Chapter 22: That was a kiss, not quite a kiss. I wanted to have one with Huo Zong…

Chapter 22: That was a kiss, not quite a kiss. I wanted to have one with Huo Zong...

"Brother, what's wrong with you?"

Jiang Fengmian's voice was very low, almost whispering into Huo Zong's ear. His fingers, hanging by his side, slowly lifted, just about to return the embrace when Huo Zong gently pulled away.

Their eyes met, Huo Zong's vision blurry. He frowned at the messy floor, his steps unsteady, and with pursed lips, he headed upstairs.

"Huo Zong, take it slow."

Jiang Fengmian supported Huo Zong, holding his wrist, each step taken very slowly.

"Brother, are you still sober?"

After a long while, Huo Zong finally let out a soft "Hmm."

Jiang Fengmian helped him into the bathroom. Just as he tested the water temperature, Huo Zong pressed him against the wall.

With a whoosh, the hot water from the shower poured over both of them. Jiang Fengmian's thin shirt was quickly soaked through, the steam rising. He looked up into Huo Zong's gaze, his cheeks flushed red.

"Huo Zong," Jiang Fengmian whispered softly.

He looked very off, exuding a somewhat dazed aura, especially with his head tilted and eyes slightly narrowed, staring at him intently, which was particularly adorably contrasting.

The shower had stopped at some point, the bathroom filled with steam, the heat surging. Jiang Fengmian unconsciously swallowed.

This posture and movement were very much like the wall-pressing scenes in idol dramas.

Jiang Fengmian blinked, secretly wondering in his heart, if Huo Zong were to kiss him later, should he close his eyes?

Hmm.

The imagined kiss didn't come. Instead, Huo Zong's cool fingertips touched his neck, sliding down his throat, stopping at the hollow of his collarbone.

With a slight press, Jiang Fengmian's body suddenly went limp.

Under Huo Zong's fingertips was a small red mole, an extremely sensitive spot on his body.

"Huo Zong, are you... drunk?"

The caressing motion was warm and cautious. Huo Zong's intensely aggressive gaze captured all of Jiang Fengmian's attention. He let out a soft "Hmm," tears unconsciously welling up in his eyes.

It was too stimulating, his bones tingling.

"No."

A low, husky voice sounded, pleasant to the ear.

Jiang Fengmian's lips curved up; he was clearly very drunk.

"Ahem, Huo Zong, do you know who I am?"

"Jiang Fengmian."

Without any hesitation, when he said the name "Jiang Fengmian," it carried a lingering affection, as if he had practiced it countless times in his heart before finally saying it with great care.

"Wrong, I'm a little puppy. Brother, can you call me puppy?"

Huo Zong slid his fingertips with some confusion, playing with Jiang Fengmian's bobbing Adam's apple, then slowly moved to the small mole on the tip of his nose.

The deep gaze pierced through the mist, directly meeting Jiang Fengmian's eyes.

"Puppy."

Woof.

Jiang Fengmian held his heart, which was in turmoil due to Huo Zong's teasing, and, like a lovesick fool, grabbed Huo Zong's finger.

In Huo Zong's confused eyes, he gently nibbled on his index finger.

"The puppy bit you, are you scared?"

Huo Zong shook his head, his fingertips itching intensely. He touched the faint tooth marks on his fingertip, even anticipating Jiang Fengmian to bite him again.

"Hmph, liar."

"Huo Zong, be honest, do you hate me? The kind of hate that's really, really strong."

Jiang Fengmian swallowed his grievances, trying hard to remain calm, but his rising tone betrayed all his emotions.

Fear, a fear he had never felt before.

He had even prepared himself for Huo Zong to ignore him, to be treated as a transparent presence at home, not speaking, not caring, as long as he wasn't driven away.

"I don't hate you."

Even at this moment, Huo Zong remained extremely restrained. He gazed deeply at Jiang Fengmian, this was Jiang Fengmian, not someone else.

The knot in his heart found an outlet. He grabbed Jiang Fengmian's hanging arm, slightly tightening his grip, and whispered, "He said, in the underworld, she can't rest in peace because of me."

Jiang Fengmien was stunned for a moment before realizing who 'he' and 'she' referred to.

"Clearly, I've never even met her."

Jiang Fengmian's eyes were sore. He stood on tiptoe and gently hugged Huo Zong, softly comforting, "Huo Zong, it's not your fault, it's never been your fault."

"I don't even have the right to offer her incense, it would disturb her peace."

"I just want to see her."

Huo Zong couldn't picture Sheng Lan's face. For so many years, Huo Qing had been so stingy as to not even show him a photo. He could only sneak a glance at the photo on the tombstone, like a startled bird, hurrying over and quickly leaving.

But that gentle, intelligent woman was killed because of him.

He wasn't a child born out of expectation, unworthy of their love.

Huo Zong was so lost that his eyes had no focus, just mumbling his grievances.

"Huo Zong, she loved you, she looked forward to your arrival, she wouldn't want you to be trapped by her for the rest of your life. Don't listen to the bad words, Huo Qing doesn't love you, but someone does."

It was unclear if Huo Zong had heard any of it. He might have been even more drunk, his back pressed against the icy tiles, silent for a long time.

"Huo Zong, take a shower quickly, or you'll catch a cold."

He didn't know how long Huo Zong had been in the rain, but even after being drenched in hot water for a few minutes, his fingers were still cold. If this continued, he'd have to be hospitalized tomorrow.

Jiang Fengmian wrung the water out of his clothes, wiped his hair, and moved aside from Huo Zong.

"I'll come back in a bit."

Jiang Fengmian was taking a shower, somewhat annoyed that he had said so much today. How could a fool understand all that?

But Huo Zong was clearly not himself, and Jiang Fengmian was afraid he might do something foolish. He could only pray that Huo Zong was too drunk to remember anything.

Sigh, he didn’t know how much Huo Zong had drunk or if his stomach could handle it.

Thinking of this, Jiang Fengmian quickened his movements, haphazardly dried his hair, and rushed to Huo Zong’s bedroom.

As soon as he opened the door, Jiang Fengmian’s gaze immediately landed on Huo Zong’s firm abs, with water droplets sliding down his v-line and dripping onto the bathrobe around his waist.

Gulp.

It was the sound of Jiang Fengmian swallowing.

Jiang Fengmian’s ears were already bright red, and he weakly explained, “I, I didn’t see anything.”

Huo Zong leisurely changed into his pajamas, his fingers buttoning up as if in slow motion, every movement sending a jolt through Jiang Fengmian’s nerves.

Feeling somewhat uncomfortable, Jiang Fengmian averted his gaze, scratching his cheek, and after a long hesitation, he finally said, “Huo Zong, are you sober?”

“Hmm.”

Okay, not sober.

Jiang Fengmian shuffled his feet and slowly walked up to Huo Zong. He looked into his eyes intently and said word by word, “Do you understand what I’m saying?”

“Hmm, I don’t dislike you.”

Sigh, Jiang Fengmian thought, that’s not what I meant.

The corners of his mouth curled up, and he couldn’t suppress it, his smug little expression directly plastered on his face.

“Are you hungry? Do you want to eat something?”

Huo Zong shook his head, pointing to his chest, and muttered, “Here, it hurts.”

“Then, do you want another hug?”

Jiang Fengmian shyly extended his arms. Although he had just reflected on himself yesterday, this was Huo Zong after all, so he forgave himself.

Huo Zong didn’t speak, just grabbed Jiang Fengmian’s wrist and tightly pulled him into his arms, his arms holding him very tightly.

A comfortable sigh escaped, though it was unclear who it came from. Jiang Fengmian hummed softly, squinting his eyes, and also wrapped his arms around Huo Zong’s waist.

Ah, would forgiving Huo Zong like this be too indulgent?

Hehehe, let’s ask for a few more hugs!

Hmm.

Huo Zong seemed to tilt his head slightly, his thin lips brushing past Jiang Fengmian’s neck.

Jiang Fengmian’s eyes widened, and after a few seconds of stunned silence, he incredulously raised his hand to touch the damp spot.

It was a kiss, but not quite a kiss.

“Huo Zong.”

Huo Zong responded with a puzzled hum, not quite understanding why Jiang Fengmian had suddenly pushed him away.

"What are you doing?"

"What you wanted, to hold you."

Wow, it's all on him now.

Cough, although it's not wrong to say that, but...

"Just... holding?"

"Yeah."

Jiang Fengmian let out an "oh," feeling somewhat regretful. It would have been better if he had secretly kissed him.

"Well, you should rest properly first."

Jiang Fengmian almost flew out of Huo Zong's bedroom. Just a wall apart, he leaned against the door to calm his emotions. If he stayed with Huo Zong any longer, his little disguise would be completely stripped away.

The muffled thunder outside continued one after another. It wasn't even twelve yet, but the sky was already as dark as midnight.

Jiang Fengmian called Aunt Wang, telling her not to come over at noon. He and Huo Zong would make do with some instant noodles, as it wasn't safe on the road.

After instructing Aunt Wang, Jiang Fengmian studied the stick figures Huo Zong had drawn. The stick figure was holding something that, no matter how he looked at it, resembled a bouquet of flowers.

Jiang Fengmian sighed, feeling utterly confused. What on earth was he imagining?

The rain continued until midnight. Jiang Fengmian was suddenly startled awake by a noise outside the window. He clutched his pounding chest, feeling as if his soul was about to be scared out of him.

His suddenly tense nerves ached faintly. Jiang Fengmian pinched his temples and climbed down, tiptoeing to open the door, only to meet Huo Zong's gaze.

"Hey, Huo Zong, you're awake."

Huo Zong might have sobered up, appearing cold and distant. His gaze fell on the black trash bag at the door, glanced at Jiang Fengmian, pursed his lips tightly, and turned to leave.

"Huo Zong."

The hem of the pajamas was gently pulled. Jiang Fengmian didn't know what was wrong with him again, as everything seemed fine before.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

Huo Zong's voice was extremely hoarse. His throat ached as if it had been cut by a blade, making even swallowing saliva exceptionally difficult.

"It's late, rest now."

Huo Zong didn't give Jiang Fengmian a chance to speak. He leaned against the cold wall, his memory seemingly missing a piece. He had returned from the old house in a daze, and it must have been Jiang Fengmian who dragged him upstairs.

There was a shallow mark where his index finger was bent. Huo Zong rubbed it with his thumb, feeling an itch that seemed to have taken root.

He had originally wanted to ask Jiang Fengmian about the specifics, but the little flowers he sent as a peace offering were all thrown in the trash.

Huo Zong laughed at himself mockingly. See, Huo Qing was right. There was no one in this world who truly cared for him.

The corridor was completely silent. Huo Zong gently opened the door, crouched down, and picked up the discarded little flowers one by one.

The title page of "Restraining Desires" welcomed a few new neighbors, squeezed together, and was pressed under thick files with Huo Zong's movements.

Two in the morning.

Huo Zong lay in bed tossing and turning, his mind filled with the look Jiang Fengmian gave him when he pushed him away—sad but still pretending to be calm.

A few seconds later, Huo Zong still followed his heart and got up from the bed.

Click.

Huo Zong froze abruptly as the door opened. Jiang Fengmian, curled up in a ball, lost his balance and fell directly onto Huo Zong's legs.

His eyes were filled with tears, and he whispered very softly, "Huo Zong, did I do something wrong?"

Huo Zong's heart tightened. He crouched down and helped Jiang Fengmian up.

"You didn't do anything wrong. It's my fault. The floor is cold. Let's get up, okay?"

Jiang Fengmian's head was gently patted, and he burst into tears, leaning on Huo Zong's shoulder and crying uncontrollably.

Through the thin pajamas, Huo Zong's chest felt damp as the hot tears dripped onto it, making him tremble uncontrollably.

"Stop crying. Something happened to me today, and I was in a bad mood. I'm sorry."

Jiang Fengmian's hidden emotions erupted at this moment. He pinched his palm with his fingertips, trying to calm himself down.

"You, you didn't care about me before. I'm scared—scared of thunder, scared that you hate me, and even more scared that you'll kick me out."

"Doctor Uncle came. Do you hate me for being close to you?"

"I don't hate you."

Even though Jiang Fengmian had already confirmed it when Huo Zong was drunk, he still needed to confirm it over and over again. A strong sense of insecurity surged up, almost drowning Jiang Fengmian entirely.

The suffocating feeling of drowning followed him like a shadow. He desperately clung to the lifeline Huo Zong offered, but he still couldn't stop himself from sinking, sinking into an endless abyss.

"Calling Dr. Li over wasn't because I hate you. It's because I'm worried about you. I'm worried that when I'm not around, someone bad might hurt you, and you wouldn't understand what it means."

"If you want my shirt, that's fine, but it needs to be clean. It's already dirty after wearing it once. Jiang Fengmian, you also need to be careful. You can't just give dirty clothes to anyone. It's impolite."

Jiang Fengmian's round eyes were still filled with tears. He looked at Huo Zong accusingly. He had been so upset over a shirt for so long, and it turned out it was just because it was dirty.

What did all his sadness amount to?

Was he just being stupid?

"Huo Zong, I'm not dumb. I only act like this with you." His clear eyes were full of possessiveness as Jiang Fengmian said firmly, "Huo Zong, you can't just act like this with anyone else either."

It can only be me. It has to be me.

Jiang Fengmian silently added in his heart.

"Mm."

"Here, stop crying. Do you still want your eyes?"

Jiang Fengmian took the tissue Huo Zong handed him and wiped his tears, while pushing his luck, "Huo Zong, can I still have your clothes?"

"Here, these are clean. Take your pick."

Jiang Fengmian shamelessly picked two pieces, then tried to act reserved and proud, "This is enough for now. I don't really want too many."

"Mm."

Jiang Fengmian bounced back to the bedroom with the clothes, and just a few minutes later, he returned holding a handful of candies.

He picked through the pile of candies on the coffee table, selecting the one he thought was the sweetest, unwrapped it, and stuffed it into Huo Zong's mouth.

"Huo Zong, is it sweet?"

"Mhm."

Jiang Fengmian also ate one, his tear-reddened eyes curving as he reached out his hand to Huo Zong, exclaiming, "Huo Zong, let's make up."

Huo Zong stared at Jiang Fengmian's fair fingers for a long time before finally making up his mind, gently placing his hand on top and giving it a light squeeze.

"I wasn't angry in the first place, so it's not making up."

"Jiang Fengmian, can I ask how this came about?"

The bite mark, which had faded to the point of being almost invisible, was somehow painstakingly found by Huo Zong.

Jiang Fengmian breathed a sigh of relief; it seemed Huo Zong didn't know anything after getting drunk.

No need to worry about exposing himself, he was happy.

"Ow."

Jiang Fengmian bit the same spot again, holding the fingertip in his mouth, looking up at Huo Zong's face, his ears gradually turning red, his gaze growing darker.

Sensing danger, Jiang Fengmian quickly ran away.

"Brother, that's how it happened."

Now not only was his fingertip itchy, but Huo Zong's chest also felt itchy.

"Jiang Fengmian, in the future..."

"Brother, I won't do this with others, Doctor Uncle taught me."

"But, you're Huo Zong, not someone else."

The words of reprimand suddenly got stuck in his throat, Huo Zong's fingers curled slightly, and he said helplessly, "Jiang Fengmian, go back and rest."

"Okay."

"Brother, you can have all these candies, don't be unhappy."

The candy circled on Huo Zong's tongue, his eyes lowered, avoiding Jiang Fengmian's gaze, and after a pause, he said, "Did I say something to you?"

An unknown fear spread, Huo Zong's fingers kept rubbing his wristwatch, once, twice, up to seven times before stopping.

He was nervous, very nervous.

"You said, he wouldn't let you offer incense to her."

Jiang Fengmian didn't dare to say no at this moment, Huo Zong had already guessed, and he should still be a fool, how could he know how to hide these things.

"Mhm."

"Jiang Fengmian, go rest."

"Okay."

Jiang Fengmian didn't dare to stay long. Huo Zong's mood was already off, and it was better not to stir up his sad memories at this time.

Having slept too much during the day, Jiang Fengmian ended up drawing comics all night. The money in the background kept increasing, bringing him closer to his small goal.

***

"Good morning, brother."

"Morning."

Jiang Fengmian, starving, was almost in tears. He hadn't had much appetite these past two days and had missed meals due to various reasons. His stomach had already protested several times.

After eating and drinking his fill, Jiang Fengmian slumped in his chair, spacing out. But when Huo Zong finished changing his clothes, he suddenly stood up, staring at him eagerly.

Huo Zong paused while buttoning his shirt. He fiddled with his black tie and tentatively asked, "Jiang Fengmian, do you want to come to the company with me?"

"Can I? Really, can I?"

Jiang Fengmian was so excited he almost jumped up. He spun around twice and immediately said, "Brother, wait for me a moment."

"Mr. Huo."

Chen Chen looked at Jiang Fengmian in surprise. It was unusual for him to come to the company.

"What's the matter?"

"Old Mr. Huo brought Huo Qilin to the company."

They had arrived early in the morning. Because Chen Chen wouldn't open the door to Huo Zong's office, Huo Qilin had insinuated that he was a lackey.

Huo Zong had already anticipated this. Huo Qing had been wanting his beloved grandson to join the company for a long time. After Huo Zong's cutting remarks yesterday, it was no surprise he came.

Taking the private elevator up, the confined space felt like an eternity. Jiang Fengmian stiffened, his gaze fixed on Huo Zong's profile, his breathing uneven.

Ding.

Jiang Fengmian stepped onto the floor, his weak legs finding support, and he finally felt steady.

"Chen Chen, get some snacks for Jiang Fengmian."

"Yes, Mr. Huo."

In the conference room.

Huo Qing had long grown impatient. It had been so long, and no one had even offered him tea. What kind of people did Huo Zong have under him? They didn't even understand basic courtesy.

"Grandpa, have some water."

Huo Qilin's arm was still wrapped in thick bandages. The mad dog's bite had been so strong it nearly tore through his arm. If not for timely intervention, he would have been crippled.

That lunatic Huo Zong had even taken the dog away. If he found that dog, he wouldn't be a Huo if he didn't kill it.

"Xiao Lin, you're not fully recovered yet. Sit down and rest."

"It's okay, Grandpa. I'm not tired. You're the one who just got better and still came to the company with me. Maybe Uncle isn't that kind of person. He still cares about you and this family."

Huo Qing snorted, saying nothing. If that unfilial son had even a fraction of Huo Qilin's filial piety, he wouldn't have driven his elder brother out of the company.

So what if he embezzled a few tens of millions? To Huo Corporation, it was a drop in the bucket. Yet he had to be so ruthless, even making Huo Qilin come to the company under his watch.

He probably forgot that without his efforts in the company, who would recognize Huo Zong, a mere youngster?

"Xiao Lin, you are the most thoughtful."

"Grandpa, you really shouldn't say that. It's all what I should do. My parents have always reminded me that you are the pillar of our family, and taking care of you is my duty. They are busy with work, so I have to fulfill their filial duties for them."

Huo Zong pushed the door open, abruptly interrupting their warm moment.

Huo Qilin, who had been full of energy, immediately felt his arms go weak at the sight of Huo Zong.

"Uncle, Grandpa and I were just saying that managing the company alone must be exhausting for you. I was thinking of joining the company to gain some experience and help you out."

Huo Zong coldly glanced at the fidgeting Huo Qilin, pulled out a chair, and sat down leisurely, watching him weave lies with interest.

"Uncle, what do you think?"

"Do you think my opinion matters?"

Huo Zong tapped his fingers on the conference table, his authoritative aura pressing down, even making Huo Qing feel somewhat overwhelmed.

"How can I trust you to use you? You almost failed to graduate because of failing grades, or the two billion investment you managed to lose in just two months, which I had to cover for you. You have no business skills, aim high but achieve little, and yet you think highly of yourself. Huo Qilin, what are your strengths?"

Huo Qilin's face turned pale and then red, his back teeth almost grinding to dust, yet he had to keep smiling.

"Uncle, I'm different now. I was immature before, but this time I will definitely learn from you earnestly. Grandpa has personally taught me with great effort, how could I waste his intentions?"

"That's all in the past. I want to make some achievements in Huo Corporation in the future, I won't mess around. Grandpa, what do you think?"

The question, after several rounds of back and forth, landed back on Huo Qing, who gave an ambiguous hum, feeling nauseous and headache just by looking at Huo Zong.

"Just give Xiao Lin a vice president position casually."

"Hmph."

The mocking laugh instantly made Huo Qilin's face turn red with anger. He wished he could grab Huo Zong by the collar and punch him twice. What kind of attitude was that? Coming to the company was giving him face, it was a notice, not a request.

"Huo Qing, you were once the chairman of Huo Corporation. Just casually giving a position, you are indeed generous. So generous that my brother only managed to be slightly better than an ordinary employee after half a lifetime."

"Oh, I forgot, you were afraid my brother would take your position, that's why it's only a vice president position, still following your old ways in Huo Corporation."

Bang.

The scalding teacup shattered on the floor, and Huo Qilin, who was caught in the crossfire, hissed in pain. When he caught Huo Qing's gaze, he quickly lowered his presence, not daring to breathe heavily.

"Pragmatic and diligent," the words on the wall were glaringly bright, the crimson letters seemed to mock and ridicule him.

"Since you've come to ask me, as an uncle, I really can't ignore it. The company has just started a new project team, Huo Qilin, come to work tomorrow."

"Uncle, is it a manager or president position?"

Huo Zong brushed off non-existent dust from his clothes, looking down at Huo Qilin, "It's a team member position. Didn't you say you wanted to learn from me? Then work hard."

"Huo Zong, don't go too far."

Slamming the table was something anyone could do. Huo Zong sneered, "Huo Qing, don't forget who saved Huo Corporation from the brink of bankruptcy under your management, don't forget how you begged me to take over the company. Of course, you can say I kicked you out, you were incompetent, I brought Huo Corporation back to life, Huo Corporation should bear the Huo of Huo Zong."

"If you're not willing, it's fine, get out now."

Not only Huo Qilin, but even Huo Qing was shocked. Huo Zong, who usually showed no emotion, what was wrong with him today? It was as if he had taken gunpowder, more like a bipolar patient, attacking indiscriminately.

"Grandpa."

Huo Qing's eyes were slightly closed, as if a clot of stagnant blood was stuck in his chest, unable to rise or fall.

Having his scars exposed by Huo Zong in public, Huo Qing's face turned unprecedentedly ugly.

Outside the meeting room, a noisy crowd had gathered, and almost everyone had heard Huo Zong's voice. Those old stories were brought up again, and many veteran employees took the opportunity to educate others about the history of Huo Corporation.

During Huo Qing's tenure, Huo Corporation had twice been on the brink of bankruptcy. The first time, it was the Sheng family who extended a helping hand to turn the tide. The second time, it was entirely due to Huo Zong.

Huo Zong gave up his postgraduate studies and joined the company in his senior year, working tirelessly day and night, doing the work of three people. His stomach problems worsened during that period.

Initially, all the core business of Huo Corporation was brought in by Huo Zong. He couldn't drink, and even after all these years, he would get drunk after just one glass. He was just good at acting, never showing it, and always managed to impress those people.

Only his most trusted Chen Chen knew that Huo Zong became extremely insecure after getting drunk, and that old watch on his wrist was almost his only emotional anchor.

In three years, Huo Zong not only cleared all the debts of Huo Corporation but also achieved a 400% year-on-year profit growth, single-handedly restoring Huo Corporation to its leading position in the capital.

When talking about these things, the veteran employees could only feel admiration.

This is also why the turnover rate at Huo Corporation is very low. Besides the generous benefits, it's because of Huo Zong. He has a human touch; he's not a cold, exploitative machine.

He always leads by example, never shirking difficult tasks, and always resolves issues thoroughly.

Seeing Huo Qing speechless, Huo Qilin had no choice but to soften his stance, at least to get in first. Once inside, it would be up to his own abilities.

"Uncle, don't be angry. I'm willing to come; I'll start work tomorrow."

"Put away your arrogance and learn well from your seniors."

Huo Zong stepped over the shattered pieces on the floor and called out to Chen Chen.

"Ask the cleaning lady to take out the trash from the meeting room. It's too dirty."

"Right away, Mr. Huo."

The two who were implicitly called trash exchanged glances, truly not expecting Huo Zong to lose his temper like this today—a rare display of emotion.

"Grandpa, did I say something wrong?"

"No, Huo Zong is just crazy."

He could probably guess why Huo Zong was acting this way. It was nothing more than not being allowed to offer incense to A Lan. As a murderer, why should he disturb A Lan's peace?

The more he acted out, the more it showed how much he cared. Anything related to A Lan must never be allowed to involve him.

As the cleaning lady cleared the trash, Huo Qing had no choice but to leave.

On the way back, he spoke earnestly, "Xiao Lin, when you come to work, you need to know how to develop your own influence. You can't let Huo Zong control the entire Huo Corporation alone. The hope of our family rests on you."

"Grandpa, I understand. If there's anything I'm unsure about, please guide me."

Huo Qing wearily acknowledged with a hum. His most cherished pride had been trampled by Huo Zong. As he left Huo Corporation, he seemed to hear the whispers, the pointing and gossiping behind his back.

After all these years, Huo Zong was still so disgusting. Just thinking about him made him feel uncomfortable.

***

"Jiang Fengmian, what are you doing at the door?"

Huo Zong felt uneasy under Jiang Fengmian's gaze, his grip on the door handle tightening. It almost seemed like Jiang Fengmian wanted to tear him apart.

"Brother, you're so handsome, especially when you scold them."

"Here, the sweetest one for you."

Huo Zong closed the office door with his backhand, took the candy from Jiang Fengmian, and gently pushed him forward.

"If you're bored, go cut some fruit."

It was the first time Jiang Fengmian had seen Huo Zong working. It seemed as if the heavens favored him greatly; even the harsh sunlight softened as it fell on him.

Wrapped in a halo of light, he exuded an air of arrogance. His high nose cast a shadow on his profile, and from Jiang Fengmian's angle, it lingered on Huo Zong's thin lips. Suddenly, he remembered the softness of his neck, and his ears turned red.

Knock, knock, knock.

"Come in."

"Mr. Huo, here's the proposal for the new project. The members of the special team have been confirmed, all with experience dealing with the government."

"The cycle will take about three months. The main responsible persons for game development, planning, and distribution have also been determined. Here's the list, please take a look."

This was a project from the Cultural and Tourism Bureau, showcasing the natural and cultural scenery of the capital through games, short dramas, and promotional videos. Huo Zong had his eyes on the game sector early on. If they could win the bid, they could use this opportunity to build connections and secure the land in the west city.

"Assign Huo Qilin to the logistics group, be wary of him forming cliques. Tell all the team leaders that Huo Qilin is just a new employee, not the little master of the Huo family."

"Understood."

After listening for a while, Jiang Fengmian suddenly understood why Jiang Fengqiu was poaching people.

The Jiang family mainly operates in the entertainment industry, with a significant advantage in short dramas. However, short dramas receive little funding and have poor monetization capabilities. The Jiang family is severely in debt, and short dramas can't fill the gap. Jiang Fengqiu also has his eyes on games, hence the heavy investment in poaching talent to complete the visual design.

In the novel, this was considered Jiang Fengqiu's highlight moment. After the game designed by the Jiang family won the bid and was promoted, it became popular across the country, propelling the Jiang family to the forefront of the capital's enterprises. Huo Qilin even looked at him with newfound respect, leading to later collaborations on copyright adaptations.

"Mr. Huo, there's another situation. Take a look at our initial character design. I feel it's not good."

Huo Zong glanced at Chen Chen's computer. Not just not good, it was terrible—stiff and lifeless, without a hint of vitality.

"Redo it."

Jiang Fengmian's heart stirred. He was most skilled at drawing characters. Since it was about promoting tourist routes, personifying various attractions and setting up NPC interactions could immerse players in the experience. After completing the game, players could receive small souvenirs from the scenic spots, making the interaction quite enjoyable.

In the book, this project was handed over to Huo Qilin by Huo Zong, who trusted him and voluntarily gave it to him.

However, the result led by Huo Qilin was mediocre, not as impressive as the Jiang family's, and they regrettably lost the bid.

Now it seems likely that Huo Qilin used underhanded means to snatch it.

"Brother, let me see."

What the design draft presented was, in Jiang Fengmian's view, the most basic. It might suffice for a quick job, but if it were to be developed into a game, it would be a waste of time.

"Huo Zong, scenic spots and landscapes can be turned into characters. How fun."

Jiang Fengmian stopped at the right point. When he met Huo Zong's gaze, he knew Huo Zong had an idea.

"Huo Zong, he draws beautifully."

Jiang Fengmian calmly promoted himself to Huo Zong. His manga "Yu Jiangshan" was already halfway through serialization. If he took on the game character design for Huo Corporation, he wouldn't be in a hurry to start a new manga.

He wanted to experience what it felt like to fight side by side with Huo Zong.

"So, you've been staying up late repeatedly to read manga."

Jiang Fengmian: Meow meow meow?

How did the topic shift to staying up late? Had they even discussed this before?

Huo Zong, you’re off track!

"Brother, it’s beautiful."

Jiang Fengmian’s words carried a double meaning—the comic was beautiful, and the art style was beautiful too.

He stared at Huo Zong’s Adam’s apple, his ears burning. Hmph, this man was so serious now, not like when he was pressing against his collarbone.

"Chen Chen, see if you can get in touch with him."

"Change the direction of the game design to a strategy and educational style where the attractions are personified. Present the historical origins of each place as clues for clearing levels. For each level passed, provide a landmark badge of the attraction. Upon final clearance, players can get half-price tickets to any attraction."

"Have a meeting with the design team this afternoon. Try to make the designs cute yet stylish, not cold and educational. You personally hold a meeting with the copywriting team to make the clearance stories fun and engaging, without any preachy tone."

"Got it, Huo Zong, I understand."

The office door closed gently.

Jiang Fengmian stood with his hands behind his back, still waiting for Huo Zong’s praise. The stars in his eyes were practically shining, as if he were about to wag his tail.

"Jiang Fengmian, you’re amazing."

Hehehe, so happy.

Jiang Fengmian cleared his throat lightly, the dimples at the corners of his mouth slightly indented as he eagerly massaged Huo Zong’s shoulders.

"Brother is the amazing one."

Jiang Fengmian leaned halfway on Huo Zong’s shoulder, his eyes narrowed like a dignified Ragdoll cat, proudly waiting for Huo Zong to pet him.

"Here, if you’re bored, just draw something. Your drawings are beautiful too."

Jiang Fengmian sat almost right next to Huo Zong, his back straight. In just a few strokes, a little chibi version of Huo Zong appeared on the paper.

"Look, it’s Huo Zong."

"Hmm."

Huo Zong’s eyes showed no emotion, but his fingers resting on the table curled slightly.

The records said Jiang Fengmian could draw, but those few strokes he just made were not ordinary skill.

Huo Zong withdrew his probing gaze, shifting it away from the tip of Jiang Fengmian’s nose. That little mole made him look full of spirit.

It seemed… he wasn’t so dull after all…

"Brother, you draw too."

Huo Zong took the paper, still drawing the familiar stick figure, but this time with three words added.

Jiang Fengmian.

"Huo Zong, I’m so ugly. How about I teach you?"

"Hmm."

Jiang Fengmian: "First, draw the head, then the body and arms, and finally write my name."

Huo Zong: "That's it?"

Jiang Fengmian: "That's it."

Master Jiang nodded confidently, but unfortunately, disciple Huo lacked talent and couldn't grasp it.

"Otherwise, like this."

Jiang Fengmian had Huo Zong hold the pen, and he grabbed Huo Zong's hand from behind.

The moment he covered it, half of Huo Zong's body stiffened, gripping the pen so tightly that it only drew half a circle before the tip pierced the paper.

"Mmm, brother, I have a better idea."

Huo Zong's face was wooden, not understanding how Jiang Fengmian ended up in his arms.

At this moment, Jiang Fengmian was sitting on his lap, his left arm encircling Jiang Fengmian's waist, his right hand holding Jiang Fengmian's hand, all his attention focused on Jiang Fengmian's fair nape.

Beneath the scattered strands of hair, Jiang Fengmian's head was bowed, revealing a smooth, slender neck. Huo Zong's Adam's apple bobbed as his gaze measured, inch by inch.

A faint minty fragrance lingered around, the scent of Jiang Fengmian's body wash.

The weight on his thighs varied, and whatever Jiang Fengmian was muttering, Huo Zong didn't catch a word.

His brow slightly furrowed, the arm around Jiang Fengmian's waist tightened slightly, the thin shirt making it feel as if it was pressed against his burning skin.

Every cell in his body screamed, wildly and intensely colliding, Huo Zong's breathing grew heavier, he closed his eyes, barely managing to look away.

He wanted more, much more.

"Brother, you're using a bit too much strength."

There were a few red marks on the back of Jiang Fengmian's outstretched hand, he turned to look at Huo Zong, his eyes full of accusation and a hint of bashfulness.

"Sorry, I'm not used to it."

Actually, Jiang Fengmian wasn't quite used to it either.

Jiang Fengmian's back pressed against Huo Zong's chest, his head dizzy, enveloped in the woody scent, the faint heat occasionally brushing his ear, he desperately restrained himself from scratching.

He was too close to Huo Zong, so close that he couldn't help but fantasize, feeling that just having fingertips like this was a bit of a waste.

"Jiang Fengmian, do you need some ointment?"

"No need, brother, I'm not a porcelain doll, it doesn't hurt."

Just a tingling, wanting Huo Zong to caress it.

"Huo Zong, you need to be more serious."

Jiang Fengmian had Huo Zong hold his hand again, following his strokes, drawing another Jiang Fengmian.

It was a Jiang Fengmian with seventy percent resemblance.

"See, this is me."

"Mm."

"Let's place it here."

Jiang Fengmian clipped the paper into Huo Zong's document holder, positioning it in the most visible spot where it could be seen at a glance.

"Brother, here, it's thick."

Jiang Fengmian's fingertip brushed over the calluses on Huo Zong's palm, accumulated over years, rough and abrasive.

A soft gaze fell as Jiang Fengmian gently held Huo Zong's palm and blew on it.

Each callus was a medal of Huo Zong's resistance against the Huo family. He dared not imagine how Huo Zong had managed all these years of being despised.

"Huo Zong, does it hurt? Are you very tired?"

Huo Zong's heart was heavy. Along the way, no one had ever asked him if he was tired.

Tired, of course he was tired.

The Huo family truly didn't care about his life or death; he was like disposable trash, ready to be discarded at any moment.

Money, only money, that's what the Huo family wanted.

"It's okay."

"Huo Zong, from now on, you have me."

Jiang Fengmian's eyes curved into a smile. He suddenly turned and hugged Huo Zong, his cheek rubbing against Huo Zong's neck. The intense warmth transmitted over, he paused for a moment, then patted Huo Zong's back gently, saying softly, "Brother, I want to protect you too."

He wanted Huo Zong to live a long life, to be happy, to have a home with Huo Zong.