Chapter 120: The Married Beta is Kidnapped (Chasing Wife 2.0)

Chapter 120 The Married Beta Gets Kidnapped (Wife-Chasing 2.0)

At this moment, an airplane flew through the night sky of Miluoti.

Bai Yu and Viper were on the plane, preparing to head to the capital of Country Y, Moliche.

Bai Li had wanted to personally escort Bai Yu to Country Y, but he refused.

Although Bai Li had taken over the assassination organization, she was still a student and needed to finish school and learn more to fully control the organization.

Additionally, it was also to avoid raising suspicion from Country S's intelligence department.

As long as Bai Li went to school as usual, no one would suspect that a student studying in the high school department was the leader of that international assassination organization.

After considering it, Bai Li had Viper escort him to take the next available flight.

Six hours later, the plane landed.

After Bai Yu and Viper exited the airport, they took a taxi to St. John's Cathedral.

He called Song Huaiqian and set up a meeting at a restaurant near the cathedral.

At this moment, the only person he could think of was Song Huaiqian.

In Bai Yu's heart, Song Huaiqian had always been like a lighthouse, guiding him in both his music and his life path.

Now, the child in Bai Yu's belly had become a problem.

Ending a life just like that seemed pretty cruel.

But the father of this child was Situ Jing, who was already engaged to Ruan Yuntang.

Bai Yu neither wanted Situ Jing and Ruan Yuntang to know about this, nor did he want the child to grow up in a single-parent family, only to be told later that the elegant and arrogant man on the financial news was his father.

He wanted to tell Song Huaiqian about this and hear his opinion.

At this time, it was the morning rush hour in Country Y, and the roads were crowded with traffic. The taxi moved very slowly.

Somehow, Bai Yu felt a dull, aching pain in his abdomen.

Perhaps it was due to the all-night travel and not taking his medicine.

Bai Yu placed his hand on his lower abdomen, feeling the presence of the child, and suddenly realized that he wanted to keep it.

Viper observed Bai Yu's increasingly pale complexion and couldn't help but remind him, "Do you want to go to the hospital first?"

Bai Yu shook his head, "I'm fine."

Viper said nothing more and turned to look at the traffic outside the window, occasionally glancing at the driver in the front.

The sunlight reflected on his young, thin face, giving him a somewhat casual and unruly expression.

Bai Yu had spent time with Viper for over a month and always felt he was like a shadow. He spoke very little, was dangerous, yet very loyal, and it was hard to guess what he was thinking.

Bai Yu looked at Viper, "Are your family members still around?"

Viper turned to glance at him and said calmly, "No."

Bai Yu nodded. Just when he thought Viper wouldn’t say anything more, he heard him speak softly.

"My father was a chronic alcoholic. One winter night, he got drunk, fell into a river, and drowned. My mother suffered a serious illness and needed surgery, but we had no money. Later, I met Qiao. By the time I earned my first payment and rushed back, she had already passed away."

"I’m still grateful to Qiao. He said you would see a lot of ugliness in this world, but there are also some things worth pursuing."

A trace of surprise flickered in Bai Yu’s eyes, and he couldn’t help but turn to look at Viper again.

Hearing good things said about Qiao Yihan from an assassin was both strange and rare.

Viper rested his head on his hand, his elbow against the car window, "There’s no denying he was a very crazy person. Many assassins followed him precisely because of that."

"If he knew you were pregnant with Situ Jing’s child, he would definitely go crazy, come for you soon, force you to take abortion pills, and then grind the fetus into mincemeat in a meat grinder to send to Situ Jing."

Viper’s description was apt—Qiao Yihan would indeed do something like that.

Just the thought of it sent a chill down Bai Yu’s spine.

Viper spoke again, "His not showing up proves he’s really dead."

The driver in the front seat glanced, surprised, into the rearview mirror, as if he understood what they were saying.

Bai Yu changed the subject to something lighter, "Once we get to St. John's, you can leave. If you want to stay and sightsee for a few days, I can ask Bai Li to arrange some time off for you."

"No need," Viper said meaningfully, looking at Bai Yu. "Actually, I’d prefer if you took over as the leader. That’s what Qiao would have wanted."

"Never."

Viper sighed, "Alright. Then I hope you won’t get entangled with Situ Jing again."

Bai Yu said firmly, "Absolutely not."

When they got out of the car, the dull pain in Bai Yu’s abdomen had faded, as if it had returned to normal.

Viper walked Bai Yu to the entrance of the designated restaurant before turning and leaving.

The restaurant was playing blues music, with two or three tables of people chatting over coffee. Song Huaiqian hadn’t arrived yet.

Bai Yu sat and rested for a while before seeing Song Huaiqian hurried in.

Song Huaiqian’s face was still cold and solemn, his features as deep as a Greek sculpture. A silver cross necklace hung around his neck, and he wore an exquisite and magnificent red bishop’s robe that stood out noticeably.

The customers in the restaurant greeted him upon seeing him, their eyes filled with reverence and admiration.

"Bishop Capet."

"Hello."

After greeting those around him, Song Huaiqian looked up, spotted Bai Yu, and walked straight toward him.

As he sat down, the scent of benzoin wafted over.

"You said you wanted to discuss something with me?"

"Yes..." Bai Yu suddenly felt a warm liquid seep through his pants, and his face instantly turned pale.

This definitely wasn’t diarrhea—it was blood.

Seeing Bai Yu’s unusual expression, Song Huaiqian asked, "Are you alright?"

"Wait for me a moment. I need to use the restroom."

Bai Yu hurriedly stood up, asked a waiter where the restroom was, and stumbled toward the back.

Since he was wearing black trousers and a coat, the bloodstains were not immediately visible.

Song Huaiqian clearly noticed that something was wrong with Bai Yu and followed him into the restroom, to the stall.

"Bai Yu, are you alright?"

There was no response from inside the stall. Song Huaiqian became more worried and knocked urgently on the door, bang, bang, bang.

"Bai Yu?"

"Bai Yu, are you in there?!"

"Bai Yu, open the door!"

...

The moment Song Huaiqian forced the door open, he saw a large pool of blood on the floor of the stall, and the toilet was also filled with blood.

Bai Yu, pale and in tears, was holding a small bloody mass in his hands—an undeveloped fetus.

He had miscarried.

"There's no need to discuss anything now."

Song Huaiqian didn't need to think twice to know whose child Bai Yu had been carrying.

Amid this shocking scene, the broken expression and pain in Bai Yu's eyes were profound and tragically beautiful.

Song Huaiqian immediately covered Bai Yu's eyes. "Don't look."

Bai Yu felt his hands empty as Song Huaiqian took it away.

Then, Song Huaiqian took off his own robe, draped it over Bai Yu, picked him up, and said, "You're still bleeding; we must go to the hospital."

Bai Yu looked at the blood-filled toilet. "Did you throw it away?"

Song Huaiqian frowned. "No, I will take care of it properly and send it to heaven."

After arriving at the hospital, Song Huaiqian explained the situation to the emergency doctor. The doctor looked at Bai Yu in surprise and immediately took him into the treatment room.

Song Huaiqian went to the restroom to wash the blood off his hands, but the stains on his clothes couldn't be cleaned. He could only return to the waiting room outside the treatment room.

A television screen in the waiting room was broadcasting world news.

Hearing news about Country C, Song Huaiqian glanced up and saw a familiar face.

"Chairman of Hengyu Group and Patriarch of the Situ Family, Situ Jing, has called off his engagement with Ruan Yuntang. The two had just gotten engaged last month, with both families announcing that the wedding was imminent. However, a recent public statement from the Situ Family stated that Situ Jing and Ruan Yuntang have canceled their marriage plans due to personal reasons. Ruan Yuntang responded online, saying that Situ Jing has a lover he deeply cares for..."

Song Huaiqian's brow furrowed, and he clenched his jaw.

Half an hour later, the doctor finished stopping Bai Yu's bleeding and wheeled him out of the treatment room.

The doctor wanted Bai Yu to stay in the hospital for observation for a few days, but Song Huaiqian took him away.

On the way back, Bai Yu woke up and found himself in a car, with Song Huaiqian in the driver's seat.

"Where are we going?"

"Your body is weak. The doctor said you should stay in the hospital for observation, but I'm not comfortable leaving you alone in the hospital. How about staying at the Papacy for now?"

St. John's Papacy is a religious complex consisting of a central cathedral and many surrounding churches and courtyards, covering a large area.

As the archbishop, Song Huaiqian has his own separate residence within the Papacy, which he uses for official business and as his living quarters.

Bai Yu nodded. "Okay."

After arriving at the Papacy, Song Huaiqian took Bai Yu inside. They walked along the main path for a while, then turned right and entered a tall building with stained glass windows.

On the first floor, there was a statue of the Virgin Mary in the sanctuary, along with a few chairs and tables, on which some books and documents were placed.

Song Huaiqian said, "This is where I usually work. My living quarters are on the third floor and above."

Bai Yu followed Song Huaiqian upstairs. Upon reaching the third floor, Song Huaiqian opened the door to the second room, and the scent of benzoin drifted out.

The furniture in the room was still primarily white and blue. A wooden table held a family photo and a vintage record player, and sheet music lay on the sofa.

"This is the living room. The rooms on both sides are connected."

Song Huaiqian led Bai Yu to the left side of the living room and opened the door, revealing a kitchen with a stove. There were lemon trees on the balcony, while the right side was the bedroom.

"For now, you can sleep here."

Bai Yu asked, "What about you?"

Song Huaiqian pointed upstairs. "I can sleep in the attic."

Bai Yu looked at Song Huaiqian, his fingers curling slightly. "Am I causing you trouble?"

Song Huaiqian's expression was intense. He reached out and gently stroked Bai Yu's face. "No, I'm glad you haven't forgotten me."

He had listened to Bai Yu's album titled "Enosh," and one of the songs, "Beach," gave him the sense that Bai Yu had infused it with an emotion he had never expressed before in his music.

While he was happy about Bai Yu's musical breakthrough, he also felt a pang of sadness, thinking that perhaps Bai Yu had developed feelings for Situ Jing.

If the demon in his heart received no response, this unrequited affection would gradually disappear from his life.

He would become a true saint.

But now, Bai Yu had come back to him.

And in such a fragile, broken, and bloodied state, presented before him.

Song Huaiqian felt regret. If he had decisively taken Bai Yu away when they met at the church back then,

would he have spared him this pain?

Bai Yu's clear, catlike eyes shone as he gazed at Song Huaiqian. "How could I ever forget you?"

No matter what, Song Huaiqian was his savior—the one who had saved him from the icy lake and prayed for him as a priest.

Yet, these words made Song Huaiqian's heart skip a beat, and his breath caught. "Go rest in the room first. I'll make you something to eat."

"Okay." Bai Yu went obediently into the bedroom and lay down on the bed.

Song Huaiqian brought him a glass of warm water, then went to the kitchen, put on an apron, and began making millet porridge.

Bai Yu, smelling the scent of Song Huaiqian on the bedsheets and the gradually growing aroma of millet porridge from the kitchen, relaxed both physically and mentally. It felt like returning to a familiar nest, and he peacefully fell asleep.

After Song Huaiqian finished cooking the porridge, he waited a while before waking Bai Yu.

After the two finished their meal, Song Huaiqian watched Bai Yu take his medicine, then cleared the dishes and went to the kitchen to wash them.

The man had rolled up the sleeves of his shirt halfway, revealing his sturdy forearms, while the apron straps accentuated his firm and lean waist.

As he bent slightly, the light-gray casual trousers revealed the excellent curve of his hips and legs.

Bai Yu stood at the kitchen door, watching Song Huaiqian rinse the dishes, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Should I wash the dishes, Professor?"

Song Huaiqian glanced at Bai Yu. "Still calling me Professor?"

Bai Yu pressed his lips together and said softly, "Huaiqian."

Song Huaiqian replied gently, "You're a patient and should avoid water. Go rest."

Bai Yu nodded slightly. "All right."

Returning to the bedroom, Bai Yu lay down on the bed and fell asleep quickly again.

He couldn't help but wonder if there was some special quality about Song Huaiqian's place that made people fall asleep so easily.

Song Huaiqian removed his apron and entered the bedroom. Seeing Bai Yu asleep, he knelt quietly by the bed, gazing at him with a mix of fascination and heartache.

Bai Yu's face was very pale, his eyelashes slightly fluttering, his lips tightly closed, and his body curled up like a small animal.

Song Huaiqian gently stroked Bai Yu's cheek and neck, whispering hoarsely, "You are still my forbidden desire, the embodiment of my desire."

That night, Bai Yu felt a mosquito bite his neck, causing an itch, so he turned over in his sleep.

The next morning, Song Huaiqian was in the kitchen making breakfast.

Bai Yu opened his eyes and smelled the aroma of food. He got out of bed and walked to the living room.

Song Huaiqian brought waffles to the table and said to Bai Yu, "I need to go out today."

"Y Country has been experiencing seasonal influenza lately. Your immune system is compromised, and you've lost a lot of blood, so stay here to recuperate and don't go out."

Bai Yu took a bite of the waffle and nodded obediently. "I haven't finished revising my thesis. Can I borrow your computer later?"

"Sure." Song Huaiqian suddenly remembered something and added, "The internet signal here isn't great. I've already scheduled a repair, but it'll take a few days. You'll have to work without internet access to revise your thesis."

"Understood."

After breakfast, Song Huaiqian left.

Bai Yu stayed in the bishop's residence, using Song Huaiqian's computer to revise his thesis.

Occasionally, when Bai Yu touched his flat stomach, he felt a sense of melancholy.

Perhaps the child knew he wasn't ready to be a parent, so it left quickly.

At noon, Song Huaiqian returned to the bishop's residence and gave Bai Yu an identification tag.

Bai Yu examined the tag. "What is this?"

Song Huaiqian paused. "It's the plot identification number for the child, in the cemetery next to the church. The name is 'Little Angel Who Briefly Visited This World.' He's fine. You don't need to worry about him anymore."

Bai Yu held the marker tightly in his hand. "Okay."

For the next week, Bai Yu stayed in the bishop's residence to recuperate and never went out.

During mealtimes, Song Huaiqian would come upstairs to cook for him, watch him take his medicine, and clean up before leaving.

Although the internet was unstable, Song Huaiqian had many books and records, and there were plenty of games on the computer, so it wasn't boring.

In the evenings, Bai Yu and Song Huaiqian would listen to records together, discussing music and Bai Yu's thesis.

Once, Bai Yu felt the living room was stifling and opened the window.

When Song Huaiqian saw this, his expression suddenly turned very serious, and he immediately got up to close the window.

"You shouldn't be in drafts. Better not open it."

Bai Yu thought Song Huaiqian was just concerned about him and didn't think too much. Closing the window was fine, since there was AC.

However, when Song Huaiqian closed the window, he saw Situ Jing's figure on the street below.

Situ Jing had been in Y Country for several days, personally leading the search for Bai Yu. He had even humbled himself and arranged a meeting with Song Huaiqian.

If Situ Jing had been willing to address the grudges from their youth involving Yo-Yos and Piano Competitions, Song Huaiqian might have shown some consideration and kindly told him, "Bai Yu isn't here, but he hasn't graduated yet. He'll return at the end of July for his thesis defense."

But whether Bai Yu would return alone or arm in arm with Song Huaiqian remained unknown.

When Situ Jing met Song Huaiqian, he got straight to the point. "You should know that a bishop must remain celibate. If you're hiding a lover, your supposed halo of sanctity will be destroyed, along with the Capet family interests behind you."

Naturally, Song Huaiqian didn't give Situ Jing a friendly look either. "It's unusual. You came all the way to Y Country for one person to confront me like this."

"Did Bai Yu leave you? That's an outcome I expected. The Situ family are like that—cold, arrogant, full of themselves, and dismissive."

Situ Jing scrutinized Song Huaiqian. "I just want to know if he's here."

Song Huaiqian raised an eyebrow. "If you think he's here, go ahead and search. If you find him, I'll concede."

Situ Jing didn't believe Song Huaiqian, but as a member of the Situ family, he was also a believer.

The rules of St. John's Papacy were strict, and ordinary believers were not allowed into important buildings within the church. He couldn't enter the bishop's residence to search.

Religious faith was Song Huaiqian's domain, a tough nut that Situ Jing couldn't break through.

Situ Jing could only observe from outside to see if Bai Yu was there.

Song Huaiqian, without expression, closed the window, lit incense, and continued discussing music with Bai Yu.

A month later, Situ Jing no longer appeared near the church, though his people were still searching the perimeter.

Bai Yu remained unaware of the activity outside, feeling that this was a perfect place to recuperate.

When he was with Song Huaiqian, he didn't need to think too much; his heart felt peaceful.

Song Huaiqian cooked and cleaned every day, and Bai Yu barely had to lift a finger.

When Bai Yu's hair grew long and needed trimming, Song Huaiqian would trim it for him.

If he needed more pants, Song Huaiqian would go to the supermarket to buy appropriate ones.

Bai Yu had little doubt that if he were incapacitated, Song Huaiqian would even help him wash.

Bai Yu asked himself what he'd done to deserve a teacher and friend like Song Huaiqian.

Amid such meticulous care, his physical wounds and emotional pain gradually healed.

It was now mid-June.

The internet at Song Huaiqian’s house was finally fixed. Although Bai Yu felt the repair speed was unusually slow, he didn't feel right saying anything.

Bai Yu completed the supporting arguments and references in his thesis, then sent it to his professor.

By the end of July at the latest, Bai Yu would have to return to Country C for his defense.

By then, when he returned to Yunjing, if he were to encounter Situ Jing again, perhaps he would feel calm—but it would still be better if they didn’t meet.

Given that mad dog's lustful nature, Ruan Yuntang might already be pregnant.

Thinking of them, Bai Yu felt no emotional reaction, as if everything had passed.

*

A few days later, the professor sent the feedback on his thesis to Bai Yu.

After making the required revisions, Bai Yu stood up and stretched, when he heard something fall to the floor upstairs.

Song Huaiqian wasn’t home—was there a mouse in the attic?

Bai Yu walked out of the living room and went up the attic stairs, only to find the door locked and unable to open.

He pressed up to the door, looking through the crack, and saw a human plaster statue had fallen to the floor.

When they were in Country C, Song Huaiqian had a studio at home, so it wasn’t strange to have plaster statues.

But from a distance, the head of that plaster statue looked like... like... himself?!

Bai Yu widened his eyes, looking closely—the more he looked, the more it resembled him.

If Song Huaiqian wanted to make a plaster statue of him, all he had to do was ask—Bai Yu would have been willing to be his model.

But Song Huaiqian had said nothing and secretly created his plaster statue.

Why?

Bai Yu remained pressed against the door, continuing to look through the crack. Through the mirror by the wall, he could see several other plaster statues in the room.

He suddenly felt compelled to see what else Song Huaiqian had sculpted.

Song Huaiqian had mentioned that the spare keys were kept under the doormat at the entrance.

Bai Yu had never left the house, so he hadn’t needed them before.

He went downstairs, retrieved a set of keys from under the doormat, went back up, found the small key that matched the lock, and clumsily fumbled the key into the lock.

The attic door opened.

Bai Yu saw that all the plaster statues in the room were of him!

Some half-naked, others clothed, smiling, sleeping...

Under the pillow on the small bed nearby were a few scattered photos. Bai Yu walked over and picked them up—all of them were of him.

He lifted the pillow and found even more photos underneath: pictures of him at events, magazine covers, tour performances, and recent sneaky photos of him sleeping.

The attic was quiet. As Bai Yu looked through the photos, he could hear his own heart racing.

Even the most fervent fans wouldn’t go this far as Song Huaiqian.

What exactly was Song Huaiqian trying to do?

That day, Song Huaiqian attended a papal meeting and returned very late.

As soon as he entered, he saw Bai Yu sitting on the sofa—not greeting him with his usual cheerfulness, nor volunteering to help with the vegetables in the kitchen.

*

Song Huaiqian could tell something was wrong from Bai Yu’s expression. He walked over, knelt down in front of him, and asked, “What’s wrong?”

Bai Yu took a deep breath, placed his hands on his knees, and said honestly, “I went up to your attic.”

Song Huaiqian didn’t seem surprised and replied gently, “I knew you would discover it one day. And I hoped you would.”

Bai Yu frowned, puzzled. “What exactly are you trying to do?”

Song Huaiqian gazed at him. “Do you remember when we were in Yunjing, I said I’d fallen in love with someone? Our relationship is complicated—he still doesn’t know I love him.”

The night was silent. Bai Yu looked at Song Huaiqian in disbelief, considering an improbable possibility.

Song Huaiqian took Bai Yu’s hand, looked up at him with devoted eyes, and said, “That person is you.”

Bai Yu was stunned by the sudden confession, rooted to the spot.

“I…”

“You…”

Was it possible that many of the things Song Huaiqian had done for him weren’t because he cared about his student, but because he liked him and treated him differently?

Bai Yu recalled past details—mending clothes, drinking coffee and discussing music together, even inviting him home to listen to vinyl records…

Everything now took on new significance.

Bai Yu gathered his thoughts a bit and spoke again, “You were formerly a university professor, and now you’re a respected Archbishop. I don’t want to hinder your career.”

Song Huaiqian said calmly, “That’s not an issue. I can leave the Church for you.”

Bai Yu’s eyelashes trembled; he was too stunned to form words, his mind in chaos.

After a moment, Bai Yu lowered his head, gently pulled his hand away from Song Huaiqian’s, and said softly, “I’m not ready for a new relationship yet.”

“It’s okay. If you don’t want to start, I won’t force you.”

Song Huaiqian gave a gentle smile at Bai Yu, then headed to the kitchen to cook.

After dinner, Bai Yu and Song Huaiqian listened to records as they usually did, then went to their respective rooms.

As though the conversation never occurred.

At midnight, Bai Yu tossed and turned restlessly, going over and over Song Huaiqian’s confession.

Finally, Bai Yu slipped quietly out of bed, changed his clothes, gathered his belongings, left the room, and headed downstairs.

“Snap.”

The light on the staircase suddenly came on.

Bai Yu was startled and turned to look up. Song Huaiqian appeared, his white linen shirt hurriedly unbuttoned, a silver cross gleaming around his neck, and his powerful, sculpted pectorals revealed.

Song Huaiqian gazed down at Bai Yu and asked softly, "Are you leaving?"

Bai Yu turned his face away, saying hesitantly, "I'm better now and don't want to trouble you anymore."

Song Huaiqian walked down the stairs and said in a gentle tone, "If my words put you ill at ease, I apologize. But it’s very late now, and I worry about you being out alone. Could you stay?"

He had a dignified, profound face and carried an ascetic, divine aura that made him inherently trustworthy. His gentle tone made it hard for anyone to refuse.

Seeing Bai Yu remain silent, Song Huaiqian took two steps closer. "In a few days, I’ll personally take you back to Country C, alright?"

Bai Yu tightened his grip on his backpack strap. "No need, I can take care of myself. Thank you for taking care of me all this time."

After saying this, Bai Yu bowed deeply to Song Huaiqian, then pushed the door open and walked out.

Song Huaiqian watched Bai Yu leave, sighed, and rubbed his forehead.

When Bai Yu was at his most lost and helpless, he had chosen to come to him, showing him trust.

During this time, that trust had only grown stronger.

Perhaps the timing wasn’t right. Revealing his feelings so abruptly had only pushed Bai Yu away.

Situ Jing’s people should have pulled back, but if Bai Yu returned to Country C, would he still be entangled with Situ Jing?

*

The night breeze outside carried a slight chill.

Bai Yu checked the airport flights, planning to return to Country C first, stay in Nan Gang City for a while, and then go to Yun Jing for his graduation defense.

However, all flights to Country C were canceled that day due to bad weather.

Bai Yu left St. John's Papacy and planned to find a hotel to stay in until the next day’s flight.

Just then, he heard footsteps behind him.

He initially thought it was Song Huaiqian coming after him to ask him to return, but when he turned around, he saw a stranger.

The stranger, noticing Bai Yu had stopped, immediately turned and pretended to smoke by the wall.

Bai Yu grew alert and began observing his surroundings as he walked.

Soon, he noticed people to his left and diagonally ahead—all strong, muscular alphas.

There were no bustling nightlife spots around St. John's Papacy, so these people had to be here for a reason.

In an instant, Bai Yu’s heart raced.

Aside from Qiao Yihan, he had no enemies. Now that Qiao Yihan was dead, there was only one possibility left.

These people were sent by Situ Long or Ruan Yuntang, aiming to eliminate him to avoid future trouble.

If that were the case, would there be even more people waiting at the airport?

Even though their relationship had ended, the shadow and fear brought by that man and his world still loomed over Bai Yu.

Everything that happened in Yun Jing, the child he lost, resurfaced in his mind.

The night street was eerily quiet, with only the sound of Bai Yu’s rapid breathing and footsteps echoing.

The people behind him were quickly closing in, no longer pretending, all rushing toward him.

What should he do?

Viper had already left; there was no one from the assassination organization here.

He didn't speak the language of Country Y, only a few broken phrases of English. Calling the police would be useless.

Bai Yu had no choice but to return to St. John's Papacy, following the winding path back to Song Huaiqian’s bishop’s residence.

"Bang, bang, bang."

Song Huaiqian came downstairs and opened the door, surprised to see Bai Yu back so soon after leaving.

His hair was disheveled, he was panting heavily, and he looked around nervously. "I’m sorry, it’s really dangerous outside. Someone’s trying to kill me. Can I stay with you?"

Song Huaiqian immediately pulled Bai Yu inside and closed the door. "Go to the attic."

They went upstairs together, Song Huaiqian holding Bai Yu’s hand, feeling him tremble.

"Don’t worry, just stay up here. Leave the rest to me."

Bai Yu entered the attic, and Song Huaiqian closed the door behind him.

The room was pitch black, filled with plaster statues and photographs of Song Huaiqian.

It was an odd sensation—he was in Song Huaiqian’s most secret place, where his hidden love and desire were laid bare.

Anyone else would have found it creepy.

But Bai Yu wasn’t worried that Song Huaiqian would do anything to him.

Light seeped through the cracks in the attic floor from downstairs. Someone had indeed entered, but unlike his pursuers, it was likely someone from the church.

Bai Yu sat quietly on the edge of the bed, holding his breath and listening to the muffled voices below.

Before long, Song Huaiqian opened the door again. His tall figure cast a long shadow on the floor from the outside light, but it felt neither threatening nor oppressive.

"They’re gone."

Bai Yu looked up slowly. "Okay."

Song Huaiqian could see Bai Yu was still frightened. He walked over, knelt before him, and gently stroked his cheek. "It’s alright, I’m here."

Bai Yu met Song Huaiqian’s gaze but quickly looked down, his eyes falling on the silver cross hanging from Song Huaiqian’s chest.

"I didn’t expect them to follow me to the church. Now that they know I’m hiding here, could this put you in danger? If they expose your 'affair,' your position in the church will be at risk."

Song Huaiqian held Bai Yu’s hand and said calmly, "Those are minor issues. You should rest now."

As Bai Yu watched Song Huaiqian stand up and walk toward the door, he suddenly felt he owed him a great deal.

Back in school, he had been carefully nurtured by Song Huaiqian, saved him from the icy lake, and had confided in him about his deepest pains.

Two years later, Bai Yu came to Country Y to find Song Huaiqian because he couldn’t handle the situation with the child on his own.

After the miscarriage, Song Huaiqian had taken care of him all this time, never asking for anything in return.

He had been basking in Song Huaiqian's warmth and care, yet upon learning of Song Huaiqian's feelings for him, he panicked and fled.

Now, being hunted, he once again sought refuge with Song Huaiqian.

Song Huaiqian, despite risking exposure and breaking church rules, took him in once more.

Thinking back, Song Huaiqian had already done far too much for him.

If he did not respond in some way, this behavior would be what people call... a scumbag.

This was unfair to Song Huaiqian.

Bai Yu felt guilty toward Song Huaiqian, who had done nothing wrong yet was repeatedly relied upon as a solution to his problems, like a lifeline.

Because of this guilt, a thought sprouted in Bai Yu's heart: could he perhaps accept Song Huaiqian?

To be fair, Song Huaiqian was a great guy—emotionally stable, highly responsible, born into an old-money family, with an outstanding resume, and Bai Yu's mentor in music creation.

Moreover, Song Huaiqian was a Beta; he did not bear the heavy familial responsibilities of an Alpha, had no need for children, and experienced no heat cycles.

The only issue was Song Huaiqian's identity as a bishop, but he had said that could be resolved.

Bai Yu clenched the hem of his clothes, gazing at Song Huaiqian's back as he walked away.

Since Situ Jing was already engaged and the child had miscarried, everything from the past should be completely behind them.

Why couldn't he start a new relationship?

One must always look forward; he couldn't shut himself off forever to new people.

"Wait!"

Bai Yu caught up to Song Huaiqian, wrapping his arms around his waist from behind, pressing his cheek against his broad back.

Song Huaiqian halted, his heart skipping a beat as he looked down at the hands suddenly encircling him.

Neither spoke.

Bai Yu trembled like a scared little animal, his warm breath coming through his shirt onto the man's skin.

"I want to forget everything about that person…"

Normally, Song Huaiqian would encourage Bai Yu to talk about what hurt him, listening quietly like before.

But this time, Song Huaiqian didn't respond.

Because he no longer wanted to be just a priest.

As Bai Yu's voice grew softer, "...Can I stay by your side forever, Huaiqian?"

Song Huaiqian unwrapped Bai Yu's arms from his waist and looked at him solemnly. "Are you sure?"

Bai Yu nodded. "Yes."

"Then I have one condition."

"What?"

"From now on, stop thinking about Situ Jing. I want you to be serious about us."

Hearing that name again, Bai Yu shuddered. "I won't think of him anymore, never."

Song Huaiqian knew that the three-year relationship, marked by a big difference in status, had left deep scars on Bai Yu—scars that wouldn't vanish overnight.

Occasionally, in his sleep, Bai Yu still murmured Situ Jing's name.

But as long as Bai Yu could take this step, he was already halfway to healing.

Song Huaiqian drew Bai Yu into his embrace, his voice husky. "I will strive to make you love me."

Their bodies close, Bai Yu leaned gently against the man's chest, breathing in the warm, saturated scent of benzoin. He closed his eyes and whispered, "Mm."

In that moment, Bai Yu no longer saw Song Huaiqian as a priest without desires or a mentor; he accepted the man's passionate, yearning side.

Subconsciously, Bai Yu felt a greater sense of security.

He was grateful that Song Huaiqian did not mind his attempt to use a new relationship to forget the past, nor did he demand immediate love.

If he could forget Situ Jing, cast aside those complicated feelings, perhaps he could start a new life easily.

*

The next day, Song Huaiqian learned from the Pope that someone had anonymously reported him for violating church doctrines.

The Pope merely shared it as a funny story, paying it no serious attention or disciplinary action.

After two days, the people lurking around the St. John's Papacy withdrew.

Song Huaiqian suspected that Situ Jing was secretly plotting something against him and that Bai Yu remaining in the St. John's Papacy was unsafe.

So, late at night, Song Huaiqian took Bai Yu to his house in the southern suburbs of Moriche.

Soon after, Song Huaiqian resigned as archbishop to the Pope and recommended a nephew from his family to take the position.

Among the high-ranking clergy of St. John's Papacy, Song Huaiqian was widely seen as a likely successor to the papacy, making his sudden resignation unexpected.

The Pope even summoned several bishops to perform an exorcism on him.

But Song Huaiqian stood firm in his decision and left the St. John's Papacy for good.

Changes in the clergy of St. John's Papacy required a one-month public notice, and news of Song Huaiqian's departure quickly spread.

Song Huaiqian had people keep tabs on Situ Jing's movements and learned that the Situ Family was holding a family ceremony, with Situ Jing remaining in Yunjing without any unusual activity. He then proceeded with his next plan.

He would take Bai Yu back to his family's ancestral home to meet his father and other relatives.

The Capet family was an ancient, big family, now numbering over a hundred members. Most lived in Moriche, with a few in southern Country Y.

Upon learning that most of the Capet family would be present for this meeting, Bai Yu grew nervous.

Song Huaiqian reassured him, "Don't worry, they're all eager to meet you."

The Capet family's ancestral home stood by an blue bay, its white walls and blue roofs scattered like an oil painting from afar.

After parking the car, Bai Yu followed Song Huaiqian into the estate. The spacious courtyard was filled with lemon trees, their fruits hanging low, smelling fresh.

Many people sat around tables chatting or playing cards.

Most were Alphas—some in suits, appearing like proper businessmen; others in plaid shirts and shorts, wearing flip-flops, utterly relaxed.

A handsome male Omega sat among the Alphas, watching them play cards, while several older Omegas nearby watched the children running about.

When people saw Song Huaiqian arrive with Bai Yu, they greeted the two of them warmly.

Although Bai Yu knew Song Huaiqian had many relatives, the scale of the gathering still left him stunned for a few seconds.

With Song Huaiqian guiding him, Bai Yu met his father and many enthusiastic family members whose names and titles escaped him.

Perhaps due to their long-term interactions with religious clergy, the members of the Capet family were all very humble and friendly.

Song Huaiqian’s father not only did not reject Bai Yu but also hoped he would join their big family.

During the meal, Song Huaiqian's father shared many stories about Song Huaiqian.

Although Bai Yu didn’t fully understand, he got the gist by watching his gestures and listening to Song Huaiqian’s translations.

Indeed, Song Huaiqian had been excellent since he was young—whether playing the piano, being a university professor, or serving as an archbishop, he excelled in everything, which was why every family member adored him.

Based on their trust in Song Huaiqian, the Capet family also thought highly of Bai Yu.

The atmosphere during the meal was relaxed, filled with laughter and cheerful conversations.

That night, Bai Yu and Song Huaiqian stayed at the old house, staying in Song Huaiqian’s old room.

After showering, Bai Yu came out in thin pajamas and noticed Song Huaiqian working on sheet music. Curious, he asked, “What is this?”

Song Huaiqian looked up with a smile and said, “I want to use my own composition for the wedding ceremony.”

“I see, let me take a look.”

Bai Yu’s damp hair fell across his forehead, water trickling down his fair cheeks as he leaned over to examine the score on the table.

Song Huaiqian stared at Bai Yu’s pale neck, his Adam’s apple bobbing slightly. “You should dry your hair first before looking.”

“Okay.”

Song Huaiqian got up to fetch the hairdryer and dried Bai Yu’s hair. “I’m going to take a shower. See if there’s anything you’d like to change about the score.”

Bai Yu hummed the melody while holding the score and sighed in admiration, “As expected of an experienced composer, you can effortlessly write a wedding march, flawless.”

He placed the score back in its original spot, then walked to the bed and sat down, glancing toward the bathroom door.

Previously, he had been staying at the house in the southern suburbs and had never slept in the same bed as Song Huaiqian.

Now that the two were together in the room, he suddenly felt a bit nervous.

But Song Huaiqian was no longer a clergyman; he had normal male desires.

Since he had agreed to be with him, this was an inevitable part of it.

Song Huaiqian emerged from the bathroom wearing a white wrap-style robe, a silver cross gleaming on his chest.

Noticing Bai Yu sitting on the edge of the bed scrolling through videos, he asked, “What do you think of the score?”

Bai Yu looked up at him and replied, “It’s really good.”

Song Huaiqian smiled, dried his hair, and joined him on the bed.

Bai Yu felt the mattress dip as the man gradually moved closer, gently wrapping his arms around him, his hot breath brushing against Bai Yu’s neck.

“Is this okay?”

Bai Yu's breath caught, his body went stiff. "I..."

Song Huaiqian reassured him, "Don’t be nervous."

After a long pause, Bai Yu lifted his head to meet Song Huaiqian’s gaze and murmured a soft "Mm."

The phone was placed on the table. After the lights went out, the room fell into darkness.

Song Huaiqian kissed Bai Yu and undid his clothes. At that moment, his dreams, desire, and reality became one.

Bai Yu wrapped his arms around Song Huaiqian’s neck, a faint blush spreading across his face.

His heart was filled with tension, yet he felt as if he were charging into battle, determined to carry on and erase all traces of the past.

But deep inside, a conflicting force held him back.

In the darkness, their heavy breaths intertwined, their warm, urgent breaths.

Suddenly, the last thread of restraint in Bai Yu’s heart snapped. He stopped and pressed his hand against Song Huaiqian’s lips.

Through the dim light, Song Huaiqian saw the conflict flash across Bai Yu’s face, and the atmosphere in the room grew still.

"Sorry, I’m not ready yet."

Song Huaiqian held Bai Yu’s hand, his breath slightly heavy. "It’s okay. It takes time getting used to another man. But I have my own selfish desire—I don’t want your heart to still hold a place for him."

It was rare for Song Huaiqian to be so assertive, or rather, there were few things that could stir his emotions so deeply.

Bai Yu had always claimed he wanted to forget everything about Situ Jing, but in reality, traces of Situ Jing still lingered in his heart.

Therefore, he needed to draw a line, to completely erase the name that loomed over both of them.

"After we’re married, I hope you’ll accept me from the bottom of your heart. Okay?"

Facing Song Huaiqian’s handsome face so close to his, Bai Yu whispered softly, "Okay."

Song Huaiqian kissed Bai Yu’s lips, then rose and went to the bathroom. He returned much later and slept on the sofa.

The next day, Bai Yu and Song Huaiqian left the old house early to pick out wedding rings and their outfits for the wedding day.

When they returned to the house in the southern suburbs, they were carrying full shopping bags.

As Bai Yu and Song Huaiqian discussed wedding invitations and the venue, Bai Yu suddenly spotted a dark figure darting through the woods to the left.

He stopped and peered into the woods but saw nothing.

Song Huaiqian followed his gaze. "What’s wrong?"

Bai Yu pointed toward the woods. "There seemed to be a dark figure over there, but I’m not sure if I saw it correctly."

Song Huaiqian’s expression darkened. He walked over to check but found nothing unusual. "It’s fine. Let’s go."

In the evening, Bai Yu came downstairs and noticed several burly bodyguards stationed outside.

Song Huaiqian set a lavish dinner on the table and handed Bai Yu a pair of chopsticks.

As he ate, Bai Yu glanced at the bodyguards outside. "Maybe what I saw was just a fox or something else. You don’t need to arrange so many people. Besides, bodyguards cost quite a bit..."

Song Huaiqian picked up a piece of sweet and sour pork ribs and placed it in Bai Yu’s bowl, saying with a smile, "What, are you worried I can’t afford it?"

Bai Yu quickly waved his hands, "No, I'm afraid you'd waste your money."

"Don't worry, these are all bodyguards from the Capet family, not paid for by me. Besides, my shares in the family business are more than enough to support both of us, so there's no need to worry about paying the bills."

Song Huaiqian held Bai Yu's hand on the table, "With me, you don't need to worry about anything."

Bai Yu smiled slightly at Song Huaiqian, "Mhm."

*

In early July, Bai Yu and Song Huaiqian's wedding was held at Moriche Cathedral, with only important close friends and family invited.

After receiving the invitation from her brother, Bai Li also arrived wearing a blue formal dress.

She had never met Song Huaiqian before and didn't know what kind of person he was. For her brother's happiness, she had even specifically investigated Song Huaiqian's background.

After the investigation, Bai Li was shocked.

The Capet family behind Song Huaiqian was the top conglomerate in Country Y, practically royalty, and as a Beta, he wouldn't have as many complications as an Alpha.

Perhaps this was also why Bai Yu was willing to marry him.

Bai Li walked into the church filled with pure white flowers and saw the Pope standing before the altar in magnificent robes, next to a strikingly handsome black-haired man with a cool demeanor.

Bai Li checked against a photo to confirm it was Song Huaiqian and walked over to him.

As soon as Song Huaiqian saw Bai Li, he greeted her, "You must be Bai Yu's sister, right?"

He seemed friendly and approachable, not bad.

Bai Li asked, "Where's my brother? He isn't answering his phone."

Song Huaiqian pointed to the hall diagonally across from the church, "He's over there."

Bai Li walked over, opened the hall door, and saw Bai Yu sitting on the sofa in a custom-made white suit, looking down at a bouquet of flowers in his hands.

Sunlight from the window shone on his fair, beautiful face, revealing a layer of soft fuzz.

Bai Li knew her brother always had an innocent vibe about him, like an angel.

The angel was lost in thought.

"Brother?"

Bai Yu startled out of his thoughts and looked up at Bai Li, "You made it?"

Bai Li smiled and asked, "Are you too nervous? You didn't even hear your phone."

Bai Yu took out his phone and saw several missed calls from Bai Li, "I was afraid my phone would ring during the ceremony, so I set it to silent."

Bai Li sulked, "Aren't you worried your little sister might get lost?"

"You're all grown up, how could you get lost?" Bai Yu patted the sofa, "Come sit here."

Just then, Bai Li's phone suddenly rang. When she saw the caller ID, her expression turned serious.

Bai Yu asked, "What's wrong?"

Bai Li frowned, "It's about that situation. I'll take this outside to handle it and be right back."

Bai Yu watched Bai Li hurry out to take the call and continued sitting in the room, looking out at the summer scenery.

In his heart, he repeated that, all things considered, Song Huaiqian was the best choice.

Starting from the moment he stepped into the church today, he would begin a new life with Song Huaiqian.

Subtly, even Bai Yu, who was never scheming, harbored a petty revenge fantasy.

He hoped that after marrying Song Huaiqian, Song Huaiqian would accompany him back to Yunjing for his thesis defense and, quite coincidentally, bump into Situ Jing.

Bai Yu wanted Situ Jing to see that he was now with his old rival and living happily.

Bai Yu was never good at deep thinking and didn't dare to examine where this desire for revenge came from.

Perhaps even if Situ Jing saw him with Song Huaiqian, he wouldn't bat an eye.

But he felt this was a proper way to wrap things up.

It would be best if they ran into Situ Jing and Ruan Yuntang together.

That way, Ruan Yuntang could also stop worrying, secure in her role as Mrs. Situ, and no longer send people after him.

*

Soon, there was a knock at the door.

Bai Yu thought it was Bai Li returning and said, "Come in."

A tall cardinal in red entered and quickly closed the door behind him.

Bai Yu looked at the cardinal in confusion, "Excuse me, are you in the wrong place? The church is ahead."

The cardinal turned around, took off his red cap, revealing a familiar, handsome but stern face.

Bai Yu turned pale and immediately stood up, "Situ Jing, what are you doing here?!"

Situ Jing looked him up and down, "Where's the child?"

He looked surprised, and tightened his grip on the bouquet, "What child?"

Situ Jing sneered, striding closer to Bai Yu, "Don't try to deny it. When you were in Country S, Alex even personally made a rocking chair for the child. Did you abort it?"

Bai Yu stepped back, wary of him, "I wasn't pregnant! I don't know anything about a rocking chair!"

Situ Jing looked at Bai Yu's clothes and the bouquet he held, "Abort the child and immediately marry my defeated rival, a Beta. Classic you."

Bai Yu gestured for Situ Jing to leave, "Who I spend the rest of my life with is none of your business! Get out!"

Situ Jing rushed over, grabbed the bouquet from Bai Yu's hands, threw it to the ground, and pulled his wrist, "Come with me."

Bai Yu struggled fiercely, trying to break free from his grip, "Are you insane?! You married Ruan Yuntang, so stop bothering me! I don't want to get involved! Let go of me!"

Situ Jing pinned Bai Yu's arms tightly, his tone icy, "Song Huaiqian is really playing games, not even letting you know this?"

Bai Yu glared at Situ Jing, his face flushed red, "Know what?!"

"Ruan Yuntang and I broke off our engagement a long time ago."

"What?" Bai Yu looked astonished, recalling his experience leaving the bishop's residence late at night, "Those people following me outside the church were..."

Situ Jing said, "Those were my people. Song Huaiqian made sure you didn't know I was looking for you, didn't he?"

Bai Yu fought harder, "Let me go, or I'll call for help!"

Situ Jing's eyes turned fierce, and his grip tightened. "You still want to marry him?!"

"Yes!" Bai Yu stared back at Situ Jing. "Even if I know Song Huaiqian deliberately hid the truth from me and kept me in the main chapel, I would still marry him!"

Situ Jing slammed Bai Yu against the wall, his eyes fixed intently on him. "Why?"

Bai Yu was completely immobilized under Situ Jing's looming shadow, yet unwilling to submit to his control. His chest rose and fell sharply. "Because I don't care whether you get married, who you marry, or how you live your life. I don't want to have anything to do with you anymore!"

"Song Huaiqian did the right thing. He treats me well, and I am going to marry him!"

Situ Jing's face darkened ominously. He leaned close to Bai Yu's ear and spoke word by word, "Sorry, but this wedding isn’t going to happen."

"You killed my child, so you have to give me another."

Bai Yu was terrified, gasping for breath. "I didn't abort the child! It was a natural miscarriage!"

A crack appeared in the depths of Situ Jing's dark eyes. "Miscarried?"

Realizing Situ Jing had tricked him into revealing the truth, Bai Yu slapped him across the face.

"Bastard!"

Bai Yu shoved Situ Jing away forcefully and rushed out with his phone, screaming, "Help!"

Situ Jing chased after him from behind, grabbed him, and pressed a cloth over his mouth and nose.

The drug on the cloth worked instantly—Bai Yu collapsed and lost consciousness.

Situ Jing carried Bai Yu out and quickly left the wedding venue with the help of his subordinates.

Inside the church, the wedding march started playing softly, but Bai Yu never appeared.

Song Huaiqian sensed something was wrong and hurried to the hall diagonally opposite the church to search for him. He found two people unconscious outside the room door and pushed it open.

The room was empty—Bai Yu was gone, leaving only the bouquet thrown on the floor.

Bai Li, having finished handling her matters, walked over and her eyes widened at the scene. "Where's my brother?"

Song Huaiqian gritted his teeth. "He’s been kidnapped."

Without a second thought, he knew exactly who was behind it.

Song Huaiqian didn't hesitate. He rushed out immediately, got in his car, and chased after Situ Jing, while people from the church poured out to see what was happening.

Bai Li also called for help and drove off to intercept.

On the streets of Moriche, Situ Jing's car raced ahead, with Song Huaiqian and Bai Li close behind.

Bai Li pulled on a black mask, took aim with her gun, and targeted Situ Jing's tires.

With a bang, a black car swerved in from the side, blocking Bai Li's line of sight. "Shit!"

Song Huaiqian, driving, dialed Situ Jing's number.

Situ Jing answered. "What do you want?"

Song Huaiqian: "He was pregnant with your child."

Situ Jing: "I know."

Song Huaiqian: "You should have seen him during the miscarriage. I was by his side—his face was pale, and he couldn't stop crying. He held the undeveloped fetus in his hands, and the floor was covered in blood."

Silence fell on the other end. Song Huaiqian continued, "If you hadn't shown up, he wouldn't have suffered so much. He holds no attachment to you because you've brought him far more pain than joy. Even if you take him back, he will never love you. Never!"

"What you should do is go back to being the S-class Alpha at the top of the pyramid, the high-and-mighty king, and disappear from his world forever!"

Situ Jing's voice was low. "Are you done? I'm not buying any of this."

Song Huaiqian gripped the steering wheel tightly. "I see what you're trying to do. You think this is some kind of competition where you have to come out on top?"

Situ Jing laughed coldly. "I'm not competing with you because you could never measure up to me."

With a click, the call ended.

Situ Jing's car suddenly made a sharp turn and entered the underground parking lot of a tall building.

Bai Li looked up at the building and noticed the helipad on top. She immediately called Song Huaiqian. "He's taking my brother away by helicopter!"

Song Huaiqian's eyes gleamed coldly. "I know."

Situ Jing carried Bai Yu into the elevator, went straight to the top floor, and boarded the helicopter that had been waiting there.

By the time Song Huaiqian caught up, the helicopter had already lifted off from the helipad.

Bai Li rushed up with a sniper rifle, aiming at the people in the helicopter, but ultimately lowered her weapon.

"He must have arranged for a private jet. It's too late to cut them off at the airport now. What do we do?"

Song Huaiqian said, "The Capet family isn’t to be messed with. Since he's pushed things this far, he shouldn't blame me for playing hardball."