◎The Gourd Holds a Deadly Potion ◎

After a sleepless night, Tao Xiaoxi came to a profound realization: when someone decides to be shameless, they probably have no intention of preserving their dignity.

During the first half of the night, Chen Fang kept her pinned to him. His face would still flush, but it didn’t stop him from whispering “Queen” in her ear, each call huskier than the last. He even came up with a new nickname—“Bunny Queen.”

In the latter half of the night, the Bunny Queen finally got her back against the bed. She thought she had narrowly escaped the brink of death, only to be pressed against the headboard again. Tao Xiaoxi finally understood the meaning of fear. Clinging to his neck, she coquettishly pleaded, “Wolf Brother, have mercy!”

This wasn’t mercy—it was torment.

Predictably, Tao Xiaoxi overslept and didn’t wake up until past ten. Her phone, set to silent mode, had nearly been blown up by Tao Xiaoxiao’s calls. They had agreed to meet at the store entrance at ten.

Tao Xiaoxiao, the daughter of Tao Xiaoxi’s second uncle, had attended vocational school after graduating high school. She was studying cosmetology, including makeup, hairstyling, and nail art, and was set to graduate next year. She was also slated to become the chief nail artist at Tao Xiaoxi’s store. Today, the plan was for Tao Xiaoxiao to visit the store, familiarize herself with it, and offer some input on the renovations. They also planned to eat, shop, and hang out.

By the time Tao Xiaoxi arrived, Tao Xiaoxiao had already chatted up the renovation workers to the point where they seemed like best friends.

Rushing to the store before eleven, Tao Xiaoxi sighed in relief. At least she wasn’t late by more than an hour. A fancy meal should be enough to appease Tao Xiaoxiao’s simmering anger.

On the way, Tao Xiaoxi had already decided on lunch. At the eastern end of the street was a newly opened Northeast Iron Pot Stew restaurant. Knowing her sister would love it, she wasn’t disappointed. Tao Xiaoxiao’s eyes lit up at the mention, and she eagerly linked arms with Tao Xiaoxi, marching straight toward the restaurant.

When Chen Fang called, the waiter was just lifting the pot’s lid. Tao Xiaoxi’s attention was entirely on the steaming, golden cornbread, and she didn’t hear a single word Chen Fang said.

Chen Fang’s call didn’t have any urgent matter; he simply wanted to check if she was awake. Tao Xiaoxi mumbled a couple of vague “mm-hmms,” intending to hang up quickly.

Unhappy with her perfunctory response, Chen Fang asked her what she was doing.

Holding her phone in one hand, Tao Xiaoxi stretched out a plate with the other, asking Tao Xiaoxiao to grab her a fresh pancake.

“I’m out with Xiaoxiao eating iron pot stew. I’ll talk to you later; the pancakes just came out, and they won’t taste good if they cool down.”

Before Chen Fang could ask where they were eating, the line went dead.

…

Great. He was now officially less important than a pancake from an iron pot stew.

Tao Xiaoxi and Tao Xiaoxiao were perfectly in sync when it came to food. The two sisters huddled over a large iron pot, eating until sweat dotted their noses.

Tao Xiaoxiao grabbed a tissue, wiping her sweat and mouth, then turned to Tao Xiaoxi. “Sister, is marriage any good?”

She was only in her early twenties, but her mom was already rushing to arrange blind dates, insisting that by the end of next year at the latest, her marriage should be settled. She wasn’t even considering marriage yet. She was so young and hadn’t even seen the great landscapes of their country—how could she possibly step into the “prison” of marriage so soon?

Slurping up a wide noodle, Tao Xiaoxi pondered the question. “If you meet someone interesting, then it’s not bad.”

“So, is Brother-in-law an interesting person?”

Tao Xiaoxi nodded. “Very interesting.”

Not just a little interesting—very interesting.

How to put it? These days, there were still plenty of rogues around, but a shy rogue was a rare find. She happened to have met one. Teasing him occasionally was actually quite amusing.

Her favorite expression of his was that mix of disbelief and a little gritted teeth, yet completely helpless against her. Usually, he’d “deal with her” later, but that wasn’t much of a loss for her—since his “dealing with her” usually ended with both of them feeling rather happy about it.

Initially, Tao Xiaoxiao doubted the truth of her sister’s words. She thought her new brother-in-law, while undeniably handsome, was also intimidating. He was tall, broad-shouldered, and often wore black, with piercing eyes that felt oppressively sharp when he looked at people. One frown from him, and she instinctively wanted to take three steps back. How could someone like that be “interesting”?

But seeing her sister’s fair face tinted with a pink glow and the smile in her eyes, she began to believe it. Perhaps Brother-in-law was completely different in front of her sister than he was in front of others. After all, her sister was soft and delicate like a bunny. When she smiled, her big, watery eyes seemed to be filled with honey. Even if Brother-in-law had a heart of steel, in front of a wife like that, he’d probably melt into soft, pliable metal.

After finishing their meal, the two sisters headed to a nearby mall. At the end of the year, the mall was decked out in festive decorations, with every store showcasing discount signs.

Tao Xiaoxi came with a purpose. She shopped quickly—if the design caught her eye and the price was within an acceptable range, she would buy it. Before her wedding, her mom had specifically reminded her that no matter how filial and thoughtful Chen Fang was, he was still a man. There would be many things he might overlook or find inconvenient to handle, so she needed to take care of the old lady of the family. In particular, her mother emphasized clothing—especially undergarments. Elderly women tended to be frugal, unwilling to buy new things as long as their old ones were wearable. That’s why Tao Xiaoxi’s main goal today was to buy clothes for Chen Fang’s grandmother. She also picked out down jackets she had been eyeing for her own parents.

When passing by a men’s clothing store, she intended to skip it entirely. But her eyes inadvertently caught sight of a black coat on a mannequin. Its design was exceptional, and she knew he would look even better in it than the mannequin. With his tall frame, broad shoulders, and slim waist, he could easily carry off any outfit.

Tao Xiaoxiao followed her sister’s gaze. “Are you buying this for Brother-in-law?”

Tao Xiaoxi hesitated. She had already spent several thousand earlier. This brand rarely went on sale, so the coat wouldn’t be cheap. While it would undoubtedly look amazing on him, spending that much now—when she was already feeling financially strained—would definitely hurt.

The store assistant noticed their pause and greeted them with an enthusiastic smile. Pretending not to see, Tao Xiaoxi turned to leave, only to turn back moments later.

He had insisted on linking the card he gave her to her phone. Maybe it was time to use it for the first time. After all, every new habit needs a beginning. If she used his card, perhaps the pain of spending wouldn’t feel as sharp.

Yet, when she heard the “ding” sound of the payment being processed, her heart still twinged. Clothes these days were so expensive. She really needed to work harder and earn more money.

Leaving the store, Tao Xiaoxiao leaned closer to her sister and whispered, “Sister, you’re really willing to spend on Brother-in-law.”

Tao Xiaoxi laughed awkwardly. It wasn’t that she was generous with him—it was his own money, after all.

Walking toward them was a tall girl with arms full of shopping bags—Huang Zhenzhu. Her dark red hair was now dyed a chestnut brown. Seeing her, Tao Xiaoxi blinked in surprise. The hairstyle and color reminded her of Sister Yingying.

Tao Xiaoxi hesitated, wondering whether to greet her. Although they hadn’t spoken before, they were at least acquainted. Before she could decide, Huang Zhenzhu brushed past her without even sparing a glance. Well, that saved her from the dilemma—apparently, she hadn’t even registered in the other girl’s eyes.

They hadn’t walked far when a crisp “Hey!” sounded from behind them.

Tao Xiaoxiao glanced back and tugged on her sister’s arm. “Sister, is she calling us?”

Tao Xiaoxi didn’t stop walking. “No.”

After all, their names weren’t “Hey.”

Huang Zhenzhu strode up and blocked their way. She stared at Tao Xiaoxi for a few seconds, her expression reluctant. “I have something to say to you.”

So?

Huang Zhenzhu’s eyebrows furrowed. “I need to talk to you alone.” She emphasized the word “alone.”

Tao Xiaoxi replied calmly, “Just say it here.” What kind of secret could require a private conversation?

Huang Zhenzhu grew anxious. “It’s about Brother Ah Fang.”

There’s no need to be alone.

Huang Zhenzhu stamped her feet twice, leaned over to Tao Xiaoxi’s ear, and startled her. Before she could back away, Huang Zhenzhu quickly said, “You need to ask Brother Ah Fang to carefully check the new people who joined his team recently.”

At first, Tao Xiaoxi didn’t understand what she meant, but Huang Zhenzhu spoke in an extremely serious tone, “I’m not joking. Since Brother Ah Fang doesn’t answer my calls, you must pass my message on to him. Otherwise, he might get into serious trouble.”

After saying this, Huang Zhenzhu left. She hadn’t planned on getting involved, but if her father found out, he would definitely cut off her card. However, since it involved Brother Ah Fang, and she had overheard it, she couldn’t just ignore it.

Tao Xiaoxi watched as Huang Zhenzhu walked away, slowly realizing what was going on. She vaguely knew that recently, Chen Fang and Huang Baodeng had been in business competition. Even though she didn’t understand much about his work, she knew that safety issues were the most worrying for construction teams. If someone with bad intentions managed to sneak into the team, it wouldn’t be difficult for them to cause trouble. Although Tao Xiaoxi hadn’t experienced it firsthand, she was aware of the dark side of society and the malicious competition that could lead people to do anything for profit.

Tao Xiaoxi called Chen Fang twice, but there was no answer. Her heart started racing with anxiety.

Tao Xiaoxi didn’t know what the woman had told her sister earlier, but her sister’s face didn’t look right. “What’s wrong, sister?”

Her sister was usually calm and steady, so it was the first time Tao Xiaoxi had seen her so flustered.

Tao Xiaoxi didn’t have time to explain. “I need to go to your brother-in-law’s company now. I can’t shop with you anymore. You should take a taxi back on your own. I’ll explain it to you later.”

Tao Xiaoxi nodded repeatedly. “Sister, give me your things, and I’ll take them back for you.”

Just as Tao Xiaoxi handed over the items, Chen Fang’s call came through, his tone teasing. “So you’re thinking of calling me now that you’re done with the iron pot stew and the pancake?”

He had gone downstairs, forgotten his phone, and only noticed her missed calls when he returned.

Tao Xiaoxi called out, “Chen Fang.”

Chen Fang immediately stood up from his seat, grabbed his car keys, and headed outside. Her voice was trembling—something had to be wrong. “What happened? Where are you?”

Tao Xiaoxi quickly relayed everything Huang Zhenzhu had said to him. “Did your company hire new people recently? She sounded really serious, not like she was joking. Chen Fang, do you think something might go wrong?”

Chen Fang paused, shutting the office door behind him. “I already know about this. I have people inside Huang Baodeng’s team. I’ll know right away if he makes a move. Tao Xiaoxi, don’t worry, nothing’s going to happen. Just relax.”

His voice was steady, as though he had everything under control. Tao Xiaoxi’s anxiety slowly faded. “You know who it is, right?”

“It’ll be fine as long as we know who it is. We’ll get rid of him from the company, and there won’t be any trouble.”

“Mm. If he dares to stir things up on my turf, he can’t blame me for not leaving him a way out.”

Tao Xiaoxi’s anxiety rose again. Every word from him carried an icy chill.

It seemed like Chen Fang knew what she was thinking and softened his tone to reassure her. “I’m not going to do anything illegal. He’s not worth it. He has too many shady dealings. If any of them get exposed, it’s enough to take him down without me doing a thing.”

“Oh.” She hesitated, but didn’t say more.

“Worried?”

Tao Xiaoxi’s feet unconsciously dragged along the floor. “Mm, I’m worried something might happen to you.”

“Don’t worry. He can’t touch me. I’ve already taken precautions. No matter what small tricks he tries, it won’t work.”

“Mm.”

Chen Fang asked, “Where are you now? Should I come pick you up?”

Tao Xiaoxi shook her head. “No, I’m not done shopping with Xiaoxiao yet.”

“What did you buy?”

“I bought some clothes for grandma and my parents, and I got you a coat.”

“Really?” His voice carried a hint of surprise.

“Don’t get too happy. It’s all paid for with your card, a pretty big amount.”

“Tao Xiaoxi.” He called her name.

Tao Xiaoxi’s anxious heart finally started to settle. “Oh, I misspoke. You don’t have money; it’s all my money.”

Chen Fang chuckled softly. “That’s right. All my money is earned for the queen.”

Tao Xiaoxi: …

“Did you buy any clothes for yourself?”

“Not yet.”

“Go back and get something for yourself.”

“Oh.”

“Tao Xiaoxi, I can still make money, more than you think. So, go ahead and spend it all.”

“Oh.”

Tao Xiaoxiao was standing nearby. She was not eavesdropping on the call but she was fascinated by how many emotions could appear on someone’s face in such a short amount of time.

First, she saw worry and anxiety, but then, slowly, a calming warmth spread across her sister’s face.

Is this what marriage is like? The emotions and thoughts of one person so closely tied to another. The joy and worry both stem from him.

***

Chen Fang opened the door and walked into the room. It was quiet. Was she already asleep?

He had an unavoidable dinner meeting in the evening. He had only eaten a little at the beginning, then had a few drinks, and left early. He knew she might be anxious, afraid that the events of the day would scare her, leaving her alone at home to overthink.

He changed his shoes and walked into the living room, only to see a pair of long rabbit ears lying on the sofa, her head buried in something, not sure what she was doing.

“What are you doing?” He bent down to look.

Tao Xiaoxi jumped, startled by his voice. She had been so focused on her drawing that she hadn’t heard him come in. She quickly flipped the paper over and pretended to be calm. “Nothing, why are you home so early?”

He usually didn’t return until after 10 PM when he had social engagements.

“Someone had something going on at home, so the meeting ended early.” He looked at the long rabbit ears on her head and asked, “What’s this?”

“Tiny headband. Cute, right?” Tao Xiaoxi shook her head, showing off her little bunny ears.

“So cute,” he said, flicking the fuzzy pink ear. “Where’s the coat you bought for me?”

“It’s hanging in the wardrobe. You should try it on and see if it fits.”

“Okay.” He didn’t leave right away. Instead, he reached out and touched her bunny ears. “Did you get scared by Huang Baodeng’s thing today?”

Tao Xiaoxi paused and slowly nodded. “A little. Back in school, I was more naive. I always thought people couldn’t be too bad. But after leaving school, I realized that sometimes human nature is the scariest thing. For money and profit, people can do anything.”

She looked at him seriously and then finished what she had started to say over the phone earlier. “Grandma seems to be able to see things clearly, but she’s actually most worried about you. I’ve seen her several times, watching from the window as you leave in the morning. Even when your car is out of sight, she keeps watching. Chen Fang, I know business can be complicated, and when people try to mess with you, you’re definitely not the type to just wait and take it. But before making any decision, always think about Grandma… and think about me too. Don’t act impulsively or out of anger. We don’t want anything bad to happen to you. As long as the money’s enough, your safety is the most important thing.”

Listening to her, Chen Fang felt a warmth in his eyes. He squatted down beside her and held her hand. “I promise, I won’t let anything happen to me.”

Tao Xiaoxi met his gaze for a few seconds, making sure he understood, before she spoke. “Okay, I believe you. You always say that when you speak, it’s like a nail in the coffin, so I believe you’ll keep your promise.” She cupped his face with both hands and rubbed it hard. “Now, go try the coat. I’m sure you’ll look even better than the model in it.”

Chen Fang stood up and kissed her twice on the lips, but still felt it wasn’t enough, so he kissed her two more times, as if that could cool down the heat in his chest.

Tao Xiaoxi pushed him. “You’re so annoying. Go get your coat.”

He pressed his forehead against hers, looked into her eyes, and only stood up after nearly making her mad. He went to the wardrobe in the bedroom, loosened the buttons of his shirt with one hand, and put on the coat under her watch.

As expected, her gaze flickered. After these days of observing him, she had figured out some things about him. She liked watching him unbutton his shirt with one hand. When he tilted his head back and drank, her eyes would always linger on his Adam’s apple, focused. She also liked watching him blush, especially when he showed a bit of shyness. It always made her laugh, and she’d teasingly challenge him to show even more. Since she liked it, he would get shy just to show her.

After all, she was his wife, and it was only natural to do whatever it took to make her happy. Plus, after teasing him, she was always sweet and apologetic, pressing close to his ear, brushing against his lips, and using a soft voice, calling him “big brother” or “wolf brother,” letting him enjoy whatever fun they had.

If he got to enjoy this every day, he’d be happy playing the shy little husband every night.

Tao Xiaoxi didn’t know what was going through Chen Fang’s mind, but she knew her eye for things was pretty good. She circled around him. “I knew it would fit perfectly.”

The pink bunny ears wobbled with her movements, and Chen Fang’s eyes grew darker.

“Did you buy one for yourself?” he asked.

Tao Xiaoxi nodded, pointing at the bunny ears. “I got this.”

He tugged at the long ear. “Just this?”

“And some pajamas. You tore up my last pair.” Tao Xiaoxi shot him a side glance.

Chen Fang cleared his throat, pretending to cough, to hide his embarrassment.

“What kind of pajamas did you buy?”

She looked up at him, her bunny ears tilting back. “Should I show you?”

Chen Fang looked into her lively eyes, instinctively sensing that there was a trap ahead.

He sat on the sofa. “Go change.”

It was just pajamas. If there was a trap, he’d tear them off, and he was quite good at tearing pajamas.

Tao Xiaoxi ran into the bedroom. A moment later, a pair of bunny ears peeked out from the door.

“I’m coming out.”

“Come on out.” Chen Fang stared at the sound, eager to see what she was up to, especially with her being this proactive.

What came out, however, was nothing short of deadly.

It was supposed to be pajamas, but it turned out to be a nightgown. Two thin straps tied at her shoulders, the black satin wrapped around her delicate figure, and her dark hair cascaded, covering a large portion of her snowy white skin. The pink bunny headband was still on her head.

Chen Fang, whose legs had been spread wide, crossed them, and his hands that had been resting on the back of the sofa slowly clenched.

Tao Xiaoxi turned around for him. “Do you think it looks good?”

Chen Fang could almost smell the fragrance in her hair—faint but deadly.

Of course, it looked good. No matter what she wore, she always looked beautiful.

Chen Fang reached out, wanting to pull her closer.

Tao Xiaoxi stepped back. “Don’t you like black? I bought this in black. Do you like it?”

Right now, it wasn’t just that he liked black. He almost wanted to devour the black fabric on her.

“Am I good to you?” she asked.

Chen Fang nodded.

“Then I have a wish. Will you fulfill it for me?”

One wish? He’d fulfill ten if she asked.

“You can’t go back on your word.”

“Absolutely not.”

Tao Xiaoxi grabbed the bag from under the coffee table. Chen Fang’s eyes followed her every move, nearly burning with desire.

“Can you wear this and show me?”

She pulled out a mask from the bag. When she had seen it while shopping, she couldn’t resist buying it.

Seeing the wolfdog mask, the fire in Chen Fang’s eyes blazed even brighter.

Tao Xiaoxi explained, “Look, if you wear this wolfdog mask and I wear the bunny headband, we’ll be the perfect bunny queen and wolf brother.”

Chen Fang: …

Although he had expected it to be a trap, he didn’t expect it to be this kind of trap.