he was very experienced in this. Most of the time, she was left speechless.


    Rinsing her mouth,  she spat the water out and stared at herself in the mirror, feeling confused. It was still on her mind after she completed her night time skin routine and crawled to the bed.


    Luo Jingyi tossed and turned, unable to sleep. She was being overwhelmed by how things were going. When she decided to give it a try but she wasn''t completely a hundred percent on it. After some time, she gave up on the idea of turning in early.


    Luo Jingyi took her laptop and powered it on. Placing a pillow behind her, she leaned on the headboard, the computer on her lap and checked her emails. There were a dozen waiting to be processed. With Song Hia''s absence, it was a struggle. So she decided to check the list her vacationing assistant emailed. Even though Song Hia was sent on a trip abruptly, she made sure to choose at least five possible candidates to cover for her for the next four weeks. In this regard, she was still efficient.


    As Luo Jingyi scanned over the resume''s her mind kept drifting somewhere and kept pushing it back. Yet, it sprung out again.


    "Yun Jinghan, what are you doing to me?"


    Annoyed with herself, she closed the fourth resume and decided to simply hire the last one without checking her out. Shortly after typing a short email to that person, she shut her computer, put it aside and laid down on the bed, staring at the ceiling.

 Chapter 70 - SYSTEMATIC DESENSITIZATION

    Glancing at the time, it was almost midnight.  Opening her messaging app, her fingers hovered over her friends'' list. There wasn''t much. Aside from Eunice and Nicolette, there were three other people.


    As she contemplated who to call, she accidentally pressed the video button for a theater actress she met four years ago which turned out, a friend of her friend.


    "Hey! Her highness, what''s troubling you?" The woman asked upon answering.


    "How do you know I''m troubled?" Pressing the switch on the wall, lights flooded the room.


    "Midnight. You seldom call unless it''s an emergency." the woman paused. "I added the witch."


    "It gotta be good for you to disturb me. I just went to bed." Came an angry snarl from a short-haired woman across the screen.


    "The witch is in a terrible mood today but you should ignore her. So tell us, what troubles hath come your way, my dear princess? Tell this prince." The actress spoke theatrically.


    Smiling, Luo Jingyi left her bedroom and went to the kitchen. "Someone said he likes me."


    "Who would even like someone like you? It''s either you''re delusional or he must be an alien!"


    "Don''t be such a bummer, Alexa. Admit that you are just jealous because your love life is stale. The theater actress scolded.


    "Me? Jealous? Gosh." Her laughter vibrated to them even if the other woman was miles away.


    Luo Jingyi listened while she heated milk.


    "If I were you. I''ll like him back. End of story. Curtains down. The writer could relax."


    "Only players like you would think that way." After saying that, Alexa directed the question to Luo Jingyi. She suddenly became serious. "How do you feel about this?"


    Luo Jingyi let out a long sigh. "Confused.


    "Give me ten minutes." The theater actress begged someone in the room and they saw on the screen a man''s back on his birthday suit, opening the door and going out.


    "Gosh, did Luo Jingyi just interrupt something very important?"


    The actress tied her black curls into a bun before she defended herself, "Just because my fianc¨¦ broke up with me doesn''t mean I don''t get to enjoy the pleasures of life."


    "Why don''t we start from the beginning?" She prodded, very much interested in Luo Jingyi''s love life.


    When Luo Jingyi told them she got a fianc¨¦, the actress squealed. "Fianc¨¦? Good gracious. The gods must have listened to my prayers!"


    "Stop roaring! You''re going to ruin my eardrums. Getting a fianc¨¦ is not a big deal. For all we know, she has a fake relationship to deal with Aunt Alice."


    Luo Jingyi was silent. Alexa was on point as always. She was after all Aunt Alice''s niece. Luo Jingyi heard the actress asked, "No more panic attacks?"


    "Hey, are you writing a romance novel? You should call it ¨C I ¨C have ¨C a ¨C panic ¨C disorder ¨C I ¨C fell ¨C in ¨C love ¨C and ¨C the ¨C man ¨C cured ¨C me. That only happens in books."


    "That''s awfully long to be a title of a book." The actress retorted crisply., "And will you get serious? This is about her being engaged. She made a vow not to be involved with any man. I won''t be surprised if she died of old age."


    Luo Jingyi winced, hearing that.


    "But getting engaged was too fast, don''t you think?"


    "Aunt Alice had to be placated. You know how she was. Maybe next time she will send me directly to the Civil Affairs Bureau." Luo Jingyi explained.


    "So what if Aunt Alice kept matchmaking you? Go to the blind date. Drink tea and talk. Then say goodbye. Seriously Luo Jingyi, aunt is the easiest person to deal with." Alexa said. Alexa was the daughter of Uncle Antoine''s brother.


    "But my situation is different." Luo Jingyi defended her decision. It was not as easy as that.


    "Fine. Let''s drop that issue." Alexa paused, glancing over her shoulders to check something. "There''s an easier route to your panic attack. Get married and sleep together. Expose yourself to his touch. Be done and over with it.  There''s a term for that in psychology."


    "Systematic desensitization.1" Luo Jingyi replied.


    Luo Jingyi had been trying that. Today, she held his hand twice to test herself. Her pulse still raced but it wasn''t as severe as before. Maybe because she tried tricking her brain by not focusing on the fear.


    The actress leaned forward and with a serious tone, she advised, "For once, try accepting other people in your life too girl. Not all men are the same. I''d been cheated thrice but here I am, moving on."


    Alexa laughed. "The reason why you jump from one relationship to another is that you can hardly keep your hormones in place that''s why. Don''t use that lame excuse to Luo Jingyi. She''s different from you."


    Listening to the banter between the two, Luo Jingyi wondered how the two became close when they were throwing nasty remarks every time.


    Alexa''s screen went black but they heard the drawers being yanked open and her hurried voice, "If you want my advice, it''s very simple. Listen to what your heart tells you. If it says no, then refuse the guy."


    "What if it''s the opposite?"


    "Then, go and have a blast. Love and live your life happily. There''s no point in hanging on to the pains of the past. It already happened."


    "Why does it sound so simple to you?"


    "Life is tough. Why should I make it harder? Go and paint rainbows in the sky." Alexa paused, "But don''t send me your wedding invitation."


    Then Alexa was gone.


    "And she didn''t even say goodbye." The other woman who was silent complained. "Alexa is right. If we dwell too much on what happened, it could destroy us."


    Luo Jingyi and her theater actress friend exchanged a few more words before the other woman bid goodbye.


    As Luo Jingyi set her phone on the kitchen island, a curve slowly rose on her lips. Whatever she was feeling earlier, it vanished. She made a decision.


    ========


    SYSTEMATIC DESENSITIZATION - is a behavioral technique used in treating fear, anxiety disorders and phobias. The three steps in order are: identifying the anxiety-inducing stimulus (the cause); learning coping techniques; applying techniques to overcome the situation.


    It was based on Ivan Pavlov''s classical conditioning theory.


    SYSTEMATIC DESENSITIZATION - is a behavioral technique used in treating fear, anxiety disorders and phobias. The three steps in order are: identifying the anxiety-inducing stimulus (the cause); learning coping techniques; applying techniques to overcome the situation.


    It was based on Ivan Pavlov''s classical conditioning theory.

 Chapter 71 - JUDGES

    Luo Jingyi woke up earlier albeit going to bed late, put on her sportswear and went for a run. Instead of using the resort''s amenities, she satisfied her craving for air at the seaside by jogging outside. After thirty minutes, she was feeling clear-headed and ready for the day.


    When she returned to her hotel room, her breakfast was wheeled in by hotel staff. Knowing who ordered the food, she didn''t ask and ate, listening to the news on tv mounted on the wall.


    K5 appeared to her side when the elevator descended to the lobby.


    "I''ll drive you to the venue."


    Her silence was interpreted by K5 differently.  Although Luo Jingyi disliked the whole idea of being followed, she let this go for once. But she committed to talking to him about this.


    K5 held the door of the car, waiting for her to get in. Someone caught the corner of Luo Jingyi''s eyes at the entrance, making her squint. A familiar face she wished she killed in her last life.


    K5 noticed the change in her expression that he quickly asked worriedly, "What''s wrong Miss Luo?"


    "Nothing. I just saw a very ugly face and it ruined my morning." She answered, climbing inside the car.


    K5 touched his face. ''That wouldn''t be me, right?''


    ''Boss said I just had to smile''. Blaming himself,  K5 rounded the car, slid in the driver''s seat and started the ignition.


    Whatever worries he had at the moment, Luo Jingyi never noticed because she was checking her email to keep her mind busy rather than reminiscing about the past.


    Xiao Wen sent an update regarding the task she''d given her. The dead man found in her previous apartment was a part-timer that worked at the coffee shop kiosk outside GM General. The detailed account of the injury he sustained--gave birth to a nervous knot in her stomach. It didn''t make sense that she felt responsible for his death when he barely knew him. He was the one who would always greet her chirpily that over the years, she''d grown accustomed to that she returned the greeting with an equal one. They were far from being friends but she was treating him better compared to her interns, colleagues, and people in the hospital.


    According to the investigation, someone came forward, admitting the crime. The murder weapon and shoe print at the scene matched to the one who confessed. Hence, the case would be closed soon.


    But Xiao Wen thought differently. Shad a gut feeling the man wasn''t the murderer so she would keep on investigating. Then she ended the email with an additional update about her estate agent. She tracked a trail left by the agent and maybe she''d find in no time.


    Luo Jingyi let out a low sigh, thinking how competent Alexa''s people were. It was not surprising when they were trained for covert operations that involved the nation''s security. Something like locating one''s whereabouts was a menial task.


    Luo Jingyi fired a reply, telling Xiao Wen to keep on checking.


    She was once told, "There is no such thing as an accident. Most coincidences in this world were man-made."


    ¡­..


    "You are not allowed inside." Luo Jingyi told off K5 when he intended to follow her in. K5 showed his ''guest'' ID.


    The conference was strictly for medical professionals only but Yun Jinghan had ways. Pursing her lips, Luo Jingyi no longer spoke and went in, separating from K5. The seating section for the guests was three rows from where she sat yesterday.


    Briefly glancing over her shoulders, Luo Jingyi shut her mind from any distractions and paid attention to the speaker on the stage.


    Meanwhile, K5 checked the time and called his boss.


    "Miss Luo is at the venue, young master."


    "Pay attention to people approaching her, especially Wen Minghua."


    K5 acknowledged the reminder with a ''yes'' before expressing his hunch. "Young Master, I think Miss Luo is unhappy with me."


    "Your job is to keep her safe, not to be liked by her." Yun Jinghan muttered coldly.


    "....."


    ¡­..


    "What do you think about entry number 6?"


    Luo Jingyi scanned over the title and recalled what the topic was.  Recalling what it was, she gave her assessment to Prof. Ma, the head of the Ministry of Health who was sitting with her along with the other judges. The other three were renowned doctors in the fields of neurology, surgery and internal medicine.  Based on their age group, Luo Jingyi was the youngest.


    "I think it has  potential if guided in the right direction." She replied, studying Prof. Ma''s expression.


    As she anticipated, Prof. Ma expressed his outright disapproval like the previous ones that Luo Jingyi recommended. "It''s not very original.  A US-based company had already started developing an artificial liver."


    Luo Jingyi refuted him. "Yes, but they are facing problems with the bioreactor. In this proposal,  the researchers had already found the missing component which would allow the cells to produce what''s needed by the body to maintain liver-like function. If we based on the data from the tests they conducted, the PICM-19 cell line inside the bioreactor contained the two cell types that makeup 98% of the liver tissues thus, it could perform the liver''s vital functions."


    "Use pig''s liver on humans?" Prof. Ma asked in distaste.


    "Why not? Pigs are genetically close to humans. Isn''t that right Dr. Li?" Luo Jingyi turned her attention to the man with gray hair sitting beside Prof. Ma.  If she remembered correctly, Dr. Li conducted research regarding the use of pig''s blood in a transfusion.


    Dr. Li pushed his black-rimmed glasses with a forefinger and spoke, facing Prof. Ma, "Research had shown us that by genetically altering and cloning pig tissues, we are able to protect the human immune response which has shown greater numbers of pig''s graft survival.  So genetically speaking, modified pigs will offer a limitless supply of organs and cells. If you are unclear about these topics, I could go on or ask my assistant to give you related research on this matter."


    Luo Jingyi smothered the laugh that was dangerously on the verge of escaping her lips. She liked how Dr. Li responded. He was directly implying that Prof Ma had no right to question things when he had no idea what he was talking about.  The other two looked at Dr. Li wide-eyed.


    At the onset of their discussion,  Prof. Ma had been controlling the conversation and the two never offered their honest opinion. They would simply agree with him because they didn''t want to get on his wrong side. That''s why Luo Jingyi directed the question to Dr. Li. She wanted to sound him out.


    Looking at Prof. Ma''s face,  he was mad but he was good at hiding it.


    "I agree with Dr. Luo. The PICM-19 liver stem line successfully mimics the liver''s functions. Hence,  if developed, this artificial liver device will highly improve the chances of treating liver failure." Dr.  Li added, taking the research paper and placing it on top of the pile they set aside for consideration. His action showed no room for disapproval.


    For a moment,  uncomfortable silence filled the room.  Luo Jingyi was the one who broke it. "How about this one, biohybrid artificial organ?"


    "It''s also the same, pigs organs as a substitute." Prof Ma said,  recovering from embarrassment. He was back to controlling the conversation.


    Dr. Li frowned and commented sharply,  "Where is it the same? It focuses on putting human genes in pigs and developing it from there."


    Luo Jingyi put on her opinion, seeing Dr. Li''s impatience. "Based on theories, the possibility is high since pig''s bodies have a lot of similar functions as ours but this is going to be difficult.  It would take years before seeing the result."


    The other two nodded in agreement with Luo Jingyi. Because Prof. Ma didn''t want to lose, so he insisted on giving Wen Minghua''s paper a chance.


    Seeing him gather the paper and set it aside, Luo Jingyi laughed inside her head.


    From fifteen,  they''ve chosen five to enter the final round. Among them was Wen Minghua''s biohybrid artificial organs.

 Chapter 72 - ENJOY MY PRESENT FOR NOW

    The next day, the five chosen papers were required to present again, but this time, it was in front of the five judges. Luo Jingyi kept her poker face plastered throughout, grilling each team with questions related to their proposal.


    It didn''t start with this though. It only happened after she made mental adjustments, based on Prof. Ma''s expression. He was being a good cop. So, Dr. Li and Luo Jingyi were the bad ones, rattling each team member.


    Luo Jingyi was beside Professor Ma. His actions of leaning on his chair and secretly peeping at what she wrote, didn''t slip past her eyes. She even allowed him to look at the scores.


    When the five teams completed their presentation, the program chair along with Dr. Bai tallied the result. Dr. Bai was weirded out by the scoring. Every time one judge gave the highest evaluation, another one wrote the lowest which resulted in three teams getting the same scores.


    The panel deliberated to choose between the three. Luo Jingyi never changed her stance because she was aware that Prof. Ma was acting opposite of hers


    Listening to the arguments between the judges, it didn''t take long for Dr. Bai to figure out what was going on. She cast an amused glance at Luo Jingyi.


    Dr. Bai buffered in between the discussion, pretending to be unaware of how Luo Jingyi was manipulating the conversation in order to achieve the results she wanted.


    When they came to a decision, everyone sighed in relief. Dr. Bai went out to announce the result.


    ...


    As Luo Jingyi gathered her things on the desk, Prof. Ma moved closer to her.


    "Dr. Luo seemed unhappy with the results?" He asked, with a smile of triumph dancing on his lips.


    "We are different." Luo Jingyi shoved her phone inside her bag and turned away.


    Luo Jingyi paused in the middle, swung around to face him. She warned him, "You should consider your choices if you want to keep your position."


    His brows shot up to his hairline. "Are you threatening me?"


    "Threatening you is a way for cowards. So no." Luo Jingyi smiled. "I am informing you. I''d rather be forthcoming than stab people behind the back. After all, you were once my mother''s friend. Isn''t that right uncle?"


    His smile faded.  He was rattled when he was reminded of his friendship with the original''s mother. He was another person she needed to deal with but she was saving him for the last.


    "Stop pulling my leg. You won''t have time to play around at this time when your father''s eyeing a higher position. He''s quite ambitious, isn''t he?"


    There was a threat in his statement, indirectly telling her that he had something against her father so she shouldn''t act up.


    "You are telling that to the wrong person." Luo Jingyi snorted, walking away.


    Watching her leave the room, Prof. Ma admitted that he was ruffled but didn''t take her seriously. He laughed. "You are just a small ant."


    ¡­.


    Someone called out Luo Jingyi as she entered the main hall where the conference was. She spun on her heel and found Dr. Li.


    "Just so you know, I don''t like being used." His expression was very grim.


    "I''m sorry." Luo Jingyi said with sincerity. She wanted Prof. Ma to keep on pushing Wen Minghua''s paper on top. So she blatantly gave her disapproval of it and utilized Dr. Li''s opinion as her attacking points.


    The man pushed his glasses up his nose.  "I''ll forgive. Anyway, I don''t like him."


    "Thank you."


    He shrugged his shoulders and entered, leaving Luo Jingyi standing at the door.  She pondered what kind of grudge Dr. Li had against Prof. Ma.


    Luo Jingyi went inside the venue and waited for the conclusion of the conference.


    A famous neurosurgeon was talking about the development and implementation of new technologies that his hospital was working on to improve the diagnosis and treatment of rare neurological conditions. Examining the people around her, nobody seemed interested.


    While it was a case she would be interested to look at, at this point her brain has no ability to digest additional information. It was the same with the other people in the room. Three days of hearing nothing but medical cases and research full of medical jargons could drain one''s energy. Everyone was just anticipating the result of the competition which was the highlight of this year''s conference. Getting your research funded by two big healthcare corporations was a dream for most.


    Everyone sat up straight when Dr. Bai took the microphone and began talking about the competition. Luo Jingyi was assigned for this task yet she managed to getaway.


    Claps erupted when the two winners were announced and were requested to go to the stage.


    "Wen Minghua. Enjoy my present for now." One side of her lips was drawn up as she watched Wen Minghua jumping in joy to receive the award from a representative of her company. The representative was the VP of Financial Service in NewLife Healthcare Corporation.

 Chapter 73 - THINK TWICE BEFORE MESSING UP WITH HER

    The President of the Medical Association, Dr. Bai invited Luo Jingyi out when the conference was wrapped up. They went to a nearby building.


    There were twelve other people with them. Some were familiar names in the circle and some were not.


    "One glass." Dr. Bai urged Luo Jingyi.


    She momentarily stared at the glass before chugging the content down. A contented cheer erupted in the room. Another doctor shouted, "One more."


    Someone poured and she drank it. The urging only stopped when she raised her hand after three and complained that her alcohol tolerance wasn''t high. She reached for the fourth glass that was hanging in the air and passed it to Dr. Bai before excusing herself out.


    Once inside the bathroom, she regurgitated whatever liquor she drank.


    She could drink but she meant to keep herself free from alcohol. ignoring the voices that were echoing in the hallway. She went one floor up to where their room was because she didn''t want them to know this.


    "Dr. Luo acts like she''s superior to everyone else. Who does she think she is?" A woman''s voice scoffed.


    When Luo Jingyi heard her name,  she didn''t immediately come out. She was curious.


    "Exactly! If not for her mother''s achievements, do you think Dr. Bai would even pay attention to her?"


    "What''s so good about having two specialties anyway? At the end of the day, she will still be working in our hospital. How dare she act high and mighty to me?"


    "You should talk to your father to expel her or why don''t we teach her a lesson now?"


    Listening to the conversation now, she had an idea who they were. She caught on Dr.  Bai''s emphasis on their names when they were introduced earlier. One was the daughter of the biggest shareholder in MedLife while the other was the friend who Luo Jingyi noticed--liked sucking up to fit in.  They were both junior residents in MedLife.


    Luo Jingyi''s gripped at the corner of the sink tightened. This was why she hated associating with other people. They were friendly on your face but secretly loathed you from behind.


    The two were on the other side but she could hear them clearly because it was open.  Leaving the stall, Luo Jingyi rinsed her hands and left the bathroom.


    Outside, she caught a glimpse of the ''out of order'' sign and a cleaning cart. An idea crossed her mind.


    She detached the pole of the mop. Pushing the tip into a stainless door hasp, she barred them from opening the door from the inside. She dragged the ''out of order'' sign at the main entrance so no one would discover them soon.


    "Teach me a lesson?  I''ll give you one."


    Let them think twice before messing up with her.


    As she made her way back to the room, she heard someone call her out. She spun on her heel and found Wen Minghua''s mother.


    "What are you doing here?! Come quick!" Wen Minghua''s mother dragged her as she looked around, making sure no one had seen them.


    Inside the coffee shop, they were seated facing each other. Wen Minghua''s mother was eyeing her sharply.


    Luo Jingyi stared at her face she hated the most. She loathed the face to the point, she killed her many times in her imagination. In her last life, she was the woman who gave birth to the 2nd Prince, her husband. Kind and gentle on the surface but beneath, she was the greediest and vilest woman she''d ever encountered. She had no qualms bloodying her hands to get what she wanted. Her mother-in-law made her life difficult. She shamed and abused her right in front of her husband''s women. And she, like a mutt, accepted everything without fighting back.


    Why? Because her mother taught her to respect elders regardless of how she was treated. Her birth mother believed that even the worst person could reform into a better one, given the opportunity. Her old self clung on that belief too.


    When her mother-in-law knew she was pregnant with the 2nd Prince''s child, she imprisoned her and forcibly fed her with abortion medicine. This all happened with the 2nd Prince''s knowledge.


    Under the table, she clenched her fist as that particular memory popped out of her brain. Despicable family! The rage in her heart was brewing out.


    She pinched her leg to wake herself up.


    "Why do you keep following my son?!" Wen Minghua''s mother hissed.


    Luo Jingyi kept her expression bland but she was glad that the original didn''t marry Wen Minghua.


    "Hey! I am asking you." Wen Minghua''s mother hit the table with her fist, making it shake.


    "Are these people deluded? They are really a mother and son pair," she mumbled.


    "What did you say?"


    Reigning her annoyance, Luo Jingyi asked, "Why would I? Is your son some kind of celebrity Madam?"


    Madam Wen was startled at the sharpness in Luo Jingyi''s voice. From what she remembered, Luo Jingyi was silent and never answered back. She gave her a once over, noting her style had also changed. She no longer wore gaudy clothes. But even so, she wouldn''t allow this woman to step closer to her family.


    "What are you doing here? Don''t think because I agreed when my son announced he was marrying you meant I accepted you. I only agreed because your father promised to give your shares in Han Pharmaceuticals."


    The questions that lingered in her head were answered. This woman was dead set in stopping their engagement that she spiked her drink,  intending to ruin her. The good thing, the original passed the bottle to Wen Minghua''s cousin because she was thirsty, saving her from the fiasco. Wen Minghua''s mother made a scene when she arrived.


    Luo Jingyi deduced that Wen Minghua was aware of this based on the expression he had back then.  The party happened and their wedding date was set. Later on, Wen Minghua''s mother made a 360-degree turn.  She became very attentive to her.


    So it was the shares that sealed the deal.


    "Do you understand now?  Nobody wants you. Our family was embarrassed but it was good you eloped so he could marry someone better. My daughter-in-law is the heiress of the Zhuang Corporation. Between you and her, she was far better."


    The woman was gloating.


    ''People''s greediness has no bounds. I hope you will have good dreams.''


    "So if you came here with the purpose of meeting my son, stop it. I won''t allow you."


    A smile slowly crept on Luo Jingyi''s mouth which turned into a grin. She had enough of this self-centeredness. "Congratulations Madam Wen for catching a big fish. I hope your son''s marriage will be prosperous. Make sure to hold onto the big fish so it will not be swallowed by sharks."


    Madam Wen heard the sarcasm and that riled her up. She grabbed the glass but Luo Jingyi''s reflex was quicker. She was stopped.  The woman struggled so Luo Jingyi flipped the glass, splashing its contents to the woman.


    "You!" Madam Wen frantically wiped the water stains that seeped into her clothes.


    "It feels good, doesn''t it? Do you think that I would readily accept it as I did years ago?" She asked.


    "Don''t even think of getting back with my son!"


    Luo Jingyi smirked. Pushing her chair back, she rose.  "Rest assured Madam, I am not interested in getting back someone I discarded. Trash like him will only taint my beautiful world."


    Then she walked away.


    No mother would want her child to be called trash.  It was the same with Madam Wen. She clenched her teeth in rage.

 Chapter 74 - SNUGGLED INTO A COMFORTABLE POSITION

    Yun Jinghan lifted his eyes from documents he was perusing and checked the time. Luo Jingyi sent a message this morning saying she wanted to give her a decision when the conference ended. At the same time,  begged not to let K5 shadow her. He was reluctant about the other request but he agreed.


    Estimating that Luo Jingyi would be free by now, he reached for his phone on the desk and called her but it went unanswered. Giving up, he went back to work but after an hour later, hearing no words from her, he began fidgeting.


    "Where could she be?"


    Yun Jinghan walked to the stairs leading to the second floor and left his hotel room. He went to see her. He had mixed feelings about it.


    He buzzed many times but the door never opened. He called the hotel manager to bring him another keycard.


    When the manager appeared, Yun Jinghan took the white card from him and ran it against the sensor. Pushing the door open, silence greeted him.  Yun Jinghan strode to the bedroom but the room was empty. There was no sign of her.


    "Where did she go?" he wondered. As he was getting out in search of her, he found a woman standing outside.


    "Is this Dr. Luo''s suite?" She asked, giving him a once over.


    Yun Jinghan nodded. His eyes fell to the bag that the woman held. It was Luo Jingyi''s.


    Seeing this, the woman explained. "Dr. Luo forgot her bag when she left."


    Yun Jinghan gestured to the woman to pass the bag but she was a bit hesitant.


    "I''m her fianc¨¦." Yun Jinghan informed her.


    "Oh!" She muttered and handed it to him.


    Yun Jinghan thanked her and returned to the suite.  He immediately called K5. His heart was restless.


    ¡­.


    Throwing her heels, Luo Jingyi puttered barefoot on the sand. She felt dizzy so she plonked on the ground, setting aside what she had in both hands.  Looking far beyond, there was a myriad of emotions in her eyes. There was sadness, disgust, fear, and anger.


    She was mad about meeting Madam Wen. Meeting Madam Wen reminded her of the past. No matter how much she wanted to forget, her disgust towards the royal family never faded in her heart. It also caused her fears to appear.


    Struggling with her emotions, she stood on her feet and tossed her cardigan aside. She walked forward.


    Standing next to his car,  Yun Jinghan watched the video feed K5 sent to his phone. He ordered his men to search for her starting from where she was last seen. The image showed her exiting the bar with a plastic bag in her hand. She was drunk and was wobbling but she kept on walking. When two men approached her, she took out a bottle and threatened them that if they came closer, she was going to kill them with it. She managed to save her herself from getting harmed.


    Yun Jinghan didn''t know what to feel at that moment.  Whether glad that she was still aware of what''s happening or mad for not pushing for K5 to guard her behind her back. At the same time, furious at the Wen Family. Luo Jingyi was calm and collected all the time. Hence he had a suspicion that whatever Madam Wen told her, changed her moods. Too bad that the CCTV camera at the coffee shop was broken so he has no way of knowing what happened.


    Pocketing his phone, he followed her trails.  Yun Jinghan scanned the beach. The array of lamp posts illuminated the place but he couldn''t see her shadow at all. As he neared the edge, a cardigan, cans of beer and an empty of alcohol spawned on the sand caught his attention. His eyes flew to the left side and there he saw her figure, knee-deep in water as she wobbled further away from the shore.


    Panic set in his heart. He sprinted to her as he shouted her name. Grabbing her from behind, Yun Jinghan hauled her to the shore like she was weightless. His voice was five decibels higher. "What are you doing?!"


    Luo Jingyi was startled at the fierceness of his voice.  "I just wanted¡ªto swim."


    Seeing her teary-eyed face, his heart ached. In a gentler tone, he said, "That was dangerous."


    She swayed when he deposited her on the ground. He held her on the shoulders, guiding her back to where she left her things.


    Yun Jinghan removed his jacket and put it on her. "It''s cold. If you''re going to sit here longer, put this on."


    They sat on the sand at an arm''s length from each other.


    Yun Jinghan rubbed his clammy hands on his trousers then blew air out of his lungs.  Reaching a can of beer, he cracked the lid open and chugged its content. He wanted to flush his tensed muscles and calm himself.


    If he had been a minute late, she would have been washed away by the tide. What would he do then? His chest tightened just thinking of the what-ifs.


    "If you want to go for a swim, you could have called me. What if.. what if you drowned?"


    Luo Jingyi looked around, searching for her bag. "Huh? I don''t have my phone."


    Then she looked at him. "But even if I¡ªcalled, you wouldn''t come. You said you do¡ªdo not want to see me for three days." She complained, hiccupping in between.


    He sighed at himself. The woman was drunk.  There was no point in scolding her.


    "Come here." He hooked his arm on her waist, pulling her closer. No protest was heard.


    Luo Jingyi snuggled into a comfortable position on his chest. "Let me sleep."

 Chapter 75 - WAKE-UP KISS

    "Let me carry..."K5''s voice tapered off when Yun Jinghan shot him a glare. K5 didn''t know why the boss was mad when he was just offering help. It''s not that Miss Luo was heavy but he knew his boss had done nothing like carrying a woman on his arm for a long time and he was worried his boss was tired since the area where they found Miss Luo was a bit far from where her hotel was. When they arrived at the bank of elevators, K5 pressed the button and waited till his boss got in before following inside.


    The next day, Yun Jinghan neared the bed soundlessly and sat on the empty side. He watched the rise and fall of her chest as she slept peacefully. Recalling how much she cried last night after he brought her back, anger rose in his heart. He believed her past relationship with the Wen Family made her that sad. Because of this, he ordered Amy to bring in the proposal the Wen Family sent 2 weeks ago so he could review it, albeit he already refused in the past. He promised not to meddle with her problem but it didn''t mean he wouldn''t push some buttons too.


    There was an urge in Yun Jinghan to touch her face. Extending his hand forward, he lifted the strands of hair that was covering her face and pushed them aside. Feeling uncontented, he played with her hair before running his forefinger from her forehead down to her nose. A soft complaint escaped her lips as she moved her head. His hand paused immediately. He didn''t want her to wake up yet. Not when he desired to kiss her. He''d been wanting to do that since the day he felt his heart thumped for the first time and he''d been fighting over that urge for a long time.


    The urge won over this time. As he moved closer, his pulse race in excitement. But before his lips landed, she suddenly opened her eyes.


    "What are you doing?"


    Yun Jinghan froze. Then he smiled as nothing happened. "You''re awake. There''s no need for a wake-up kiss then."


    "Wake-up kiss?" Feeling disoriented, Luo Jingyi sat up. She rubbed her forehead. It felt like her head was going to split up.


    Yun Jinghan moved away, walking to the round table on the other side of the room. He poured water in the glass. "Snow White woke up when her Prince Charming kissed her."


    "And so?" she asked, wondering what he meant. She was still muddleheaded that her brain couldn''t process his words. She barely even noticed that she wasn''t on her bed.


    Yun Jinghan glanced at her. "I wanted to test the theory to prove that I''m the man you are destined to be with."


    Hearing the words, Luo Jingyi felt the pain in her head intensified. "Are sure that''s the real reason?" She knew he didn''t want to admit that he wanted to take advantage of the situation. When she saw him nod, Luo Jingyi let out a weak smirk and asked, "And if I didn''t?"


    "Well, I will still be your man." He returned to the side and passed the glass of water and medicine to her.


    After drinking, Luo Jingyi closed her eyes and thought of what he said. It sounded really nice to the ear but she wasn''t sure if he really meant it, especially that there was that mirth in his eyes again. Putting it aside, she suddenly opened her eyes and looked around. She was inside a luxurious underwater suite. The floor-to-ceiling window showed colorful fish, stingrays, and other aquatic animals as they glided past. Imagine waking up to this view, it was indeed relaxing. However, she wasn''t feeling that way especially after noticing she was wearing a pair of pajamas. Worry crossed her eyes. "Who changed....?"


    Yun Jinghan noticed her uncomfortable expression when she couldn''t bring herself to finish the question. "It was me."


    When Luo Jingyi gave him a complicated look, he said, "Oh don''t worry, I didn''t look."


    And that made her more awkward.


    .....


    Yun Jinghan gave her congee for breakfast. It was simple but it helped soothe her irritated stomach lining. She wanted to hit her head for mixing different kinds of drinks. She should never do that again no matter how depressed she was. She cast him a glance before asking pensively, "Did I do something stupid?"


    She became worried when Yun Jinghan lowered his head with a nod. "What did I do?"


    "You clung to me tightly. You stole kisses from me. You even tried to remove my clothes."


    Kisses?! No way!... Luo Jingyi nearly dropped her spoon. "Don''t tell lies."


    "Why should I?" Yun Jinghan rolled the sleeves of his shirt. "Look at this."


    Luo Jingyi saw the faint trace of a bite mark on his forearm... Is he telling the truth? Or?... She doubted him but she couldn''t help taking into consideration her behavior too when she was drunk. Although her alcohol tolerance was high, there were times when her emotional state succumbs to liquor and she ended up doing strange things. There were even times when she harmed herself. "I''m sorry."


    Yun Jinghan stared at her for some time. When he tried to calm her last night, she pulled his hand and bit him. She even stepped on his foot twice because she didn''t want to change her clothes. She was drunk and emotional but she was somewhat aware of protecting herself. He wanted to recount all her actions but doing so might even make her unhappy and embarrassed.


    "Since you''ve already taken advantage of my chastity, you should be responsible and propose marriage to me."


    Luo Jingyi stood. "Don''t be absurd!"

 Chapter 76 - YOU JUST MADE MY DAY

    "Come and visit us in France if you both have time." Aunt Alice hugged Luo Jingyi. Originally, the couple intended to stay in the country for another week but there were more pressing matters in Uncle Antoine''s company so they had to leave today. They would be flying first to Shanghai before taking the jet they chartered to fly them to France.


    "Definitely. We''ll talk about the details of our marriage then." Yun Jinghan promised.


    Don''t say something like that. Aunt Alice would really be expecting that...Luo Jingyi protested with her eyes.


    "We''ll be looking forward to that." Uncle Antoine laughingly patted Yun Jinghan. He was sure that Yun Jinghan would keep his word: that was to keep Luo Jingyi safe. That was the assurance he needed.


    "Don''t overwork yourself again." Aunt Alice continued giving Luo Jingyi reminders. She was mostly concerned with Luo Jingyi''s work habits. She works too much and often forgets to relax.


    "Stop worrying. Yun Jinghan will be around to take care of her." Uncle Antoine smiled tenderly to his wife.


    When the Lacroix couple entered the car, Yun Jinghan called out Luo Jingyi who appeared to be in deep thought.


    Luo Jingyi turned at him. "Shall we take a walk? I want to talk to you about something."


    When they reached a quieter area of the resort, Luo Jingyi cleared her throat to get his attention. "I made a decision. Will you listen to it?"


    Yun Jinghan nodded in anticipation. His heart was on tenterhooks. Although he had a feeling she would give him a chance, there was also a possibility that she would refuse. If the latter, he didn''t know what he would do but one thing was certain, he wouldn''t give up.


    "Once I made my mind on something, I would go for it, regardless of the circumstances. When I returned to the country 3 years ago, the only thing I had in mind was standing at the top. And nothing else. Things like falling in love, getting in a relationship, or even marriage, I''ve never given it a single thought..."


    "Don''t you think that having someone to support you in this endeavor would be better?" he asked, jamming his hands into his pockets.


    Luo Jingyi was silent. "The truth is when I agreed to this charade, I had already been thinking that we are going to part ways after a year. And that decision is set."


    Luo Jingyi paused, looking at the horizon. "But I kept on thinking, maybe I also needed to change my perspective. I should really be doing something for this psychological fear I have but I have been acting like a coward... I guess Maybe my fears were greater than my desire to get better. So, I took what you said into consideration."


    Yun Jinghan''s heart was precariously close to having tachycardia but he kept himself cool and listened patiently.


    Luo Jingyi touched his forearm. "I can''t say I like you too because that''s not how I feel at the moment. But I know that I could trust you. Hence, I am going to try and give this a chance."


    Yun Jinghan touched the hair blocking her face, pushing it behind her ear. His lips drew into a small laugh when she looked down. The colors of her cheeks turned red. "Thank you, sweetie. You just made my day."


    Yun Jinghan embraced her. It was to assure her that she made the right decision. He would take this opening as a chance to show her how he cared for her and that he would never hurt her.


    Luo Jingyi was like a statue, unmoving. When a group of tourists passed by and gawked at them with interest, Luo Jingyi moved away from him.


    "Don''t be shy, sweetie. Hugging is normal for couples."


    Is it?... "Could you not use sweetie? It gives me creeps." It was the same endearment Wen Minghua used to the original and every time she heard it, she felt annoyed.


    "Okay, darling." He hooked an arm on her shoulder and they walked back to the resort. This time, she didn''t push him away. However, her right hand was balled into a fist and she let her eyes wander around to distract herself... Romance novels were liars. Panic attacks wouldn''t easily go away...As a doctor, she knew better.


    When a signboard caught her attention, Luo Jingyi went inside the shop. A few days ago, she told him that she was going to bring him somewhere. This was the plan. It wasn''t a candlelight dinner or a movie.


    "Go and try this." Luo Jingyi ordered and handed the suit she took from the selection of suits hanging on the display.


    Yun Jinghan briefly glanced at it and head to the changing room with a happy smile. When Yun Jinghan emerged, Luo Jingyi released an intake of breath. He wore the maroon suit well that she thought he was too dazzling. She chose the color because he was always sported in a black or navy blue. Based on how the two shop assistants on the side reacted, her assessment was correct.


    "Good?" He paraded in front of her like a model.


    "Try this one too." Luo Jingyi avoided his gaze, got three more suits of brighter color, and put it on his arm.


    Yun Jinghan happily followed. But he came out with an unhappy face. He gave himself a once over and he felt self-conscious. Luo Jingyi laughed at his reaction. The pink suit fitted him well but the color didn''t suit his personality. Yun Jinghan breathed a sigh of relief when she shook her head. Just seconds earlier, he was in a dilemma. He wanted to please her but he didn''t know how to tell her that the color was too bright for him.


    He immediately entered the room and changed into a different one. After parading different suits, Luo Jingyi decided on four sets.


    "We''ll take these." Luo Jingyi told the shop assistants. This time Luo Jingyi was already holding her purse before Yun Jinghan could do anything about it.


    "I''m paying." She said to him, passing her black card to the woman''s hand. After her payment was processed, they exited the shop.


    "Why did you suddenly want to buy me suits?" He was curious.


    "I''m paying you back." Luo Jingyi saw Yun Jinghan''s brows quirked up, waiting for her to continue. "The dress you sent from ZK Fashion."


    Surprised she found it out, he expressed his thoughts. "You know, we don''t have to calculate every penny we spent on each other."


    Luo Jingyi halted and faced him. "I don''t like owing people. You sent the dress before we started pretending to be a couple. So technically, I was a stranger then."


    "That''s true. But I made up my mind then that I''m going to pursue you." He retorted, touching the strands of hair that had fallen from her ponytail.


    Luo Jingyi meant to push his hand away like she always did yet, she stopped herself. She grasped the strap of her bag tighter. "Still, It was a favor I owed you because you save me time from getting another dress for that occasion. A favor meant repayment."


    Giving up the argument, Yun Jinghan heaved a sigh. It was better to accept it now. He just had to make sure that in the future, she wouldn''t be doing the same.

 Chapter 77 - GIVE YOU A PERMISSION TO MISS ME

    "Oh, Ice cream." Luo Jingyi excitedly pointed to the ice cream parlor she saw just around the corner as they made their way back to the hotel.


    Luo Jingyi recalled a memory. When she tasted ice cream for the first time, she was shocked by its coldness that she spat it out, landing on Alexa''s face. Alexa was mad that she grabbed the bucket of ice cream, scooped a handful, and threw at Luo Jingyi. To retaliate, Luo Jingyi gathered the remaining ice cream and chucked it back. Because Alexa dodged, it landed on the scroll hanging on the wall.


    Both of them were frozen because that was one of Uncle Antoine''s favorites. Luo Jingyi was willing to tell Uncle Antoine what happened but Alexa decided against it. In the end, they took the scroll down and went hiding in the attic, devising a plan.


    The painting was simple so they sneaked into Uncle Antoine''s "special room" and Luo Jingyi imitated it. Alexa was astonished that Luo Jingyi was able to replicate the painting and calligraphy. But Luo Jingyi was aware that the difference between the original and her painting could be discerned by trained eyes. Nonetheless, it was the least of their concern at that time.


    They replaced the scroll which was never noticed by Uncle Antoine until three years later when Luo Jingyi bought him a rare collection of ink painting from a 12th-century artist and confessed about what they did. The funny thing was, the scroll was an imitation too, according to Uncle Antoine.


    Luo Jingyi was immersed in that particular memory that she didn''t respond when he asked which flavor she wanted. Only when he waved a hand to get her attention did she stash the memories away and answered. "Peppermint."


    "Wait here then." He moved away from her, heading to the direction of the shop and ordered.


    "Thanks." Luo Jingyi took the cone he passed. Bringing it closer to her mouth, she tasted the ice cream. As soon as it touched her palate, flavors exploded in her tongue. It was rich, creamy, and not overly sweet.


    Yun Jinghan watched her with interest. He liked the way she savored the dessert. His eyes kept lingering on her lips, seeing how she would wipe off the stain on them with her tongue. His throat suddenly went dry.


    He contemplated but his shamelessness won, he lowered his head and planted a kiss on the unsuspecting woman who filled his mind all the time. It was quick that when Luo Jingyi realized what happened, he was already inches away.


    "Hmm. Delicious." He mumbled, winking at her.


    Seeing him strolling and whistling away as nothing happened, Luo Jingyi paused. ''This man. He really liked taking advantage of every situation.''


    Yun Jinghan turned back. "Do you want another taste test?".... He had to admit, he was craving for more.


    "In your dreams!" Luo Jingyi marched forward, leaving him. His laughter followed her.


    .....


    It was late in the afternoon that the two of them flew back to Shanghai. As usual, Yun Jinghan made changes to her arrangement so they could be seated together. It was a short flight but she fell asleep. When she woke up, her head was resting on his shoulders. Luo Jingyi was embarrassed that she sat up and glanced at him. His eyes were closed. A sigh of relief escaped her.


    Luo Jingyi noticed the blanket covering her. She was certain he was the one who put it on her. It was a simple act but whether she admitted or not, she felt something in her heart. It felt good to have someone care for her.


    When Yun Jinghan stirred, she hurriedly took off her gaze and folded the blanket but her auditory sense was attuned to the man beside her. Luo Jingyi heard nothing so she peeked again and he was still asleep.


    ''Is he cold?'' Luo Jingyi wondered. She lifted the neatly folded blanket on her lap but hesitated. Eventually, she covered him. When Luo Jingyi returned to her original position, she never noticed the smile that rose on his lips.


    It was evening when the plane landed. "K5 will drive you home." Yun Jinghan told her as they stood facing each other. They were at the arrival area and noise surrounded them.


    "Are you going somewhere?" She asked, noticing that Amy was waiting meters away from them.


    Yun Jinghan stepped closer. Grinning, he touched her hair. "Missing me already?"


    "No." Luo Jingyi answered crisply, wondering why he kept holding her hair like that.


    "You should because I''ll be gone for two weeks or a month at most." Yun Jinghan didn''t want to be away from her at this point but this was the third time he canceled on this trip and the acquisition of the trading company was important for his future plans. Hence, he must go.


    "Go." Shooing him, Luo Jingyi turned away but he pulled her back.


    "No goodbye kiss?" He teased, not letting go of her hand.


    Luo Jingyi rolled her eyes and tugged her hand. She must run away before he steals another kiss.


    Yun Jinghan laughed. "You are too cute darling." Yun Jinghan planted a quick kiss on her lips and immediately distanced himself away from her, leaving her flustered.


    "Goodbye, darling. I''m giving you permission to miss me." Waving, he spun on his heel and head to the departure area.


    *


    While the relationship between the two improved, something was happening elsewhere.


    "Contact that woman. Tell her I have a proposition." Chen Guozhi held the small phone as if his life depended on it. It was an old model. He ''rented'' the phone from another inmate, swearing in his life to pay the man half a million. This inmate borrowed the phone from another person who he bribed to slip it in.


    While awaiting trial, he was incarcerated in this prison which he considered as hell. He was raised in a rich household so he had trouble being in here. It''s only been three weeks but he won''t last. Chen Guozhi now understood what Dr. Luo meant when she said she would give back every pain he inflicted on her sister. In this hell, hierarchy existed and he belonged to the lowest. He had to suck up with all the torture he was subjected to. The guards were inhumane. None of them could be bribed or threatened. And each day, he was subjected to different kinds of punishment. He just couldn''t withstand the torture any longer.

 Chapter 78 - PACKING UP

    In the morning, there was paperwork Luo Jingyi had to process, so she stayed in her study. She only remembered to eat when Yun Jinghan called and asked how she was. It was past midnight on the other side of the world, and he was returning to his residence. He sounded tired but happy at that the same time. They exchanged a few words before she told him to go to rest and ended the call. Then someone brought her lunch. Apparently, Yun Jinghan sent someone to deliver it.


    When she attempted to finish the reports, she was distracted, so she went to the other room and sorted out her things. Luo Jingyi wrapped a selection of paintings carefully. She would be sending them to the capital. She was going to store the rest in this room. She hadn''t decided to sell nor rent out this unit anyway.


    As she busied herself, her phone rang, which startled her. Extending a free hand behind her, she clasped the device and placed it against her right ear. She greeted the lawyer upon recognizing his voice.


    "Chen Guozhi''s lawyer contacted, and he wanted a deal."


    Luo Jingyi stopped the action of wrapping a cloth over the painting. She was quiet. Based on her previous investigation, the original''s sister was among Chen Guozhi''s victims. When the authorities discovered piles of bones buried in his garden, her remains weren''t found among the collection.


    So she wondered what kind of deal Chen Guozhi wanted. Did he have any information about the original''s sister? Or did he just want to mess with her? "That depends on what information he has." She replied after giving it a thought.


    "The location where he buried your sister." The lawyer informed and waited for Luo Jingyi''s answer. Hearing none, he gave his opinion. "We already investigated all properties under his name and possible dumping site. So this time, he might be only playing with you."


    "I know." Luo Jingyi''s hand tightened on the handset. He was definitely baiting her to see how much she was willing to bend for Han Mei. And with his trial scheduled, she had a feeling Chen Guozhi was getting anxious about the situation he was in.


    There was a photo found in her estate agent''s house. It was taken in Venice four years ago. Xiao Wen, who Luo Jingyi sent to track the missing estate agent, reported that the photo was real. So Luo Jingyi started to doubt things. That Han Mei might be alive. If she was, then it changes things.


    But that didn''t mean she wouldn''t hold Chen Guozhi accountable for what he did. Using humans as experimental subjects was a violation of the Code of Ethics ¨C doctors had sworn to. In fact, Chen Guozhi''s grandfather should be held accountable, as well. The mere knowledge of his grandson''s actions made him an accessory. But why didn''t she reveal it? Because the old man was dying. He was at the last stage of prostate cancer. There were viable treatments, but it was useless. The cancer cells had metastasis, and he had only a month or so to live. The last news she heard was that he was seeking treatment overseas. Even that proved to be least fruitful.


    "Then how do we proceed with this?" The lawyer interrupted her thoughts. Then he heard Luo Jingyi say, "There are other ways of getting him to talk without the deal Lawyer Shao." He could sense a smile on her face as she spoke.


    "I understand. I''ll arrange for it." Lawyer Shao said and ended the call. There was no way Chen Guozhi could turn things around. He was sure that Luo Jingyi would never let him go.


    Lawyer Shao made a mental note not ever to provoke Luo Jingyi in the future if he didn''t want to end up in the gutters too. Nobody dared to offend the Chen Family because of their political influence, but she destroyed and pulled them down from their perch. Overnight, Minister Chen, who imperiously acted like he owned the world ¨C was sent to his doom. With his political career ruined, there was no room for recovery. Sending Chen Guozhi to the military prison was also akin to sending him to hell. Then, Dr. Zhao, who used illegal means to gain power, money, and fame ¨Cdisappeared from the medical field. She was a force one should never trifle with.


    Meanwhile, Luo Jingyi retracted her gaze and faced the image on the wall. It was the original''s sister, which she painted. The woman in the painting was also the spitting image of her favorite cousin, who died horribly in the hands of the Second Prince. "Are you really alive? If you are, where are you now?"


    ¡­..


    Luo Jingyi was amused. "So, you''re telling me that you wanted to become poor?" She directed the question to Nicolette, who was sitting across her. The other woman took the time to sip her orange juice before clarifying things. They were at the airport waiting for their flight. This morning, Nicolette knocked at her apartment door with a suitcase in tow and told her she was going to the capital too.


    "Not exactly. I just want to experience being a normal person. To have a regular job, hang out with my colleagues, and learn to live within means." Nicolette replied as she pulled up her chocolate brown hair into a ponytail.


    Coming from an affluent family, Uncle Robert gave her all life''s comfort, pampering her at a young age. Her upbringing was different from most people. She sat at the front row during fashion shows, went to classical recitals, watched theater, visited art galleries, etc.. She knew plates, saucers, and teacups¡ªwhether they were expensive or cheap, but she definitely had no idea what''s the difference between a screwdriver and a plier. Nicolette''s mother is a well-known socialite in Asia, and she raised Nicolette to be one.


    "Do not laugh," Nicolette warned, her hazel eyes glinting.


    "I''m not." Luo Jingyi answered


    immediately. She was never a judgmental person. Reaching for her coffee, Luo Jingyi asked what had been bothering her. "What did your parents say about it?"


    Nicolette locked her arms


    together against her chest and leaned back. The chair wasn''t as comfortable as those padded ones in the VIP lounge. "Mother is furious, of course. She thinks this is a mistake. She wants me to run her newly opened gallery in Hong Kong. Now that you are engaged, she is also urging me to get married."


    "I bet." Luo Jingyi smiled. Nicolette''s mother was different from Aunt Alice. She was stricter. "How did she agree?"


    "When I first mentioned it over dinner, Mother refused immediately. I was dispirited, so I went clubbing and bumped into Alexa." She paused, recalling that night she met her cousin at the bar. Alexa''s father and Nicolette''s father are siblings. "I poured it all out on her, and she agreed to help me. The next day, Alexa called Mother and talked her out of it. I only wanted three months, but Alexa had her agreeing for a year. Could you believe that? Sometimes, I think I am not their child, but Alexa is."


    Luo Jingyi laughed at Nicolette''s comical expression. "Alexa could be persuasive." The other woman nodded in agreement. Something crossed Luo Jingyi''s mind, so she asked, "But what did Alexa ask from you in return?" Luo Jingyi was betting her Ashton Martin that cousin in question didn''t do it freely. After all, Alexa was all about transactions and benefits.


    "Nothing." Nicolette''s answer surprised Luo Jingyi. It sounded impossible. Oh well! Luo Jingyi set her cup down on the round table. "One year is long. But you might be giving up within a month, even in a week."


    "I won''t. I will definitely endure everything. This time, I am going to prove myself."


    Luo Jingyi liked Nicolette''s optimism. But she wondered how Nicolette was going to manage her shopaholic habit. Her spending habit should be the first thing Nicolette had to curb if she wanted to live like an ordinary person. "Have you found a job?


    Excitement made Nicolette''s cheeks flushed. "Yes. I''m starting on Monday as an assistant."


    ''Okay. She got a job.''


    "What about accommodation?"


    "There''s a company dormitory."


    Luo Jingyi sighed in relief. At least the basic things were covered. She no longer needed to investigate about Nicolette''s new workplace. She was sure Uncle Robert covered that area already.


    COMMENT 5 comments VOTE SEND GIFT Load failed, please RETRY Privileged


    More Privileged Chapters


    Download the app and become a privileged reader today! Come take a sneak peek at our author''s stockpiled chapters! Download Gifts--GiftReceivedSend Gifts 5 Table of Contents Display Options


    Background default yellow dark


    Font Nunito Sans Merriweather


    Size


    Paragraph comments Chapter comments Write thought login liked newest Author:


    ? 0){ %>Chapter :


    Author: Machine Translation


    Editor:

 Chapter 79 - ARRANGEMENTS

    Luo Jingyi handed her passport to the woman at the counter. The latter checked and smiled with exuberance. "Glad to have you onboard, Dr. Luo. Please follow me."


    Luo Jingyi felt something odd but went after the woman. They passed through a special channel and entered the aircraft. That question she had earlier was answered when the three of them were ushered to the first-class section. Two flight attendants bowed respectfully. "Welcome aboard, Dr. Luo! The first-class section was reserved for you and your group."


    Nicolette shot her a questioning look. Luo Jingyi changed her flight at the last minute because of Nicolette and Assistant Wan.


    "It was." Luo Jingyi answered. She was surprised too.


    "Did your hospital arrange it?"


    "I don''t think so." It crossed her mind seconds ago, but Medlife wouldn''t splurge like this.


    "Well, whoever it was, I am thankful that be included. I guess my ordinary life will start tomorrow." Nicolette happily sauntered in and chose her seat.


    Upon occupying a seat and buckling her seatbelt, the flight attendant came forward and passed a bouquet to Luo Jingyi. Although feeling perplexed, she took it. She put the flowers against her nose, noticing the card nestled on them. She lifted it and opened it up.


    There was a short note. It read:


    Miss me? May your day be as bright as these flowers. Have a safe flight, darling! - YJH


    "What does it say?" Nicolette suddenly appeared behind her and peeked. Luo Jingyi quickly hid the card, inserting it in the pocket of her cardigan. "Secret admirer?" Nicolette teased, noting how red Luo Jingyi''s cheeks were. "I''ll report you to Yun Jinghan." She leaned closer to wrestle the note. She was very curious.


    "It''s from him." She reigned Nicolette from jumping onto conclusions.


    "Oh my gosh!" Nicolette placed two palms on her chest. "You are so in love. You are blushing."


    Luo Jingyi touched her face. "I''m not!"


    "Yes, you are." Nicolette continued teasing her. She was genuinely happy for Luo Jingyi. "He knows his way to a woman''s heart. You are making me so jealous. Are you sure he has no twin?"


    Luo Jingyi gave an exaggerated eye roll at Nicolette''s antics. "Back to your seat."


    Laughing, Nicolette sashayed away and no longer bothered her. Luo Jingyi studied the flowers. Taking the note and rereading the content, she felt warm and fuzzy.


    ¡­..


    That feeling didn''t last long, though. Disembarking from the plane, the three collected their luggage and made their way to the arrival area. The Director informed Luo Jingyi this morning that the hospital


    Luo Jingyi was appalled. The heart balloons and the streamer in front of her were too much to take in. Especially the car, her face plastered on the side door. It was a grainy photo of the original during her med school days. There was a crowd that gathered and sang a welcome in unison. The melody was off. It was attracting too much attention that people formed halted and watched what was happening.


    "If Yun Jinghan did this, I''m changing my mind about him." Nicolette blurted out in amus.e.m.e.nt.


    "They are from Medlife." Assistant Wan said after she noticed some of them were wearing uniforms that belonged to Medlife University.


    "That figures. After the plane and flowers, why would your Prince Charming do something tacky as this?" Nicolette shook her head and looked Luo Jingyi. Her lips were pursed at the moment.


    ''Tacky. That''s right.'' Luo Jingyi affirmed. It was the most idiotic thing she''d seen ever since coming to this world. She raised her hand to stop them and got inside the vehicle. Two young men sat in front while the rest took the bus that was parked behind. When they were seated inside, Luo Jingyi pushed the heart balloons that filled the car''s back. They heard a popping sound from the back. Craning her neck, Luo Jingyi saw


    "What are you? You even beat A-list actresses with this kind of reception. What''s only lacking is asking you to sign autographs. I should have recorded it. It''s the funniest welcome I''ve ever seen in my life." Nicolette was still cackling in laughter, holding her stomach. She''d never seen anything like this. While they probably thought of giving Luo Jingyi a warm reception, however, they overdid it.


    "Stop laughing. It''s not really funny." Luo Jingyi hissed.


    The two interns in front looked at each other. When they were assigned to do this, they were ecstatic, but after carefully observing Dr. Luo''s expression, they felt the opposite.


    Luo Jingyi pushed her unhappiness away. She pretended the episode never happened. She looked outside and studied the streetscape. A lot of things changed. There were more buildings, seemingly competing to outdo each other in terms of height. Electronic billboards were everywhere. She even saw a perfume advertis.e.m.e.nt with her half-sister endorsing it.


    Thirty minutes later, the car traversed a circular drive and pulled over at the big hotel entrance. "You will be temporarily staying here, Dr. Luo. Within the week, the renovation of your apartment will be completed. The Director sincerely sends his apologies." The intern wearing black-rimmed glasses spoke.


    Luo Jingyi nodded in silence and climbed off the car. Assistant Wan took a taxi to her arranged accommodation. Luo Jingyi asked her to stay, but Assistant Wan had plans with some of her university friends who she hadn''t seen for a long time.


    Luo Jingyi and Nicolette settled into the penthouse with the help of the other two. Luo Jingyi thanked them with a smile that caught the two by surprise. The rumor was that Dr. Luo wore poker face all the time.


    "We are glad to be of assistance Doc." The black-rimmed glasses guy returned with a gentle smile, showing his braces. Seeing him like this, he was named Mr. Braces, according to Luo Jingyi''s naming habit.


    When they left, Nicolette plonked herself on the sofa. "At least they didn''t make a mistake with this one," Nicolette uttered, then closed her eyes. She was exhausted. She took a red-eye flight the previous day and flew to Shanghai. Then went straight away to Luo Jingyi''s apartment. The trip just now was very comfortable, but it was very short, so it wasn''t considered resting.


    "Who knows?" Luo Jingyi mumbled as she held the handle of the fridge, pulling it open. She grabbed a bottle of water, uncapped it, and swallowed a mouthful. She had a different opinion. It was either her apartment wasn''t ready for occupancy, or there''s another reason. But Luo Jingyi no longer delved on it. It was a temporary arrangement anyway while she was looking for a house to move in to.


    COMMENT 27 comments VOTE SEND GIFT Load failed, please RETRY Privileged


    More Privileged Chapters


    Download the app and become a privileged reader today! Come take a sneak peek at our author''s stockpiled chapters! Download Gifts--GiftReceivedSend Gifts 27 Table of Contents Display Options


    Background default yellow dark


    Font Nunito Sans Merriweather


    Size


    Paragraph comments Chapter comments Write thought login liked newest Author:


    ? 0){ %>Chapter :


    Author: Machine Translation


    Editor:

 Chapter 80 - Chateau Rousseau

    The next day, Luo Jingyi spent her whole morning cooped up in the bedroom. That was the reason why Nicolette took away Luo Jingyi''s laptop and hauled her out of the room. "You are too busy!" She complained. "Accompany me to buy clothes. I need new clothes."


    "You always need new clothes." Luo Jingyi replied, looking at Nicolette who was like a nagging mother with her hand on her h.i.p.s.


    "I need office clothes. Besides, I didn''t bring much." Her answer made Luo Jingyi wonder what was in the two suitcases Nicolette brought with her. "Oh, those are my favorite shoes and bags. They are a girl''s absolute best friend. Besides, I don''t think I can afford to buy shoes with the allowance I am getting. Father took all my credit cards so I need to pinch my spending habits too."


    Luo Jingyi sensed that this whole idea of Nicolette experimenting on being a simple person would be a good learning curve. She just hoped nothing would go wrong. "Give me back my laptop first. I just need to send the doc.u.ments and I am free." Luo Jingyi said. Ji Min needed her approval within today and if she was going to accompany Nicolette shopping, they would surely be spending hours.


    Nicolette was adamant but eventually, she returned the notebook to Luo Jingyi. Luo Jingyi instructed Nicolette to get ready while she was busy with her things because the latter takes a long time to change.


    Since Nicolette planned to buy clothes with no brand, they took a taxi to Z Mall. It is a shopping complex that offers affordable options to shoppers. Luo Jingyi''s shopping style was very systematic. Even before shopping, she knew already what she wanted to buy and where to get them. Thus, she never wandered around, checking one shop to another or from top to bottom, which was the exact opposite of Nicolette. Nicolette was fond of studying the design or material used and discussed it. Nicolette found shopping as a relaxation activity while Luo Jingyi thought it was a waste of time. Not surprising when she barely had the time to get a proper rest most of the time.


    After the laborious checking, running around, and buying, both of them were starving. They decided to eat at the first restaurant they spotted. It was a casual dining restaurant with a trendy ambiance. A call made Luo Jingyi pause outside so she told Nicolette to find a seat for both of them first. As Nicolette hurried in, she nearly slipped because the floor was wet. A man caught her from falling and steadied her.


    "Are you okay?" Yu Qing asked.


    "I''m...I''m fine." Nicolette was fl.u.s.tered and embarrassed. If he wasn''t there, she might have embarrassed herself.


    Yu Qing signaled the restaurant''s manager. When the manager came forward, he didn''t speak any word and simply pointed to the floor. The manager hurriedly took them away and apologized to Nicolette. Seeing how scared the manager looked, Nicolette didn''t want him to be in trouble. She said, "It''s nothing. I wasn''t really paying attention."


    The manager meant to say something but Yu Qing''s eyes quieted him. He understood what the boss wanted: to make sure it wouldn''t happen again. He would have to scold the person who mopped the floor and didn''t leave a caution board sign.


    Nicolette turned to face the man. "Hmm¡ªThank you." She had met handsome men and all the likes but she couldn''t understand why she was nervous in front of him. He smiled but it barely reached his eyes. "Are you dining alone?" He asked.


    ''Is he asking to have dinner with me?'' Nicolette asked inwardly. "I came with a friend." She pointed to Luo Jingyi. The only reaction she got from him was an ''okay.'' Then she heard him say, "Please follow me."


    Nicolette did as told albeit puzzled. She was ushered to a private room that was enough for 10 people. "This is nice but the outside seating is also good. It''s wasteful when there''s only me and my friend." She emphasized the last sentence hoping that Yu Qing would understand that she didn''t want him to join them.


    He smiled again. "Don''t get me wrong. My staff had been negligent with their responsibility. Take this as my apology. I hope that you will have a wonderful dining experience."


    "Oh!" It was all Nicolette could say. Awkwardness inundated her. After Yu Qing left, Luo Jingyi arrived shortly and found Nicolette staring blankly at the wall.


    "What happened?" Luo Jingyi pulled a chair and sat down. She was surprised when a person who introduced himself as the manager led her to the private room. Nicolette narrated what happened and how ashamed she was for overthinking. "The man must think I am full of myself."


    Luo Jingyi tried to convince Nicolette that the man''s words were very vague and anyone could misunderstand him. Somehow Nicolette agreed. Smiling, Luo Jingyi asked, "What are you craving for?" That was all it took for Nicolette to forget the incident. There was a more pressing issue for Nicolette now, she was starving. She was happy when she found that the restaurant offered a fusion between Asian and European cuisine.


    They didn''t wait long before their orders arrived. Luo Jingyi started with her lobster salad as she listened to Nicolette''s comment on the food presentation. She praised the restaurant which earned a happy ''thank you'' from the waiter. When the waiter lifted a bottle of wine, Nicolette reminded him, "We didn''t order that."


    "This is a present for Dr. Luo." The waiter presented the wine to Luo Jingyi including a note. Luo Jingyi was curious who sent it so she opened the note without any other thoughts. It was from Yun Jinghan.


    "Wow! Chateau Rousseau 1878. Who sent it?" A smile was slowly building up in Nicolette''s face when she leaned forward, waiting for Luo Jingyi to answer. "Yun Jinghan?" The nod from Luo Jingyi made Nicolette''s smile wider. "Aiyah, I can''t believe my luck today. Let''s open it! I want to have a taste of it." Nicolette urged Luo Jingyi.


    Excitement couldn''t be hidden in her voice. The nod from Luo Jingyi was all it took before Nicolette uncorked the bottle and poured for the two of them. "Don''t worry, I won''t tell Aunt Alice."


    Luo Jingyi was never allowed to have a single drop of wine. That was according to Aunt Alice''s orders. Luo Jingyi had been adhering to it for almost four years but there were times when she slipped and drank in moderation.


    Nicolette put the glass close to her nose. "The smell is superb. It really lives with its name. Chateau Rousseau produces the best wine in the world. Expensive but totally worth it." Between Luo Jingyi and Nicolette, the latter was the wine connoisseur. Hardly surprising when Lacroix Corporation has its own wine production company.


    "It''s good." That was all Luo Jingyi said after taking a sip. It was mild for her palate though. In her past life, she used to follow her maternal grandmother traveling from one village to another. Days were spent on galloping horses and curing sick people while nights were spent on mingling with the villagers and drinking fermented wine.


    "Good? That''s all? OMG! This is perfect! I''ve never tasted wine like this. There are only 10 bottles of this ever made. Father bought one in an auction for $550,000 but it was knocked over by someone during a dinner party at the manor. If I tell them that I am having this right now, they would be green in envy, especially my twin sister."


    "I''ll have to thank my luck for being with you today." She took another sip before continuing, "In the future, if you dump Yun Jinghan, let me know beforehand because I''m definitely going to catch him." Nicolette joked. "He''s a rare find," She spoke like Yun Jinghan was a gem.


    Luo Jingyi laughed, not taking her words seriously. Luo Jingyi had to give Yun Jinghan credits. He wasn''t around but he was making his presence damn visible every second.

 Chapter 81 - COULDNT AFFORD A HOTEL ROOM

    Yu Qing was brooding. He was in his office, talking to Yun Jinghan on the phone. He signaled K-2 to leave the room before he was going to vent out on him. K-2 happened to see Luo Jingyi getting inside the restaurant, so he immediately informed his boss, who was overseas. Maybe it was his way of rectifying his mistakes in Sanya. Because K-2 didn''t notify Yun Jinghan immediately that Wen Minghua bothered Luo Jingyi at the medical conference, he was sent to work in Yu Qing''s kitchen as a punishment. It was a light punishment compared to the usual practice but K-2 didn''t like following Yu Qing.


    When Yun Jinghan was informed that Luo Jingyi was in the restaurant, he immediately ordered K-2 to take Yu Qing''s most prized bottle of wine and gift it to Luo Jingyi. Yu Qing was saving the Chateau Rousseau 1878 for a special occasion. But now it''s gone. He bought that bottle from a private auction with a hefty price tag. "I incurred a big loss. I don''t want to live."


    The silence was the answer to Yu Qing''s complaint. Then he heard Yun Jinghan order him to send lunch to Medlife starting the next day. "Are you paying me to be a babysitter?" Yu Qing let out his unhappiness, still feeling displeased with the loss of his precious wine.


    "That piece of land in South City, it''s yours." Yun Jinghan said. He originally planned to build a summer home there, but hearing that the Song Family was going to be his neighbors, he didn''t push for it. Song Huan was the woman Yun Jinghan was supposed to meet that night when someone attempted to kidnap Luo Jingyi. Moreover, it would be better to discuss future homes with his wife.


    "Are you serious?" Yu Qing didn''t believe that he was easily letting it go. Yu Qing had been asking to buy that land from Yun Jinghan, but he always refused. The road connecting South City to Capital was underway, so South City''s development was imminent. And Yu Qing wanted to open another branch there.


    "You don''t want it?" Yun Jinghan rested his back on the sofa. He was exhausted. He was still working when he received K-2''s SMS. If it had been in the past, he would have ignored it. But thinking it was related to his wife, he checked the message. And he was glad he did. Learning she was in the restaurant gave him an idea of what to give her.


    "It''s not a question of want. Why are you giving it to me suddenly?" Yu Qing had been following Yun Jinghan for eight years, and by now, he was aware of his friend''s personality.


    "You said you incurred a big loss. That''s the compensation. Besides, that land has no use for me."


    It suddenly crossed Yu Qing''s mind of the news he heard recently. That the Song Family also bought properties in South City. Yu Qing put one and one together. The reason his friend was easily giving the land was related to the Song Family. "The Song Family allied with the Lin Family. This move will definitely grow their business exponentially. Are you really letting Song Huan go?" The Song Family owned one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the country. Since Yun Jinghan recently entered the medical industry, it would be beneficial for Terra Firma Corporation to collaborate with the Song Family. That was the other reason why Yun Jinghan''s grandmother arranged the date with Song Huan.


    "I don''t need a commercial marriage to consolidate my business." Yun Jinghan answered before adding, "If you are interested, you can marry her."


    ¡­...


    Meanwhile, Luo Jingyi was returning to their room when the corner of her eye caught two people''s shadows. An older woman was kissing a younger man passionately. The woman''s clothes were almost undone. They were so into each other that they hadn''t realized the door was left open. Any passerby could see what was happening. Luo Jingyi was surprised when she recognized the woman. It was Wang Hua, the original''s stepmother.


    ''They couldn''t afford a hotel room?'' She frowned. The original''s father was running for office, and scandals like this could ruin him. In her understanding, Wang Hua was always cautious, but what happened today? The answer to her question was, passion had completely clouded Wang Hua''s brain. The young man who was touching her had ignited the longing and desired she had. She loved the attention the man was giving her.


    Luo Jingyi was no voyeur. So she left. As she walked away, she could hear their faint m.o.a.ns of pleasure coming from that room. Luo Jingyi took out her phone and called someone, giving the address and the room number. She wanted the security footage of today and filed it for later use. Wang Hua sent people to kill her before, and she hadn''t collected that debt yet. Soon she would. Smiling, Luo Jingyi went to see Nicolette.


    They returned to the hotel. Nicolette packed her things, and Luo Jingyi accompanied her to Nicolette''s company dormitory. It was inside a gated community. Climbing out of the taxi, Luo Jingyi glanced over the rows of buildings. They were modest and clean. "Are you sure you don''t want to stay in the hotel room for a few days?" Luo Jingyi asked, helping Nicolette with her things.


    Nicolette shook her head. "I want to get used to it. Besides, I have to go to the company tomorrow to familiarize myself." Her answer made Luo Jingyi quiet. She no longer insisted. The guard at the building entrance helped Nicolette with her suitcase. "I won''t invite you in because I am not sure who I will be sharing the apartment with," Nicolette added.


    "Next time will be fine. It''s not like I am going anywhere." Luo Jingyi laughed.


    "I''ll send you a message when I get settled in." Nicolette bent forward, kissed her on the cheeks, and dragged her suitcases forward. Upon seeing Nicolette enter the elevator, Luo Jingyi turned away.

 Chapter 82 - MEDLIFE 1

    Luo Jingyi woke up before her alarm buzzed. Glancing at the digital clock on the side, it was ten to six. She lounged longer, staring at the ceiling for some time as she reviewed her schedule for the day. Today was her first day in Medlife, and if truth to be told, she was excited. She hadn''t worked in a hospital setting for a week, and she was missing the action and the fun of it. "What kind of first day will I have?" She asked loudly.


    A generic ringing tone answered her question. Reaching her phone, she answered after checking the caller''s name. It was Yun Jinghan.


    "Did you miss me?" That was Yun Jinghan''s first question as soon as Luo Jingyi greeted him. Yun Jinghan laughed when she answered no. "But, I miss you." There was a hint of hurt in his voice.


    Yun Jinghan''s actions were foreign to Luo Jingyi. Her past life experience had shattered her heart and gave her trauma. But since she already decided to give the relationship a chance, she would do her part as well. She couldn''t go on like this. "Hmm- it''s getting cooler lately, wear more warm clothes. I need to get ready. Bye." Luo Jingyi ended the call without hearing a response.


    Luo Jingyi felt embarrassed...and awkward. She threw the covers and ran to the bathroom.


    Yun Jinghan stared at his phone for a long-time. His wife was the type of who didn''t like to show her emotions easily, so he was giving her time to get accustomed to him. But the reminder was beyond his expectation. A happy smile slowly tugged at the corner of his lips. It seemed his wife was melting.


    Luo Jingyi emerged minutes later with a towel wrapped around her head. By now, she had forgotten the episode after ruminating over it. Scanning the neatly arranged clothes, Luo Jingyi opted for simple attire: trousers, a blouse, and a pair of flats. She didn''t want to attract much attention, so it was an excellent choice.


    Assistant Wan thought the world was unfair. Her boss had it all: appearance, skills, and money. She couldn''t help herself from admiring her more. When she received the employment contract a few days ago, she was practically jumping in joy. Her job was an entry-level assistant at a branch hospital under New Life Healthcare Corporation, and never in her wildest dreams did she imagine working for Luo Jingyi.


    Assistant Wan wondered as to what made Luo Jingyi hire her. It was only temporary, but this didn''t matter to her. All she wanted was to help Luo Jingyi while Miss Song was away. Assistant Wan was indebted to Luo Jingyi for keeping her mother alive. Luo Jingyi saved her mother from dying when no doctor wanted to operate on her. One, it was a dangerous operation that could lead to table death. Two, her family couldn''t afford the staggering cost of operation and hospital bills.


    At that time, Luo Jingyi was visiting the hospital, and when she discovered her mother''s case, she operated on her despite the hospital director''s refusal. Assistant Wan saw her as an angel who came to save them. After working some time in the hospital industry as an assistant, she discovered that treating another doctor''s patient without permission was a risk to a doctor''s career. It was a direct violation of the Medical Treatment Law. Losing one''s license was a severe repercussion. From then on, Assistant Wan promised she would do her best to repay the gratitude.


    Assistant Wan put on a smile. "I made breakfast. Please have some first. I don''t know your preference, so I made two sets." Assistant Wan''s mother heard of her working for Luo Jingyi and repeatedly reminded Assistant Wan to make tasty meals for the doctor. Hence, Assistant Wan left her sister''s apartment early and went to buy the ingredients she needed. Good thing, the penthouse''s kitchen was equipped. She prepared congee, steamed stuffed buns, and French toast.


    Pulling a chair, Luo Jingyi sat and chose the bowl of congee. Breakfast was important to Luo Jingyi because she needed the fuel to get going through the day. Once she is busy, lunch and dinner are forgotten.


    Luo Jingyi ate unhurriedly. Her actions were with grace. She tends to savor the food first before swallowing. "It''s delicious." Luo Jingyi liked Assistant Wan''s congee. Assistant Wan substituted the water with beef stock, so it was tastier.


    "I learned the recipe from my mother." Assistant Wan beamed. Her mother taught her how to make meals at an early age so she could cook for her younger siblings when their parents weren''t at home. "Do you remember her?"


    If Assistant Wan asked that question two days ago, she wouldn''t. But since she went over her temporary assistant''s profile last night, she found out who Assistant Wan''s mother was. Her mother had a tear in the innermost layer of her heart, and the hospital was afraid of the high risk involved with the surgery. She recalled that the hospital director nearly had her license for her insistence on performing it. Luckily, the patient survived, and solving the case helped boost that small hospital''s name. She thought that the world was really small. "How is she?"


    Assistant Wan told Luo Jingyi that her mother was doing well, and she still ran the small restaurant near the hospital. Luo Jingyi nodded, and silence pervaded in the room.


    When Luo Jingyi finished eating, she spoke, "You don''t have to follow me in MedLife. Report to the head office. Mrs. Huang would show your temporary office."


    "Will I be reporting to her directly?" Mrs. Huang was the Operations Manager of NewLife Healthcare Corporation, so Assistant Wan was wondering about the chain of commands. In fact, she didn''t know that Luo Jingyi owned NLHC until she signed the non-disclosure agreement days ago. She initially thought Luo Jingyi was only a specialist.


    "No. You will report to me. Did you check the email I sent you last night?" Seeing Assistant Wan nod, Luo Jingyi continued, "Follow that. There are many pending projects on Miss Song''s hands; thus, you will work with Mrs. Huang. She will help you."


    Song Hua''s job as an assistant wasn''t as simple as making coffee, photocopying, or filing doc.u.ments. There''s the Management Specialist, the President, and Vice President to run NLHC, but everything had to go through Luo Jingyi first. That was Song Hia''s role, to fill in the void while she was busy in the hospital. So her job scope was equally the same as Ji Min, the Vice President of NLHC. It is going to stay that way until Luo Jingyi completed what she must do for the original.


    "I will try my best not to disappoint you." Assistant Wan promised.


    Luo Jingyi smiled. "Don''t try. Do it."


    ¡­..


    Assistant Wan drove Luo Jingyi to Medlife. As per Luo Jingyi''s instruction, she pulled over in front of the back entrance. By now, Assistant Wan had a bit of an understanding of her boss. Luo Jingyi never wanted too much attention.


    Leaving a reminder to drive safely, Luo Jingyi got off. Luo Jingyi entered the small gate on the side, which was left open. A quick look at the guardhouse told her it was empty, but there was evidence of it being occupied. When the hospital was first built, this was the original exit point of vehicles. When the ownership of the hospital changed, that was after Luo Xiaofei was kicked out from the board that they built a bigger and more ostentatious gate on the other side. The old gate then was only used for kitchen staff and the delivery of supplies for the kitchen.


    Luo Jingyi made her way through the concrete pavement that stretched from the garden to the emergency entrance at the back. Memories of the original sprang out like everything happened yesterday. Most of the original''s childhood was spent running around the hospital. The hospital''s staff were her sitters, and the patients were her friends.


    The original was friendly and helpful. It wasn''t until she was sent to live with Han Peng that she became very timid. She had to stay with her father because Luo Xiaofei became busier as the hospital''s operation grew. The original hated staying with her father so she would sneak out and return to the hospital. Han Peng wouldn''t even notice she was gone until he got informed by the nannies. Then she was dragged back home and locked.


    Luo Jingyi sighed. ''It would have been best if she stayed with her mother.'' Luo Xiaofei, in her opinion, was very much similar to her own mother. They both have a compassionate personality.


    Luo Jingyi continued walking until she reached the main building. As she neared, her heartbeat raced. Luo Jinyi had a feeling she was about to enter the warzone. There was excitement too. It was surging in every fiber of her being.


    "What secrets do you hold?" Luo Jingyi voiced out, staring at the big buildings in front of her.

 Chapter 83 - MEDLIFE 2

    Luo Jingyi squared her shoulders and entered through the back. Luo Jingyi was assailed by that all familiar hospital scent and smiled, "Game on."


    Luo Jingyi''s first stop was the Emergency room because she wanted to check how it was run and what system was being followed. It wasn''t as busy as she expected. There were nurses at the station, gossiping.


    Luo Jingyi saw a man writhing in pain. He was on the floor. She hurriedly neared him and helped him to get on the bed. "Can you hear me?" The man nodded. Luo Jingyi continued, "Okay, I''m going to check your abdominal area." When he gave another nod, Luo Jingyi fixed his position on the bed and palpated his abdomen. She placed her hand on the abdominal wall and applied, firm yet steady pressure. At the same time, she asked the man to rate the intensity of pain as she palpated from the upper quadrant to the lower quadrant.


    "What are you doing?" A woman spoke behind Luo Jingyi. Without lifting her head, Luo Jingyi replied, "Isn''t it obvious? I''m checking on him."


    "He''s my patient. What are you doing? It''s just simple gastritis" The woman in a white coat pushed Luo Jingyi aside. It was Dr. Tang.


    "Are you sure about that?" Luo Jingyi challenged her. When she palpated, his abdomen was soft and non-tender. Also, she noticed the jugular venous distention.


    "How dare you question my diagnosis!" The woman''s brows furrowed. "Who is this woman?" Dr. Tang turned to the nurse behind as she pointed to Luo Jingyi. The nurse gave a blank look.


    "I am asking if you are certain it''s gastritis." Luo Jingyi asked again. The woman proudly nodded. "Of course."


    "Bring me an echocardiogram machine," Luo Jingyi ordered the nurse who was hovering. At the same time, Luo Jingyi placed a stethoscope on the man''s chest and listened to the patient''s heart. His heart sounds were muffled.


    The nurse didn''t dare to move and looked at Dr. Tang for instruction. "Get it." Dr. Tang ordered while she looked at Luo Jingyi condescendingly as if what Luo Jingyi was doing was non-sensical. Luo Jingyi took the machine to take a cardiac ultrasound. She moved, rotated, and slid the probe on the man''s chest while looking at the screen.


    "So, how do you explain this?" Luo Jingyi angled the screen for the woman to see. Dr. Tang squinted at the screen. There was fluid build up around the man''s heart. She couldn''t believe she missed that.


    "Get a chest X-ray, perform a lab test, and get a TTE." Luo Jingyi told Blue girl who arrived panting. Blue girl nodded and spun on her heel. It was a good thing she checked the Emergency Room instead of joining everyone who was at the entrance waiting for Luo Jingyi''s arrival.


    Blue girl was stopped by Dr. Tang. "Hold on a second, who are you to order people around?" The question was directed to Luo Jingyi.


    "Save it. The patient comes first." Luo Jingyi turned her back and pulled the man''s chart, but before she could check the notes on it, the chart was forcibly grabbed by Dr. Tang.


    "Are you the doctor who got transferred from the branch hospital?" When Luo Jingyi was silent, Dr. Tang scoffed. "Don''t think that you can just barge in and do what you want. You country bumpkins don''t have any idea how big city hospital''s work." Because Luo Jingyi was wearing a simple attire, Dr. Tang had mistaken Luo Jingyi as the new doctor who was transferred from a branch hospital in a small town.


    Luo Jingyi''s brows knitted. ''What is she talking about?'' She glanced at her attire and wondered if she was wearing countrified clothes. But she wasn''t. Blue girl almost wanted to puke. ''How could she relegate Dr. Luo to a country doctor?'' Blue girl opened her mouth to explain but was silenced by Luo Jingyi''s eyes.


    "Go and do the test." Luo Jingyi turned to Blue girl and decided to ignore the woman, which irritated Dr. Tang more. She hated other doctor''s meddling in her case, especially if the other person was a nobody.


    Dr. Tang grasped Luo Jingyi''s hand. "It feels like I was talking to the air, or are you just deaf. I can''t believe the Director even signed your transfer."


    "Let go of my hand while I am asking nicely." Luo Jingyi warned. Dr. Tang suddenly felt chills passed her. Her grip loosened.


    Turning her back on the woman, Luo Jingyi repeated her order to Blue girl. "Right away, Dr. Luo." Blue girl purposely addressed Luo Jingyi louder so that they could hear. She couldn''t stand the other doctor from relegating Dr. Luo as nobody. It had to stop now.


    Dr. Tang paled when she heard the name. She couldn''t believe she belittled the woman she meant to impress. She was very confident that she could get into Dr. Luo''s special OR team. "Oh, Dr. Luo. Please forgive my improper behavior earlier." Gone was her condescending behavior. She was gravely mistaken. She mistook Luo Jingyi as the junior resident who was starting work today.


    Luo Jingyi simply looked at her. She almost wanted to glare at Blue girl for mentioning her name. She was disappointed that she couldn''t do her observation as planned. Luo Jingyi reached for the chart and skimmed over the patient''s report. The man was brought to the ER after complaining of recurring stomach pain. He came in minutes before the shift change, so she had a suspicion, the staff brushed it off as simple gastritis. He was given analgesics to alleviate the pain. Nobody ran tests and sometimes small mistakes as this one could lead to severe repercussions.


    Blue girl returned later and showed the report on the computer. "Dr. Luo, his TTE showed evidence of right ventricular collapse."


    Luo Jingyi was right. She suspected pericardial effusion. "Contact the general surgeon who''s on duty today and report the case." She instructed.


    Dr. Tang, who was standing docilely beside Luo Jingyi and the other nurses were surprised. They all thought Luo Jingyi was going to wrestle the case and operate on the man to show off her surgical prowess.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital entrance, a few people craned their necks to check if Luo Jingyi arrived, but as the minute dragged on, her shadow never appeared. They were starting to be irritated.


    When one of the interns checked her phone that beeped, she announced, "Dr. Luo is already at the ER."


    "What?!" A collected gasp was heard.


    ======


    Extra:


    YJH: I hate you Aeris! You purposely sent me away. I miss my wife.


    Aeris: Keep on saying that and I will never lift your ban! I shall keep you overseas.


    EvilMe: You are too soft. Kill his character and replace him, ah.


    Aeris: (Cupping an elbow with one hand while tapping the lips with the other) Hmm- that''s a good suggestion.


    YJH: (He warned cooly) Do it and the readers will turn you both into a roasted chicken.


    Aeris: You are right. (Contemplating) Well, I shall let you return next week.


    YJH: (A triumphant smile was tugged at the corner of his mouth)

 Chapter 84 - MEDLIFE 3

    Luo Jingyi watched as a male surgeon walked inside OR-5 with his hands wet from the viewing room. The OR Tech dr.a.p.ed him.


    After speaking a few words, he took a scalpel and made a midline incision directly above the xiphoid and through the subcutaneous tissues. He swept as much fat over the pericardium until it was clean. Using the scalpel, he incised the pericardium to drain the fluid. He excised the pericardial tissues to create a window, and a suction catheter was placed. Then a drain was put into the pericardial sac to remove the fluid build-up.


    It was not a complicated procedure, but Luo Jingyi observed the whole process with interest to learn more about the other surgeon. OR Habits could tell the type of person one was. Like this particular surgeon, he was careful, so he ran the case over with his first assistant and the rest of the OR team before proceeding. After that, no words were ever exchanged again.


    "You are here." A familiar voice said behind Luo Jingyi. Turning around, Luo Jingyi saw Dr. Bai. She was wearing a doctor''s coat with the MedLife logo on it. She met Dr. Bai in Sanya during the Medical Conference, but she never mentioned working for MedLife.


    "What''s your assessment?" Dr. Bai asked, taking a seat next to her.


    "Of him?" Luo Jingyi''s eyes pointed to the man performing the surgery. When Dr. Bai nodded, she replied, "He is capable."


    Dr. Bai laughed. "You are amiable. I want the perfectionist Dr. Luo''s opinion."


    Luo sighed. It seemed she wasn''t letting the topic go. "He is very thorough. He followed the procedure according to the textbook. It''s not necessarily bad, but in dealing with trauma patients, it could be an inconvenience."


    Dr. Bai had a similar opinion of him. She was afraid that was limiting him to move out of his box. "I''ll let you teach him. He needs your guidance." Dr. Bai stated. She eyed him with fondness.


    That didn''t slip past Luo Jingyi''s observation but never asked about the kind of relationship Dr. Bai has with the young surgeon. When he started closing the incision, Dr. Bai stood, "Come on. Everyone is excited to meet you."


    Luo Jingyi followed Dr. Bai out. They met two doctors along the way, and judging by the length of their coat, they were still residents.


    "Good morning, Vice President." They greeted and smiled. Dr. Bai nodded, and they moved forward.


    "I didn''t know you are working here." Luo Jingyi asked, trying to glean information.


    "Oh, I forgot to tell you in Sanya. The Board designated me as the VP for Diagnostic Services."


    "How do you like your role so far?"


    Dr. Bai laughed at the implied meaning of her question. "It has its moments." Her new designation made her walk on eggshells sometimes. The Board of Directors and the President are all about profits while doctors are about quality care and saving lives. Then there are VIP patients who need to be treated well. Sometimes, they have excessive demands. Without their support, it would be challenging to run a private hospital. Being in this position was troublesome, but she had more important reasons for agreeing to it.


    "It''s hard on you." Luo Jingyi consoled, which made Dr. Bai chuckle.


    ¡­..


    Luo Jingyi was curious. There was a crowd when she was ushered to the meeting room. The meeting room was like a lecture hall at the university. There was a lecture platform, widescreen, and ascending rows of chairs. One had to use a microphone to speak because it was large.


    Dr. Bai introduced Luo Jingyi to everyone. When she gestured to her to step forward, Luo Jingyi was hesitant. Albeit that, Luo Jingyi took the microphone and spoke, keeping her speech short and minimal.


    "Is it like this every time there''s a new staff joining the hospital?" She asked Dr. Bai once there were only two of them. The VP laughed. "No, it''s because everyone looked forward to working with you."


    Luo Jingyi got a feeling that someone purposely made her arrival a big issue. But what for?


    "Come on. I''ll show you around the hospital." Dr. Bai led her to the CICU as they talked about the current trends in medicine. From there, they went to the next floor and visited the NICU. Both departments had modern furnishings. There were nurses stationed at a large central desk monitoring the patients closely. MedLife lived with its name as one of the best cardiology and pediatric hospital.


    Dr. Bai was enthusiastic about showing her around like it was really her first time in the hospital. MedLife Hospital was big. Initially, there was only one building, but as the hospital grew, Luo Xiaofei bought the nearby empty lots and added new wings.


    Coming out of the surgical ward, Dr. Bai started, "You mentioned that you wanted your own OR team. Having the same people working with you is great¡­." Dr. Bai trailed off and looked at her.


    "But?" Luo Jingyi prodded. When Dr. Bai didn''t answer, Luo Jingyi surmised, "But the President thinks differently." The VP nodded, which made Luo Jingyi smile meaningfully. She could somewhat guess why. He wanted someone to watch over her and report to him. Luo Jingyi had expected that.


    "Okay. I''ll listen to his arrangements, but I''ll pick the anaesthesiologist and first assistant. The rest will be up to him. That is non-negotiable." Luo Jingyi said with finality.


    Director Bai was happy that she agreed. She was worried it was difficult to convince her. She thought Luo Jingyi would be like Luo Xiaofei, unyielding once she made the decision. Apparently, Luo Jingyi was different.


    Director Bai hadn''t noticed that one corner of Luo Jingyi''s mouth turned up. They never knew that this was Luo Jingyi''s intention all along. All she needed was a capable anaesthesiologist and first assistant. The other roles didn''t matter.


    Luo Jingyi requested her own OR team because she wanted to test the waters. It was to see how the Director and the people around him would react and move. Luo Jingyi laughed in her head. Whatever difficulties she would encounter to take back this hospital, she would face them.


    After that, Luo Jingyi went to her office. She specifically requested for a corner office. The Trauma Department and CardioThoracic Department were in the new building. The OR was on the 2nd floor, the CICU on the 3rd floor, and the general ward on 4th-5th. So, she wanted something in between. They gave her an office with a balcony, which was facing the back garden. The room was furnished with a sofa set, mahogany desk, and a swivel chair. All were new.


    Sitting, the first thing that got her attention was a bouquet of flowers on her desk. She brought the flowers to her nose and took in the scent with fondness. The fresh flower blossoms were fragrant and sweet.


    Taking the note, she read what was written on it. As she guessed, it was from Yun Jinghan. He was sending well wishes on her first day. Without realizing it, the corners of her mouth quirked up beautifully.


    =====


    EvilMe: (Shivering) I''m going to get a toothache!

 Chapter 85 - MEDLIFE 4

    Luo Jingyi''s first day went smoothly. The Chief of Surgery tagged her along to see the patients. Before the day was over, she had a full grasp of the system being implemented in the hospital. There were trauma patients that she attended to later in the day but she hadn''t stepped into the OR yet.


    Later that evening, as she stood in front of the vending machine contemplating whether to get a black coffee or milk coffee as there were only two choices, someone passed her a cup. "Your favorite doc."


    Turning her head to find the origin of the voice, she found Alexa Yu in her usual shirt, tattered jeans, and white sneakers attire. A grin instantly broke out from her lips. "Captain!" Luo Jingyi gave her a salute.


    Alexa Yu briefly glanced at the vending machine and commented, "Hospital vending machines are so unreliable."


    Luo Jingyi didn''t react. She wished MedLife had a coffee kiosk in the hospital. Slowly sipping from the cup, caffeine gradually made its way into her bloodstream, awakening her senses.


    "How is your first day?" Alexa Yu asked as they exited the hospital. They took the walkway leading to the garden. They passed trees and settled on one of the scattered table sets around the hospital ground. The whole area was lit.


    "Not bad."


    Once they occupied the chairs, Alexa Yu took out a small cake inside the paper bag she set on the small, wooden table.


    "Your birthday isn''t till December, right?" Luo Jingyi wondered what the cake was for.


    "Are birthdays the only day to get a cake?" Alexa''s brows raised. When Luo Jingyi shrugged, Alexa said, "This is to celebrate your first day."


    Alexa handed a small plastic fork to Luo Jingyi. "Give it a try."


    Luo Jingyi took a bit of the red velvet cake and placed it inside her mouth. It was delicious. "You made it?" Luo Jingyi didn''t see any label on the box.


    Alexa shook her head. "Got it from a newly opened shop close to the base Sergeant Xiao started." She was referring to one of the members of her team. Luo Jingyi recalled that Sergeant Xiao liked to bake cake and pastries. Whenever there was an opportunity, he always made something different for everyone to try.


    Alexa opened a can of beer and gulped it down. Luo Jingyi glared at her. "This is a hospital, Alexa."


    Alexa Yu shrugged her shoulders and leaned on the chair. "Isn''t the best place to get drunk at, is the hospital? There are doctors around, and I would be treated immediately. Besides, I can stay in the ER for a night."


    Luo Jingyi rolled her eyes, listening to Alexa''s usual twisted reasoning. "What kind of logic is that?"


    "I''m just stating facts. Did you know that hospital pharmacies have the license to sell liquor? Besides, is there a law that prohibits citizens from drinking liquor on hospital premises?"


    "There is no law. But as a doctor, you should set an example." Luo Jingyi refuted.


    "Well, I''m a bad doctor." Alexa quipped immediately. Alexa laughed at her own joke.


    As for Luo Jingyi, she let it go. Anyway, they were outside the hospital.


    "Cat got your tongue?" Alexa Yu jested.


    Luo Jingyi denied with a bob of her head. "No, it''s pointless arguing with you." Then, she continued eating. Alexa Yu''s crisp laugh entered Luo Jingyi''s ears, followed these words, "I never lose."


    Luo Jingyi agreed. Alexa Yu had a way with words. It''s not that Luo Jingyi couldn''t match up, but she was too lazy to argue with her, especially when Alexa never let an opponent win. Changing the subject, she said, "This is very tasty. It''s good that Corporal Xiao turned his hobby into something profitable."


    Emptying her can of beer, Alexa replied, "He is determined to get married. He met a girl from MPS, and they fell in love. They can''t keep their eyes off from each other." She shivered after saying the last sentence. "Their sweetness is giving me a toothache."


    "Maybe you are just jealous?"


    Alexa pointed to herself and asked, "Me? Hah! There''s nothing to be jealous about. I''m perfectly content with my dates."


    Luo Jingyi knew Corporal Xiao personally. Their relationship could be considered colleagues when she followed Alexa for two years before she returned to working in hospitals. "When is the wedding?" She was going to attend and give them an envelope.


    "Next spring. That is if he can meet his target." Alexa paused and looked at Luo Jingyi. "Recommend his business to others. They are doing delivery too."


    "Will I get a discount?"


    "Aiyah, why are you talking about discounts? Remember, the more you spend, the sooner he could get married. Besides, for discounts and promotions, he will need to discuss it with his investors."


    Luo Jingyi paused from putting the piece to her mouth. She set the fork down. "Hold on, don''t tell me you are that investor?" She shot Alexa a questioning look.


    Alexa Yu didn''t answer. She simply smiled and opened another can. To Luo Jingyi, it was an admission.


    "So, did you really come to celebrate my first day or to promote business?"


    Alexa Yu leaned closer and whispered. "It''s called hitting two birds with one stone, baby."


    Luo Jingyi sighed and finished her slice. Luo Jingyi''s motivation in earning money was financial security. As for Alexa Yu, Luo Jingyi had no idea. Anyway, she was clear of Alexa''s personality. It was good that she found time to see her as she was a very busy woman herself. With Alexa, Luo Jingyi could lower her guards down and not worry about the other person''s intention. She is a real friend.


    ...


    Luo Jingyi tried to pick Alexa''s brain on the investigation regarding the original''s sister. With the information Luo Jingyi had at present, Alexa surmised that there is a big secret behind the abduction years ago, and there''s a bigger picture.


    When Han Mei and Han Jingyi were young, they were abducted, which led to their separation as siblings. Alexa raised these questions: Was it a targeted kidnapping or a random one? Who were the culprits? How did Chen Guozhi find Han Mei in the first place? If Han Mei was still alive, why hadn''t she returned home after all these years?


    "You need to start from the beginning. Look into the kidnapping case again. That''s where it all started."


    Thinking of it now, Luo Jingyi relied on the information that the original found. She didn''t delve much into the kidnapping because she was convinced it was Wang Hua. That it was the stepmother''s ploy to eliminate the siblings. What if it wasn''t her?


    Alexa''s insight lifted the fog in Luo Jingyi''s head. It gave her an idea of how to proceed and where to look. "Can Xiao Wen stay with me?" Xiao Wen was the one tracking her agent.


    Alexa Yu dipped her chin. "I was thinking of letting her follow you for the time being. I''ll let Xiao Bing join her. There''s nothing much at the base anyway, and they are getting bored. Their mental state is suffering. Your sister''s case would be a good exercise for both of them."


    Luo Jingyi was delighted Alexa agreed without a hitch. Then, Luo Jingyi realized that they''d been talking about her and other people, but she never probed on Alexa''s situation. Luo Jingyi slid her chair closer. "Are they still making it difficult for you over there?" She asked in a softened voice that contained wonder.


    Alexa Yu is so good at what she does that she attracts envy and hatred. People are waiting for her to make a single mistake to put her down.


    "Nothing that I can''t handle. Let them come ah, I shall welcome them with arms wide open." Alexa Yu chuckled.


    "Don''t do something that will put your father in a difficult position." Luo Jingyi reminded her. General David Lacroix, who was Luo Jingyi''s mentor - is Alexa''s father.


    Luo Jingyi studied Alexa when she heard no response. The curve on her face didn''t disappear, but none would give away what Alexa was thinking. That was the scary thing about her friend. The more Alexa stayed quiet, the more suspicious Luo Jingyi became. It was like: when kids are quiet, something isn''t right.


    But Luo Jingyi didn''t want to delve into her friend''s private matters if she didn''t want to talk about it. The other woman deserves her respect.


    The phone that Luo Jingyi set on the table, vibrated. Seeing it was from Blue girl, she took the call right away. "Okay. I''ll be there in a minute."


    Standing, she told her friend, "I got to go. MVC on Third Road. ETA is in 2 minutes." Then she darted forward. But recalling that she hadn''t thanked her yet, she spun around and smiled, "Thanks for the cake and coffee. How about beer and barbecue next weekend?" Luo Jingyi made an impromptu decision after realizing that it was a long time since she hanged out with her close friends.


    Alexa Yu dipped her head in agreement, then Luo Jingyi hurtled away.


    Alexa Yu watched the departing figure until it disappeared at the door. Jamming her hands in her jeans'' pocket, she walked away.

 Chapter 86 - TOUCHED AN ARTERY

    ???? Extra Characters:


    1. Blue Girl - junior resident


    2. Wen Minghua - Original''s ex-fiance


    -----


    "Prep her for OR." Luo Jingyi removed her gloves right after performing emergency resuscitation to a pregnant woman who was shot in her lower abdomen. The woman was discovered by the EMTs on site inside the trunk of a flipped vehicle that was among the vehicle pile-up.


    "Dr. Yao, you''ll be my First Assistant, and¡ª" Luo Jingyi scanned the faces, "Blue Girl, you''ll be my second." Dr. Tang''s face darkened considerably when she didn''t hear her name. She''d been following and assisting Luo Jingyi the whole day to be closer to her. After what she did, mistaking Luo Jingyi as the country doctor who came from the countryside, she needed to earn brownie points.


    But now Luo Jingyi chose another who graduated from a mediocre university. She couldn''t accept that. "Dr. Luo, I have more OR experience than Dr. Yao. Why can''t I be your First Assistant?"


    Luo Jingyi, who was giving further instruction to the head nurse, lifted her head and looked at her. "That is the reason, questioning your superior''s decision. On top of that, anyone who can''t even attach an endotracheal tube has no place in my OR."


    Luo Jingyi''s words directly smashed Dr. Tang. She''d seen Dr. Tang''s action in the ER, and she made a lot of mess. On the other hand, Dr. Yao was very focused and responsible. Any attending would be confident to leave a patient in Dr. Yao''s hands.


    Moreover, Luo Jingyi didn''t like people who looked down on another person because of their family background. She''d observed Dr. Tang the whole time, and almost everyone was trying to put up with her high and mighty behavior in the hospital. Even her bedside manner was crass. Luo Jingyi witnessed first hand how Dr. Tang spoke to a patient''s mother impudently. She sneered a lot at the patient. To Luo Jingyi, these were all a big no-no.


    "But it was because¡­" Her words tapered off¡­" It''s because of her." She pointed to Blue Girl. "She gave me the wrong tool."


    The people who were used to Dr. Tang''s behavior in the hospital shook their heads. As always, Dr. Tang was going to blame someone. But how could she blame Blue girl, who handed her the standard equipment for intubating? They all thought Dr. Tang was really an idiot.


    "Stop blaming other people for your own mistake. Better go back to Med school and study the basics." Luo Jingyi said it straightforwardly. She didn''t like people who put the blame on others too.


    Luo Jingyi hadn''t noticed that Dr. Tang''s face turned scarlet with her words. Seeing the gazes the other staff were throwing at her, she wanted the ground to crack open so she could hide.


    No longer paying attention to Dr. Tang, Luo Jingyi faced the head nurse. "There might be a need to perform a C-section. Get a pediatrician and obstetrician in OR-5 now."


    "Yes, Dr. Luo." The head nurse hurried out. Everyone left the trauma bay except Dr. Tang. She was gritting her teeth in anger.


    ¡­..


    After scrubbing, Luo Jingyi entered the operating room with hands and forearms still wet. A scrub tech handed her a sterile towel to dry her hands and helped her into a surgical gown. As she neared the operating table, she saw a familiar face. A face she''d rather not see around inside her OR.


    "What are you doing here?" Luo Jingyi snapped at Wen Minghua. Like Luo Jingyi, he had scrubbed, and he was wearing a surgical gown.


    Flashing her a grin, Wen Minghua spoke c.o.c.kily. "I''m going to be your First Assistant." His answer made Luo Jingyi''s forehead puckered.


    "What happened to Dr. Yao?" The question was directed to Blue girl. Of all the people inside the OR, she was the only one she''s familiar with. The rest, it was her first time working with them.


    "She''s in the bathroom. Diarrhea." Blue girl answered.


    The line on Luo Jingyi''s forehead intensified. Dr. Yao was completely fine fifteen minutes ago. How did she suddenly have diarrhea? Luo Jingyi''s eyes flew to Wen Minghua. She had a suspicion he was to be blamed for Dr. Yao''s sudden predicament.


    Even if Luo Jingyi wanted to send Wen Minghua outside, she didn''t. There''s a patient at the moment, and she was more critical. She''d deal with Wen Minghua later when everything was over.


    Without paying attention to Wen Minghua, she moved to the operating table and spoke in a voice that everyone could hear. "This is your first time working with me. I have only two rules inside my operating room. First, save the patient at any cost, and second, I won''t tolerate any mistakes. If you feel unconfident of yourself, you can step out right now."


    Luo Jingyi waited to see if anyone was leaving. When nobody moved, she continued, "Let''s start then." Everyone gave the nod. When the anesthesiologist gave the signal, a scrub tech handed the scalpel to Luo Jingyi. "Blue girl, what are we going to do?"


    Blue girl cleared her throat first and answered confidently. "We need to perform an emergency laparotomy. The patient has a bullet entrance wound in the lower abdomen, but there''s no exit wound. We need to gain access to her abdominal cavity to assess the extent of her injury."


    Luo Jingyi nodded in agreement. The procedure started with Luo Jingyi making an incision on the skin. Minutes later, they found a gunshot injury to the uterine fundus.


    As they were clearing out the blood clots discovered in the abdomen, blood suddenly burst out. That was after Wen Minghua touched an artery. "Are you stupid?!" Luo Jingyi glowered at Wen Minghua.


    "I must have touched¡ª"


    Luo Jingyi ignored him and dealt with the bleeding. "Keep the pressure on." She ordered Blue girl who was quick enough to get gauze sponge to absorb the blood pooling out.


    Wen Minghua was standing on the side, frozen while Luo Jingyi and Blue girl worked together. "Forceps..towel clip.." The scrub tech handed the tools in succession as she paid attention to Luo Jingyi and Blue girl. She couldn''t help admiring Dr. Luo''s calm demeanor, but she was outwardly detached.

 Chapter 87 - BAD NEWS

    ???? Extra Characters:


    1. Wen Minghua - Original''s ex-fiance


    2. Dr. Bai - VP of Diagnostics


    3. Zhuang Na - wife of Wen Minghua


    -----


    After that episode, they continued the exploration. Another minute passed by, it was ascertained there were no other injuries and no bullet or fragment inside. With an obstetrician, an emergency cesarean section was carried out. But the case didn''t end there.


    "What do you think, Dr. Luo?" The pediatrician asked after discovering that there''s a penetrating entry wound in the infant''s thoracoabdominal region. It meant that the bullet was somewhere inside the infant.


    Seeing the baby, Luo Jingyi felt tightness in her chest. Fetal loss after trauma was prevalent in gunshot injury involving pregnant women. He survived, however, would he be able to withstand the next procedure before his heart would give out? ''How could such a tiny person suffer an ordeal like this?''


    Luo Jingyi didn''t think twice. "Let''s find the bullet."


    Hours passed before Luo Jingyi came out of the operating room and spoke to the woman''s family. As she ran what she was going to say to them in her head, her thoughts went back inside the OR. While she was exploring the infant''s abdomen, a faint memory from the past popped out just for a second.


    This made her pause, and her grip on the scalpel tightened. It was hardly the moment to reminisce, but the baby''s presence on the operating table made her remember the pain she felt the moment she lost her own child.


    If Blue girl didn''t talk, her absent-mindedness might have caused a rupture of an artery like Wen Minghua.


    ''Don''t think about it, Jingyi. It''s all in the past. Nobody can hurt you.'' Luo Jingyi reminded herself.


    Steadying her emotions, she put on a smile and walked forward. With a combination of medical and layman terms, she described the procedure she carried out. She told her immediate family that the bullet was found in the baby''s abdomen, but they took it out without any difficulties. In the meantime, the infant would be moved to the NICU for postoperative care and respiratory support.


    The pregnant woman''s parents grasped Luo Jingyi''s hands tightly, thanking her profusely. Their thankful words were enough for Luo Jingyi. What mattered to her was that she saved two lives.


    Luo Jingyi went to change her scrubs in the changing room. Looking at the time, she worked five hours longer than her shift. This was a fairly common habit for her. Moreover, unlike other surgical departments where surgeries could be scheduled, it''s different as a trauma surgeon. One could never predict when trauma patients would come to the hospital.


    Luo Jingyi wore the extra clothes she brought to the hospital the previous day. Luckily, she did. If not, it was either she was going home in a pair of scrub suits or her stained clothes from yesterday. She sighed at the thought of her blouse and trousers, which got stained with bodily fluids. She would have no choice but to throw them away because it would be impossible to remove the stain.


    Luo Jingyi had things to do first before leaving the hospital. She keyed in her notes on the computer. She heard someone talk from behind, trying to get her attention. She ignored the person.


    Luo Jingyi skimmed the report again before clicking save. The medical report would directly save into the hospital''s central system. With the advent of technology, medical records could be easily accessed nowadays without leafing through the medical records room to look for the file needed.


    ''She''s furious.'' Wen Minghua surmised. "Sorry, I made a mistake earlier. I didn''t see the¡ª" He got cut off by Luo Jingyi''s words.


    "Dr. Wen, if you don''t even know how to differentiate a muscle from an artery, you''d better not step into the OR, or else the patient will die in your own hands."


    Albeit Luo Jingyi''s frosty tone, Wen Minghua smiled. "Are you concerned about me?"


    Her brows knitted. ''What''s the connection between the two? I''m directly criticizing him, but he thinks I''m worried?''


    To Wen Minghua, her silence was an admission. The curve on his face grew wider. His guess was right. "You still love me, right?"


    "What?!" Her voice grew louder. "Dr. Wen, are you delusional? Check yourself into the Psychiatry Department. You need to get your head tested."


    Shaking her head, Luo Jingyi left him. She had goosebumps. ''Like him? In this life and the next, she would never fall for a man like him.''


    Meanwhile, a petite woman came out of the elevator in the lobby. "Mrs. Wen, aren''t you going upstairs to bring Dr. Wen''s food?" The nurse asked the distraught Zhuang Na.


    Zhuang Na passed the lunchbox to the nurse and hurriedly left without saying anything. The nurse was wondering what happened. In the end, the nurse was the one who delivered the lunchbox to Wen Minghua.


    ¡­...


    "I heard your first surgery in the hospital is a success. Good job!" Dr. Bai praised Luo Jingyi. After walking away from Wen Minghua, Luo Jingyi went to see Dr. Bai.


    She found Dr. Yao, who appeared to be very pale at the moment in her office. Seeing her, Dr. Yao lowered her head and apologized. "I''m sorry, Dr. Luo."


    Luo Jingyi felt no anger towards the woman. It was just if Dr. Yao would be easily targeted by people with ill intentions, she would have difficulty moving up. Sighing in her head, she let it go. It wasn''t for her to decide for the other doctor. "Have you checked what caused it?"


    Dr. Yao nodded in embarrassment. She hadn''t had the opportunity to have a meal since patients were wheeled in one after another. Hence, she grabbed the first food she found in the staff''s lounge. Minutes later, she kept running to the bathroom. Apparently, the food contained laxatives.


    When she told this to Luo Jingyi, it confirmed her suspicion that it was because of someone''s ministrations. "Be careful next time." All Luo Jingyi could do was give the woman a reminder. It may be going to happen in the future again.


    Dr. Bai signaled Dr. Yao to leave. When the latter was gone, Dr. Bai informed Luo Jingyi. "We already checked the security footage. Someone had already been warned for using such methods." While it was common for junior interns to resort this way to get into the operating room, Dr. Bai couldn''t permit physicians to do that.


    "Was it Wen Minghua?" Luo Jingyi voiced out her suspicion. When the VP of Diagnostic Center bent her head, Luo Jingyi felt more appalled by Wen Minghua. He certainly couldn''t do anything well.


    "Don''t worry. Dr. Wen promised he won''t do it next time."


    "There is no next time. Because he isn''t even allowed in my OR." Luo Jingyi expressed her dissatisfaction. Her opinion of Wen Minghua was low.


    "I''m afraid that would be a problem. The Director assigned him to be your Second Assistant."


    "What?!" Luo Jingyi couldn''t believe that of all the people, why did the Director send Wen Minghua. It was bad news.


    "The Director is Wen Minghua''s uncle by marriage. Zhuang Na is the Director''s niece." Dr. Bai explained the relation. Zhuang Na is the wife of Wen Minghua. Even if she wanted to help Luo Jingyi on this, she couldn''t disobey the Director''s words as well.


    Luo Jingyi sighed in her head. She wanted no relationship or any connection with Wen Minghua. But she didn''t want Dr. Bai to be put in a difficult situation as well. She would have to deal with it by herself.

 Chapter 88 - A BUCKET OF WATER

    ???? Extra Characters:


    1. Yun Jian - Yun Jinghan''s nephew


    2. Yun Yi - Yun Jinghan''s older sister


    -----


    Luo Jingyi left the hospital and walked the direction where her new apartment building was. The renovation was on-going, but she wanted to check the place before heading home.


    Lotus Gardens is a newly built building complex consisting of four buildings for housing purposes. These buildings provide a high-quality living space. An apartment unit costs millions. Luo Jingyi recalled that her friend, Alexa, asked her if she wanted to get a flat there, but she refused, thinking she wouldn''t even need one.


    It took her less than ten minutes to get there. Using the keycard given to her, she pressed it against the sensor and got inside the building on the right. She took the elevator to the 17th floor. When the doors opened, she exited but was caught off guard when a bucket of cold water was splashed on her. She yelped in surprise.


    "Dr. Luo?!" Yun Jian exclaimed in shock upon realizing it was the doctor who saved his life, and it wasn''t the friend they were waiting for.


    When Luo Jingyi directed her gaze, she recognized Yun Jian. He was the teenager she saved three weeks ago. He was in a wheelchair. There was another person beside him who was holding the bucket.


    "I''m sorry." Yun Jian''s friend apologized. They were waiting for a schoolmate who was coming to visit Yun Jian. They intended to punish him by giving him a bucket of cold water.


    "I''m sorry, Dr. Luo. We wanted to surprise a friend who was coming for a visit. We didn''t mean to do this to you." Yun Jian quickly explained, looking away.


    Luo Jingyi pursed her lips. Luo Jingyi was shivering, thoroughly drenched. Her dress was sticking on her body.


    "That¡ªDr. Luo, my apartment¡ª" He coughed. "¡ªis on this floor. Why don''t you come and change your clothes first?" Yun Jian was blushing.


    Luo Jingyi hesitated. When she glanced at herself, she had no choice but to agree. She couldn''t go around looking like that. She followed the two.


    In the apartment, Yun Jian pointed to the guest room. "There are towels in the cupboard above the sink. I''m going to get clothes for you to change on." He said while he scratched the back of his head shyly.


    Luo Jingyi nodded and entered the room immediately. Yun Jian was frozen, unable to move. He couldn''t believe what just happened. He was embarrassed about their prank. His Dr. Luo would now think that he was childish.


    "No. no¡­..no. I have to show her I''m a man." Yun Jian told himself. Calling out his friend, they went to his parents'' bedroom and raided his mother''s closet.


    The guest room used to have extra outfits for guests; however, his mother cleaned them out when Yun Jian kept inviting his female friends home. Now, none of his female friends were allowed in this residence.


    "Not nice¡­.not nice...the color is very boring....." He said in succession for the clothes that his friend picked. His friend shook his head.


    "Why are you very picky? She just needed clean clothes to change on. She isn''t going to attend a party." The friend was weirded with Yun Jian''s behavior.


    Instead of answering, Yun Jian pointed to the closet. "Take that floral dress." His friend could only follow. Although Yun Jian could stand, he was enjoying being in a wheelchair.


    Luo Jingyi emerged from the bathroom five minutes later, wearing a clean robe she took from the cupboard. She found Yun Jian at the doorway, hesitating to get inside the room.


    "That¡ª here''s changing clothes for you. They are new." He stammered. His heart thrashed in his ears. In less than a minute, he sauntered in, set the clothes on the sofa, and went out without saying a word.


    ''What was that?'' Luo Jingyi wondered, shaking her head.


    Luo Jingyi wore them. The dress fitted her perfectly, but the brassiere was a size bigger. ''You can''t be choosy.'' She reminded herself after looking at the mirror.


    Coming out of the bedroom, she heard a woman''s voice echoing inside the apartment. "Yun Jian, how many times did I tell you not to invite your female friends in our house? Don''t your friends have a house? Our residence is not a sleeping quarter for them!"


    "Mom, it''s not like that!" Yun Jian intended to explain, but seeing Luo Jingyi''s figure behind his mother, he was unable to speak.


    "What is? Did you and your friends have a drinking session in the guest room again? Gosh! What am I supposed to do with a son like you? You are always creating trouble. Do you know how many problems you are creating for your father?" Yun Yi was seething in anger.


    Yun Yi and her husband were very busy, so her son would always invite his friends. And when they got drunk, they created trouble by bothering neighbors, knocking at neighbor''s home at the wee hours, and even playing loud music in the middle of the night. One time, his friends climbed over the balcony of their neighbor and scared an older woman, sending her to the emergency room due to a heart attack. They always moved due to these concerns. Her bucket filled with patience had been really emptied.


    "I''m calling the police, I''m going to have them looked for¡ª" Her voice faltered. Her eyes followed where her son was looking.


    "Hi", Luo Jingyi greeted, unable to determine why she was embarrassed. She met Yun Yi in GM Hospital; however, she recalled seeing her name on Yun Jinghan''s file. Yun Yi is Yun Jinghan''s sister. Hearing the woman''s rants, she could somewhat guess that Yun Jian had been causing troubles.


    "Dr. Luo!" Yun Yi recognized Luo Jingyi even though they spoke briefly at GM General Hospital.


    "I''m sorry for barging in your home. I got rained on. Yun Jian saw me, and he graciously offered me to use your bathroom." Good thing it rained earlier, so she used it as an excuse. "Please don''t be mad at him." She chose not to tell Yun Yi of her son''s prank. Yun Jian looked at Luo Jingyi with thankful eyes.


    "Oh, so that''s how it was. Don''t worry, don''t worry. I''m just worried he created problems again." Yun Yi explained.


    "Sit down first. I''ll get you something to drink."


    "There''s no need. I''m¡ª" Luo Jingyi''s words were nothing because the woman was already dashing towards the kitchen. Luo Jingyi believed it was impolite to leave, so she stayed. While waiting, she scanned the room.


    The apartment was very spacious. It crossed her mind that the home was taken out straight from a magazine. Everything is luxurious.


    =====


    Announcement:


    Released a new book:


    Title - Bewitch My Heart: The Naughty Bride

 Chapter 89 - HE LACKS A WIFE

    Yun Yi returned with a tray. "Would freshly squeezed juice be alright with you? Apparently, we ran out of coffee and tea."


    "It''s perfectly fine." Lips drawing into an arc, Luo Jingyi reached for the glass.


    "These are snacks Yun Jian liked." Yun Yi set them down on the table. Yun Yi was embarrassed because she couldn''t offer something to Luo Jingyi. She made a mental note to tell the Auntie who comes to the apartment thrice a week to re-stock. Her husband was uncomfortable with the idea of having servants, so they only hired someone who would visit thrice in a week to tidy things up.


    Meanwhile, Luo Jingyi had really no other opinion. She was a busy woman; hence, she couldn''t keep track of the things at home. It''s her assistant who did the grocery shopping and stuff for her. She remembered that Yun Yi is the CEO of Tattler Media.


    "That¡ª Dr. Luo, why don''t you stay for dinner? Because we had urgent matters overseas, so I left right away after meeting you at the hospital. We haven''t even treated you for a meal."


    "There''s no need. Besides, it''s my job to save lives." Luo Jingyi refused.


    "No, please stay. I''ll make something very delicious." Yun Yi insisted then ran to the kitchen.


    Yun Jian, who had been quiet on the side, followed her mother''s back with a stupified look. ''Is mother really going to cook? What if she blows up the kitchen?''


    "Mom." He called out to remind her, but he suddenly realized what it meant if Luo Jingyi stayed for dinner. It meant he had more time with her.


    The expression on his face changed from worry to happiness.


    Yun Jian came closer to Luo Jingyi and said, "Thank you for not telling my mother."


    Glancing to his side, Luo Jingyi warned, "Don''t do it again. That could cause someone to die, did you know that?"


    Yun Jian answered by turning his head from side to side. He wanted to say it wasn''t his idea. That it was his friend''s, but because words couldn''t form in his mouth, as his heart was pounding every second. "I won''t do it again." He promised and hurriedly went to his bedroom.


    His fleeing action made a line appear on Luo Jingyi''s forehead. His movements and reactions were puzzling her. She found it very strange. Before she could think more of it, a yelp from the kitchen drew her attention.


    "What''s wrong?" Running to the kitchen, she caught sight of Yun Yi holding a knife with her right hand, and the other was bleeding.


    After applying an antibiotic and covering Yun Yi''s wounds, they sat in the living room.


    "Are you bored, Dr. Luo? Let''s turn on the TV so you can watch while waiting. I''ll hurry to the kitchen and continue preparing."


    Before Yun Yi could leave, Luo Jingyi tugged her arm. "Let me cook. You can''t wet your wound."


    "Aiyah..no, it was I who offered the meal. You are our guest." Yun Yi was quick to reject.


    "I''m using your kitchen. The ingredients were bought by you, so it still counted as you feeding me, doesn''t it?"


    Yun Yi sighed heavily. "Alright, but I''ll help you."


    Since the woman was resolute, Luo Jingyi allowed it.


    ¡­..


    "This is amazing." Yun Yi praised. The dishes Luo Jingyi cooked were all very delicious. "You can really cook. I think your husband is going to be lucky."


    ''That''s going to be me.'' Yun Jian responded in his head. Meanwhile, Yun Yi''s compliment somehow made Luo Jingyi recall bits of memory from her past life. How the old her worked her way in the kitchen just to please her husband and the royal family. But instead of being appreciated, she ended up being humiliated.


    When Luo Jingyi first came to this world, she was too traumatized that she avoided the kitchen like the plague. But somehow, it was Alexa''s mischievousness and Eunice Lacroix''s persistence that got her back in the kitchen.


    Eunice Lacroix was a terrible cook, but she collected recipes and wanted to make them for her man. One of the recipes she got from Alexa Yu made Eunice Lacroix blowing the kitchen up. And Luo Jingyi happened to be passing by at that time. When she heard the cries, she ran to the kitchen and found Eunice huddled at the corner.


    The kitchen was in a complete mess. Yet Eunice Lacroix wouldn''t give up. After the servants tidied up the kitchen, she went back, dragging Luo Jingyi with her. At first, she was only watching her, but seeing how she was doing things prompted Luo Jingyi to step in.


    That''s where Luo Jingyi discovered that the recipe was the problem. She showed Eunice Lacroix how to make the dish. She tweaked the recipe and eliminated the ingredients that were causing a chemical reaction.


    Much later, Luo Jingyi confronted Alexa, but the woman simply laughed and said, "Experience is the best teacher, isn''t it? If you don''t learn the hard way, you will never learn. Look at the babies; they stumble and fall, yet they get back on their feet and try again."


    Her response left Luo Jingyi puzzled. Was she referring to Eunice or her? Alexa was speaking like she knew something.


    At the same time, those words really resonated inside her. It made her realize that yes, what she''d been through in her past life was terrible, but that didn''t mean she would live her life wallowing in regret and misery. These words left a profound impression on her. It was like her wake-up call.


    "Are you alright?" Yun Yi''s question interrupted Luo Jingyi from her trance. Yun Yi noticed her staring blankly at the bowl of rice on the table.


    Shaking her head, she put on a smile. "Sorry. I just remembered something." Luckily the woman didn''t prod further. But her next words made her cough.


    "Dr. Luo, are you seeing anyone? If not, I''ll introduce you to my brother¡­" The wincing expression on Luo Jingyi caused Yun Yi to shake her hand immediately.


    "No.. don''t worry, my brother is very handsome. He has a house, a car, a job, and money. He has everything except he lacks a wife."


    Yun Yi paused, leaning closer to whisper, "My grandmother thinks he is bent or he just hates women."


    ''Where is Yun Jinghan bent? Hates women? Then why is he clinging to me like an octopus?'' Luo Jingyi complained inwardly.


    "I see that your temperament is good, and it definitely matches with my brother''s. You are compatible with him. You are a competent doctor. On top of that, you are beautiful." Yun Yi went on with her prattle.


    Luo Jingyi was silent.


    "You will make a wonderful pair. If you get married and have a child, the baby can either take yours or my brother''s appearance, and there''s nothing to worry about. I¡ª" Yun Yi stopped. She hastily moved to her side and patted her back because Luo Jingyi was coughing.


    Reaching for the glass of water, Luo Jingyi swallowed a mouthful to soothe the irritation in her throat. Her brain was still digesting Yun Yi''s words.