Yan Xi covered her face with one hand, determined not to show even a glimpse. She vividly remembered Gu Qinghan’s words—he didn’t want to see her face for the next three months.

Gu Qinghan was a cold and twisted man, a true embodiment of a black lotus. Given her current lack of power, Yan Xi couldn’t afford to provoke him.

At first, Gu Qinghan didn’t understand her actions, thinking she was up to one of her usual silly games. He had no patience for her convoluted emotions.

For most people, being the object of a young girl’s sincere affection might evoke feelings of joy or tenderness. For Gu Qinghan, it evoked nothing but irritation.

His heart didn’t stir even the slightest bit; instead, he found her presence utterly nauseating.

However, it didn’t take long for him to recall what he’d said to her before. Realizing she was covering her face because of his earlier declaration, he smirked.

At least she’s finally showing some self-awareness.

It seemed that the near-drowning incident had sobered her up a little.

“There are 18 days left until Xia Ning’s birthday,” Gu Qinghan said coldly, “You should know what to say in front of her—and what not to say.”

In the past, every time Yan Xi saw Xia Ning, she would complain tearfully, whining about how Gu Qinghan ignored her and lamenting how neglected she felt.

Xia Ning would always come to him afterward, pleading for him to treat Yan Xi better.

Gu Qinghan found it utterly tiresome. What more could he do for her? He already took care of her basic needs and accommodated most of her unreasonable requests.

Was that not enough? Did she expect him to sleep with her, too?

As he thought of Yan Xi’s pale, lifeless figure, Gu Qinghan’s elegant brows furrowed. Annoyance flickered in his eyes.

He’d endured her foolishness for far too long. If not for Xia Ning’s concern, Gu Qinghan wouldn’t have spared Yan Xi even a single glance.

“Don’t worry, sir!” Yan Xi waved her free hand cheerfully. “I’ll make sure Xia Ning is happy. You have nothing to worry about.”

Yan Xi was in an excellent mood. To her, Gu Qinghan was nothing more than a benefactor and employer. She didn’t have to do much—just keep her distance, avoid saying the wrong things in front of Xia Ning, and she could continue living in a luxurious villa with gourmet meals prepared by a five-star chef.

What job could be better than this?

Her upbeat demeanor was a stark contrast to her past self, who would’ve been upset or heartbroken by Gu Qinghan’s words. This change in behavior piqued his curiosity, and he scrutinized her closely.

But Yan Xi remained blissfully unaware, even asking enthusiastically, “Do you have any other requests, sir? Just let me know! I promise to meet them perfectly.”

Having been a successful entrepreneur as the eldest granddaughter of the Su family, Su Yanxi was well-versed in satisfying clients. Only by keeping clients happy could partnerships continue, ensuring her access to her current comforts.

Gu Qinghan was momentarily thrown off by her response. Finally, he muttered coldly, “Crazy,” before turning away.

Why call me crazy? Yan Xi frowned. I hate being sick or in pain the most.

She pouted, deciding that Gu Qinghan was truly difficult to please. If she pursued him, it was wrong; if she didn’t pursue him, it was still wrong.

Men are as unpredictable as the ocean, she thought.

After basking in the sun for a while, Yan Xi went back to her room. Her life had been so relaxed lately that she’d almost let her guard down. If not for her adoptive parents reminding her about Xia Ning’s birthday, she might have forgotten entirely.

Yan Xi hurriedly pulled out the diary left behind by her predecessor, scanning through its pages to understand her relationship with Xia Ning.

There wasn’t much about Xia Ning in the diary, only that she was described as a gentle and kind young lady who was generous and caring toward Yan Xi.

Fingering the jade bracelet on her wrist, Yan Xi pondered. The original Yan Xi had been a sensitive and delicate person. If she believed Xia Ning to be good, then Xia Ning was likely a decent person.

As the saying goes, “Speak of the devil, and he shall appear.” Just as Yan Xi was thinking about Xia Ning, a video call came through.

Yan Xi immediately answered, and a warm, beautiful face appeared on the screen.

The woman was at home, dressed in luxurious silk pajamas from the high-end Italian brand La Perla. Even her slippers were from a world-renowned luxury label, and her headband… At a glance, Yan Xi estimated that the woman’s outfit was worth millions.

How extravagant! Yan Xi thought. Even when I was with the Su family, I didn’t live like this.

“Yan Yan,” Xia Ning’s soft, sweet voice called out, tinged with a delicate charm.

“Miss Ning,” Yan Xi replied, using the title from the original Yan Xi’s diary.

Xia Ning frowned. “How many times do I have to tell you? Don’t call me Miss Ning. Just call me Ning Ning.”

Ever agreeable, Yan Xi immediately corrected herself. “Ning Ning.”

Xia Ning froze, her pupils dilating slightly. She hadn’t expected Yan Xi to actually call her that.

Surprised, she scrutinized Yan Xi carefully, only to notice something startling—Yan Xi had pushed back her bangs, revealing a pair of almond-shaped eyes that were identical to their mother’s.

“Yan Yan, you…” Xia Ning’s expression remained calm, but her heart raced. “Why did you push back your bangs?”

“My bangs?” Yan Xi touched her forehead, remembering that the original Yan Xi indeed had thick, long bangs that nearly covered her eyes. Yan Xi, however, preferred a clean, open look.

“Oh,” Yan Xi explained casually. “It’s too hot, so I pushed them back.”

Xia Ning seemed displeased. “You shouldn’t push them back. Didn’t I tell you before that you look best with bangs? Besides, Brother Qinghan prefers you that way.”

Seriously? Yan Xi thought. That’s the biggest lie I’ve ever heard.

She didn’t believe it for a second. Gu Qinghan’s perpetually stoic expression suggested that even if she turned into a goddess, he wouldn’t bat an eye.

But she didn’t want to argue with Xia Ning. The original Yan Xi had greatly admired and trusted Ning Ning, obeying her every word.

So, Yan Xi nodded and replied perfunctorily, “Alright, I’ll put them back.”

Not like Xia Ning can see me from abroad anyway.

Relieved, Xia Ning shifted the conversation. “Yan Yan, isn’t married life wonderful? Brother Qinghan is so amazing—you must be so happy.”

“It’s fine,” Yan Xi replied, her tone devoid of sincerity.

Xia Ning didn’t seem to notice and earnestly said, “Yan Yan, I truly hope you’re happy. You and Brother Qinghan are the two most important people to me. I want you both to be happy forever.”

After offering a few more blessings, Xia Ning ended the call. Sitting by her bed, she fell into deep thought.

She told herself she owed Yan Xi nothing and didn’t need to feel guilty. Although she had taken Yan Xi’s family and their affection, it wasn’t her fault—it was the result of a hospital mix-up. She was a victim, too.

Besides, she’d already given Gu Qinghan to Yan Xi as compensation. Wasn’t that enough?

Without her, how could someone as timid and pathetic as Yan Xi ever have a chance with Gu Qinghan? She had already repaid more than enough.