Inside the car, a dim light illuminated the space faintly, blending the fragrances of tuberose and sherry into the confined air.

Chen Nian clung to Shavri Vitaljevich’s shoulders, leaning into the crook of his neck, greedily inhaling. The Alpha’s pheromones broke through the inhibitors, mingling with the sweet undertone of fine wine.

Shavri was stiff as a board.

In mere seconds, his face turned even redder than Chen Nian’s, who was already drunk.

The soft ends of Chen Nian’s hair brushed against Shavri’s neck. The nonsensical hums of a drunken youth reached his ears, further accelerating his already erratic heartbeat.

Shavri gripped his thighs tightly, sitting upright without daring to move an inch.

—Does Chen Ci know what he’s doing?

Shavri struggled to think, his mind overtaken by vivid sensations—soft, warm, and intermittently fleeting touches.

It was unlike anything he had ever felt.

At twenty-four years old, Shavri was still an unblemished canvas, never particularly interested in such matters. He rarely even handled his own needs. When seeking stimulation, he preferred to use neural adapters to dive into high-intensity gaming worlds.

Unfortunately, this “blank canvas” found himself caught in a storm for the first time, and the storm’s name was Chen Nian.

Chen Nian’s instincts for indulgence were practically second nature. Even in his intoxicated state, every move was calculated, tightening its grip on the Alpha’s vulnerabilities. He knew what Alphas liked, what they anticipated, and what they couldn’t resist.

Yet Shavri would never take advantage of Chen Nian in this state. He didn’t believe Chen Nian’s sudden closeness stemmed from uncontrollable feelings. It was merely the result of pheromones and alcohol conspiring to induce momentary chaos.

Acting in such a situation would be too low, especially given that their relationship, despite the engagement, was more akin to mere friends.

However, the intoxicating scent of tuberose seemed to possess a hypnotic power. It easily took control of his every breath, rousing his very soul and urging him to draw nearer.

His body’s natural response betrayed his rationality and sense of pride.

This is your fiancé, an inner voice screamed. From a young age, you knew he’d be your future Omega. Tonight, for the first time, you smelled each other’s pheromones. Doesn’t that mean something?

He likes you so much—your pheromones, the way he clings to you, humming like a little animal. He even said you’re sweet.

He walked into the ballroom holding your arm, clearly displeased by the Omegas surrounding you, claiming he’d only play music for you.

Yet just two days ago, you barely exchanged words.

Finally, unable to endure further, Shavri reached for the overhead compartment, fumbling for the inhibitor bottle. His hands trembled violently, spilling over a dozen pills in his haste. Ignoring the risk of overdose, he stuffed them all into his mouth and swallowed dry.

After a disorienting pause, the rich scent of tuberose rapidly faded. The inhibitors worked, dulling his senses until he could smell nothing at all, like a patient with a severe cold.

Though the overdose made him physically uncomfortable, Shavri exhaled in relief.

Thank goodness, he thought, content. Even if I took too much, the worst-case scenario is a stomach pump.

Now free from the pheromonal influence, Shavri finally dared to move. He gently nudged Chen Nian, who clung tighter in response, grumbling in protest.

Chen Nian’s grip conveyed his defiance.

For a moment, Shavri questioned whether he was being too harsh.

At times like this, he truly hated not being an actual block of wood.

Fortunately, the short distance from the ballroom to the White Tower saved his sanity. When the car stopped, Shavri, already at his limit, had a single thought:

Finally free.

The car door opened, and the night breeze swept into the pheromone-laden backseat. Shavri gently shook Chen Nian, his voice hoarse. “We’re here. Get out.”

Chen Nian frowned and murmured in discontent, reluctantly opening his eyes.

Half supporting, half carrying him, Shavri escorted Chen Nian out of the car and, with the help of attendants, delivered him to the White Tower.

“He’s drunk. Prepare some sobering soup,” he instructed the maid, Agnes, who hurried off to comply.

Shavri accompanied Chen Nian to the sixteenth floor, where the bedroom was located, but stopped at the door.

“Are you okay?” Shavri asked softly.

Chen Nian nodded, though his dazed expression betrayed his lack of clarity.

Having seen him safely home, Shavri felt his responsibilities were complete. After issuing a few final instructions to the attendants, he took one last glance at Chen Nian’s flushed face and quickly turned to leave.

Back in the room, Agnes soon arrived with the sobering soup, feeding some to Chen Nian. The soup contained some special ingredient that helped him regain clarity after a short while.

Chen Nian vaguely remembered Shavri bringing him back.

As for the rest… had he caught a whiff of Shavri’s pheromones?

Yes, the sweet aroma of sherry lingered around him, triggering an honest reaction from his body.

Chen Nian’s legs weakened involuntarily. He had never complained about these Omega-specific traits and even found a twisted enjoyment in them.

Tonight’s banquet had yielded far more than he expected.

The best and most noble Alphas in Chensha gathered under one roof—young, strong, gentlemanly, aloof, or passionate. But in this world of temptations, how many could truly resist?

This was his dream hunting ground. Compared to the Underground City, seducing these Alphas would undoubtedly be more challenging.

But the greater the challenge, the more exhilarating it felt.

Among them, the most desirable was undoubtedly Shavri. His flawless, handsome face and perfectly compatible pheromones were a rare find.

Moreover, Shavri had plenty of admirers vying for his attention. Winning over an Alpha like him would be the ultimate satisfaction.

However, this man was his brother’s fiancé. Beyond vengeance, Chen Nian had no intention of going too far.

There were plenty of Alphas in the world, but Chen Ci was the only brother he had. No one was worth jeopardizing that bond.

Chen Nian exhaled softly. He was deeply uncomfortable.

Shavri’s pheromones had stirred his desire, but with the Alpha gone, that longing hung in limbo, unfulfilled.

This was Chen Ci’s residence, so there were no toys stashed under the bed to help him out.

Forget it, he thought, massaging his temples. Suppressing his physiological cravings, he stumbled drunkenly.

Unbuttoning his shirt, he carelessly tossed his clothes to the floor, kicked off his shoes, removed his collar, and released his pheromones freely. The dense floral scent filled the room.

Time for an early rest.

On the other hand, Shavri stumbled back to the palace in a daze.

“Your Highness.” The housekeeper hurried to greet him but froze at the sight of Shavri’s pale face. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. Probably took too many inhibitors.”

“How many did you take?”

“A dozen or so.”

The housekeeper gasped. The inhibitors in Shavri’s car were all high-strength. Even one could work instantly—he had taken over ten?

“I’ll call a doctor immediately!” the housekeeper exclaimed.

“No need.” Shavri refused firmly. “I’ll handle it myself.”

With that, he went to the restroom. Shortly after, the housekeeper heard the unmistakable sound of retching.

Five minutes later, the crown prince emerged, silent and red-eyed from the exertion.

He didn’t fear doctors; he just wanted to make himself as uncomfortable as possible to suppress his physical reactions.

The housekeeper, concerned, said nothing and brought him some sobering soup.

Shavri downed it in one go and handed back the empty bowl.

“Would you like a sweet orange, Your Highness?” the housekeeper asked considerately, worried about his stomach.

The mention of “sweet” nearly made Shavri leap out of his skin.

“No, absolutely not!” he exclaimed. “No sweet things, and don’t even say that word around me for now!”

With that, he fled to his room, slamming the door behind him, leaving the bewildered housekeeper standing in the hallway.

What on earth happened to His Highness?

Leaning against the door, Shavri closed his eyes tightly.

The memories of the car ride played vividly in his mind—and on his skin.

Drunken touches, nuzzles in his neck, fingers gripping his shoulders, the cool breath on his skin—it was all so clear.

And that voice, soft like a murmur, echoing endlessly in his ears.

“You’re so sweet. You’re so sweet. You’re so sweet. You’re so sweet…”

AAAAAAH!

Shavri was about to lose it. I’m an Alpha! How could this happen?

No, he had to stop thinking about it.

Taking a deep breath, he stripped off his clothes and went to shower.

Half an hour later, the crown prince lay in bed wearing fresh pajamas. He reached for the neural adapter on his shelf—a high-tech gadget resembling a gas mask—and put it on.

The real world faded in an instant. His body felt detached, like it no longer belonged to him.

A virtual figure materialized before him—a tall beauty nearly six-foot-two, with loosely tied golden hair, blue goggles concealing changeable eyes, and glowing tattoos stretching from her arms to her neck, stopping at her cheek.

The character wore the latest tactical gear from the in-game shop. If judged solely by appearance, she was a stunning Amazonian warrior.

The perspective shifted from third-person to first-person. Sensations dulled and then reawakened, making him feel as though he truly belonged in the virtual world.

A gentle female voice with a faint mechanical edge spoke directly into Shavri’s mind:

“Welcome, ‘Screw this, I’m out!’ You have entered—Electric Fantasy Kingdom.”

The tram slowed to a halt at a dimly lit station.

Fu Tianhe disembarked, holding the prizes they had won playing shooting games. The display screen’s blue glow illuminated his excited face.

Turning back, he asked Chen Ci, who was following him, “Had fun?”

“Yes.” Chen Ci nodded, then added after a brief pause, “Thank you.”

After a day of wild fun, Chen Ci’s hair was slightly disheveled. The safety helmet they had used for the mine cart ride had been returned to Fu Tianhe’s coworker, leaving traces of dust on his shoulder that he had brushed off, though faint smudges remained on his jacket.

The Underground City lacked the concept of day and night, making it easy to lose track of time. It wasn’t until the park closed that Chen Ci realized it was already evening.

The amusement park, converted from an industrial zone, didn’t boast many impressive attractions. But to Chen Ci, everything was novel, and he wanted to try it all.

The mine-cart roller coaster, in particular, captivated him. They rode it five or six times before he reluctantly disembarked.

Fu Tianhe observed his reactions with joy and relief. For the first time, he saw youthful vitality in Chen Ci—though it was fleeting, as the boy soon returned to his usual calm and indifferent demeanor.

As they took the tram back from the south side, Fu Tianhe stopped at Chen Ci’s station.

“Take care on your way home,” Fu Tianhe said.

Chen Ci nodded, taking the stuffed toy Fu Tianhe had won, cradling it in his arms.

“Oh, and this.”

Fu Tianhe dug into his pocket and handed over a small box, his face slightly red. “A gift for you.”

“What is it?”

“Just a little something. Open it when you get home.”

The box was wrapped in cheap decorative paper, its corners visibly creased from hurried folding.

Its humble appearance reassured Chen Ci that it hadn’t cost much, so he accepted it with a simple, “Thank you.”

Fu Tianhe sighed in relief, having worried that “September” might reject it.

It seemed he was making progress. Good.

“It’s late. You should get going,” Fu Tianhe urged.

“Mm.”

Holding the plush toy and the gift box, Chen Ci walked toward his residential complex.

His mental energy spread quietly, ensuring no detail escaped his perception.

Chen Ci avoided a puddle on the ground and reached the end of the road. Just before entering the alleyway, he turned around on a whim.

Fu Tianhe was still standing there, watching him leave. When Chen Ci turned back, Fu Tianhe quickly waved enthusiastically.

Chen Ci turned back sharply, steadied himself, and quickened his pace into the alley.

Back home, Jiang Dai was waiting for him in the study as expected.

“I’m back,” Chen Ci announced.

“Welcome home,” Jiang Dai replied, setting down his magnifying glass and pen. He leaned on the armrest to stand up. “Out with a friend?”

“Mm, we went to the amusement park in the south.”

Jiang Dai said nothing, simply observing the child he had raised since infancy. His smoke-stained, weathered eyes were too murky to discern any clear emotions.

Chen Ci was about to head to his room when Jiang Dai suddenly asked, “Nian Nian, have you been feeling unwell lately?”

“A little.” Chen Ci paused briefly before responding. “It’ll probably pass in a few days.”

Jiang Dai nodded. “Then get some rest early.”

Chen Ci agreed and closed the bedroom door behind him. The smile he had forced vanished instantly, replaced by his usual calm demeanor.

Did Jiang Dai notice something?

Probably. The differences between him and Chen Nian were stark. While strangers might take time to notice, Jiang Dai had lived with Chen Nian for eighteen years.

Still, Chen Ci wasn’t too concerned. As he had said, in a few days, he and Chen Nian would switch back, and everything would return to normal.

Chen Ci removed his sports jacket and sat on the bed, placing the oversized, somewhat ugly plush bear at the head.

His thoughts drifted to Fu Tianhe.

An ordinary Alpha—but not entirely.

Chen Ci had caught a whiff of Fu Tianhe’s pheromones: a deep, amberwood scent. Even though Fu Tianhe had quickly masked it with inhibitors, its inherent dominance couldn’t be ignored.

Typically, only powerful Alphas carried such heavy, oppressive pheromones.

Yet Fu Tianhe lacked mental power.

Most top-tier Alphas possessed mental power, as its strength was directly tied to their abilities.

When Chen Ci had used his mental energy near the transportation department to track Drake, Fu Tianhe had been beside him, completely unaware.

Nor had Chen Ci sensed any reciprocal mental energy from him.

Could I have been mistaken? Maybe he’s not as strong as I thought.

Chen Ci wasn’t sure. Perhaps he had encountered too few Alphas and misjudged. After all, the strongest Alpha he’d dealt with previously was Shavri.

Chen Ci soon abandoned this irrelevant line of thought. Whether Fu Tianhe was strong or weak had nothing to do with him.

He changed out of his clothes, tossed them into the washing machine, and went to wash up.

Back at the White Tower, he’d had maids and intelligent housekeepers to assist with everything. Here, he had to do it all himself.

Though life had changed drastically, Chen Ci didn’t find it particularly tiring. In fact, it felt freer this way.

After finishing the laundry and tidying himself up, nearly an hour had passed. Chen Ci closed his bedroom door, ready to rest.

Spotting the gift box on the desk, he remembered he still hadn’t opened it.

What could Fu Tianhe have given him? They had been together all day at the amusement park, and Chen Ci hadn’t seen him buy anything.

Carefully peeling back the wrapping along the edges, Chen Ci ensured the paper remained intact, even after removal.

Inside the box was a pair of earplugs and a folded black silk sleep mask.

Earlier that morning, during the tram ride to the southern district, Chen Ci had mentioned in passing that he hadn’t slept well because of the dripping water outside his window.

It was such a fleeting remark that even Chen Ci himself hadn’t paid much attention to it.

Chen Ci set the box down, staring at the earplugs and sleep mask for a few seconds before unpacking the simple plastic packaging. He put on the earplugs.

The world instantly quieted. Unless he focused intently, the sound of dripping water outside became barely noticeable.

Lying down, he slipped the sleep mask over his eyes.

The cool silk pressed gently against his eyelids, blocking out all light. The strap was a little tight, causing slight discomfort above his ears.

Turning onto his side, Chen Ci hugged the ugly plush bear. The coarse texture of its cheap fur was strikingly distinct against his arm.

Perhaps it was the exhaustion from a day of fun, or maybe the earplugs were truly effective.

That night, Chen Ci fell into a deep sleep almost immediately.