Chapter 1

Chapter 1

Late at night, at the Ruan residence.

"Hot..."

The bedding was piled in layers on the large bed, soft jet-black hair swept across the pillow, fine beads of sweat formed on his pale forehead—a beautiful young man was trapped in a nightmare.

Suddenly, Ruan Yunchu's eyes snapped open, his moist eyes still dazed and confused. He stared at the pitch-black, empty room for a long time, still shaken from that indescribable dream.

It was just a dream.

Before he could sigh in relief, he heard a faint breathing sound in the room that did not belong to him.

His gaze turned cold. "Who?"

The next instant, a dim light lit up the room.

A man in the Ruan family's black uniform crouched calmly beside the bed, looking down at the startled young master.

The young master's face was flushed, strands of hair wet with sweat sticking to his porcelain-white cheeks, his eyes glistening, beautiful but sharp.

"Young master, the old manor is on fire."

His voice was low and hoarse, but his tone was casual. The light fell on his cheek, outlining deep shadows under his brow bone. His expression was indifferent, as if he were commenting on the weather.

Ruan Yunchu was stunned. His mind instantly cleared. He reached out to push aside the blanket. "Take me to see it."

Yan Zhuo bent down and scooped him up, his broad palm covering the young man's slender back. Two thin, pale calves gleamed white in the dim light. After setting him in his wheelchair, the loose, soft trouser legs fell, hiding the suggestive red marks on his inner ankles.

Ruan Yunchu frowned and looked down, watching Yan Zhuo hold his numb ankle and put on his shoes and socks. Yet he felt an inexplicable sense that something was off.

Five minutes later, Yan Zhuo wheeled him downstairs. As soon as they exited the courtyard, he saw the roaring flames shooting into the sky not far away.

The scale was far larger than he had imagined.

An automated drone hovered overhead, spraying a fine fire-suppressant mist downward. But it only prevented the fire from spreading to the surroundings; for the Ruan family's old mansion standing at the center of the fire, it was like a drop in the bucket.

"Is anyone still inside?"

Yan Zhuo leaned forward slightly and replied, "Mr. Ruan and the others were all resting inside last night. Rescue operations are underway, but it's too dangerous, young master. You'd better stay away."

Ruan Yunchu's expression remained indifferent. He watched the burning house in the distance collapse piece by piece, but only weariness appeared on his face, as if the whole scene had nothing to do with him.

"Notify the Allied Forces. If we get the inspection done early, the funeral won't be delayed."

Hearing the young master's ruthless words, Yan Zhuo curled his lips slightly. "Already done."

Ruan Yunchu didn't look again. He wheeled himself back inside.

Noises drifted in from outside the window. The wind howled, like someone screaming for help. He usually kept a regular sleep schedule, but now he had no intention of going back to sleep.

His fingers resting on the armrest trembled slightly, but not from fear.

Finally, with a thunderous crash, the house that had stood for decades collapsed. Flames and smoke swirled in the air. He stared at the smoke-filled night sky, unable to blink.

Suddenly, his hand was firmly grasped. Someone closed the window, shutting out the sounds.

Ruan Yunchu withdrew his gaze. Yan Zhuo had somehow crouched down beside his wheelchair. He cupped his hand over the young master's.

"Young master, why are your hands so cold?"

Ruan Yunchu said nothing, watching his act.

Undeterred by the silence, Yan Zhuo showed no embarrassment. He held the young master's fingertips and brought them to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to them. His hot breath swept over the thin, sensitive spaces between his fingers, carrying a slight warmth.

"Are you scared?"

Ruan Yunchu let out a cold laugh. He relaxed his stiff hand and lightly grasped Yan Zhuo's chin.

In the dim light, Yan Zhuo's ruggedly handsome face was split into light and shadow. Shadows deepened his already prominent brow and nose bridge, making his hateful eyes even more menacing.

"By tomorrow morning, news of the Ruan family's downfall will spread across the Federation. Do you think I'm scared?"

The words sounded like weakness, but the young master's gaze was icy, his lips curled slightly, showing no trace of fear.

"Then I'll protect you, young master."

Yan Zhuo's brows lowered slightly. Without waiting for a reply, he took the hand that held his chin and pressed the soft palm against his own face, as if the young master were gently stroking his cheek.

Catching his intention, Ruan Yunchu gave a soft chuckle and patted his face lightly.

"Then let's see what you can really do."

-

By dawn, the fire at the Ruan estate was completely out. Five bodies were recovered from the ruins. The tragedy shook the entire Federation and instantly became headline news.

"Five bodies?"

Ruan Yunchu was admiring himself in the mirror in his mourning clothes. He paused upon hearing this.

Yan Zhuo stood behind the wheelchair, his fingertips hanging less than an inch from the young master's head. He smirked and leaned in slightly. "We found the eldest young master in the basement. He's still alive and being treated at the hospital."

Ruan Yunchu's brow furrowed. He sneered, "He's really tenacious."

"Should we keep Ruan Jing?"

"You talk big. The Federal Central Hospital is heavily guarded. I doubt you'd even get past the front gate."

Ruan Yunchu's voice was cold. With that, he wheeled himself toward the door, clearly done with the conversation.

Yan Zhuo clicked his tongue.

Well, it seemed he had taken his anger out on him.

But if he said he could actually do it, the young master probably wouldn't believe him...

The next morning, at the funeral, all the mourners had gathered.

When Ruan Yunchu appeared in his wheelchair, he instantly attracted the scrutinizing gazes of the crowd. Everyone was observing this lucky young man who had suddenly been hit with a massive inheritance.

The day before, he had been an unknown invalid in the Ruan family. The next day, he became the sole heir to this vast fortune.

"Young Master Ruan, my condolences."

Ruan Yunchu was unfamiliar with most of the people present. Hearing them, he merely nodded slightly.

He was dressed in a simple white shirt, his shoulder-length black hair tied back, revealing a clean face as delicate as porcelain. As he raised his head, his phoenix eyes lifted slightly, and his emerald-green pupils were as clear as a pool.

Everyone had thought the neglected omega young master of the Ruan family would be timid and cowardly, but the youth before them was composed and calm, and even sitting in a wheelchair unable to use his legs, he exuded an inexplicable sense of pressure.

"Yunchu."

A male voice rang out, and a man in black strode over.

"Is that from the Qin family?"

"Don't you know about the marriage alliance between the Ruan and Qin families?"

"If only Ruan Jing were still conscious, but I heard he can't be saved. He's an omega too. Once he's married, won't the family fortune just fall into the Qin family's hands?"

"The Ruan family has quite a few branches. By now, the news has probably spread. Those vultures will come sniffing around soon. I think it's better to let the Qin family have it."

"…"

As an alpha, Qin Jingli's physical attributes far exceeded those of ordinary people, so he naturally heard these conversations around him.

But he didn't show any discomfort. He just couldn't help but become momentarily dazed when he saw Ruan Yunchu. Recalling the purpose of his visit, he could only bend down and say, "My condolences. Father asked me to stay and keep you company. Shall we have dinner together later?"

Ruan Yunchu didn't even lift his eyes to look at his fiancé. "Suit yourself."

Seeing his calm demeanor, Qin Jingli couldn't help but feel pity. He instinctively wanted to touch his shoulder, but before he could, his hand was suddenly seized.

It was a tall and powerfully built man. Unlike the servants in formal attire, he wore only a plain black T-shirt, his muscular frame straining his T-shirt. His deep-set, dark eyes were cold and murderous, and he exuded a lion-like aura of power.

"Young master, it's time for the burial."

As if he couldn't see Qin Jingli, he flung the man aside, then bent his strong, slender neck to speak attentively to Ruan Yunchu.

Ruan Yunchu watched them coldly, only humming faintly in response, and let Yan Zhuo push him away.

Throughout the funeral, as the only family member present, Ruan Yunchu sat in his wheelchair the entire time. Using his limited mobility as an excuse, he didn't even participate in the mourning ceremony.

After it ended, the guests who had come to gather information headed to the temporary dining hall, endlessly speculating on how long he could hold onto the property.

"He's a ruthless one, getting the funeral done before anyone could come up to pester him. But who knows if he can hold onto the family fortune."

"Look at the Qin family. No wonder they all mobilized today. They're trying to force him into marriage."

A whole morning of polite small talk left Ruan Yunchu exhausted, but when mealtime came, the covetous glances from all corners of the hall fell on him, forcing him to force himself to stay alert.

"Yunchu, you poor thing."

Chang Lian, Qin Jingli's mother, was the first to stand up, reaching out with a sympathetic expression to take Ruan Yunchu's hand, but he pulled away.

"Auntie, I'm a bit hungry."

Chang Lian's smile stiffened slightly, and she quickly said, "Right, right, let's eat first. You've had a tiring day."

Ruan Yunchu didn't look at her. He calmly maneuvered his wheelchair to the head of the table. Qin Jingli, beside him, was about to set things up for him, but that annoying man once again inserted himself between them, arranging everything for Ruan Yunchu.

Qin Jingli showed his displeasure. "Yunchu, I haven't seen this person around you before. Who arranged him for you?"

Ruan Yunchu used a spoon to scoop up some hot soup. Only after drinking a couple of mouthfuls did his dull stomach pain ease a little. He looked up to see Qin Jingli still waiting for an answer, and gave an ambiguous smile.

"Picked him up off the street."

Qin Jingli, seeing his nonchalant attitude, thought he was joking. "Better not keep someone of unknown origin around. What if they have ulterior motives?"

Before Ruan Yunchu could respond, Yan Zhuo gave a low laugh. "Young master, I think the one with ulterior motives is someone else."

Qin Jingli's face darkened. "Has no one told you to shut up when the master is speaking?"

Yan Zhuo cast a cold glance at him. "This is the Ruan residence. When did Young Master Qin change his surname?"

"You—"

"Enough, what a disgrace." Chang Lian quickly interrupted, giving Qin Jingli a reproachful look to stop him from pursuing the matter.

Their purpose today wasn't to argue with a mere servant.

She promptly put on a smile and got to the point. "Yunchu, you must have heard by now. Your relatives from other districts are all heading to District A. You usually stay at home recuperating from your illness and haven't been involved in the company's affairs. Suddenly saddled with so much property must be very stressful. Have you thought about your plans going forward?"

Ruan Yunchu didn't answer, instead asking, "Auntie, what's your opinion?"

Chang Lian had been waiting for those words. She exchanged a glance with her husband beside her.

Qin Zhancheng said, "I suggest you marry Jingli immediately. Then we'll be one family, and we can take over the management of the company and assets for you in the future, so the fortune your elders worked so hard to build won't be lost."

"Does Auntie think so too?" Ruan Yunchu had eaten his fill and slowly put down his utensils.

Chang Lian hurriedly nodded. "Of course. Your engagement was set early, and you're almost of age now. How about getting the marriage certificate right after your birthday this year?"

Qin Jingli naturally had to show his support, gazing affectionately at the beautiful omega beside him.

"Yunchu, you know I've had feelings for you for a long time. What happened this time really grieves me. I hope you'll give me a chance to protect you."

Ruan Yunchu chuckled softly and wiped the corner of his mouth with a napkin.

"What? If we don't get married, you won't protect me?"

Qin Jingli's smile froze. "Of course not, it's just… that way it's more appropriate."

Ignoring him, Ruan Yunchu turned to the other side. "I recall that Auntie used to be very opposed to this marriage. She mentioned canceling it many times. Why the change of heart?"

Chang Lian's expression turned sour. She had disliked Ruan Yunchu back then because she knew he was not favored in the Ruan family. Even if he married into theirs, the Ruans wouldn't give much benefit, so she didn't think highly of the marriage.

But now, the situation was different. All the Ruan family property belonged to him alone. Marrying him meant swallowing up the Ruan family's assets—how could she not be tempted?

The family hadn't expected Ruan Yunchu to be so blunt.

Qin Jingli still had feelings for Ruan Yunchu. If he hadn't fallen for him at first sight, he wouldn't have willingly accepted this betrothal.

"Yunchu, I…"

He was about to explain something when Qin Zhancheng lost his patience.

"You're being shortsighted. Do you really think you can keep the business going on your own? Uncle isn't trying to deceive you. Marrying into our family is your best option now. Otherwise, when those branch families come up with all sorts of tricks to snatch it away, don't come crying to me."

Finally, their true colors were shown.

Ruan Yunchu laughed softly, lightly tossed his napkin onto the table, and maneuvered his wheelchair backward.

Qin Jingli showed reluctance and instinctively reached out to take his hand.

"Then let me state my position here as well." Ruan Yunchu looked coldly at the table. "The inheritance my mother left me will not be shared with outsiders. If you want it, use whatever means you like. I'll be right there with you."

Qin Zhancheng stared at him. "Are you sure about this?"

Ruan Yunchu was evasive, "I'll return the engagement contract. Let's not mention it again from now on."

Chang Lian shot to her feet: "Yunchu, you need to think this through. If you come to our family, we won't mistreat you. But if it's someone else—"

Before she could finish her sentence, she was abruptly cut off by the oppressive psychic pressure spreading through the air, and she stared in disbelief at Qin Zhancheng beside her.

Qin Jingli, though displeased with Ruan Yunchu's decision to call off the engagement, never expected his father to be so rash as to use an alpha's psychic force to suppress Ruan Yunchu. Just as he was about to speak up to stop it, a blur shot past his eyes.

An icy, sharp dagger pressed against the side of his neck, grazing the most vulnerable gland of an alpha. Qin Zhancheng's body went rigid instantly, a shiver of fear running through him.

"What are you doing?"

Yan Zhuo gripped his neck with one hand, applying slight pressure with the dagger, drawing a thin line of blood on the skin.

"Mr. Qin, our young master doesn't like alphas. If you use such underhanded tactics again, you can kiss goodbye to that troublesome secondary sex characteristic of yours."

Sweat beaded on Qin Zhancheng's forehead as he felt a rare wave of terror.

"You—let go of me first."

Yan Zhuo paid him no heed, pressing the dagger a few more inches deeper into his neck.

Qin Jingli was stunned and quickly turned to Ruan Yunchu: "Yunchu, what do you mean by this?"

"My stance is clear enough."

While the whole table was panicking, Ruan Yunchu remained utterly calm.

"Call off the engagement. All of you, get out. Otherwise, Uncle Qin might as well give up being an S-rank alpha. I think being a beta would suit him just fine."

How is that possible?

Qin Jingli stared in disbelief at the mysterious, towering man. He couldn't sense any pheromones of an alpha or omega from him. Could this man actually be a beta?

Since when did District A have a beta with skills like that?

But before he could hesitate any further, Chang Lian was on the verge of fainting, so she had no choice but to say: "I agree! Tell him to let me go!"

Ruan Yunchu gave an indifferent glance at Yan Zhuo. The cold-hearted man gave him a smile before withdrawing his hand and pressing a bandage onto the back of Qin Zhancheng's neck.

"The young master is tired. I won't see you out."

Without paying further attention to the family's reaction, Ruan Yunchu maneuvered his wheelchair toward the elevator. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught Yan Zhuo's deep gaze, yet inexplicably felt a headache coming on.

For him, calming Yan Zhuo—that mad dog—seemed more daunting than handling the engagement cancellation.