Chapter 45: Kitten, I’m Courting You. A beautiful day starts with a good morning…

Chapter 45: Kitten, I'm Courting You. A beautiful day starts with a good morning...

"Jiang Fengmian, are you asleep?"

"Not yet," Jiang Fengmian replied with a tired voice.

His relationship with Huo Zong seemed to have entered a sensitive standstill, or more accurately, Jiang Fengmian had single-handedly erected a barrier for Huo Zong, keeping him outside while he stayed within.

Jiang Fengmian wrapped most of the blanket around himself, burying his head in the soft pillow, avoiding Huo Zong's direct gaze.

Unable to sleep, Jiang Fengmian rubbed his fingertips, thinking for a long time before suddenly realizing that he had been covertly teasing Huo Zong, and now Huo Zong was suddenly flirting back. Jiang Fengmian wasn't used to it.

Moreover, their relationship was rather unclear. Jiang Fengmian didn't say anything, and Huo Zong didn't ask. Upon closer thought, they hadn't even had an official declaration of feelings.

Naturally, there was a lack of excitement. Jiang Fengmian had to console himself for a long time before finally figuring out where his subtle discomfort was coming from.

He and Huo Zong hadn't even had an official declaration of feelings!

"Kitten, do you need a bedtime story?"

Jiang Fengmian turned over, with a hint of irritation, and pressed his fingers against Huo Zong's Adam's apple. "Brother, do I look like I need a bedtime story? If you have the time, why don't you tell me more about Huo Cong instead."

"Something doesn't add up. Huo Qilin is his biological son, right? So why doesn't he care? Except for that time when Huo Qilin got bitten by a dog, he was harsh but it appeared to be merely procedural."

"Huo Zong, tell me, what is his motive? It's really strange."

As the parents of the main protagonist in the book, they were indifferent to their son, especially in a family like the Huo family. To put it more traditionally, the eldest son of the eldest branch is a treasure anywhere, so why are the parents as if they were invisible?

"Huo Cong, he's a highly complicated individual. Sometimes even I can't figure him out."

"When Huo Qing was in power initially, Huo Cong was always the deputy president in the company. The dividends he received each year were enough for him to live comfortably, but he misappropriated corporate funds, merely a few million, which wasn't even enough for him and Qi Yan to go on a day trip."

At that time, Huo Zong hadn't joined Huo Corporation yet. When he did, he discovered that Huo Corporation was only outwardly successful; inside, it was thoroughly corrupt. They used various excuses to deduct employees' salaries, which eventually ended up in Huo Qing's pocket. Because Huo Cong made a mistake, Huo Qing took the opportunity to make him leave Huo Corporation.

But the reasons were shaky. Huo Qing's fondness for Huo Cong was obvious. He was willing to use shares to bail out Huo Qilin, let alone his son whom he had doted on for decades.

Huo Zong couldn't understand it at first, but later he realized that Huo Qing, being a selfish and petty man, was capable of anything.

In his first year at Huo Corporation, Huo Zong was widely resented. Everyone in the company knew he wasn't favored and that he was treated no better than a dog in the Huo family. All the dirty and hard work in the department fell on him.

The intense and indiscriminate resentment was all directed at him, without even a chance to explain. Huo Zong grew to despise Huo Qing even more and used what seemed like the most ruthless methods at the time to push Huo Qing out of Huo Corporation.

After investigating, Huo Zong discovered that Huo Cong had opened a new company under someone else's name, doing business similar to Huo Corporation. If Huo Zong hadn't intervened to save Huo Corporation, Huo Cong's company might have gone public by now.

"Kitten, do you know what 'sneaking across the river under cover of night' means? That's what Huo Cong is doing. The company he opened, even his beloved wife doesn't know about it, let alone others."

"If it weren't for the fact that the dividends Huo Corporation gives Huo Cong every year are funneled into the same account in batches, I would never have found out. He's smart and selfish, and at the same time, he hates Huo Qing. He just wants to use Huo Qilin's hand to drain Huo Qing dry."

Hate? Jiang Fengmian showed a mocking smile. Huo Cong, the golden boy of the Huo family, adored by all, what could he possibly hate?

He hadn't suffered a bit. Who does he hate? Huo Qing, who provided him with a life of luxury?

"Brother, what does Huo Cong want? What's the name of his company?"

"Changrong Technology Co., Ltd. The legal representative is always abroad, and his whereabouts are uncertain. After investigating, I found that this person might be a fictitious identity. As for how it passed the audit, that's unknown."

Changrong Technology. Jiang Fengmian's heart sank to the bottom. In the book, this company was described as a benefactor, always lending a helping hand whenever Huo Qilin was in a low point. It was said that the big boss behind it was extremely mysterious, and very few had seen him in person.

One thing that left a deep impression on Jiang Fengmian was that Changrong Technology bought a mountain and discovered a mineral vein on it. After applying, they obtained a 20-year mining operation right and made a fortune.

The money was solely used to compete with the Huo Corporation for market share. The book mentioned that Huo Zong was overwhelmed by these issues, growing increasingly haggard and seemingly unable to keep the Huo Corporation afloat.

This incident was the biggest hurdle before Huo Zong's car accident, directly impacting the Huo Corporation's plans for the next few years.

"Brother, have they made any big moves recently? Isn't the Huo Corporation's branch involved in some tea business with high costs? It would be great if we could buy a mountain to grow tea."

In the darkness, Huo Zong's eyes fixed directly on Jiang Fengmian. His hand tightened slightly, gently pulling Jiang Fengmian's waist to encircle him in his arms.

"Kitty, why the sudden interest in buying a mountain? Which one, and how big?"

Jiang Fengmian blinked, guessing Huo Zong's thoughts—probably wondering how he knew so much. But at the moment, Jiang Fengmian couldn't care less.

"A barren mountain in Qijia Town, Lincheng. The exact size isn't clear."

"Sure, if you like it, we'll buy it."

Even though the climate in Lincheng is not suitable for growing tea, if Jiang Fengmian likes it, then they'll buy it.

"Kitty, you mentioned you liked the land in Nancheng. The paperwork was just finalized two days ago. I'll take you to see it tomorrow. Pick the spot you like, and we'll reserve it for you. We'll build the house in whatever style you want."

With a sudden thud.

Jiang Fengmian felt as if his brain had been struck twice, leaving him dizzy. He muttered "Oh," listening to Huo Zong's pounding heartbeat, still in a daze.

So, it's really bought?

Back then, he thought Huo Zong saw him as a fool and was just being dismissive. But it was actually bought.

"Jiang Fengmian, close your eyes and get some sleep. I'll take you to see it tomorrow."

"Oh, okay, okay."

That night, Jiang Fengmian dreamed that Huo Zong had locked him in a house made of money, and he couldn't leave unless he spent a certain amount each day.

The more he spent, the more money appeared. Jiang Fengmian cried so hard he could barely breathe, overwhelmed by the endless money.

Huo Zong appeared like a demon, kissing him forcefully and saying, "If you don't spend the money, you have to kiss me ten times a day."

After waking up, Jiang Fengmian smiled wryly, covering his forehead. The sight of Huo Zong was almost too much. Compared to being trapped in a house of money, kissing Huo Zong was a better option.

After all, his Huo Zong was really easy to please.

"Brother, come here."

Huo Zong, having just buttoned his shirt, obediently came over. His deep eyes seemed to hold a galaxy of stars, and at the center of that galaxy was his reflection.

"Good morning, Kitty."

Huo Zong subtly pursed his lips, his gaze lingering on Jiang Fengmian's swollen lips, holding back some restless thoughts.

The dimples on Jiang Fengmian's cheeks deepened as he wrapped his arms around Huo Zong's neck, turning to quickly kiss Huo Zong's lips.

"Good morning, Huo Zong."

Huo Zong softened completely, humming in response, gently touching Jiang Fengmian's moist lips—a morning kiss from his kitty.

"Good morning, get up and eat. We're getting ready to head out."

"Alright."

***

The South City area really looks run-down. After squeezing through a narrow alley, it’s a long walk to reach the land Huo Zong has purchased.

"Bro, aren’t you worried about losing money on a place like this?"

Huo Zong gazes into the distance, pointing towards the towering skyscrapers.

"Look, the tallest building there belongs to Huo Corporation. In business, you can’t win every time."

"Kitty, if I go broke, you’ll have to take care of me."

Huo Zong leans on Jiang Fengmian, his fingers playing with Jiang Fengmian’s red earlobe, his eyes filled with laughter.

"Sure, bro, but you’ll have to cut back on spending."

"Okay, no spending, I can’t wear out my little kitten."

Jiang Fengmian smiles, turns around for a better look, and points to a spot.

"Huo Zong, let’s leave this tree. When March rolls around and the peach blossoms are in full bloom, we’ll come here together."

"Sure, if you like it, we’ll keep it. Once the designer finishes the plans, we’ll make it part of our yard."

Jiang Fengmian imagines Huo Zong standing under the peach tree, the wind scattering petals all over him, creating a picture-perfect scene.

"Jiang Fengmian, let’s go. Come with me to the office, and we’ll work on your little yard."

Jiang Fengmian leaps onto Huo Zong’s back, slings his arms around Huo Zong’s neck, his legs swinging, eyes slightly squinting.

"Huo Zong, you better not drop me, or I’ll make you carry me ten more times as punishment."

The next second, Huo Zong fakes a stumble, making Jiang Fengmian grip tighter.

"Huo Zong—"

"Yes, I want to carry you, not just ten times, but forever, okay?"

"Hmph, in your dreams."

Jiang Fengmian secretly smiles, messes up Huo Zong’s hair, and softly hums, the sound fading into the breeze.

***

Huo family’s old mansion.

Huo Qilin traps Jiang Fengqiu in the bedroom, the swelling on his cheek still not subsided, his half-bruised face looking menacing.

He wrenches Jiang Fengqiu’s arm hard, his cold gaze fixed on Jiang Fengqiu, his words more venomous than ever.

"Jiang Fengqiu, do you believe I can make you disappear from this world at any moment? Without a trace, silently."

"Hah, believe it, why wouldn’t I? But, Huo Qilin, do you dare?"

With a crack.

Jiang Fengqiu’s wrist bends at an incredible angle, he bites his teeth in pain, and slaps Huo Qilin’s uninjured half of the face hard.

"Huo Qilin, you’re a coward, you don’t dare to kill me."

Huo Qilin’s fingers tremble, he doesn’t dare, indeed he doesn’t.

For so many years, he has truly wanted to kill Huo Zong, but has never once taken action.

"Jiang Fengqiu, what else are you but a coward? You shrink back when you see Huo Zong, yet you strut around the Huo family. You know my grandfather is sick, and you still came to provoke him with seven million. You only pick on the weak."

Huo Qing has been in and out of consciousness since yesterday. Every time he wakes up and sees him, he gets so furious he passes out again. Huo Qilin just stopped coming around.

From the butler’s words, Huo Qilin finally grasped the significance of six percent of the shares.

But it was already too late. No matter how much Huo Qilin wanted to make amends, there was no opportunity.

His parents just contacted him, but they’re not in the capital. Huo Qilin wanted to hear some comforting words, but in the end, he was met with a torrent of scolding, telling him to take care of his grandfather, and then there was no more news.

In the chilly, old Huo family mansion, Huo Qilin realized for the first time that without Huo Qing’s backing, he was nothing.

His parents only liked him because his grandfather did, and he had the chance to get his hands on the Huo family's countless wealth. But Huo Qilin's false dream was shattered. The so-called wealth was just crumbs from Huo Zong’s table.

His grandfather fainted just because he lost six percent of the shares. If he could take over Huo Corporation, wouldn’t he be in a much better position?

The seven million had been set aside by Huo Qing long ago. As soon as Jiang Fengqiu arrived, the butler handed him the card. The butler didn’t say a word, but his eyes held a hint of disdain.

Damn it.

Even the butler dares to sneer at him. Why? Isn’t he just a lackey of the Huo family? How dare he give him that look.

"Huo Qilin, people are like this. If you had a bit more backbone, you wouldn’t be in this mess. I know how to push around the weak, can’t you do the same?"

Huo Qilin glanced at Jiang Fengqiu. He now knew who the weak one was.

"Jiang Fengqiu, we’re all in the same boat. No one should look down on anyone else. Can you honestly say you don’t have an agenda and truly respect Jiang Fengmian? Can you say you’re not jealous of him?"

"Even a fool like him can get Huo Zong’s affection. You must be green with envy. But maybe you’re used to it, living in his shadow since childhood, so it’s whatever now."

In a way, they are the same kind of people, both overshadowed by someone else's brilliance. Without getting rid of that person, they’ll never be able to hold their heads high.

"Jiang Fengqiu, you know better than me what should be done."

"He’s always with Huo Zong, so there’s no chance to make a move."

Jiang Fengqiu was afraid that the incident from three years ago would be exposed. Only the dead can keep secrets.

"I’ll think of a way. You just need to cooperate with me."

Huo Qilin clenched his fist and slammed it against the wall. Huo Zong, you’ve driven me to this.

***

[Huo Zong: .]

[Su Yanchu: What are you up to now? The ghost skull tattoo thing still needs some time. Don’t mess with me.]

[Huo Zong: It’s not that. You have experience. I want to ask how to pursue someone.]

[Su Yanchu: Huh???]

[Su Yanchu: Are you crazy? Are you giving up on your little one? Who are you pursuing?]

[Huo Zong: Get lost.]

[Huo Zong: I just want to pursue him. I haven’t officially confessed to him yet. I read online that you need to take it step by step, pursue first, then confess.]

[Su Yanchu: No, what were you two doing before? All that clingy stuff. I thought you were already together. You were quite good at showing off your affection. You haven’t officially confessed? That’s rare.]

[Huo Zong: I don’t know either. We didn’t say anything. It just happened naturally.]

[Su Yanchu: Huo Zong, you can’t bully your little one just because he doesn’t understand things. As I’ve said before, his circumstances are unique, and you must not break the law.]

[Huo Zong: He’s doing better. Dr. Wu checked him and said it’s a heart condition. After living with me for so long, he’s improved a lot.]

[Su Yanchu: Oh, that’s good then.]

[Huo Zong: So, how do you usually chase someone?]

[Su Yanchu: What’s wrong with you? Don’t you have other friends to pester? Why are you asking me everything? Don’t you know they’re only around me for the money?]

[Huo Zong: ...]

Su Yanchu was speechless. Huo Zong really didn’t have any friends and could only bug him.

[Su Yanchu: Just the usual three tricks: sweet talk, splurging, and one-on-one time.]

[Su Yanchu: I usually just throw money at it. I’m rich, can’t be bothered with sweet talk, and can’t be bothered to go out for one-on-one time. Your little one probably needs emotional value, so when you’re not busy, go out on a date, catch a movie, and then end up at a hotel.]

[Huo Zong: Get out of here, what hotel?]

[Su Yanchu: Fine, I’ll get lost. I’m done with you.]

After the cultural tourism bureau’s project ended, the project team all went on vacation, even the ever-diligent Chen Chen took off. Huo Zong tapped on the desk, thinking maybe he should skip work too.

Huo Zong’s gaze shifted to Jiang Fengmian, who was sprawled on the sofa doodling. He coughed lightly and whispered, "Hey kitty, wanna go out and have some fun?"

"Sure, sure, what should we play?"

"Just, you know, whatever."

Huo Zong was a pretty boring guy. Following online guides, he took Jiang Fengmian to one of his properties.

On the lush green lawn, Jiang Fengmian ran freely, the air felt liberating.

Birds circled overhead, and as Jiang Fengmian blinked, Huo Zong somehow managed to pull out a huge kite.

The little kitty tilted his head with Huo Zong’s movements, and in an instant, Huo Zong handed the kite to Jiang Fengmian.

"Kitty, I have a marker here. Do you want to draw something?"

There was a large blank space on the kite. Jiang Fengmian carefully sketched a stick figure that looked like Huo Zong, with the words "Jiang Fengmian’s exclusive" written on it.

"Brother, let’s get it up in the air together."

Huo Zong lifted the kite and ran against the wind with it. Jiang Fengmian held the kite string tight, and in the strong wind, the kite slowly rose.

"Wow, brother, it’s up, it’s up!" Jiang Fengmian held the string, bouncing with excitement. "It’s all your doing, thank you, brother."

Huo Zong’s cheek was lightly kissed. He coughed and acted like it was no big deal, but in reality, he was grinning from ear to ear.

"Meow meow."

"Kitty, was that you?"

Huo Zong thought he was hearing things, the wind seemed to carry a kitten’s meow, thinking Jiang Fengmian was teasing him again.

"No, it seems like a real kitten."

Huo Zong helped reel in the kite string and followed the sound. In a patch of grass, Jiang Fengmian found a plump little tabby cat.

"What an adorable little kitten, come here, come here."

The kitten meowed and purred, rubbing against Jiang Fengmian's fingertips. His heart melted, and he felt the urge to adopt it.

"Brother, your kitten also wants to have a cat, is that okay?"

Huo Zong is quite germaphobic. If they were to bring the cat home, it would need to be meticulously cleaned to ensure he doesn't feel uncomfortable.

"Sure, if you like it, we can keep it."

Jiang Fengmian was quite taken with the idea. He stroked the round belly of the little tabby, which was clean and seemed well-cared for.

"Mr. Huo, you've arrived."

Jiang Fengmian looked up and saw an unfamiliar man, probably someone who worked at the estate.

His gaze lingered on Jiang Fengmian's hand, and after a moment, Jiang Fengmian realized he was looking at the little tabby cat.

"Yes, this is Jiang Fengmian, you can address him as Young sir."

"Jiang Fengmian, this is Zhao Xin, he and a few others manage the estate."

Jiang Fengmian nodded, cradling the affectionate kitten in his arms, "Hello, is this cat yours?"

"My grandson raised it; its name is Little Tiger. I usually take care of it, and he comes over on weekends. Young sir, if you like it, you're welcome to take it."

Jiang Fengmian shook his head emphatically, placing Little Tiger on the ground. The kitten immediately ran to Zhao Xin's feet, rubbing against him.

"That wouldn't be right. I just think Little Tiger is adorable; petting it is enough. If the child found out I took it, he would surely be heartbroken."

Jiang Fengmian was also a bit worried he couldn't properly care for the animal, so just petting and admiring it was enough.

"Alright, Mr. Huo, the horse you requested is ready. We specifically chose a gentle one."

"Kitty, let's go for a horseback ride."

In front of the chestnut horse, Jiang Fengmian timidly hid behind Huo Zong, only daring to peek out, using Huo Zong as a shield to gaze at the 'giant' before him.

"Kitty, don't be scared, touch it. Its name is Lie Feng."

Huo Zong knew the name of every horse here. He used to come here to ride when work stress was overwhelming.

"Lie Feng, hi there."

Huo Zong guided Jiang Fengmian's hand to touch Lie Feng's head. The horse also lowered its head, allowing Jiang Fengmian to stroke it, occasionally flicking its tail in response.

"Kitty, want to try riding it?"

"Sure, but I'm too scared to do it alone."

Jiang Fengmian clung to Huo Zong's wrist. Horseback riding was clearly outside his comfort zone.

"Hmm, I remember Jiang Fengmian even participated in formal equestrian competitions. Kitty, are you scared?"

Extremely nervous, Jiang Fengmian didn't notice anything odd about Huo Zong's statement, just kept nodding. Clearly, in Huo Zong's words, Jiang Fengmian and his kitten were two different people.

"I'll hold you."

Huo Zong lifted Jiang Fengmian onto the horse, grabbed the saddle, and in Jiang Fengmian's surprised eyes, mounted the horse with a flair as if he were on a wire.

The wind whistled past their ears, Huo Zong's arm was wrapped around Jiang Fengmian's waist as he held the reins, and they galloped freely across the open field.

"Jiang Fengmian."

Huo Zong shouted Jiang Fengmian's name loudly, the echo reverberated through the canyon, lingering.

"Huo Zong, I can ride a horse too."

After several laps, Huo Zong stopped by a gurgling stream.

Lie Feng, their horse, grazed nearby, while Jiang Fengmian and Huo Zong sat on the rocks by the lake, watching the distant sunset.

The orange-red evening glow spread across the sky. Jiang Fengmian stretched lazily, like a cat, tapping Huo Zong's chest and whispering, "Brother, please don’t surprise me with a cat anymore. I already have a handsome big wolf. I don't need anything else."

"How did you figure that out?"

Huo Zong's idea had just begun to form, but Jiang Fengmian's few words nipped it in the bud before he could even decide what kind of cat to give him.

"Because I know you inside and out. You only need one cat—me."

"Brother, I've thought about it carefully. I probably can’t take good care of a small animal. I still need you to take care of me. Pets need a lot of love; they can’t just be raised casually."

Jiang Fengmian gave all his attention to Huo Zong, as if he couldn't spare any more thoughts or space for any other animal.

"Alright, then we won't get one. I’ll just take care of this little cat in my arms."

"Brother, I originally wanted you to call me a puppy. It sounds a bit more tough than a kitten."

Huo Zong gently pinched Jiang Fengmian's pouting lips and couldn't help but kiss them.

"Puppy, I can call you that too. After all, my Jiang Fengmian is a little cat-dog. I can call you anything."

The evening glow reflected on the shimmering lake. Jiang Fengmian sat astride Huo Zong, cupping his face and kissing him.

"Brother, why did you suddenly think of bringing me here to play?"

"It's what I read online. To pursue someone, you should start by taking them out to have fun."

Huo Zong hooked Jiang Fengmian's chin and said seriously, "Silly kitten, because I’m trying to win you over."