Quietly bidding Yin Qing farewell, Qiao Si refrained from even offering a parting drink. Later that evening, he sat alone on the balcony, drinking far more than he had intended. 

As the night wore on and the drinks accumulated, Duan Heng approached and gently urged, “Fourth Master, it’s best to drink less. It’s not good for your health.” 

Qiao Si waved his hand dismissively. 

“You’re too young to understand the pleasures of liquor.” 

“Fourth Master.” 

“Nothing brings more joy than this.” 

His father had long since passed away, and for more than a decade, Qiao Che had lived in estrangement. Now, with the departure of his mentor, a vital pillar of his existence had crumbled, slipping beyond his grasp. The inevitability of it all hung heavy, a stark reminder that even as Qiao Si, there were forces beyond his control, beyond his reach. 

“You still have me, Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si lifted his gaze, his eyes as dark and unwavering as the depths of night, locking onto Duan Heng from above the rim of his glass. 

Duan Heng bent down, dropping to one knee before him, his hands steadying Qiao Si. Though his gaze was much lower, his broad shoulders exuded a sense of stability and reliability. 

With a tone almost akin to coaxing, the young man said, “You’ve had quite a bit to drink. You must be feeling better now. Let’s get you to bed, shall we?” 

He was not pleased; in his gloom, he felt an overwhelming sense of desolation around him. The only person left was the one before him. 

Qiao Si reached out, lifting the young man’s chin with two fingers. He studied him for a moment before leaning down to press a kiss to those innocent lips. The one who had been so flagrantly kissed was momentarily stunned, but quickly regained composure, parting his lips in response to meet Qiao Si’s kiss. 

Qiao Si found a strange solace in the fact that, though much had slipped beyond his grasp, the things still before him were within his reach—things he could possess, should he desire. 

Before they even made it to the room, their clothes were already in disarray. Qiao Si found great satisfaction in the young man’s skillful kisses, even more so in the way he was held tightly, enveloped in the embrace. 

At the heart of it all, people longed for the desire to be needed by others. 

Duan Heng’s embrace was both urgent and possessive. His hands fumbled at Qiao Si’s clothes. His kisses were feverish; his caresses were ardent. The raw intensity in Duan Heng’s eyes ignited a spark within Qiao Si. 

It was precisely this feeling of being craved, of being wanted, that stirred something deep within Qiao Si. 

As their kiss deepened, and with the young man’s hands roaming his chest and hips, Qiao Si could feel the weight of his swelling arousal, pressing against him with a thrilling urgency that made Duan Heng all the more captivating in his eyes. 

Duan Heng could not even wait to carry him fully to the table, thrusting him mid-stride. Their unsteady footsteps tangled in a chaotic rhythm of passion, their breaths heavy and erratic, devoid of any sense of order. 

Suspended in the throes of ecstasy, Qiao Si was roughly shoved against the table edge, his body thrown off balance. Grasping desperately for balance, he barely managed to free one hand to brace himself against the surface behind him, his balance precariously maintained on a single foot. 

Duan Heng stood firm, one hand gripping Qiao Si’s hip while the other supported his raised leg. With Qiao Si’s thighs spread open and his hips drawn near, Duan Heng moved with an almost feral intensity, as though driven by an inexhaustible fervor. 

The two stood entwined, their bare bodies locked in fervent union. Qiao Si’s gasps were filled with pleasure as he felt the younger man’s lips trailing over his torso, only to bury his face into the damp curve of his neck, biting down in a possessive claim. 

What followed was a tempestuous rhythm, so intense it seemed to blur the boundaries between night and twilight. The sheer force of it sent waves of pleasure surging through him, so overwhelming that even his toes curled and spasmed uncontrollably in ecstasy. 

Only Duan Heng could evoke such an overpowering sensation, a profound sensation that mirrored the intoxicating illusion of being loved. 

In the end, he straddled Duan Heng as he took him from beneath, their movements entwined in a mounting crescendo. Held securely in Duan Heng’s embrace, he looked down to meet a gaze that was unable to conceal the surging tide of emotion in his eyes. 

The intensity of that look, coupled with the fervent movements, ignited a burning heat within Qiao Si, leaving him flushed from head to toe under the weight of such unrestrained passion. 

When they finally came to a halt, both were left breathless, their bodies drenched as though they had emerged from the depths of water. The sheer volume of sweat that had poured forth was inexplicable, yet it adhered to them, serving as glistening evidence of their shared intensity. 

Qiao Si was too exhausted to speak or move. He collapsed against the young man, his body limp and utterly drained of energy. His breath came in shallow gasps, and his limbs felt heavy and unresponsive, as if every ounce of strength had been sapped from him. 

Duan Heng pulled him tightly into his embrace, his face buried in the curve of Qiao Si’s neck, nuzzling him with the affection of a largely devoted hound, repeatedly inhaling his scent. 

Both were still naked, their bodies heavy with the aftershocks of their carnal union, the lingering sensual atmosphere thick in the room. Yet, in that moment, there was something almost pure about the scene, as if they had momentarily stepped outside the boundaries of desire. 

Qiao Si felt a tickling sensation from the repeated inhalations and asked, “What is it?” 

Duan Heng mumbled indistinctly, “You smell… so good…” 

Qiao Si had never given much thought to the scent of his own skin, never considered it anything unusual. Yet, with Duan Heng’s nose pressed against him, he began to believe he truly did possess a fragrant aroma. 

This was what Duan Heng did to him—he made him believe in an illusion of his own becoming, a version of himself that seemed better and more captivating. It was akin to the effects of a drug, where everything felt euphoric and boundless. 

In this illusion, he became an irresistibly attractive man with a captivating scent, capable of driving the young man into a delirium. He was a man deeply loved and cherished with unwavering devotion. 

Qiao Si’s fingers gently caressed the young man’s head. In that moment, the realization struck him with overwhelming clarity—he needed Duan Heng more deeply than he had ever needed anything before. 

“Duan Heng.” 

“Mn?” 

“How long would you be willing to stay by my side?” 

Duan Heng kissed him softly, then took his hand, pressing a gentle kiss to each finger with tender devotion. 

“I will never leave you, Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si gently stroked the soft black hair and kissed the young man’s forehead. Duan Heng always seemed to know exactly what to say, offering him the words he needed to hear, granting him a fleeting sense of fulfillment. 

Qiao Si had never been interested in movies or TV dramas; he was indifferent to stories crafted purely for entertainment. He would be unwilling to invest his precious time and emotions in something he knew was fabricated. 

Yet now, he had to admit that everyone needs a bit of crafted illusion to soothe their soul and ease the ache of reality. 

Just like drugs; just like Duan Heng. 

During this period, Qiao Si was frequently in and out, almost never without Duan Heng by his side. Though there were many others who enjoyed his favor, at this moment, he could not bear to be apart from Duan Heng. It was like an addiction, a craving that had taken hold of him, one he allowed himself to indulge, surrendering fully to the need that consumed him. 

Given Duan Heng’s various traits that did not align with Qiao Si’s usual aesthetic preferences, it was quite remarkable that he had risen to this position. After all, while Qiao Si had always been generous in his affection for beautiful young men, Duan Heng was the first one capable of involving himself in the affairs of the gang. 

Duan Heng’s ascension seemed to showcase more enticing possibilities to everyone. Consequently, more people began seeking Qiao Si’s favor and recommendations, with the scope widening far beyond before. Among them were even muscular men, which nearly sent Qiao Si reaching for medicine to calm his nerves. 

In truth, Qiao Si had little time to enjoy the favors of these beauties. Duan Heng had a certain “jealous” streak. Of course, he was far too refined to display it openly, but with Duan Heng’s involvement in arrangements, Qiao Si began to realize that the beautiful young men he preferred were rarely among the newcomers and was often left bewildered by the presence of muscular men instead. 

Whenever they found themselves with free time, Duan Heng would cling to him, seizing every opportunity to indulge in their passionate entanglements, often lasting for hours. All that would lead to Qiao Si being utterly drained by these exertions, finding himself increasingly disinclined to pursue other amorous endeavors. 

It was well known that Duan Heng had become the most favorable in Qiao Si’s life. Even tolerated Duan Heng’s occasional jealous antics. In Qiao Si’s “harem,” Duan Heng held an unchallenged supremacy, with no other young men daring to challenge his position 

That night, Duan Heng stayed over again. His presence had subtly woven itself into Qiao Si’s life, so much so that little things began to change. Duan Heng’s toothbrush and towel appeared in the bathroom, one or two sets of clothes found their way into Qiao Si’s wardrobe, and small decorations that Duan Heng liked quietly appeared on the shelves in his room. 

Qiao Si was not oblivious to these subtle intrusions, yet they failed to disturb him. After all, his space was vast, and the bed, ample in size, rendered these changes insignificant in his world.

The following morning, Duan Heng presented him with breakfast, as he often did, occasionally he would personally prepare the meal himself. Qiao Si felt no course for concern; after the previous night’s exertions, he was ravenous by the time he woke up. Although the breakfast portion was larger than usual, he still finished it all. 

Duan Heng silently attended to him during his meal. Seeing the plate gradually emptied, a subtle smile appeared on his face. Finally, he said, “Fourth Master, you ate my portion too. Didn’t you leave any for me?” 

Qiao Si was somewhat taken aback. There was a notable difference between serving him breakfast and intending to share the meal with him. He had never considered the scenario of sitting down over breakfast with Duan Heng after a night together. 

Before he could fully picture that scene in his mind, Duan Heng smiled and said, “If there’s no breakfast, then I’ll have to settle for something better.” With that, he leaned in and pressed a kiss to Qiao Si’s lips. 

The kiss lingered for an unhurried moment, as though it truly could take the place of the breakfast he had forgone. 

Qiao Si found no reason to dislike the moments of childish romance that characterized their time together. Each day brought something he had never experienced before, a fresh and illusory sweetness, like a well-crafted movie. 

The triumph of a major transaction had put Qiao Si in high spirits. In celebration, he opened his private club and hosted a grand party to share the joy. Alongside his business associates, the vibrant young ones under his care—ever drawn to indulgence—attended in full splendor. Adorned in their finest attire, they sparkled with beauty, their every movement exuding elegance and irresistible allure. 

From the vantage point of the balcony, wine glass in hand, Qiao Si gazed at the lively scene unfolding below in the open-air courtyard. They resembled a group of small animals flaunting their beautiful fur, whether to captivate a prospective patron or merely for their own amusement, it was undeniably a feast for the eyes. 

As he was enjoying the view, a pair of arms suddenly embraced him from behind. Without needing to turn, Qiao Si recognized the familiar presence and asked, “Not staying down there to enjoy yourself a little longer?” 

Duan Heng nuzzled against his neck and replied, “There’s nothing fun with them.” His breath carried a subtle air of superiority, dismissing the crowd below as unworthy. 

As they spoke, two young men strolled beneath the balcony, their expressions filled with resentment. One muttered, “What’s he so arrogant about? Does he think he’s something special now? Fourth Master only fancies the young ones. In another year or two, Fourth Master won’t even bother with him.” 

“Exactly, he’s only in his twenties and just managed to climb up to Fourth Master. How much longer can he hold on? His days of being the flashy favorite are almost over.” 

Watching the two fade into the distance, the person behind remained silent. Qiao Si found it somewhat amusing and said, “Are you bullying the youngsters again?” 

“I only corrected them on their manners.” 

“Regardless, they’re still young. Don’t be so harsh. Have some restraint.” 

Duan Heng responded, “Yes.” After a moment, he added, “It’s not that I want to make things difficult for them. It’s just… Fourth Master, can’t you have only me by your side?” 

Qiao Si understood but chose not to answer. He turned and went back into the room, allowing Duan Heng to pour him another glass of liquor. With a smile, he said, “Isn’t it nearly the same now? I don’t have time to look for anyone else.” 

Duan Heng hesitated, then finally said, “I only have you, Fourth Master.” 

Qiao Si reached out and patted his head. Feeling satisfied by the remark, he simply replied. “Mn.” 

Duan Heng was quite obedient and well-behaved in this regard, unlike other youngsters who were unable to resist the temptation to stray. 

“I approach our relationship with a mindset of love.” 

A firework suddenly exploded outside, its deafening sound drowning out his words, making Qiao Si unsure, “Hmm?” 

“I want to be in a relationship with you.” 

The fireworks continued to explode in succession, and the joyful noise from outside grew louder. This time, Qiao Si held his glass and stared at him. 

The burning sparks lit up the night sky, their vibrant glow casting a reflection upon the young man’s face. It was a face etched with unyielding sincerity; his expression filled with a gravity that contrasted sharply with the chaos outside. “I’m seriously pursuing you. Can you feel it?” 

“…” 

“Don’t treat me like a mere plaything. Treat me as a devoted romantic partner. Is that possible?” 

Qiao Si was momentarily at a loss for words, not because of the unexpected question, but because the olive from his drink lodged awkwardly in his throat. He felt it roll down with a soft, distinct sound, forcing him to pause and focus on catching his breath, unable to reply at once. 

Completely unaware of how bold and audacious he was being, Duan Heng continued with his direct and somewhat brash innocence, “Do you like me?” 

“…” Qiao Si was still choking on the olive. 

Noticing the subtle flush creeping onto Qiao Si’s face, Duan Heng’s own cheeks reddened slightly. With a sudden burst of strength, he lifted Qiao Si into his arms. “If you don’t say anything, I’ll take it as a yes.” 

The sudden lift left Qiao Si finally managed to swallow the troublesome olive. He could not allow such a humiliating incident to be known, so he cleared his throat, maintaining his usual composed demeanor, and then pondered how to clarify the situation. 

Before he could figure it out, Duan Heng’s face bloomed with a mixture of bashfulness and delight. 

“So, you agree?” 

“Uh…” 

Duan Heng pressed a soft kiss to his lips, trying to restrain himself out of embarrassment, but still beaming with a smile. 

Qiao Si suddenly felt a reluctance to shatter this simple, sweet atmosphere, especially with the young man before him, his expression filled with bashful happiness, which struck him as endearing. 

Duan Heng gently placed him on the windowsill, holding him securely. He gazed at Qiao Si with the same wonder a child might have when looking at a cake they had just saved up enough to buy. After a moment, he leaned in and kissed him earnestly once more. 

This kiss was more fervent and reckless than usual, filled with the clumsy tenderness of a first love. This rawness of its unrefined affection stirred his heart deeply. 

As the kiss grew more intimate, it lingered with an intensity that made it difficult to pull away. Duan Heng’s touch was strong, holding him close with a possessive tenderness, tracing his body in every possible curve. The warmth of his touches ignited a sensation that became overwhelming, but still, Qiao Si remained composed, his fingers gently grasping Duan Heng’s hand to steady the storm within him. 

“Did you bring condom?” 

He had no particular reservations when it came to intimacy. However, when it came to taking that next step, being unprepared was not something he could afford, especially in such a public setting with so many people around. It is the instinct of someone like him to remain rational, even in the most absurd of situations. 

Duan Heng, still somewhat inexperienced, was momentarily lost in thought, his eyes dazed before he finally realized the situation. His face then expressed a hint of disappointment, as though he had been denied a sweet treat. He replied, “No…” 

Qiao Si barely could steady his breath before responding, “Let’s leave it for another time.” 

Despite his intellectual grasp of restraint, Qiao Si’s physiological responses proved impervious to the command that surged within him. Driven by an overwhelming desire, Duan Heng leaned forward, his crimson lips brushing against Qiao Si’s in a kiss laden with yearning. Locking eyes with Qiao Si, he sank to his knees and proceeded to loosen Qiao Si’s lower garments. 

The young man’s tongue was incredibly skillful, sending shivers down Qiao Si’s spine. Each subtle motion within his mouth drew out ragged breaths from him, leaving him utterly vulnerable to the sensations coursing through his body. His legs that were resting on Duan Heng’s shoulders, began to shift involuntarily, his heels seeking to graze against the broad plane of the back as restraint slipped further from his grasp. 

Duan Heng intensified the pressure of his tongue, teasing Qiao Si to the point where self-control became an unattainable notion. Simultaneously, his fingers trailed to the sensitive region of Qiao Si’s entrance, caressing it with deliberate intimacy before inserting in, each movement imbued with a sensual boldness that left no room for resistance. 

Qiao Si’s body became a canvas upon which their desires painted vivid strokes, each brush of sensation drawing forth unbidden whispers of ecstasy. 

In the throes of ecstasy, every nerve in his body seemed attuned to an almost unbearable sensitivity. Amid the surging waves of pleasure, a sudden awareness struck him—a subtle shift that pierced through the haze—and his eyes snapped open instinctively. 

The slightly ajar door swung open, and there stood Qiao Che, framed in the doorway watching them. 

Almost instinctively, Qiao Si shoved the person before him away in an abrupt motion. 

Caught off guard, Duan Heng hastily braced himself with one hand against the floor while the other covered the corner of his mouth. His breathless state made it clear he had yet to fully detach from the moment they had just shared. 

Qiao Si, however, was already on his feet, barefoot, moving with a hastened urgency that bordered on desperation. In an almost clumsy rush, he tugged his trousers back into place. 

Qiao Che stood unmoving in the doorway, his expression inscrutable. His pallor contrasted sharply with the furrow of his brow was impossible to tell just how long he had been silently observing. 

Their flustered panic only seemed to make him more contemptuous, as he let out a disdainful and disgusted snort before turning and leaving the room. 

Without a second thought, Qiao Si chased after him, calling out, “Qiao Che!” 

His body acted even before his mind could process it. Chasing after Qiao Che had become an instinct, one honed over the span of more than a decade, an impulse he could not suppress. 

Qiao Che strode down the hallway with long steps, as if deaf to the world around him. Qiao Si quickly caught up, placing a firm hand on his shoulder and forcing him to turn around with an unyielding grip. 

Qiao Che’s pale face flushed with anger. His voice was heavy with a dark edge as he muttered, “Don’t touch me.” 

Without hesitation, Qiao Si withdrew his hand, watching as Qiao Che rubbed his shoulder uncomfortably. After a pause, he said, “I didn’t know you were coming.” 

Whenever there was a party, Qiao Si always made a point to invite Qiao Che, but more often than not, his invitations were met with indifference. Over time, the invitations had become a mere habit. He had never truly expected Qiao Che to attend such frivolous occasions. 

Qiao Che barely spared them a look, casually waved his shoulder as though brushing off some unwanted filth. 

“It makes no difference whether I come or not. You’re going to do those things anyway. What difference does it make whether it’s in front of me or behind my back? ” 

The young man who had just been attending him just moments ago was someone Qiao Che held affection for, yet, Qiao Si had brazenly enjoyed him. 

Qiao Si could easily imagine the depth of Qiao Che’s current hatred toward him. Although he had mentally anticipated such animosity, even relishing it with a provocative mindset, facing it in reality still caused a painful ache in his chest, leaving him without even a hint of triumph. 

It was difficult for him to derive any satisfaction in Qiao Che’s suffering. After all, he had once moved heaven and earth for Qiao Che’s happiness and the mere sight of a furrowed brow from Qiao Che would haunt him throughout the night. Such deeply ingrained habits were hard to break, and he even regretted involving Duan Heng to provoke Qiao Che in the first place. 

Thus, he humbled himself, “This matter with Duan Heng, it was my fault.” 

Qiao Che seemed too indifferent to even lift his gaze. “Really? Haven’t you always taken whoever you wanted? Why, when it comes to Duan Heng, does it suddenly feel wrong?” 

The more Qiao Che acted with such detachment, the more a painful ache gnawed at Qiao Si. He gathered the gentleness he had long kept in reserve and spoke softly, “I shouldn’t have made you uncomfortable.” 

“I’m not uncomfortable,” Qiao Che replied coldly. “I’m disgusted.” 

Qiao Si said nothing more. 

“I have seen you without your garment once, that was more than enough for this lifetime.” 

The single act of assaultive had yielded no gratification but instead sowed the seeds of Qiao Che’s seething contempt, unrelenting disdain, and an unbroken torrent of humiliation that would linger long after. 

To be scorned by the one he held most dear inflicted a unique kind of anguish. Qiao Che knew all his vulnerabilities and could always deliver a perfectly aimed blow 

He was helpless in the face of Qiao Che’s unwavering will. Whether it was impervious to both gentle and harsh methods, nothing could shift the implacable resolve that defined him. 

This man was steadfast, an embodiment of an unrelenting coldness and stubbornness, impervious to anything or anyone. His indifference cut deeper than any cruelty, a mercy far less forgiving than Qiao Si’s own. 

The cold of the floor bit into Qiao Si’s bare feet, grounding him in the moment. He cast a final glance at the man, before silently turning away and retreating into the room. 

Qiao Che’s suddenly pierced through, “Is this all it takes for you to give up?” 

Qiao Si remained silent, but Qiao Che, almost with a tone of lament, muttered, “You really are getting old.” 

It was unclear if there was a hint of sadness in his tone. Before Qiao Si could ponder it, Qiao Che’s voice rose again, carrying an air of finality. “Forget it. After all these years, I’m tired too. Just do one thing for me, and I won’t dwell on the past anymore.” 

Qiao Si was taken aback. The sudden glimmer of hope caused his heart to skip a beat. Qiao Si turned his head, his gaze falling on the man’s face, which seemed faintly blurred yet held an emotion that eluded his immediate understanding. 

“Will you do it or not?” 

“Just say it.” Years had passed, and in their wake, he had tested every boundary; now, no cost seemed too steep to bear. 

“Give me Duan Heng. Whatever we had between us, let it be erased.” 

It took Qiao Si about two seconds to process before he responded, “You want Duan Heng?” 

“Why?” Qiao Che’s face twisted with a hint of mockery, “You can’t bear to part with him?” 

Qiao Si studied him for a moment. “Duan Heng has grown now. You know what he’s like and what he’s capable of. Whether or not to let him go, and to whom, might not entirely be up to me.” 

Qiao Che chuckled. “Look at you, talking like he’s something extraordinary. What’s he even worth for? He’s just an actor, and you can’t control him?” 

Qiao Si neither confirmed nor denied. 

“In times like this, don’t underestimate yourself. In this world, apart from me, there’s no second person who wouldn’t obey you, Master Qiao Si.” 

“It’s not a big deal. Whether you give him to me or not is entirely your decision.” 

Qiao Si returned to the room, where Duan Heng stood there in quiet stillness, already dressed and waiting for him. 

The silence stretched between them, with no word of complaint crossing Duan Heng’s lips, not even mentioning the earlier moment when he had been so roughly pushed aside in the midst of their fervent intimacy. 

Instead, he crouched down, his hands tender as they cradled Qiao Si’s cold, bare foot, slipping the shoes onto him with careful precision. 

That evening, Duan Heng still attended to him with his bath. Qiao Si soaked in the open-air bath, eyes closed, trying to relax, but the attempt to calm his mind proved futile. The faint sounds of water lapping against the surface only served to irritate him as the seconds passed. 

Opening his eyes, he noticed Duan Heng by the pool, eyes fixed on the ground while holding a towel. Qiao Si called out to him, “Come here.” 

Duan Heng lifted his eyes to meet him, and without hesitation, he stood up and immediately started undressing before stepping into the water to approach Qiao Si. 

Qiao Si gaze drawn to the bare chest before him, his thought drifted to the first time they had bathed together—a time when the very notion of such intimate proximity had never dared to cross his mind. 

“I’ve made things difficult for you earlier.” 

The young man lowered his eyelids, his voice barely above a whisper. “It’s fine…” 

Qiao Si reached out, gently brushing against the youthful skin of his face. In that moment, he was reminded that Duan Heng was still just a child, and the awkwardness he had endured only deepened the affection he felt for him. 

“You must understand, Qiao Che is different.” Everyone knew about his obsession with Qiao Che, and he had no reason to deny his own relentless devotion to this unyielding failure of a love 

“Mn.” Duan Heng responded, then after a moment of silence, he looked up to meet Qiao Si. “What about me? Will I be different from others too?” 

“Of course.” He had never cherished anyone the way he cherished Duan Heng, nor would he cultivate anyone like he cultivated him. Even if he were to give Duan Heng up to Qiao Che, his generosity and devotion would never falter. 

Duan Heng was the first to be lavished with such attention. 

Duan Heng pursed his lips together in a semblance of a smile, then wrapped his arms around him in a tight embrace. This time, despite their nakedness, there were no kisses or caresses. Instead, Duan Heng simply buried his head in the crook of Qiao Si’s neck. 

Qiao Si could feel the fevered thrum of Duan Heng’s heartbeat pressed against his chest, a rhythm so strong it seemed to echo through his very soul. In response, he gently stroked the young man’s hair. 

“Will you still listen to me?” 

“Mn…” Duan Heng responded quietly while holding him in the water, the gentle touch at the back of his neck almost making him feel like a beloved pet. 

“Will you do everything I say?” 

“Mn…” 

“That’s good,” Qiao Si murmured, his voice soft and laden with a warmth born of a near-sacred loyalty. He paused for a long while before adding, “I will never treat you unfairly.” 

Qiao Si, anyhow, never intended to clarify things too soon. Whether Duan Heng would respond in eagerness or resistance, either way it would undoubtedly shatter the delicate atmosphere of the moment. 

At this point, Qiao Si had grown deeply infatuated with the feeling of being tightly embraced, as though he were loved with an intensity that transcended reality. Whether it was genuine or not, it allowed him to bask in the warmth of it. 

Only Duan Heng would bestow such tender affection upon him. Once Duan Heng left for Qiao Che, no other soul would ever cradle him with such gentle devotion again. 

Before that moment slipped away, he had only tonight to savor; beyond that, it would be gone forever. 

As for Duan Heng, there was little to concern him. However, to almost everyone else, Qiao Che was far more alluring than he could ever be. 

Were power and influence set aside, and one forced to choose between him and Qiao Che, the answer would be inevitable. 

The prospect of following a man like Qiao Che, while still being backed by Qiao Si’s authorities, was such a rare fortune that he feared Duan Heng would be too joyous to even feign the appropriate degree of reluctance, thereby shattering the last remnants of tenderness they had left. 

Duan Heng’s lips traced the delicate curve of his neck as he lifted him. The intimacy of their connection, heightened by the embrace of the water, made it impossible for each other to remain untouched. Qiao Si ran his hands along the young man’s back while his legs instinctively coiled around the lean, muscular waist. 

“Harder.” 

Duan Heng smiled before capturing his lips in a kiss. 

The night unfolded in a unrestrained passion, a truly unforgettable experience. Qiao Si lingered in its aftermath, savoring the sensations long after they had parted. When he finally rose from the bed, Duan Heng was still asleep beside him, exhausted from their exertions. He had given so much, so obediently, that it had left him spent. 

Duan Heng was a man of skill and professionalism, had proven capable of reaching such depths with Qiao Si. If he could achieve to such extent with him, it was certain that Qiao Che would be pleased as well. After all, their unspoken attraction had been a simmering tension for months, and now, it seemed, they were finally able to consummate their desires.  

Qiao Si, however, tried not to dwell on the specific scenario of the two of them together. Though that vision would undoubtedly be more graceful than anything he had shared with Duan Heng, the thought of it only deepened his sense of isolation. 

Duan Heng woke up much later than him. After getting dressed, he approached him from behind and wrapped his arms around him, planting a kiss on his cheek. His voice, a blend of playfulness and affection, echoed, “You’re up early today.” 

“Mn, I have something to attend to,” Qiao Si replied, reaching up to gently stroke his head as he handed him an envelope that was sealed shut. “Bring this to Fifth Master.” 

“Ah,” Duan Heng chuckled, bending down to kiss him again. “I thought we could spend the whole day together.” 

“You can go after lunch.” 

Duan Heng thought for a moment. “I think I’ll go now and come back for lunch. It’ll be quicker that way.” Then he nuzzled his forehead. “Wait for me to come back.” 

But Qiao Si, with an unspoken certainty, knew that Duan Heng would never return.