However, it was far from over. The vitality of youth was truly remarkable; before he had even caught his breath, the young man initiated another round with renewed fervor. 

Qiao Si felt a dull ache throbbed in his waist, yet the tide of passion proved irresistible. He surrendered to Duan Heng’s embrace, his body lifted and lowered against the edge of the bed. With firm hands holding him steady, Duan Heng moved with a fervor that suggested long-suppressed restraint. Qiao Si’s legs rested comfortably on Duan Heng’s shoulders, a position that left no barriers between them, making him utterly exposed and vulnerable to the unrelenting rhythm, fully under Duan Heng’s mercy. His throat grew parched, and breath hitched uncontrollably. 

On the precipice of release, Qiao Si could only lie back, his body overwhelmed as the rhythmic thrusts intensified. The young man explored the delicate juncture of Qiao Si’s calf and ankle with his lips, igniting a whirlwind of sensations. 

His feet were a rather sensitive part of his body, one he had never once associated with intimacy. Yet now, the subtle teasing touches sent shivers down his spine, inducing an illusion of unfulfillment; compelling him to arch and shift instinctively, as though seeking release from the tantalizing tension. 

The young man heightened his maneuvers, plunging deeper with an ardent ferocity as though the bed itself might give way. His every motion was calculated to utterly “satisfy” him, leaving no desire unmet. When his toes engulfed by the warmth of the other man’s mouth, Qiao Si shuddered, a torrent of sensation washing over him, trembling uncontrollably as he reached a near-breathless release. 

At last, everything came to a halt, leaving an almost surreal sense of having been pulled from a dream back into reality. Qiao Si lay supine, his body a canvas for the younger man’s ministrations, leaving him limp and unable to move. His back continued to shiver involuntarily, while remnants of pleasure lingered deep within, refusing to dissipate. 

Duan Heng wrapped his arms around him from behind, his lips brushing against Qiao Si’s earlobe as he murmured softly, “Fourth Master…” 

“How did you learn to be so good at this?” 

Duan Heng chuckled, a faint hint of embarrassment flickering across his expression. Resting his chin on Qiao Si’s shoulder as he gently nuzzled into the hollow of his neck. 

In the past, other boys would do similar things after such intimacy, possessing a feline grace, while Dan Heng exhibited more of a loyal dog. 

Qiao Si lulled into a state of post-coital languor, allowing the young man’s affectionate caresses soothe him, though he longed for a bath. His mild dilemma was short-lived when Dan Heng, with his considerable strength, effortlessly scooped him up in his arm. 

The novel sensation intrigued Qiao Si. Duan Heng demonstrated a capability to accomplish things those boys never could. 

Inevitably, their time in the bathtub led to two more rounds. Not that Qiao Si minded—he only needed to sit astride on Dan Heng’s waist, allowing him deliver waves of exquisite pleasure into his body. It was pure indulgence from the beginning till the end. 

After a night of unrestrained passion, Qiao Si woke up the next day feeling hollow, as though all his energy had been drained. Such a state was unequivocally untenable; he definitely needed some traditional Chinese medicine to replenish his vitality. 

Apart from feeling a bit uncomfortable from the overexertion in a particular area, the experience last night had been nothing short of intoxicatingly euphoric. 

Qiao Si rested his head against the pillow, a trace of thoughtfulness flickering within him. To think that being on the receiving end could be so effortless, even pleasurable. He could not help but wonder if those boys from before had experienced the same way. The notion sparked an unexpected twinge of envy. 

Duan Heng stirred beside him, his arms instinctively encircling Qiao Si and began showering him with kisses, trailing them from his cheeks to his lips, his shoulders, and lastly his chest. Though the affectionate attention brought a satisfying comfort, a dull ache settled in his lower back, a stark reminder that the youthful vigor of his past was no longer his. 

With a soft nudge against the younger man’s forehead, he remarked with mild exasperation, “My waist hurts.” 

Duan Heng chuckled and drew back, releasing the small peak on Qiao Si’s chest before planting another kiss on his lips. “Well then, today I shall be the one to serve of you, Fourth Master.” 

Not only did Duan Heng excelled in the art of pleasure, but also in managing practical affairs. While Qiao Si lounged languidly in his chair, watching on the screen as Duan Heng adeptly took charge of the shareholders’ meeting on his behalf to preside over the situation. His words were measured and his thoughts incisive, conveying Qiao Si’s intentions with clarity and authority. 

Though he maintained an unassuming demeanor, his subtle manipulations revealed a keen acumen. Qiao Si found himself compelled to recognize that Duan Heng was undeniably a talent worth keeping close. 

On the following day, as he was about to leave and settled into the car, a faint sound of knuckles tapping against the window rang through his attention. He lowered the window, revealing Duan Heng’s beaming face peering in. 

“Fourth Master, may I hitch a ride?” 

Qiao Si gestured for him to enter. 

“Where’s your car?” 

“Sent it for repairs,” Duan Heng explained as he settled in next to him. “It got scratched yesterday while I was dodging reporters. I shouldn’t have driven so fast.” 

“Be more careful next time. A damaged car can always be replaced, but a person’s well-being is irreplaceable.” 

“I understand,” Duan Heng replied with a good-natured smile, before adding with a touch of nostalgia. “Come to think of it, that car was a gift from you, Fourth Master. It’s been two years, hasn’t it?” 

Qiao Si let out a simple “Mn.” He himself could barely remember; the things he gave and to whom he gave them, there were simply too numerous to count. 

“It was a gift during the celebration banquet. I was particularly fond of it at the time and haven’t replaced it for two years,” Duan Heng said with a smile. “Just that it’s been scratched and dented too many times; the insurance company must be growing tired of me. ” 

“Then get a new one.” 

“We’ll see. Actually, this one still drives well.” 

“If it’s old, don’t force it. Didn’t you fancy a few models at the car show the other day? Why not replace it?” 

Duan Heng said nothing, responding only with a faint chuckle. 

Qiao Si studied him. “Having some trouble with funds?” 

Although Duan Heng’s financial income was substantial, his expenses were unpredictable. Even for an entertainment celebrity, whose earnings appeared boundless, a lifestyle of unrestrained extravagance could swiftly deplete any fortune. 

Feeling a bit uneasy under the direct question, Duan Heng quickly responded with a forced smile, “That’s not the case.” 

Qiao Si understood the situation clearly. A few days later, he arranged for a car to be delivered to Duan Heng. 

Considering that Duan Heng had spent the night with him, the cost was not insignificant. However, given Duan Heng’s performance, it seemed more than warranted. 

Qiao Si reflected that Duan Heng’s brilliance also lay in the fact of his masterful approach to acquiring what he desired. He never made direct demands; instead, hinted in a way that left a lot of room between giving and withholding, making it hard for Qiao Si to dislike. 

As expected, as soon as Duan Heng received the car keys, he was elated and called him to express his gratitude. Qiao Si, on the other end, could almost feel the intense affection akin to love through the phone. 

“Who wouldn’t fall for him if a single night could potentially get them a luxury car worth nearly a million?” 

As long as he could easily acquire such gifts, he would never be lacking people who “loved” him. 

Occasionally standing by the window, Qiao Si would gaze out and ponder on the reason about him that had become so accustomed to—and even eager to—bestow such lavish gifts upon others. 

That evening, while having drinks at a bar with some friends, Duan Heng remained dutifully by his side. After several rounds, a respectful voice called out to him, “Fourth Master.” 

It was a well-acquainted agent, who brought over a couple of handsome young boys to offer their greetings. 

Qiao Si lifted his eyelids and asked, “You guys here for drinks as well?” 

The agent smiled, “They had a tiring day at work, so I brought them out to relax.” 

Qiao Si was in a good mood, so he gestured, “Have a seat. Order whatever you’d like to drink.” 

His preferences were widely known, and several of his friends shared similar inclinations; they were at least interested in trying something new or engaging in novelty. The agent, being experienced, knew such opportunities were not to be missed. They sat down and had the boys toast a round, quickly warming up the atmosphere. 

The boys were all quite pleasant to look at, likely individuals from the same industry, and not at all averse to forming connections with wealthy and influential figures like Qiao Si. They were all poised and cheerful, which made them even more endearing. 

Among them was a tall and slender boy who had a particularly beautiful face, with an innocence mixed with a hint of allure, exuding a captivating presence. What caught Qiao Si’s attention were his nose and chin, which bore a striking resemblance to Qiao Che’s sharp lines. 

After some introductions and pleasantries, the boy fixed his attention on Qiao Si, frequently flashed a cute smile, listening intently whenever Qiao Si spoke, occasionally responding with interesting remarks, making him rather likable. 

Amid the lively atmosphere, he rose to his feet and made his way towards Qiao Si, offering a toast of particular significance. After Qiao Si took a sip, the boy refrained from returning to his seat immediately. Instead, he obediently intended to squeeze a spot to claim beside Qiao Si, as if seeking a more intimate proximity. 

“Your seat is over there.” 

The one who spoke was Duan Heng. Everyone knew that Duan Heng was, at the moment, the most favored under Qiao Si. Besides the bodyguards, only Duan Heng could occupy such close proximity to Qiao Si. 

Blocked by Duan Heng, rather than appearing flustered, the boy displayed an admirable composure. With a disarming smile, he gracefully shifted to a seat beside Duan Heng, “Senior, I should give a toast to you once more. You’re my idol.” 

Duan Heng cast a brief glance at him before the boy pressed on, “My goal is to become someone like you. There’s so much I want to learn from you. I hope you’ll be generous with your guidance. ” 

Duan Heng smiled and replied, “I flattered, but I do believe we’re hardly the same kind. Also, you should return to your seat.” 

The boy, momentarily rebuffed, still bore a smile that never faltered, as he turned towards Qiao Si, “Fourth Master, I’m Daniel, by the way.” 

Sensing the subtle changes in the atmosphere, the boy discreetly withdrew when he felt Duan Heng’s gaze turn towards him once more. 

Qiao Si found boys like that rather intriguing, with a knack for being cunning and effortless ability to smile on cue, which he considered talents in their own way. But of course, the most important attribute lay in their appearance. 

Thus, when he received a call from Daniel the following day, He was neither surprised that the child had managed to acquire his phone number nor was he indifferent to the slight flicker of interest it sparked within him. 

Their relationship progressed in no time, and within a few days, Daniel had boldly climbed onto his lap. 

Their first night together was a pleasant experience. Daniel was utterly uninhibited in bed, perfectly attuned to Qiao Si’s desires. His unique blend of innocence and sensuality proved irresistibly captivating. 

The type of playful, coquettish “wild cat” was precisely to Qiao Si’s liking, particularly Daniel’s facial structure, which bore a striking resemblance to Qiao Che, lent an undeniable charm even to his occasional fits of petulance. 

During the time Qiao Si spent with that child, he experienced a sense of profound contentment, a state remarkably akin to a dream he had once yearned for, and for a while, he allowed himself to be wholly immersed in it. The enchantment was such that the world beyond their shared moments seemed to blur into an indistinct background. 

When Duan Heng came to see him, Qiao Si was lounging in a soft chair, engrossed in a phone call. He was instructing his agent at the auction to raise the bid for a gem that Daniel had his eye on, and a master jeweler had already been commissioned to craft it. Qiao Si knew that failure to secure the gem would undoubtedly lead to another one of Daniel’s petulant hunger strikes. 

“Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si gestured for him to wait. Once the confirmation of the successful auction bid was relayed, he slowly raised his gaze, fixing his eyes on the young man. “What’s the matter?” 

Duan Heng’s expression was clearly displeased, though he maintained his usual respectful posture. “I want to know if the sudden addition of a new character to the script was a decision you made, Fourth Master?” 

“Ah, that. Daniel really wants to act, so I gave him a chance to try.” 

“The character he has been given is entirely unnecessary, and the role is disproportionate and lacks justification. Besides, he can’t act at all; he simply cannot grasp the nuances of the character. This forces everyone to lower their standards to accommodate him.” 

Qiao Si took a sip of his tea, and replied, “That’s something for the scriptwriter and director to handle. Why are you so concerned?” 

Duan Heng frowned, as if he wanted to say something, but ultimately refrained from doing so. 

Qiao Si, however, sensed the underlying tension, and spoke, “Don’t overthink it. No matter how many shortcuts Daniel takes, it’s just minor stuff. He can’t threaten you. You’re the company’s ace. I have no expectation of finding someone capable of surpassing you in the next decade.” 

“Fourth Master, that’s not what I’m concerned about.” 

“Hm?” 

As Duan Heng approached with purpose in his stride. Then, without warning, Duan Heng bent down, his silhouette eclipsing the light as he leaned closer, their lips brushed against each other in a swift yet deliberate way that left no room for anticipation. 

The kiss was fleeting, yet Duan Heng did not withdraw entirely. Instead, he lowered himself into a half-kneeling posture before Qiao Si, settling his hands on either side of his waist as their gazes aligned at eye level. 

“Fourth Master, you haven’t called for me in half a month.” 

Qiao Si regarded him, the sincerity in those dark eyes stirring a fleeting pang of guilt, recalling how his recent indulgence in a dreamlike haze had indeed caused him to neglect Duan Heng. Offering a placating smile, he replied, “I admit I’ve been remiss. When I find some time, I will make it up to you properly. Tell me, what do you want?” 

Before the words could fully escape his lips, Duan Heng closed the distance between them, pressing his lips to Qiao Si’s in a swift way. Surprised, Qiao Si let out a breathless “Hmm?” 

Duan Heng’s gaze locked onto him with unwavering intensity. “I want you, Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si let out a low hum, the memories of nights spent with Daniel were still fresh in his mind. Yet, there was something undeniably nostalgic about the intimacy shared with Duan Heng. “If you return early from your shoot tonight…” 

“That’s not what I meant.” 

“Hm?” 

“I want your time,” Duan Heng continued, his hand sliding over Qiao Si’s chest, “and here.” 

Understanding dawned on Qiao Si as he leaned back, supporting his head with his hand. He could see through the vulnerability in Duan Heng—the fear of losing favor was a familiar sentiment to anyone who had ever been cherished, and Duan Heng was no exception. Though Qiao Si had consistently lavished him with favor, his nature compelled him to extend the same indulgence to others. That such attentions might provoke a sense of insecurity in Duan Heng was inevitable, a truth Qiao Si understood all too well. 

After a moment of contemplation, Qiao Si gently patted the handsome man’s head, and said, “That’s not something I can give, ask for something else.” 

Disappointment flickered across Duan Heng’s face, but he refrained from voicing dissent. “I don’t want anything else. I just want you, Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si’s hand once again moved to the soft strands of Duan Heng’s hair, his touch calm and deliberate. Beneath his composed exterior lay an unspoken tenderness, shaped by a quiet understanding of the man’s emotions. 

Indeed, there was no greater reward than Qiao Si himself. If Duan Heng could truly make Qiao Si his own, his power and influence would naturally be at his disposal, thereby sparing him decades of arduous effort. 

However, there were far too many who harbored the same ambition. Who could resist the aspiration to ascend to the heights of success overnight? Each day, countless individuals engaged in flattery and intricate manipulations, all vying for Qiao Si’s favor. He had seen it all too many times. Though Qiao Si held a genuine appreciation for Duan Heng, he was hardly one to be easily ensnared by such overtures. 

Qiao Si perceived that after his refusal, Duan Heng made no effort to mask his disappointment throughout the following days. Nevertheless, he continued to adhere strictly to decorum, maintaining his respectfulness and attentiveness in Qiao Si’s presence. Qiao Si had even instructed Duan Heng to look after Daniel more closely, to offer him some extra attention on set, and to guide him in improving his acting skills—a task that Duan Heng executed with unwavering diligence. 

Duan Heng, after all, was sensible and adept at enduring hardship, unlike other youngsters who would sulk or throw a tantrum when denied something they wanted. It was precisely this trait that had allowed Duan Heng to remain by Qiao Si’s side for so many years. 

Qiao Si planned that once Duan Heng’s current work concluded, he would arrange for him to take a well-deserved break, offering him an unforgettable, top-tier vacation as a small token of comfort. 

Unfortunately, Daniel continued to enchant Qiao Si’s dreams and consistently won his favor. 

The boy nestled in his arms like a docile rabbit, yet when the moment called for passion, he would eagerly initiate affection. Whenever they were together, Daniel would cling to him, showering him with sweet words like “I missed you, Fourth Master,” whenever they were apart for even a moment. 

Qiao Si relished the feeling of being desired, and he was utterly defenseless against the smile on that face. 

Although Daniel had become more demanding when it came to gifts, Qiao Si considered that such behavior was normal for someone his age to have a strong sense of vanity. After all, being in the entertainment industry meant constant comparisons and competition. Daniel was an ambitious young man who refused to be outdone by others, but with the meager income of a newcomer, it was impossible to maintain an impressive appearance. 

Qiao Si, who liked Daniel, naturally wanted to help him gain prestige in front of others. Besides, spending money on him was never a concern. 

In the end, he had arranged an apartment for Daniel and whenever he had the chance, he would visit and share some tender moments together. Every day, around the same time, Daniel would call. 

“Fourth Master, are you coming over tonight? I bought a lot of delicious food.” 

As if it was an illusion. 

Sometimes, when he was caught up with work, Qiao Si could only respond, “I’ve some things to attend to, you enjoy yourself.” 

Each time this happened, there would invariably be a slightly complaining yet coquettish response from Daniel, “Does that mean I won’t get to see you today, Fourth Master? I’ll miss you.” Then, a sweet reminder would follow, “Whenever you’ve time, make sure to let me know, so I can prepare the menu in advance.” 

This always left Qiao Si in a bright mood after hanging up, as the feeling of being longed for was delightful. Daniel, without a doubt, gave him the attention he had always craved. 

Since Daniel had complained before that the current apartment’s living room was too small for hosting parties with his friends, Qiao Si had kept this in mind and began looking for a more spacious place, planning to help Daniel upgrade to a larger one. 

The keys to the new apartment arrived a day ahead of schedule, putting Qiao Si in an excellent mood. He immediately had someone reserved a restaurant, planning to surprise Daniel with a little celebration that evening. 

Just as he was getting up to change his clothes, Duan Heng pushed the door open and walked in. Seeing Qiao Si meticulously dealing with the intricate buttons of his satin shirt, he smiled and said, “Fourth Master, allow me to do that for you.” 

In most corners here, Duan Heng had unobstructed access, unlike others who had to be more cautious. This freedom was afforded to him both by virtue of the trust placed in him and by his own impeccable sense of propriety. He knew which doors were supposed to be left untouched; when to knock and when to refrain from doing so. 

Duan Heng’s fingers were long and nimble, as he swiftly assisted him in getting dressed, smoothing out the creases along his back. Afterward, he gently placed a steadying hand upon Qiao Si’s shoulders from behind and smiled, “Fourth Master, you’ve lost weight. Make sure to eat well tonight.” 

It was only then did Qiao Si recalled he had originally promised to have dinner with Duan Heng that evening. Looking back into those gentle, smiling eyes, he realized with some regret that he had indeed been neglecting Duan Heng lately. Without much consideration, he reached out and gently ruffled the young man’s hair. 

“I’ve something urgent tonight. I’ll make it up to you another day.” 

The smile that had graced Duan Heng’s face faded after a moment of stillness, but he still helped Qiao Si into his coat before saying, “Are you going to meet up with Daniel?” 

“Mn,” Qiao Si responded, allowing Duan Heng to adjust his sleeves. 

“Fourth Master, if he doesn’t know you’re coming, it’s better not to go.” 

“Hm?” 

“You’ve no idea what he might be doing when you’re not around.” 

Qiao Si was astonished at Duan Heng’s audacity to say such an obvious provocative remark. A cold frown deepened on his face as he retorted, “Insolence.” 

Duan Heng, however, remained unflustered and simply said, “Fourth Master, don’t be angry. You know I’m not one to speak without reason.” 

Qiao Si barely managed to steady his temper, the tension in his chest easing just enough for him to sit down. He watched as Duan Heng pulled a large kraft paper bag out of his bag and placed it on the table, pushing it towards him. 

“Fourth Master, I didn’t plan to show you this so soon, but… perhaps you should hear me out first, and then decide whether to look at it?” 

A ripple of irritation washed over Qiao Si, and he had no desire to listen any further as he reached into the bag and pulled out a stack of photos. 

Though he had mentally prepared himself for the possibility, the high-definition photos still delivered a significant shock. 

This was no mere paparazzi-style gossip journalism, the kind of low-level surveillance one might expect from tabloid newspapers. Instead, they were explicit images captured with the precision of a pinhole camera. 

One of the individuals was Daniel, and the other was an unfamiliar man—tall and imposing, with the physique of a bodybuilder. The necklace around the man’s neck was particularly familiar, adorned with the very gemstone at its center was none other than the one he had successfully outbid others for in an auction. 

There were countless photos, each set against a backdrop that appeared strikingly familiar—his own gift to Daniel, the apartment he had once presented to him. Though the lighting and details varied slightly, it was clear that these events occurred over different occasions, indicating that this affair had not been a singular occurrence. 

The frequency with which these clandestine meetings occurred became evident, explained the incessant calls from Daniel inquiring about his schedule. Such constant attention could only have been aimed at ensuring time for secret meetings with his muscular companion. 

The photos themselves were nothing short of shocking. The two men’s displays of passion were blatant, with Daniel’s enjoyment unmistakably written across his face. His body language seemed to be a symphony of seductive movements that spoke volumes about the intensity of his enjoyment. 

In comparison, Qiao Si’s recollection of Daniel’s supposed climaxes, which now seemed akin to a performance worthy of the worst actor category in a parody of film awards. 

Qiao Si set the photos down, his face impassive as he sat in silence for a moment. His eyes narrowed slightly to meet the man’s gaze before him. “How long have you had him under surveillance?” 

“Fourth Master, I know what I’d did was wrong,” Duan Heng admitted, maintaining his composure even under the oppressive weight of Qiao Si’s intimidating presence. “But I believe it’s necessary to uncover the truth for you.” 

“Who gave you the right to be so presumptuous?” 

Duan Heng met his gaze. “Fourth Master, I was wrong. But you’ve seen it yourself; he doesn’t truly care for you, it’s all for the money…” 

Qiao Si’s coldly interrupted him mid-sentence. “Since when do you think it’s your place to lecture me?” 

The room fell silent as Duan Heng was left speechless, swallowing the words he had been about to say. 

Qiao Si remained seated in the chair for a while, not even acknowledging Duan Heng anymore as he poured himself a glass of wine. 

This matter could not be ascribed to Duan Heng; Qiao Si was indeed venting his anger unjustly. 

After all, this was the way of things. Each person in his orbit was there by choice, a choice motivated by the allure of his fortune. 

Yet, there were moments when one wished to indulge in self-deception, a need to shield one’s egos from the harsh realities of perception. He was no exception, finding solace in the illusion that he could detach himself from the judgments of others. There was no need for Duan Heng to be the one to shatter that fragile illusion, nor to deliver such relentless evidence—as if afraid that his relationships were built on a foundation of convenience rather than genuine affection; that no one willingly sought joy in intimacy with him. 

“You may leave this place now.” 

“Fourth Master…” 

“You’ve stayed here for too long.” 

Duan Heng paused, a flicker of silence stretching between them before finally responding with a quiet “Understood,” and he then withdrew without sparing another word. 

Sending Duan Heng away was not a mere act of misplaced anger but a reflection of the deep-seated disgust he now felt toward all of them. Their feigned devotion and relentless pursuit of his wealth and power clung to him like a leech, feeding off his success while spewing insincere flattery. With every exaggerated display of affection, they seamlessly shifted from moments of intimacy to calculating the rewards they could extract afterward, their true motives laid bare beneath their polished facades. 

Feigning ecstasy was as easy as breathing for these actors, whether it was Duan Heng or Daniel.  

Though he understood and had long become accustomed to the unspoken rule that “quid pro quo,” at this moment, an overwhelming sense of fatigue engulfed him.  

It felt as though he was perpetually surrounded by performers eager to please for a price, and that he was destined to remain a lifelong patron. It wore him down, and he was utterly tired of it all. 

Qiao Si had retreated into a state of introspective solitude during this time, eschewing all social engagements and dismissing any tendency towards indulgent diversions. 

As for Daniel, he had been unceremoniously cast out into the streets, stripped of his wealth and reputation. Any hope of reentering the entertainment industry had been thoroughly dashed, and his presence had long overstayed its welcome in the city. 

Not to mention Daniel’s frequent infidelities, he lacked even the basic professional ethics expected of someone in his position. The manipulative tactics he had employed were a direct affront to Qiao Si’s principles. 

What Qiao Si loathed most was not the act of being desired itself, but the hollow, calculated nature of it—a yearning not for him as a person but for the wealth and power he represented. 

That day, Qiao Bo had been entering the room for what seemed like the umpteenth time, holding the phone and reported, “Fourth Master, Master Duan’s calling again.” 

Qiao Si waved him off with a languid flick of his hand, continuing to soak in the bath with his eyes closed as if retreating into his thoughts. Without any further word, Qiao Bo quietly withdrew. 

It was hard to say what grave mistake Duan Heng had committed; Qiao Si simply had no desire to see him. 

Whether it was deliberate or inadvertent, Duan Heng had struck a raw nerve. Every encounter with him served as a piercing reminder that soured his demeanor. 

Qiao Si detested anything—or anyone—that disrupted his sense of ease. 

To avoid unnecessary complications, he had Qiao Bo convey his message. A cold shoulder in personal matters would not equate to a professional freeze. Business would proceed as usual, and Duan Heng need not be overly paranoid or excessively worried. 

However, this time, Duan Heng seemed less composed than usual. The period of falling out of favor had gradually unsettled him, and traces of restlessness began to emerge. 

Qiao Si immersed himself in his medicinal bath, but the faint sounds of commotion outside began to seep through. The muffled noise disrupted his peace, causing his brow to furrow in irritation. 

“Fourth Master has ordered for no one…” 

“Just one meeting, that’s all I ask.” 

At last, the door swung open. Qiao Si lifted his gaze, the faint ripple of annoyance darkening his expression as he regarded the man who had intruded upon his time of rest and recovery. 

The man, evidently in a rush, stood there with uneven breaths. “Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si frowned, “Didn’t you understand what Mr. Bo told you?” 

Ignoring the question, Duan Heng began, “Fourth Master, I’m leaving to Japan today for an on-location shoot. My flight’s tonight, and I won’t be back for another three months.” 

A noncommittal “Mn” escaped Qiao Si’s lips, offering neither interest nor concern. 

“I know you don’t wish to see me, but there are things I cannot wait that long to tell you.” 

Qiao Si leaned back slightly, a trace of impatience flickering in his gaze as he waited Duan Heng to continue. 

“My feelings towards you are genuine, Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si cast him a measured glance. The faint traces of weight loss were evident on his face, making his eyes appear even deeper and darker, a subtle fatigue etched in his expression. “I’m not like the others.” 

“…” 

“Whether you want me to divert Fifth Master or tend to your new favorite, as long as it pleases you, Fourth Master, I’m willing to do it.” 

“…” 

“But in my heart, I want you to be mine, and mine alone.” 

Qiao Si furrowed his brows again, about to respond, but Duan Heng interrupted him. 

“I know I’m overstepping, but Fourth Master, I’m no longer fourteen. I’m not the same as I was ten years ago.” 

“…” 

“Have you noticed that I’ve grown up?” 

Qiao Si gave no visible reaction. After Duan Heng left, he remained lost in his own thoughts, his head tilted as he struggled to recall the past. 

Had it really been ten years? And yet, he found himself unable to recall the first time Duan Heng had appeared in his life. 

Indeed, he had never paid attention to how Duan Heng had grown, nor did he remember the process of his maturation. It seemed that when he had started to truly notice him, Duan Heng had already become someone of great potential. Yet, no matter how competent or physically mature he became, Qiao Si still saw him as a well-behaved and intelligent pet. 

Perhaps there had been too much to worry about, that he had missed out on countless others. 

Not long after Duan Heng had left, Qiao Si received a postcard stamped with the distinctive postmark of some remote mountain country. These trivial trinkets held no interest for him, it was something young people or intellectuals might be indulged in 

The postcard bore the elegant script: “To Qiao Shi.” 

Being the fourth in his family, after the incident with Qiao Che, he had ruthlessly purged half of the organization. His reputation quickly spread far and wide after that, or perhaps more accurately, his notoriety. 

In his early twenties, everyone referred to him as “Fourth Master,” with no one daring to call him by his real name. It was said that in S City, the word “ruthless” was synonymous with Master Qiao Si. 

As time passed, no one remembered his name. 

And eventually, even he seemed to have forgotten it.