ARBRMW : Chapter 77

15L: I also saw the school grass getting into a luxury car! The driver even got out to open the door for him. I felt like I was watching a TV drama!

16L: No kidding, the school grass’s face in that scene looked like a movie poster!

17L: I’ve heard before that the school grass’s family is rich, but I didn’t know they were this rich. That car is a limited edition worldwide.

18L: Emmm… It’s all because the school grass is usually so low-key that I forget he’s from a wealthy family.

19L: I was right at the gate and saw the car driving away. I caught a glimpse of another man inside! Even though it was just a fleeting glance, I almost screamed!

20L: OMG! Is that the school grass’s boyfriend??!!!

21L: Ahhhh! The school grass’s boyfriend drives a limited edition luxury car to pick him up from school? Wow, this is divine love, filled with the fragrance of money.

22L: I don’t know, but the man who came to pick up the school grass definitely looked older.

23L: Hold on, are you saying the school grass is the bottom? I don’t believe the school grass would be the bottom!

24L: They just said the other guy is older, not that the school grass is the bottom. Haven’t you heard of younger dominant types? That’s our school grass!

25L: Good point. The school grass is definitely the top. If someone as dominant as him were the bottom, then there are no tops left in the world!

Tang Zhen sent this post to Chen Xu, laughing like an idiot in the group chat.

Tang Zhen: Hahaha, they’re all convinced you’re the top. I really want to start a betting pool. Everyone bets you’re the top, and I’m the only one betting you’re the bottom, making a fortune.

Chen Xu: …

Zhu Yaoyuan: Wow, there’s a way to make money like this? Why didn’t you tell me?

Chen Xu: Both of you, leave the group.

Chen Xu hadn’t expected to be secretly photographed. His marriage to Si Ye wasn’t widely publicized. Firstly, because they weren’t truly in love at the time—it was just a contractual marriage. Secondly, Si Ye thought Chen Xu was too young and had just started university, so publicizing it might have negative effects. To protect Chen Xu, they only disclosed it within a small circle.

He wasn’t someone who liked to flaunt his life and didn’t feel the need to explain himself to others. After scrolling through the forum for a bit, he closed the page.

Taking measurements for the clothes didn’t take long, and afterward, Si Ye took him to a restaurant for dinner.

“Si Ye.”

Chen Xu tensed up instinctively at the sound of that voice.

Turning around, he saw Xiang Xiuhe, with Mo Hang by his side.

Xiang Xiuhe smiled warmly as he approached them.

“You guys are here for dinner too? Let’s eat together,” Xiang Xiuhe suggested.

Seeing Mo Hang, Si Ye was about to agree, but Chen Xu politely declined, “Sorry, it’s rare for me to find time to go on a date with Uncle Si. We booked a couple’s room, so it wouldn’t be convenient. I hope you understand.”

As he spoke, Chen Xu wrapped his arms around Si Ye’s, looking like a spoiled and clingy lover.

Xiang Xiuhe’s smile froze. He hadn’t expected to be refused, especially with Mo Hang there.

“Tsk, fine, we won’t interrupt your couple’s time. Next time then,” Mo Hang said, a bit sourly.

Chen Xu smiled slightly, giving Mo Hang and Xiang Xiuhe a teasing look, “We won’t disturb you either.”

Both Mo Hang and Xiang Xiuhe were taken aback. Mo Hang rubbed his nose, wondering if Chen Xu had noticed his feelings for Xiang Xiuhe. Was it that obvious?

Once Chen Xu and Si Ye were inside their room, Xiang Xiuhe kept staring at Si Ye’s back, making Mo Hang feel a pang of jealousy. He had long been used to this—watching Xiang Xiuhe, who watched Si Ye—but it still hurt.

“Stop looking. Let’s go,” Mo Hang said, pulling Xiang Xiuhe’s arm towards their own room.

Once seated, Xiang Xiuhe asked, “Did you tell Si Ye anything?”

Mo Hang paused while pouring tea. “What do you mean?”

Realizing his tone was harsh, Xiang Xiuhe softened, “Mo Hang, I didn’t mean anything by it. I was just curious why Chen Xu would say that.”

Suppressing his anger, Mo Hang placed the tea in front of Xiang Xiuhe, “I didn’t say anything inappropriate.”

“As for why Chen Xu said that, maybe he saw through it. I’ve made it pretty obvious, and he’s not blind,” Mo Hang said self-deprecatingly.

Xiang Xiuhe lowered his eyelashes. “I’m sorry, Mo Hang. If it’s too hard for you, you can delete my contact. But I’ll always consider you my most important friend. You can contact me anytime.”

Mo Hang’s brows knitted in pain. How could he stay away from Xiang Xiuhe after hearing this?

“You’re stabbing me in the heart.”

After a long silence, Xiang Xiuhe could only say, “I’m sorry.”

Mo Hang took a deep breath, his eyes red. “What’s the point of looking at him? Do you think he’ll divorce Chen Xu?”

“Don’t think Chen Xu is too young and unsettled. Maybe he’ll get tired of this life and seek freedom. Then you can swoop in with your sincerity and win over Si Ye.”

“Let me tell you, that won’t happen. If Si Ye could be moved by you, you’d be together already. They’re a loving couple.”

“Mo Hang!” Xiang Xiuhe shouted, losing control, his red eyes glaring. “Do you have to humiliate me?”

Clenching his teeth, Mo Hang said, “I’m not humiliating you. You’re humiliating yourself. Last time you said you had a fever, I rushed back, leaving my family during the New Year, only to find out you just wanted me to call Si Ye to take care of you. What do you take me for?”

Xiang Xiuhe lowered his head, tears streaming down his face. Mo Hang couldn’t continue. He walked over, wiping Xiang Xiuhe’s tears, “Why can’t you look at me?”

“It’s my fault. I want to know why Si Ye won’t look at me,” Xiang Xiuhe choked out.

Mo Hang felt his heart shatter.

Meanwhile, in Chen Xu and Si Ye’s room, the food had already been served. Chen Xu had only mentioned it casually, but Si Ye had actually booked a couple’s room, decorated with romantic touches.

“This light is too dim. Can you brighten it? I’m afraid of straining my eyes,” Chen Xu said to the waiter.

The waiter: “…”

Si Ye chuckled, “Turn on the lights.”

The romantic room became bright, and Chen Xu could finally see the food in front of him.

“Sorry for making the decision earlier,” Chen Xu apologized, but he’d do it again. Even with Mo Hang there, he didn’t trust Xiang Xiuhe, always feeling he’d cause trouble. He didn’t want their nice dinner to be ruined.

“Hmm?” Si Ye thought of how cute Chen Xu looked when he clung to him earlier.

“There’s nothing to apologize for. You can make decisions for me.” Si Ye finally realized that Chen Xu had been jealous, not worried about Mo Hang, but jealous himself.

Chen Xu blushed, touching his nose. He could make decisions for Si Ye.

Feeling sweet inside, Chen Xu’s lips curved into a smile. Si Ye suddenly gestured for him to come closer.

“Hmm?” Chen Xu leaned in, curious, and Si Ye suddenly kissed him.

Wide-eyed and dazed, Chen Xu was adorably cute.

Their luck held as they didn’t run into Xiang Xiuhe and Mo Hang when they left, carrying the desserts Si Ye had the restaurant prepare for Chen Xu’s roommates.

That night, Tang Zhen and Zhu Yaoyuan expressed their gratitude, willing to take any orders from Xu.

A few days later, it was the weekend, the day to publicly announce Si Lin’s identity.

Chen Xu got up early, busy with preparations. Si Lin, never having experienced such a grand occasion, was nervous and out of his element.

Sun Wei’ang had returned the previous day. He had once despised Si Yi’chen for taking what belonged to Si Lin. But after Si Lin’s return, he realized Si Lin wasn’t even as competent as Si Yi’chen, causing him constant frustration.

As soon as he came downstairs, he saw Si Lin standing in the living room, face pale with anxiety.

“What are you standing here for? Have you prepared the speech your uncle asked you to write?” Sun Wei’ang patted Si Lin’s hunched back.

Si Lin snapped back to reality, suddenly remembering the speech. “N-no…”

“Do I really have to speak in front of all those people tonight? Can’t I just not say anything? They probably don’t even want to hear me…” Si Lin’s voice grew smaller.

Sun Wei’ang, frustrated, said, “The Si family isn’t a small household. Being recognized is a big deal, not something done carelessly.”

He didn’t bother explaining the intricacies of the family’s interests, knowing Si Lin wouldn’t understand.

“Go write your speech,” Sun Wei’ang ordered, seeing Si Lin’s dejected look.

“Isn’t there someone who can write the speech for me? I can just read it,” Si Lin thought of how their school principal always had speeches written for him and wondered why the wealthy Si family couldn’t do the same.

Sun Wei’ang, angry and disappointed, asked, “Don’t you have anything you want to say?”

Si Lin shook his head. The only thing he wanted to say was that he didn’t want to study anymore. He just wanted to be a spoiled rich kid. Why was the Si family so strict with him when they could afford to let him live leisurely?

His friends had been urging him to take them out to enjoy the high life since they heard he was recognized by a wealthy family, but he didn’t dare reply. He feared they would discover he had no money.

Si Ye gave him no allowance, saying everything he needed was at home, and if not, he could ask Uncle Zhong. Si Lin had no need to spend money and felt aggrieved by the lack of pocket money.

Almost in tears with anger, Si Lin dared not speak out.

Sun Wei’ang watched him walk away, feeling helpless. He saw Chen Xu organizing everything efficiently and realized that despite being the same age, Si Lin and Chen Xu were worlds apart.

Busy with preparations, Chen Xu dismissed Si Lin’s request to check his speech, sending him to Sun Wei’ang instead.

Feeling Chen Xu’s cold and unfamiliar demeanor, Si Lin clutched his tablet, feeling downcast.

Reluctantly, he asked Sun Wei’ang for help. Sun Wei’ang, seeing many typos, was reminded of Si Lin’s failure to get into college. He didn’t expect a stellar speech but hoped for sincerity and coherence. Instead, it was a mess.

“Take a break. I’ll polish it up,” Sun Wei’ang said, deleting Si Lin’s awful speech and writing a new one himself.

As night fell, Chen Xu donned his new suit and stepped out, almost colliding with Si Ye.

“Careful.”

Si Ye helped steady him, looking over Chen Xu’s new outfit. The taller Chen Xu looked even more stunning in a suit, his slim waist and long legs emphasized. “You look good.”

Chen Xu shyly thanked him, adjusting his rose-shaped earring.

Si Ye went to change, and Chen Xu waited at the wardrobe door, occasionally stealing glances at Si Ye.

Having seen Si Ye’s body before didn’t stop Chen Xu from wanting to peek. His ears turned red as he fidgeted with his earring.

Suddenly, a pair of shoes appeared in his lowered view. Chen Xu looked up to see Si Ye, half-dressed. Blushing, he quickly averted his gaze.

“Look all you want. I’m yours,” Si Ye said, taking Chen Xu’s hand.

Feeling Si Ye’s heartbeat in his palm, Chen Xu admired his well-defined, muscular body, not too bulky or thin, with perfect lines.

Embarrassed, Chen Xu tried to pull back, but Si Ye’s laughter made him pause. Si Ye let him go and continued dressing.

Determined, Chen Xu stepped forward, taking Si Ye’s tie. “Let me help.”

Si Ye bent down obligingly. Chen Xu, now about 1.8 meters tall, was still shorter but not by much. He remembered that Chen Xu would grow taller, eventually reaching 1.82 meters by the age of twenty-two.

Focused on tying the tie, Chen Xu’s serious demeanor made Si Ye’s heart itch to tease him.

“Uncle Zhong said you’ve been busy all day. Thank you,” Si Ye said, kissing Chen Xu’s forehead.

Chen Xu, startled by the kiss, fumbled slightly, replying, “It wasn’t much.”

He felt his efforts were minimal compared to Uncle Zhong’s, especially since he had to manage without help from Si Wanping, who had withdrawn her involvement to watch for mistakes.

Determined not to let Si Ye down or give Si Wanping any satisfaction, Chen Xu had been up early, ensuring everything was perfect for the event.

“Feels like I’ve married a competent wife,” Si Ye teased.

Chen Xu pushed up the tie, making Si Ye choke slightly. “Just you wait. I’ll surpass you, and then you can stay home as my competent husband, doing all the chores.”

“Sure, I don’t mind. I’ll even wash your feet if you’re drunk,” Si Ye said, laughing.

This was beyond a competent wife—this was a dedicated servant, and Si Ye was perfectly willing.

Chen Xu silently continued adjusting Si Ye’s tie, his heart warmed by Si Ye’s words.

“Thank you,” Si Ye said, kissing Chen Xu’s lips briefly. When Chen Xu tried to move away, Si Ye pulled him back, letting the younger man kiss him fervently.

Wiping his lips afterward, Chen Xu said seriously, “That was a service fee.”

Si Ye almost laughed but held back to save Chen Xu’s dignity. He wanted to keep kissing the adorable boy but had to get to the event on time.

“Happy now?” Si Ye asked, guiding Chen Xu by the waist.

Chen Xu nodded, trying to remain composed. “Yes.”

Smiling, Si Ye kissed his rose earring. “I’ll give you more to be happy about tonight.”

Chen Xu felt weak at the knees, grateful for Si Ye’s support as they headed to the hall.

With guests still arriving, Si Ye introduced Si Lin to the family. Despite his initial nerves, Si Lin couldn’t take his eyes off the dazzling Chen Xu, who looked like an enchanting sea nymph tonight.

Si Lin had been groomed well. Living with the Si family and under Si Ye’s strict supervision, he had improved his appearance and health significantly, though he still lacked Chen Xu’s presence.

“Si Ye, why didn’t you tell us you found Si Lin? We’re family,” Si Yao Wei said, disgruntled.

Today was the first he had heard of Si Lin’s return. The Si family’s inheritance wasn’t something to be taken lightly. He recalled Tao Min Zhi’s words that Si Ye had to return the family to Si Lin upon finding him.

Bringing back Si Lin wasn’t just about a missing child; it was about potentially changing the family’s head. Si Ye’s secrecy hinted at an unwillingness to relinquish control to Si Lin, who, at nineteen, was no match for the seasoned Si Ye.

“You’re overthinking, Uncle. Si Lin’s return deserves a formal introduction. Today, you see him,” Si Ye smoothly countered, silencing Si Yao Wei.

Luo Yi, staring at Si Lin, looked like she’d seen a ghost, standing up abruptly. “How… How is this possible?”

Her outburst drew everyone’s attention. Si Yao Wei, equally confused, asked, “Are you unwell?”

Luo Yi, pale, explained, “Sorry, I was with Ke Ting when the child was lost. After so many years without a trace, I thought there was no hope.”

“I’m not doubting you. It just feels too sudden. Are you sure this is Si Lin?” she asked Si Ye.

Si Ye responded firmly, “If you have doubts, I have Si Lin’s DNA report. Everyone can see it after the banquet.”

The relatives, tacitly agreeing, fell silent.

Feeling the chilly atmosphere, Si Lin thought of his adoptive parents, but he wasn’t willing to give up the comforts of the Si family.

Si Xuezhou, less complex in thought, introduced himself to Si Lin, feeling they should be friends due to their similar age and situation.

“My name is Si Xuezhou,” he said, pointing to his parents. “That’s my mom and dad.”

Surprised, Si Lin asked, “Should I call you uncle?”

Si Xuezhou laughed, “Just use my name. We’re the same age; calling me uncle would be awkward.”

Relieved, Si Lin found Si Xuezhou nice until he realized he was a good student, losing interest.

As more guests arrived, Chen Xu stayed close to Si Ye, helping greet them.

Many had expected to see a failing marriage but were surprised to find Si Ye and Chen Xu still very much in love. Some young stars whispered among themselves, impressed by Chen Xu’s looks, better than any celebrity.

Watching Chen Xu, they tried to find signs of plastic surgery but found none, frustrating them further.

While fetching a wine glass, Chen Xu suddenly locked eyes with Xiang Xiuhe at the door.

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Rain : This guy… sigh

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