Chapter 86 Don’t Hate Me

Chapter 86: Please Don't Hate Me

Mu Zhang had fallen ill. He passed out on the bed, unconscious. Since he had just drunk a lot of alcohol, some medications couldn't be used, so Lin Juangui had to ask the servant to bring an ice pack and place it on Mu Zhang's forehead to physically cool him down.

Mu Zhang tightly held Lin Juangui's hand, and Lin Juangui sat by the bed, wiping away the moisture from the melting ice pack. His care was meticulous. Mu Zhang, already uncomfortable and unable to sleep, half-opened his eyes and watched the worry on Lin Juangui's face, revealing a relaxed smile, a rare sight after so many years.

"Juangui, I've never felt so happy."

From then on, Mu Zhang began to look forward to the idea of "growing up."

Mu Jie's strictness, Bai Qujing's tolerance, and the lack of paternal love turned Mu Zhang rebellious. In middle school, he got into a fight where he nearly beat the other kid to death. When Mu Jie found out, he was furious and proceeded to beat Mu Zhang half to death himself, then dragged him to apologize.

Mu Zhang didn't think he was in the wrong. The other person had mocked his family situation repeatedly, both openly and covertly. Before, Mu Zhang had thought the guy was just a lowlife—why reason with him when you could just use your fists? But this time, the other party had dared to disrespect Bai Qujing, saying many unpleasant things. How could anyone let that slide?

Unfortunately, Mu Zhang was too stubborn to explain himself. It wasn't until the incident was almost over that he finally told the whole story to Bai Qujing, who had come to see how he was.

Bai Qujing didn't really get how a teenager's mind worked and asked puzzledly, "Why didn't you tell your grandfather about this from the start? If he had known, he would have definitely protected you."

Mu Zhang let out a scornful laugh. "He only cares about his own reputation; nothing else matters. Why would he care what happened to me?"

Bai Qujing was an Omega. An Omega without an Alpha was often melancholic. Her husband returned only a few times a year, and her only companion during her heat was suppressants.

Mu Jie saw all this but could only advise Bai Qujing to endure it, at least for the sake of her husband's reputation.

What a load of nonsense. Reputation or not, holding Bai Qujing up as a symbol—a poster child for other Omegas, devoted to Alphas, family-oriented and proper—she was weighed down by all these shackles until they shattered when she learned her husband had died in battle. She resolutely chose to join him in death.

Mu Zhang couldn't stand it and left. But as an adult, he still became what he hated most—robbing an Omega of his youth.

Lin Juangui knew Mu Zhang was drunk. The medicine to sober him up likely wouldn't work right away, so what Mu Zhang needed most now was sleep.

So he coaxed Mu Zhang, "We've been married for so many years. Maybe I was too young before and didn't understand you. We might have argued a lot, but that won't happen anymore. I understand your intentions."

Memories flashed through Mu Zhang's mind. He didn't want to justify himself anymore, nor would he strain to think of excuses for the past.

He lay on the bed, hair disheveled, speaking softly, "It's not your fault. It's me... I'm rotten. I'm terrible. I don't know how to love, only how to force you... I'm selfish, a hypocrite, becoming what I hated most. You should be free, but you met me."

The more he wanted to grow up, the less he did. Even in his thirties, Mu Zhang still treated marriage like a game, a bargaining chip.

Later, he witnessed Lin Juangui's life hanging by a thread right in front of him, admitted that Lin Juangui had swayed his heart, and thought everything could start over because Lin Juangui had forgotten.

How could he have been so wrong?

A thousand thoughts rushed through his mind. Mu Zhang muttered, almost to himself, "But, Juangui... I really... love you."

If it were years ago, when Mu Zhang was a teenager, he could never have imagined his middle-aged self saying such things. His approach to emotions had always been simple: if I like you and I'm strong enough, you must like me too.

Pursuing Mu Yuanqing had been a case of everything falling into place. Mu Zhang still thought his choice was unique, and to prove his self-righteous correctness, he paid a heavy price.

Regarding Mu Yuanqing, Mu Zhang had no regrets. But who would have thought that years later, when he liked someone again, they still couldn't take the final step due to pheromone incompatibility?

Mu Zhang's love life had been truly rocky. Thinking about it, he almost had to laugh.

But now, he suddenly felt that all the hardships he'd endured were worth it. He had it coming for being so arrogant. If Lin Juangui didn't hold it against him, it was because he was kind. Whether there were other reasons, Mu Zhang didn't want to dwell on it. With Lin Juangui's support, Mu Zhang was genuinely touched.

Lin Juangui didn't know if Mu Zhang was raving from the fever. Mu Zhang's confession stirred complicated feelings in him.

Mu Zhang's gaze was deeply affectionate, so he felt he needed to respond in some way so as not to seem like he was brushing him off.

Lin Juangui removed the ice pack from Mu Zhang's forehead, wiped away the water, and set it down slowly. Lowering his voice, he said gently, "Thank you for loving me. I'll do my best to be worthy of it."

Lin Juangui's words chased away Mu Zhang's sleepiness, and the corners of his eyes curved upward.

Mu Zhang pressed Lin Juangui's palm against his cheek and said hoarsely, "Then boss me around more in the future, okay? I'll listen to you."

Lin Juangui teased him, "You're so competent as it is, and you still need me to tell you what to do?"

"No one else can manage me, and I don't want them to. But you're different. You're not like them."

Lin Juangui didn't know how he was different. He thought Mu Zhang valued their practical benefits and the value Lin Juangui could bring him, but Mu Zhang's genuine emotion now made Lin Juangui feel a pang of regret.

If Lin Juangui were ten years younger, he might not have been able to resist someone like Mu Zhang. But having lived this long and seen so much, Lin Juangui had already experienced the most sincere and beautiful relationship. Anyone new would inevitably be compared to that.

Mu Zhang waited expectantly for Lin Juangui's reply. Of course, Lin Juangui wouldn't disappoint him at a time like this.

"Then it's settled. You have to behave from now on."

"Okay."

When he was young, Mu Zhang didn't understand why those Alphas always said their Omegas were strict and smiled so smugly. Now he was beginning to understand—it was the warmth of being cared for.

Lin Juangui's forgiveness allowed Mu Zhang to let go of his regrets. It seemed there was nothing left to worry about. Lin Juangui said his heart belonged to Mu Zhang, and Mu Zhang had laid everything out openly. They seemed headed for a better future.

But Mu Zhang still had some concerns.

He believed Lin Juangui's promises, but what if Huo Zeshen's so-called repayment involved trying every means to seduce Lin Juangui? Could Lin Juangui resist the allure of the scent he liked?

Mu Zhang didn't have the energy to dwell on it. Lin Juangui's sweet talk had already won him over, and he quickly fell asleep.

Seeing Mu Zhang's breathing steady, Lin Juangui asked the servant to keep watch and called for the family doctor to check on Mu Zhang later to determine the treatment.

The next day, Lin Juangui asked Ge Miao to request leave for Mu Zhang. "Even the strongest body can't handle non-stop work. You usually don't remind him to rest properly."

Ge Miao reported truthfully, "Sir is very capable at work, but other matters... have been weighing on his mind."

Lin Juangui immediately understood the implication. People around Mu Zhang always seized every opportunity to emphasize how well Mu Zhang treated him.

"You all seem to enjoy commenting on Mu Zhang and my relationship. Do you think I'm not good enough to him and hope for better?"

Lin Juangui spoke casually, his tone indifferent, but when he turned to look at Ge Miao, there was a subtle sharpness in his aura.

Ge Miao knew he had overstepped these past few days. He had some understanding of Lin Juangui's temperament—Lin Juangui rarely got angry, but if someone truly provoked him, they might not even know how they ended up dead.

Matters of the heart were not for outsiders to comment on. Ge Miao knew he had crossed the line and lowered his head to apologize. "I'm sorry, Madam. I overstepped and said things I shouldn't have."

Lin Juangui's smile didn't reach his eyes. "You have Mu Zhang's best interests at heart. I understand. Last night, Mu Zhang and I talked a lot and identified the issues between us. I should thank you—if not for you, I wouldn't have thought to have a proper talk with Mu Zhang. When Mu Zhang wakes up, he'll thank you too."

The alarm bells in Ge Miao's mind hadn't fully subsided. He remembered the personal steward who had leaked details of Mu Zhang and Lin Juangui's relationship to Old Lady Geng had been demoted to a grassroots position by Lin Juangui. What if Lin Juangui thought Ge Miao was meddling and had Mu Zhang "exile" him too?

Ge Miao's survival instinct kicked in. He instinctively tried to save himself: "How dare I accept Sir's thanks? Yesterday, following Sir's orders to pick you up, I learned from colleagues that after leaving the Political Department, Sir went to the lab and attended a four-hour meeting before returning."

"The lab..."

Lin Juan'gui's attention seemed to be successfully diverted by Ge Miao. He pondered for a moment but did not press further about which laboratory Mu Zhang had visited or the content of the meeting.

"Go handle your work. The doctor came this morning to examine Mu Zhang and said he needs a few days of proper rest. For any important matters at the Political Department, have them sent to me first for review. I will then inform Mu Zhang of the decisions that require his input."

Ge Miao finally breathed a sigh of relief. "Yes, I will arrange it immediately."

Mu Zhang hadn’t slept well in a long time. This time, he didn’t even dream. When he opened his eyes, he saw Lin Juan'gui sitting on the nearby sofa, reading a book.

*Is this a dream?*

"You’ve been asleep for a full day and night. How are you feeling?"

Not a dream.

On the nightstand sat a warmly colored aromatherapy lamp, casting a soft glow that made Lin Juan'gui’s face appear even gentler.

Mu Zhang seemed to finally relax. Lin Juan'gui came over to help him sit up. "I’ve already handled all the trivial matters at the Political Department. Ge Miao and the others are keeping an eye on things—there definitely won’t be any issues these next few days. Just rest well at home, understood?"

"Okay."

Mu Zhang still remembered the words he had spoken to Lin Juan'gui before falling asleep, and Lin Juan'gui had responded to his feelings without any hesitation.

Lin Juan'gui’s demeanor remained as calm and composed as ever, no more enthusiastic or eager than before. Yet, when he picked up the bowl of porridge from the tray the servant brought for Mu Zhang, he carefully tested its temperature.

Mu Zhang ate the porridge Lin Juan'gui fed him spoonful by spoonful, the smile in his eyes almost sweet enough to melt.

The two spent the next few days together like this. Mu Zhang observed him, whether intentionally or not, but Lin Juan'gui’s expressions and actions were natural. Though occasionally he would reveal a hint of clumsiness, he would turn to Mu Zhang with an apologetic smile: "How did we use to do this before?"

Mu Zhang couldn’t answer, but he would hold Lin Juan'gui’s hand and say, "No need to look back at the past. What we have now is good enough."

Under Lin Juan'gui’s care, Mu Zhang’s mood improved noticeably. Lin Juan'gui handled Political Department matters for him, and Mu Zhang did not interfere. After all, their interests were completely aligned. Sometimes, the decisions they made together took every angle into account, all thanks to Lin Juan'gui’s attentiveness.

Without Lin Juan'gui by his side, many of Mu Zhang’s decisions would have been far harsher. He disliked leaving room for compromise, making him particularly prone to making enemies. Lin Juan'gui compensated for this shortcoming perfectly.

For a long time, Mu Zhang’s state had been extremely tense. Anyone could sense his strain. Though he didn’t show it on the surface, it showed in how he handled things.

This time, Lin Juan'gui patiently stayed home with Mu Zhang for several days. They would either play with the cat, play chess, or go to the game room for a match of tennis.

Mu Zhang told Lin Juan'gui many stories—some about the two of them, others about himself alone.

Mu Zhang had become wiser. He finally understood that lack of communication in a marriage leads to problems. Lingering in guilt wouldn’t take them far. He tried to keep himself calm, avoiding unnecessary arguments with Lin Juan'gui and temporarily setting aside those suspicions.

"Juan'gui, I haven’t been a qualified husband. Thank you for being willing to accept everything about me."

The brief rest period came to an end. Mu Zhang’s inner turmoil seemed to ease somewhat—or perhaps he simply chose to blindfold himself, refusing to dwell on things that would only irritate him.

Lin Juan'gui still smiled understandingly. "Some time ago, I looked into many things to satisfy my own doubts. Everyone has their own perspective, and the stories they tell differ accordingly. I didn’t know whom to believe, so I chose to rely on my own senses. You’ve been very good to me, Mu Zhang. Without you, Lin Juan'gui wouldn’t have all that he has now."

Mu Zhang’s protagonist aura sheltered everyone around him, and Lin Juan'gui was undoubtedly the one who benefited the most.

With Mu Zhang’s tacit approval, after taking over his arms business, Lin Juan'gui began using that capital to expand Runlin’s operations, gradually seizing markets originally held by the Liang family. Now, Runlin held shares in many Federation planets, not only generating considerable annual profits but also providing significant support for any future political activities Mu Zhang might undertake.

The Liang family had once believed that controlling the military would guarantee smooth sailing. But their actions violated humanitarian principles, and anyone with a conscience would not want to be associated with them. Over the years, many within the military had secretly resisted the Liang family’s control and interference. Only someone like Huo Zeshen, with no backing, could be completely manipulated and used by them.

Lin Juan'gui would not let the Liang family off so easily.

The Liang family pinned their hopes on the elections two years later. They aimed to fully promote their experiments, using the pretext of saving humanity to satisfy their selfish desires. But political campaigns require substantial funding, and the maintenance costs for Ultimate were no small sum.

The Liang family’s investments over the years had been completely cut off by subsidiaries under Lin Juan'gui’s control. The younger generation only knew how to fight among themselves. The slightly capable Liang Yu, wary of Grandfather Liang’s suspicions, chose to cooperate with Lin Juan'gui and stayed out of the Liang family’s affairs, adopting a wait-and-see approach.

Now, the Liang family was struggling with a lack of capable successors. Those politicians who claimed willingness to cooperate with the Liang family were only in it for the campaign funds.

This was a hidden battle, and Mu Zhang and Lin Juan'gui had long been preparing for it—it was just a matter of who would lose patience first.

So Mu Zhang didn’t even take the Liang family seriously. His goal was to cultivate his own political influence, not merely sit on a figurehead throne.

Lin Juan'gui’s assistance was immense. Without him as an intermediary, Mu Zhang’s entry into the Political Department would not have been so smooth.

Their relationship was one of mutual benefit—neither rode solely on the other’s coattails nor stepped on the other’s shoulders to rise.

"Even without me, you could have had the best things in the world."

This was something Mu Zhang realized during the period when Lin Juan'gui underwent his transformation procedure.

Lin Juan'gui’s appearance was hard to ignore. Coupled with his universally appealing pheromones and his ability to adapt and excel anywhere, nothing could truly hold him back.

If Mu Zhang hadn’t seized the opportunity first, binding Lin Juan'gui with a marriage contract, had Lin Juan'gui stood opposed to him, he would have been a formidable adversary.

So it wasn’t the first time Mu Zhang felt relieved. He had to admit his own shamefulness in this regard.

Lin Juan'gui was somewhat surprised by Mu Zhang’s evaluation of him, but he quickly accepted the praise. "I cherish everything we have now. These past few days together have shown me that there are no insurmountable obstacles between us. Those who claim our relationship is strained can clock out early. And thank you for indulging this small vanity of mine."

Mu Zhang couldn’t help but laugh heartily. "These are trivial matters. I’d be delighted if you used my name to throw your weight around."

Their improved relationship was visibly apparent. Lin Juan'gui also took the opportunity to fully explain the Tian Guang matter to Mu Zhang. Mu Zhang seemed unaware of it but approved of Lin Juan'gui’s handling: "Some people indeed have unclean hands. Your approach was very appropriate. Tian Guang is yours now—how you manage it is entirely your decision."

Mu Zhang’s attitude was indeed impeccable. Even if Lin Juan'gui had doubts, he couldn’t outright accuse him. Some things were merely speculation, and besides, his relationship with Mu Zhang had only just grown closer—why spoil the mood now?

The next day, Lin Juan'gui saw Mu Zhang off to work. Almost simultaneously, they both received an invitation from the Federation government.

"In five days, you are cordially invited to the Federal Banquet Center…"

Mu Zhang quickly read through the invitation and immediately guessed the purpose of the banquet. "It’s likely a fundraising event for the reconstruction of the Sixth Military District. Zhuang Xi will probably discuss the details with you soon."

After all, charity-related matters were best handled by the Charity Association for professionalism.

Lin Juan'gui immediately opened his device to contact Zhuang Xi, but before turning away, he couldn’t resist teasing Mu Zhang: "Have you decided what to donate this time?"

As the Federation’s renowned philanthropist, Lin Juan'gui’s investments spanned the entire universe. His question to Mu Zhang was merely to get a sense of how much to give, avoiding upstaging others and making enemies for Mu Zhang.

"Seizing control of the Sixth Military District wouldn’t be out of the question either, if it makes you happy."

Lin Juan'gui smiled understandingly. "Alright, noted."

Mu Zhang and Lin Juan'gui’s rapport in official matters was unmatched. For instance, Lin Juan'gui handled Political Department affairs for Mu Zhang effortlessly, and Mu Zhang deeply trusted Lin Juan'gui’s methods.

After Mu Zhang left, Lin Juan'gui immediately received a call from Zhuang Xi. "Juan'gui, do you have time to come to the association? Did you see the invitation just sent? I’d like to discuss a few things with you."

"Okay, I’ll be right there."

This banquet was led by the Political Department, with military representatives also attending. The Charity Association was normally well-versed in such events and should face no obstacles, yet Zhuang Xi was urgently seeking a meeting with Lin Juan'gui.

Lin Juan'gui quickly arrived at Zhuang Xi’s office, where Zhuang Xi was pacing as anxiously as an ant on a hot pan.

"What’s going on?" Lin Juan'gui was completely baffled by Zhuang Xi’s nervousness.

Seeing Lin Juan'gui, Zhuang Xi acted as if spotting a savior, quickly pulling him to the sofa and personally pouring him a cup of tea.

Lin Juangui sat in a relaxed posture, as if nothing could bother him. He took the tea offered by Zhuang Xi, blew on it a couple of times, and set it down on the table.

"Don't you think it's strange? This charity banquet is different from the usual ones. The reconstruction of the Sixth Military District should, in principle, be funded by the government. Yet, they've invited many well-known entrepreneurs from the Federation. This feels more like an auction than a charity event."

Zhuang Xi's husband was, after all, a councilor, so he was quite sharp about these matters.

"Don't worry. If things get difficult, I'm here."

Zhuang Xi's concern was that some might use this opportunity to gain control over the Sixth Military District. If such authority could be privatized, the Federation could descend into chaos. Lin Juangui was like a steadfast anchor.

Zhuang Xi let out a heavy sigh of relief. He was clearly deep in thought, and he paused for a moment before saying to Lin Juangui: "There are many times I know that nothing I do will make a difference. But I tell myself that even if it's just a little bit, as long as it benefits this world, it's not a loss. The reality is harsh, and my capabilities are limited to this."

In the past, it was always Zhuang Xi who comforted Lin Juangui. This time, however, Lin Juangui stood up and moved to sit beside Zhuang Xi. He took Zhuang Xi's hand to comfort him. "Everyone's perspective is limited. This isn't your fault. It's not just you; there are many people fighting for what they believe in. As long as we can stick together, we will overcome these difficulties."

Zhuang Xi blinked. Someone as perceptive as he was couldn't fail to understand the meaning behind Lin Juangui's words. But the news was so shocking that he took a deep breath to quickly process it before giving Lin Juangui a heartfelt smile. "Was it you? Or Mu Zhang?"

"That's not important. What matters is that we each focus on doing our own jobs well."

This was Lin Juangui protecting Zhuang Xi. After all, many things weren't finalized yet, and the fewer who know about it, the better.

Zhuang Xi seemed to have been given a shot in the arm, his emotions stabilizing considerably.

Lin Juangui patted his hand. "You must have been on edge since receiving the news. Mu Zhang was working non-stop recently and even collapsed from exhaustion. He rested at home for a few days before returning to work. You should take care of your health too. An Omega can't withstand the same level of exertion as an Alpha."

Zhuang Xi rubbed his forehead, a smile tinged with helplessness appearing. "After we get through this busy period... I really do love my work. And you've just given me a shot of adrenaline; I probably won't be able to sleep for the next few days."

Lin Juangui chuckled. "Let me know if there's anything I can take off your plate. I'll help you arrange it."

Zhuang Xi's face was full of gratitude. "Juangui, having you here is truly wonderful."

Lin Juangui had a private office within the Charity Association. Although he held no official position there, they needed to accommodate their benefactor, and it made it convenient for him to handle matters when needed.

Mu Zhang had mentioned that military personnel would also be attending this banquet. Lin Juangui checked the guest list and, sure enough, saw Huo Zeshen's name listed plainly. Lin Juangui smiled meaningfully.

That day, after leaving Huo Zeshen's home, Huo Zeshen had taken Lin Juangui's hand. He bowed his head and asked in a pleading tone, "Will you dislike me?"

"Dislike you for what?"

Lin Juangui could sense the pride hidden deep within Huo Zeshen. He was inherently intelligent, quick to learn anything, and had become a general at a young age, commanding a military district. The idea of him feeling inferior was ridiculous.

Yet, in front of Lin Juangui, Huo Zeshen always considered himself the subordinate.

"Just don't dislike me." Huo Zeshen didn't want to specify reasons, even though he knew he had many traits that could warrant dislike.

Shaking his head, Lin Juangui said, "I won't dislike you. I understand the choices you made in that environment. Having a goal worth striving for in your heart is a powerful thing. Don't undervalue yourself; you've already done everything you could."

Huo Zeshen's Adam's apple bobbed, as if he was choked up by Lin Juangui's words.

He had climbed the ladder by any means necessary, becoming a cold, ruthless machine to gain trust. Often, he felt he had lost his humanity. Perhaps, as the instructors had taught him, he was just a tool—his life being the least important thing.

"I... still have a lot I don't know how to handle. Would you be willing to teach me?"

Compared to his cold and rigid demeanor when they first met, Huo Zeshen had clearly softened considerably. He knew what approach Lin Juangui responded to and took it a step further, making it hard for Lin Juangui to refuse.

Lin Juangui could see through such minor manipulations at a glance, but he was still willing to indulge Huo Zeshen. "Of course, I'm willing. Whatever you think I can teach you, just ask. I'm happy to explain."

During the days he was at home taking care of Mu Zhang, Lin Juangui hadn't checked his messages much. If anything urgent came up, Qu Yang would call him; there was no need to rely on messages.

Thus, Lin Juangui had smoothly missed several messages from Huo Zeshen.

Due to his meritorious service in aiding the Sixth Military District, Huo Zeshen now held the rank of Senior General. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the Sixth Military District would also fall under his jurisdiction. The banquet would include a special medal-awarding ceremony for Huo Zeshen—an honor only comparable to what Mu Jie had received in the past.

Huo Zeshen took a picture of the medal and sent it to Lin Juangui. It was gold, shiny, and brilliant. But Lin Juangui didn't reply.

A couple of days later, Huo Zeshen asked Lin Juangui for advice on interpersonal relationships. Just moments ago, he had also messaged Lin Juangui asking if he would attend the banquet and what style of formal wear he would choose.

The kid is really clingy.

After handling the tasks Zhuang Xi had delegated to him, Lin Juangui finally opened his light-brain and sent a few replies to Huo Zeshen.

"I will attend. Wearing white. You're a general now. Just maintain your usual demeanor; there's no need to worry about others' opinions or comments."

Not long after the message was sent, Huo Zeshen called.

"You're a terribly irresponsible teacher."